The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve spent countless hours in the field, and one thing has always been important to me – respecting the animals I harvest. That respect extends to how I display the antlers, a permanent reminder of the hunt. I needed an affordable and aesthetically pleasing way to showcase a recent buck, and the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED seemed like a promising option.
My current antler displays are a mismatched collection of DIY projects, functional but hardly elegant. I was specifically looking for a kit that offered a clean, professional look without breaking the bank, and the ALLEN name, known for dependable hunting accessories, caught my eye. The red skull cover offered a unique visual flair that appealed to my personal taste.
Unboxing the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED revealed a surprisingly lightweight package. The wood grain laminate finish on the mount seemed decent, although I was initially concerned about its durability. The flexible skull cover, however, felt robust and seemed adaptable to different antler configurations.
Compared to simpler, bare-bones mounting kits, the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED includes a skull cover for a more complete presentation. More elaborate European-style mounts involve a lengthy and messy boiling process, which I wanted to avoid. This kit presented a quicker, cleaner alternative at a fraction of the cost.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The kit appeared easy to assemble, and the red skull cover definitely added a unique touch. I was eager to see how it would hold up in real-world display and whether the laminate finish would stand the test of time.
Real-World Testing: Putting ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved mounting a medium-sized whitetail rack harvested last season. I set up the kit in my garage, a space that sees everything from woodworking to gun cleaning. The assembly process was straightforward; the flexible skull cover easily conformed to the base of the antlers.
The conditions were relatively mild in my garage, but I noticed the laminate finish reflected the overhead light, creating a slightly artificial appearance. The antlers themselves mounted securely to the backing, and the red skull cover provided a striking contrast to the natural color of the bone. Overall, the aesthetic was pleasing, though I wondered how it would hold up in a brighter, more exposed environment.
The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED was incredibly easy to use; the instructions were clear, and the parts fit together without issue. I spent maybe fifteen minutes putting it all together. The flexible skull cap was definitely the biggest advantage in this.
My only minor concern after the first use was the long-term adhesion of the laminate to the base. I was curious about how it would do after extended UV exposure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of displaying the mounted antlers in my den, the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of the laminate peeling, even with indirect sunlight exposure through the window. The antlers remain securely fastened to the mount.
The kit has proven surprisingly durable, considering its relatively low price point. The red skull cover still looks vibrant, and the flexible material hasn’t cracked or become brittle. There is very minimal wear and tear
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dust. Compared to my older, unfinished wooden mounts, the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED is significantly easier to clean. For the price, it definitely outperforms my expectations in terms of ease of use and maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED
Specifications
The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED is designed as a universal display solution for deer antlers. It includes a wood grain laminate finished mount and a flexible red skull cover. It is intended for indoor use and is compatible with most common antler configurations. The overall weight of the kit is approximately one pound, contributing to its ease of installation.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the aesthetic appeal and ease of use. The wood grain laminate provides a more refined look compared to bare wood. The flexible skull cover allows for easy customization to fit different antler sizes and shapes.
Performance & Functionality
The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED performs its job adequately, providing a stable and visually appealing display for antlers. It offers a quick and easy alternative to more complex mounting methods. Its greatest strength is the ease of use and attractive skull cap.
The laminate finish, while aesthetically pleasing, could potentially be more durable and scratch-resistant. The overall construction could be a little more robust. However, considering the price point, its performance is acceptable.
The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED meets expectations for a budget-friendly antler mounting kit. It provides a simple, attractive solution for displaying antlers without requiring specialized skills or tools. It does the job it advertises, with style.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price, with a focus on affordability rather than premium materials. The laminate finish provides a presentable appearance, but the underlying material is lightweight. The flexible skull cover is a clever design element, allowing for a customizable fit.
The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED is exceptionally user-friendly. The assembly process is intuitive, and no specialized tools are required. There’s virtually no learning curve; anyone can assemble and mount antlers using this kit in minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and indoor use, the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED should last for several years. The laminate finish is susceptible to scratches, so caution is advised when handling and cleaning. The flexible skull cover is relatively durable but should be kept away from direct heat sources.
Maintenance involves simple cleaning with a damp cloth. Repairs are unlikely to be feasible; if the laminate is damaged, replacement is the most practical option. The kit is designed for simple functionality and ease of upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED comes with the wood grain mount and the red skull cover. The only real customization option is the positioning of the antlers within the skull cover. There are no readily available accessories specifically designed for this kit.
While not explicitly designed for cross-compatibility, the mounting holes may align with some generic mounting plates. However, this would require modification and is not officially supported by ALLEN. The skull cap could potentially be painted with plastic friendly paints.
Pros and Cons of ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to budget-conscious hunters.
- Easy to assemble requiring no specialized tools or skills.
- Unique red skull cover provides a distinctive aesthetic.
- Flexible skull cover adapts to various antler configurations.
- Improved Aesthetics The mount is more presentable than bare DIY mounts.
Cons
- Laminate finish is susceptible to scratches.
- Overall build quality could be more robust.
- Limited Customization There are not many ways to accessorize the mount.
Who Should Buy ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED?
Perfect for hunters seeking an affordable and easy-to-use antler mounting solution. Casual sportsmen who prioritize convenience and aesthetics will appreciate this kit. It is ideal for those who want a unique display without the mess and expense of a traditional European mount.
This product isn’t ideal for taxidermists seeking professional-grade materials. Hunters who prioritize durability above all else might want a sturdier option. It may also not be suitable for collectors of extremely large or heavy antler racks.
A small level to ensure proper mounting could be a useful accessory. Consider purchasing mounting hardware to accommodate different wall types.
Conclusion on ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED
The ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED is a solid choice for budget-conscious hunters. It provides an easy and aesthetically pleasing way to display antlers. The unique red skull cover adds a distinctive touch that sets it apart from other mounting kits.
The price is definitely justified by the convenience and visual appeal. While the build quality isn’t top-tier, it is perfectly adequate for its intended purpose. For $16.99, it punches well above its weight in the space.
I would recommend the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED to anyone looking for an affordable and easy antler mounting solution. If you are looking for an inexpensive and simple way to mount antlers, this could be for you. Upgrade your display game without breaking the bank; grab the ALLEN ANTLER MOUNT KIT RED and proudly showcase your trophies.