velvet care

[Jordan guyer]

What do you guys do for preserving the velvet? is there any kits out there that have everything you need?

 

[bohntr]

VanDykes (Taxidermy Supply) used to sell one, but I haven't seen it for quite some time. The best bet is to make your own. Extra large syringe, heavy gauge needle, latex gloves, solution, and fine painters brush is in mine.

 

[robby denning]

bohntr is right if you need to treat them in the hills.

I will say that I preserved a set in the freezer (got it off the mountain in 30 hours) over 10 years ago and they never got bugs or peeled. Took 8 months in the freezer though, so I'd still say bohntr's suggestion is better.

 

[Jason Snyder]

VanDykes (Taxidermy Supply) used to sell one, but I haven't seen it for quite some time. The best bet is to make your own. Extra large syringe, heavy gauge needle, latex gloves, solution, and fine painters brush is in mine.

How much solution would one need? Heavy guage needle, meaning 12, 14?

 

[bohntr]

How much solution would one need? Heavy guage needle, meaning 12, 14?

The amount of solution depends greatly on the amount (size) of velvet treated and the stage of development they are in. For bucks in the 160-175" range, I've used about 3/4 ounce of solution to completely inject. The remaining 1/4 oz bottle I've brushed on the outside. I usually use a 14 gauge needle, unless the antlers are soft and I can get away with a 12 gauge.

I only inject my own when I can not get the velvet antlers to a freezer or taxidermist in a timely manner.