The price of a full body turkey mount can vary significantly depending on several factors. Understanding these factors will help you get a realistic estimate and ensure you're getting a fair price for a high-quality mount. This guide breaks down the cost, influencing elements, and what to expect from a professional taxidermist.
What Influences the Price of a Full Body Turkey Mount?
Several key elements contribute to the final price of your full body turkey mount. These include:
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Taxidermist's Experience and Reputation: Experienced taxidermists with a strong reputation often charge more. Their expertise guarantees a higher-quality, more lifelike mount. This is an investment in preserving a treasured hunting memory; don't necessarily choose the cheapest option.
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Location: Geographic location plays a role in pricing. Taxidermists in areas with a higher cost of living typically charge more.
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Complexity of the Pose: A more intricate or dynamic pose, such as a turkey in mid-strut, requires more time and skill, thus increasing the price. Simple, upright poses are generally less expensive.
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Size and Condition of the Bird: Larger birds require more materials and time, increasing the cost. The condition of the bird upon delivery also impacts the price; damaged birds require more repair work, adding to the expense.
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Species of Turkey: While not as significant as other factors, different turkey subspecies might influence pricing slightly due to size variations and unique characteristics.
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Additional Services: Extra services, such as custom bases, scenic backdrops, or specific feather arrangements, will add to the total cost.
How Much Does a Full Body Turkey Mount Typically Cost?
While a precise price is impossible to give without knowing the specifics mentioned above, expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $800 or more for a high-quality full body turkey mount. Prices at the lower end of the spectrum may indicate less experienced taxidermists or simpler mounts. Prices exceeding $800 are common for complex poses, large birds, or highly regarded taxidermists.
What to Look for When Choosing a Taxidermist?
Selecting the right taxidermist is crucial. Here's what to consider:
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Portfolio: Review the taxidermist's portfolio to assess the quality of their work. Look for lifelike poses, attention to detail, and overall craftsmanship.
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Reputation: Seek recommendations from other hunters or check online reviews to gauge the taxidermist's reputation for quality and customer service.
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Communication: Choose a taxidermist who communicates clearly and responds promptly to your inquiries. Open communication ensures your expectations are met.
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Turnaround Time: Inquire about the typical turnaround time for a full body turkey mount. This will give you a realistic timeframe for receiving your finished piece.
What are the Different Types of Turkey Mounts?
Besides the full body mount, other options exist:
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Shoulder Mounts: A more affordable option showcasing the head, neck, and shoulders of the turkey.
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European Mounts: The skull is cleaned and mounted on a plaque, emphasizing the skull's natural beauty.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Turkey Mount Back?
The turnaround time for a full-body turkey mount can vary greatly depending on the taxidermist's workload and the complexity of the mount. Expect a wait time of several months, sometimes longer. It’s best to contact taxidermists well in advance of hunting season to secure a spot.
How to Properly Prepare Your Turkey for Mounting?
Proper preparation before delivering your turkey to the taxidermist is essential to ensure the best possible mount. This usually involves:
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Cooling: Cool the bird rapidly to prevent spoilage.
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Packaging: Package the turkey appropriately to avoid damage during transportation. Your taxidermist can provide guidance on this.
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Contact: Contact your taxidermist promptly after the hunt to arrange pickup or drop-off.
By carefully considering these factors and understanding the cost range, you can confidently choose a reputable taxidermist and obtain a beautiful, lasting tribute to your successful hunt. Remember, this is a significant investment preserving a cherished memory; prioritizing quality over immediate cost savings is highly recommended.
