Velvet preservation

[Wesmorr]

As someone completely new to hunting but planning to hunt early here in CA this year, I have a question on what to do with the head if I want to DIY euro it at home if I’m fortunate enough to get a deer. Our archery starts early when bucks are typically still in full velvet. Is there anything specific i need to keep in mind when transporting or boiling to keep everything in good condition? Also, not sure if the velvet even stays on long term (complete newbie here). Any advice appreciated, thanks.

Wes

 

[HiMtnHntr]

I have two velvet euro skulls. Both I treated, capped, and freeze dried. I reattached the capped antlers to the skull, dressed up with epoxy and paint.

 

[Wesmorr]

I have two velvet euro skulls. Both I treated, capped, and freeze dried. I reattached the capped antlers to the skull, dressed up with epoxy and paint.

Thanks! What’d you treat them with?

 

[Sccritterkiller]

VelvetLock

 

[HiMtnHntr]

I don’t believe velvelock was available when I treated these so I used the real deal. I would definitely use velvelock now.

 

[Elkman17]

Another vote for velvetlock, apply liberally

 

[Solowhunter]

Order up some Velvalok prior to season, as hot as it gets in August if you don't have it you'll need to keep the head in a cooler while your waiting for it to be shipped. Apply liberally as stated in the above comments, I wrap the antler with plastic bags and tape it off at the bases when boiling.

If your packing the head out don't be afraid to wrap the antler and don't tie the antlers direct or it will damage the fresh velvet. Velvalok preserves the velvet forever.

 

[Joshk358]

I used whatever the velvet treatment is from Mckenzie taxidermy on an axis and fallow buck. after they dried out from the chemical I frozen them for ...about a year I'd guess. Not intentional to freeze them that long, just happened that way. Then mounted and the velvet looks great.