Let’s Dive into Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader
Shed hunting is more than just a hobby; it’s a passion that connects us to the wilderness. Finding those naturally dropped antlers is like uncovering hidden treasure. The problem comes when you have a beautiful set of sheds and want to display them with the same pride as a harvested buck. That’s where the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader from Mountain Mike’s comes into play.
This simple yet effective tool promises to transform your prized sheds into a stunning trophy mount. I needed a way to showcase a set of sheds I found last spring. I was tired of them just sitting in a box in the garage. My sheds are not only a memory of the hunt, they also represent a great time outdoors with my family.
Unboxing the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader revealed a straightforward design. It included two injection-molded skull plates and the necessary mounting screws. The polymer felt durable, and the overall weight was surprisingly light.
Compared to trying to fabricate my own mounting system, or even some of the more elaborate (and expensive) taxidermy mounting kits, the simplicity of the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader was appealing. It was more appealing than just screwing it directly into a plaque without any support. The Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader promised a cleaner, more professional look. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I hoped the plastic was robust enough to handle the weight of my sheds.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader in my workshop. My goal was to create a mount for a decently sized set of mule deer sheds. The workshop is well-lit and dry, providing an ideal environment for this type of project.
The workshop was a controlled environment, but I tested the assembly under stress by applying pressure to the mounted sheds. This simulated the potential strain they might endure if accidentally bumped. The initial mounting process was straightforward, though I quickly realized I needed to pre-drill pilot holes in the antler bases.
The provided screws initially seemed sufficient. However, as one other user mentioned, one started to bend slightly when driving it in. This underscored the importance of using quality screws and pre-drilling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After mounting the sheds and displaying them in my cabin for a few months, I can assess the long-term durability. So far, the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader has held up well. There are no signs of cracking or warping in the polymer.
I did add a bit of felt padding between the skull plate and the wall to prevent any scratching. Maintenance is minimal; a quick dusting now and then is all it needs. The sheds remain securely mounted. This is a welcome change from the days when they collected dust in a cardboard box.
Compared to a traditional professionally done skull mount, the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader is a more budget-friendly option. It requires minimal effort to maintain a good looking mount.
Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader
Specifications
The Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader boasts several key specifications. It comes with two injection-molded skull plates made from a durable polymer. It also includes mounting screws. The Manufacturer is Mountain Mike’s.
The Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader is designed to work with antlers of any diameter. The dimensions of the skull plates are roughly 6 inches wide and 4 inches tall. These specifications are important because they dictate the versatility and weight-bearing capacity of the mount. A stronger polymer and more robust screws would inspire more confidence with larger sheds.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader is to provide a stable and aesthetically pleasing way to display shed antlers. It achieves this goal with relative ease. The skull plates offer a solid base for attaching the sheds. This allows for a more professional-looking mount.
The biggest weakness lies in the included screws. They could be of higher quality. However, the overall design is sound and meets expectations for a product in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader is simple and functional. The skull plates are contoured to mimic the shape of a deer skull. This provides a natural-looking base for the antlers.
The light weight of the polymer ensures that the mount doesn’t add unnecessary strain to the wall. There is virtually no learning curve; anyone with basic DIY skills can install it.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader appears durable. However, I suspect extreme temperatures or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight might affect its longevity. The design makes maintenance simple, requiring only occasional dusting.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader itself doesn’t come with many accessories. However, you can easily customize the mount with various plaques, backboards, or camo cloth to conceal the bases, as the user feedback suggested. The compatibility with standard mounting hardware means you can use different screws, brackets, or even lighting to enhance the display.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader
Pros
- Affordable price point. At $14.95, it’s a budget-friendly way to display your sheds.
- Easy to install. The simple design requires minimal tools and effort.
- Versatile. Works with antlers of any diameter.
- Durable polymer construction. Provides a stable and long-lasting mount.
- Aesthetically pleasing. Creates a professional-looking display.
Cons
- Included screws are of questionable quality. Replacements may be necessary for heavier sheds.
- Polymer material might be susceptible to extreme temperatures.
Who Should Buy Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader?
The Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader is perfect for shed hunters who want an affordable and easy way to display their finds. It is also good for anyone who appreciates wildlife and wants to create a unique piece of home decor. This product is good for those who are looking for a taxidermy solution that is quick and simple to assemble.
Those with exceptionally large or heavy sheds might want to consider a more robust mounting system. This is due to concerns about the polymer’s long-term durability and the quality of the included screws. A must-have accessory is a set of high-quality wood screws.
Conclusion on Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader
Overall, the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader is a solid product that delivers on its promise. It provides an affordable and easy way to transform shed antlers into a beautiful trophy mount. The low price is justified, and the simple design makes it accessible to anyone.
I would recommend the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader to fellow shed hunters. It is good for those who are looking for a budget-friendly and aesthetically pleasing display solution. Don’t let your hard-earned sheds collect dust in a box. Instead, showcase them with pride using the Mountain Mike’s Shed Spreader.