First Thoughts on the Allen Antler Mounting Kit
Displaying a hard-earned set of antlers is a rite of passage for many hunters. The Allen Antler Mounting Kit offers a seemingly straightforward solution for showcasing these trophies. It promises a wood grain laminate finish for a touch of rustic elegance and a flexible skull mount covered in green fabric to highlight the antlers.
I’ve spent years field dressing game and admiring impressive racks. Over the years, I have tried various mounting techniques and kits. I was looking for an affordable and easy-to-use option that wouldn’t require significant woodworking skills or specialized tools. The Allen Antler Mounting Kit seemed to fit the bill, promising a hassle-free way to honor a successful hunt.
Upon unboxing, the kit presents a simple layout. The wood grain laminate base appears decent for the price, though it lacks the richness of real wood. The flexible skull mount felt somewhat flimsy, but I reserved judgment until I attached the antlers. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. It wouldn’t compete with a professional mount, but for the price it has potential.
Compared to more elaborate kits requiring extensive drilling and shaping, the Allen Antler Mounting Kit seemed much simpler. I considered building my own mount from scratch, but the time and cost of materials made this kit a more attractive option. The ease of assembly was a key selling point. My primary motivation was an easy way to display antlers without a huge investment of time or money.
First impressions were a mix of curiosity and slight apprehension. The low price point made me question the long-term durability, but the promise of a quick and easy setup was appealing. My overall excitement level rested on how well the kit would actually hold the antlers and how it would look once assembled.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Antler Mounting Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Allen Antler Mounting Kit immediately after returning from a successful deer hunt in the Pennsylvania wilderness. The goal was a simple, clean display without detracting from the natural beauty of the antlers.
Assembling the kit proved relatively easy. It took about 20 minutes to position the antlers and secure them to the flexible skull mount. The green fabric seemed to complement the antlers well. I did notice the flexibility of the mount made it a little wobbly.
The biggest surprise was how much adjustment was required to get the antlers to sit properly on the mount. The flexible form, while accommodating, didn’t provide the rock-solid stability I was hoping for. It made me wish the mount was a bit more rigid.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of display in my den, the Allen Antler Mounting Kit has shown some signs of wear, although nothing major. The wood grain laminate has held up well to occasional dusting and cleaning.
The flexible skull mount, however, remains my main concern. Over time, it seems to have lost some of its rigidity, leading to a slight droop in the antler positioning. This is especially noticeable with heavier racks. Regular adjustments are needed.
Maintaining the mount is simple – a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to the professional mounts I have from previous hunts, this kit requires more frequent attention. Professional mounts don’t require ongoing adjustments or show signs of instability. The Allen Antler Mounting Kit, though a budget-friendly alternative, doesn’t quite reach the same level of reliability or aesthetic appeal.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Antler Mounting Kit
Specifications
The Allen Antler Mounting Kit features a wood grain laminate finish for the display base. The skull mount is a flexible form. It will fit most horn configurations. It’s covered with green fabric.
These specifications indicate a design focused on affordability and ease of use. The flexible mount is intended to simplify the mounting process, accommodating various antler shapes and sizes. The laminate finish provides a presentable display without the cost of real wood.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Antler Mounting Kit performs adequately for its intended purpose. It holds antlers securely, but requires more adjustments than desired. The green fabric effectively showcases the antlers.
The main strengths are its ease of assembly and low cost. The biggest weakness is the lack of rigidity in the flexible skull mount. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly option.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The wood grain laminate is aesthetically pleasing enough. The flexible skull mount is lightweight and easy to manipulate.
It is user-friendly, requiring minimal tools and expertise to assemble. The design could be improved with a more rigid mount for better stability. There is very little learning curve required.
Durability & Maintenance
The laminate base should last for several years with proper care. The longevity of the flexible skull mount is questionable, given its tendency to lose rigidity over time. It needs frequent adjustments.
Maintaining the kit is straightforward, requiring only occasional dusting. Repairs are unlikely, as the mount is not designed to be disassembled or repaired. Replacing the entire kit is the more likely repair option.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Antler Mounting Kit does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited to potentially adding decorative elements to the base.
It’s unlikely to be compatible with accessories from other brands due to its specific design. The lack of customization options underscores its budget-friendly, no-frills approach.
Pros and Cons of Allen Antler Mounting Kit
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all hunters.
- Easy to assemble, requiring minimal tools or expertise.
- Green fabric effectively showcases the antlers.
- Accommodates various antler shapes and sizes.
- Wood grain laminate provides a presentable display.
Cons
- Flexible skull mount lacks rigidity and stability.
- Requires frequent adjustments due to sagging.
- Laminate finish lacks the richness of real wood.
Who Should Buy Allen Antler Mounting Kit?
Perfect for: Hunters on a tight budget who want a simple and quick way to display their antlers. Also great for those new to hunting and want to avoid complicated mounting processes.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking a professional-quality display or who have exceptionally large or heavy antlers that require a more robust mounting solution.
Must-have accessories or modifications? While not strictly necessary, adding some felt pads to the base can prevent scratching of furniture. Additional adhesive might be necessary to secure the antlers more firmly to the flexible mount.
Conclusion on Allen Antler Mounting Kit
The Allen Antler Mounting Kit offers a budget-friendly and straightforward solution for displaying antlers. It is an option if your priority is ease of assembly and low cost. The main drawback is the flexible skull mount, which lacks long-term rigidity.
The price is justified for what it offers – a basic and functional display. It’s not a professional-grade product, but it serves its purpose for casual display.
I would recommend it to hunters who prioritize affordability and convenience over long-term durability and professional aesthetics. For the occasional hunter looking to showcase a modest trophy, it is a viable option. If you want a more permanent display for impressive antlers, invest in a professional mounting service.