The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel Made a Bold First Impression
The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel isn’t just another taxidermy mount; it’s a testament to streamlined design meeting practical functionality. Hunters Specialties, a name synonymous with hunting innovation, has created a product that promises to display your European trophies with a touch of rugged elegance. I’ve spent years wrestling with bulky, cumbersome mounting systems, so the “Little Hooker’s” promise of a sleek and customizable display immediately piqued my interest.
My own taxidermy “graveyard,” a corner in my workshop filled with skulls leaning precariously against each other, desperately needed organizing. I was specifically looking for a solution that didn’t require drilling into the skulls themselves, preserving them as much as possible. The Little Hooker promised exactly that.
The unboxing experience was surprisingly pleasant. The components felt solid and well-made, the powder-coated steel giving off a sense of durability that belied its compact size. It certainly looked more refined than the clunky, generic metal hangers I’d used in the past.
I had considered a couple of other options before landing on the Little Hooker. There was the classic skull plaque, which always seemed too formal for my taste, and a competitor’s “universal” hanger that looked flimsy and over-engineered. The Hunters Specialties product stood out for its simplicity and apparent sturdiness. My initial thought was: “Finally, a mounting solution that looks as good as the trophy itself!”
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Little Hooker to the test with a hog skull I’d harvested last season. I mounted it in my workshop, a space that sees everything from gun cleaning to knife sharpening. The environment is far from pristine, often dusty and occasionally damp.
The installation process was surprisingly straightforward. The adjustability was immediately apparent, allowing me to fine-tune the angle and position of the skull to achieve a natural and aesthetically pleasing presentation. After getting everything set I was concerned that the mount might move, but it stayed put.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Little Hooker has proven to be remarkably resilient. There are no signs of rust or corrosion despite the often humid conditions in my workshop. The powder coating seems to be holding up well against the occasional bump and scrape.
I’ve even transferred the mount to a different location, a testament to its ease of relocation. This outshines the previous mounts I’ve used. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dust and grime. So far the Little Hooker is showing no wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel is designed for small to mid-sized European mounts. It’s constructed from strong, powder-coated steel. This ensures both durability and a resistance to corrosion.
It’s specifically tailored for game such as hogs, aoudad, alligator, black bear, cougar, deer, antelope, and similarly sized exotic game. The Little Hooker eliminates the need for drilling or otherwise damaging the skull. The package includes a wall plate, an adjustable arm, a prong, and all necessary mounting hardware.
Performance & Functionality
The Little Hooker performs its primary function – displaying European mounts – exceptionally well. The adjustability is a standout feature. It allows for precise positioning to achieve the most natural and visually appealing presentation.
Its strength is its simplicity; it’s easy to install and adjust, and it securely holds the skull in place. A minor weakness might be its size limitation; larger skulls might require a more robust mounting solution. This mount easily meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with the powder-coated steel feeling both sturdy and refined. The Realtree Brown finish blends well with a variety of decors. The weight is surprisingly light, making it easy to handle and mount.
The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and adjustment. Even those with limited experience in taxidermy mounting will find it intuitive to use. The ergonomics are excellent.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction and powder-coated finish ensure long-lasting durability. This is designed to stand up to the test of time. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Repair, if ever needed, should be relatively straightforward given the simple design. So far maintenance has been a breeze.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Little Hooker comes with all the necessary hardware for mounting. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of appearance, its adjustability allows for fine-tuning the display angle and position. This offers a degree of personalization. It doesn’t necessarily integrate with other brands.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel
Pros
- No Drilling Required: Preserves the integrity of your trophy.
- Adjustable Design: Allows for a customized and natural presentation.
- Durable Construction: Powder-coated steel ensures long-lasting use.
- Easy Installation: Simple setup with all necessary hardware included.
- Sleek Aesthetic: Realtree Brown finish blends seamlessly with any decor.
Cons
- Limited Size Capacity: Not suitable for extremely large or heavy skulls.
- Basic Aesthetic Customization: Limited options for further personalizing the mount’s appearance.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel?
The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel is perfect for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who want a simple, elegant, and non-destructive way to display their European skull mounts. It’s ideal for those with small to medium-sized trophies like deer, hogs, and similar game. Those looking for a quick and easy mounting solution will benefit most.
If you’re dealing with particularly large or heavy skulls, or if you prefer a more elaborate and customizable display system, this might not be the best choice. A level and a drill are must-have accessories for installation.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel
The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BRN Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Robust Brown Steel offers excellent value for its price point. It delivers on its promise of a simple, durable, and customizable mounting solution. At $23.49 it is a worthwhile investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a hassle-free way to showcase their European skull mounts without damaging the trophies themselves. Upgrade your display today and give your trophies the presentation they deserve!