First Impressions of Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 promises a straightforward and elegant way to showcase your hard-earned trophies. Walnut Hollow, a name synonymous with quality wood crafting supplies, steps into the realm of hunting keepsakes with this kit. The key features that immediately caught my attention were its suitability for all turkey species, the large beard slot, and the ability to add spurs.
I’ve always struggled with displaying my turkey fans and beards in a way that does them justice. Traditional methods often involve haphazard arrangements or flimsy materials, which led me to seek a dedicated mounting solution. Upon unboxing, I was struck by the smooth satin finish and the seemingly robust construction of the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341.
Compared to taxidermy services, which are significantly more expensive, or simple DIY wood plaques, the Walnut Hollow kit seemed like a balanced compromise. It offered a touch of professionalism without requiring specialized skills or breaking the bank. My initial reaction was one of excitement and cautious optimism – eager to see if this kit could truly transform my turkey harvests into cherished displays.
Real-World Testing: Putting Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 immediately after returning from a successful spring turkey hunt in the oak-hickory forests of southern Missouri. The weather was mild and dry, perfect conditions for preparing the fan and beard. The instructions were straightforward and easy to follow, making the mounting process relatively painless.
The generous faceplate easily covered the quill feathers, providing a clean and polished look. I was initially concerned about the beard slot being too small, but it accommodated my mature tom’s beard without any issues. The only minor hiccup was figuring out the best way to attach the spurs to the back panel, as I needed to pre-drill pilot holes to avoid splitting the wood.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months on display in my hunting den, the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of warping or cracking in the wood, and the satin finish has retained its luster. Dusting it periodically is all the maintenance it requires.
Compared to my previous attempts at creating DIY turkey mounts, this kit is a clear winner in terms of durability and aesthetics. It provides a professional and lasting way to honor the memory of successful hunts. The Walnut Hollow kit surpasses my expectations for a ready-to-assemble mounting solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341
Specifications
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 is designed for mounting turkey fans, beards, and spurs. It features a high-quality satin finish and is suitable for all turkey species. The assembled size is 15″ x 8″ x 1.625″.
- Manufacturer: Walnut Hollow.
- Color: Oak.
- Suitable Species: Eastern, Osceola, Rio Grande, Merriam’s, and Gould’s turkeys.
- Made In: Wisconsin, USA.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the overall appearance and functionality of the mount. The size ensures that it can accommodate a variety of fan sizes, while the oak finish provides a classic and appealing look. The fact that it’s made in the USA by Walnut Hollow gives me confidence in its quality and craftsmanship.
Performance & Functionality
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 performs its primary function admirably: displaying turkey trophies in an organized and attractive manner. The large beard slot and the generous faceplate are well-designed features that contribute to a clean and professional presentation. The ability to add spurs to the back panel is a nice touch.
One potential area for improvement would be the inclusion of pre-drilled holes for the spurs. However, the overall performance of the kit is excellent, and it meets my expectations for a quality turkey mount. The Walnut Hollow kit makes displaying my prized turkey feathers a straightforward process.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 is simple yet elegant. The oak finish and satin sheen give it a classic and timeless look that complements any hunting den or display area. The weight is substantial enough to feel sturdy but not overly heavy.
The kit is relatively user-friendly. A novice can assemble the mount with minimal effort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 is constructed from solid wood, which suggests it should last for many years with proper care. The satin finish protects the wood from moisture and scratches. The cleaning process is straightforward: Wipe it with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, including screws and a hanger. While there are no specific customization options offered by Walnut Hollow, the unfinished wood provides an excellent canvas for personalizing the mount with paint, stain, or woodburning. The universal design also allows for compatibility with third-party accessories, such as decorative tacks or engraved plates. The solid oak construction makes it exceptionally easy to add personal touches.
Pros and Cons of Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341
Pros
- High-quality satin finish provides a professional look.
- Suitable for all turkey species, ensuring versatility.
- Easy-to-follow DIY instructions make it accessible to beginners.
- Generous face plate covers quill feathers for a clean presentation.
- Made in Wisconsin, USA, guaranteeing quality craftsmanship.
Cons
- Spurs require drilling of pilot holes, which can be challenging for some.
- Oak finish might not suit all décor styles.
Who Should Buy Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341?
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 is perfect for hunters who want a professional-looking way to display their turkey trophies without the expense of professional taxidermy. It’s also ideal for DIY enthusiasts who enjoy assembling and personalizing their own displays. Anyone who values quality craftsmanship and wants a durable and attractive turkey mount will appreciate this kit.
Hunters who prefer a completely hands-off approach might want to skip this product and opt for professional taxidermy services instead. Those with limited woodworking skills might find drilling pilot holes for the spurs challenging.
Must-have accessories include a drill with appropriately sized drill bits, a screwdriver, and optionally, wood stain or paint for personalization.
Conclusion on Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 offers a compelling blend of quality, affordability, and ease of use. Its high-quality satin finish, versatile design, and straightforward assembly make it an excellent choice for hunters looking to showcase their turkey trophies. The kit provides excellent value for its $51.99 price point.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this kit to anyone seeking a professional-looking and durable turkey mount. If you’re ready to transform your turkey harvests into cherished keepsakes, the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302341 is the perfect solution. Invest in this kit, and proudly display your hunting success for years to come!