First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit
The thrill of the hunt doesn’t end when the turkey is tagged. Displaying that hard-earned trophy, a tangible reminder of the hunt, is part of the tradition. The Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit offers a seemingly simple and affordable solution to preserving those memories. I was curious to see if this kit could truly provide a decent-looking mount without breaking the bank.
I have always struggled with finding a suitable way to display my turkey trophies. Taxidermy is expensive, and other DIY methods have often resulted in subpar, unappealing results. The promise of a quick, easy, and presentable mount at a reasonable price is what drew me to this particular kit.
Unboxing the Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit, my initial impression was fairly neutral. The wood-grain finished plaque felt lightweight, constructed from resin rather than actual wood. The brass nameplate and mounting hardware appeared functional, but not particularly impressive.
Compared to fully customized taxidermy mounts or more elaborate DIY wood-working projects, this kit sits at the opposite end of the spectrum, prioritizing simplicity and affordability. It’s a direct alternative to spending hundreds on a professional mount, or investing significant time in crafting one from scratch. I chose this kit with hopes of a middle ground – a decent display without a massive time or monetary investment.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It didn’t scream “high-end,” but it didn’t appear cheap either. I was eager to see if the ease of use and final appearance would justify the price.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit immediately after a successful spring turkey hunt. Mounting the tail and beard occurred in my garage, which offered a clean, dry environment. The kit’s ease of use was immediately apparent.
The instructions were clear and straightforward, making the mounting process relatively quick. It took approximately 30 minutes to complete, from prepping the tail and beard to attaching them to the plaque. The mounting hardware provided was sufficient, and I didn’t encounter any unexpected difficulties.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months, the mounted tail and beard are still securely attached to the plaque. There are no signs of the resin plaque warping or cracking. The kit has been displayed in a room with consistent temperature and humidity, which likely contributes to its longevity.
The resin plaque is easily cleaned with a damp cloth, removing any dust or grime that accumulates over time. Compared to previous attempts at mounting tails using cardboard or other makeshift materials, this kit has significantly outperformed them in terms of both durability and aesthetic appeal. It offers a much more professional and lasting display.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit offers a simple, all-in-one solution. The Manufacturer is Hunters Specialties, a well-known name in hunting gear. The plaque is constructed from Resin.
The plaque has a Length of 10.75 inches. It’s designed to display the turkey’s fan (tail), beard, and feet.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the kit’s suitability for its intended purpose. The resin material keeps the cost down, while the size is appropriate for showcasing the key elements of a turkey trophy. The all-in-one design ensures that everything needed for mounting is included, simplifying the process for the user.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit performs its job adequately. It provides a reasonably secure and presentable method for displaying a turkey tail and beard. The instructions are clear, and the mounting process is straightforward.
The kit’s primary strength is its simplicity and affordability. Its main weakness is the somewhat cheap look and feel of the resin plaque. While it fulfills its basic function, it doesn’t offer the same level of aesthetic appeal as a professionally crafted wooden mount.
The kit generally meets expectations for its price point. It is not a high-end display solution, but it offers a decent alternative to more expensive or time-consuming options. For hunters seeking a quick, easy, and affordable way to showcase their trophy, it serves its purpose well.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit’s build quality is acceptable for its price. The resin material is lightweight, but not particularly durable. The wood-grain finish attempts to mimic the look of real wood, but falls short upon closer inspection.
The kit is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort and skill to assemble. There is virtually no learning curve, as the instructions are clear and the mounting process is simple.
Durability & Maintenance
The resin plaque is expected to last for several years with proper care. It is resistant to cracking or warping under normal conditions. The plaque is easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
There are no parts requiring regular maintenance or repair. As long as the mounted tail and beard are securely attached initially, the kit should remain in good condition for an extended period.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit comes with a wood grain finished plaque. It includes a brass name plate, mounting hardware, and detailed instructions.
There are limited customization options for this kit. The brass nameplate can be engraved with the hunter’s name, date of the hunt, or other relevant information. Aside from personalizing the nameplate, there are no other readily available accessories or modifications. The plaque is a standard size, and is generally not compatible with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit
Pros
- Affordable and budget-friendly option for displaying a turkey trophy.
- Easy to use with clear instructions, making the mounting process quick and simple.
- All-in-one kit includes everything needed for mounting the tail and beard.
- Provides a reasonably secure and presentable display.
- Lightweight and easy to hang on a wall.
Cons
- The resin plaque can look and feel somewhat cheap.
- Limited customization options beyond engraving the nameplate.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit?
This kit is perfect for hunters on a budget who want a simple and affordable way to display their turkey trophies. It’s also ideal for novice hunters or those who prefer a quick and easy mounting process without the need for specialized skills or tools. Anyone who appreciates a simple way to mount a tail and beard.
Those seeking a high-end, professional-looking display should skip this product. Hunters who value genuine wood construction or extensive customization options would be better served by investing in a more elaborate mounting solution or professional taxidermy.
A must-have accessory would be custom engraving for the brass nameplate. This adds a personal touch and elevates the overall appearance of the mount.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit
The Hunters Specialties Turkey Tail and Beard Mounting Kit offers a practical and affordable solution for displaying a turkey trophy. While the resin plaque may not possess the same visual appeal as a real wood mount, the kit delivers on its promise of simplicity and ease of use. The price is justified, especially for hunters seeking a budget-friendly alternative to professional taxidermy.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a quick and easy way to preserve and showcase their hard-earned turkey tail and beard. It’s a no-frills option that gets the job done without breaking the bank. If you want to display that trophy without fuss, this kit will do it.