Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel Review

First Thoughts on the Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel

The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel offers a streamlined and customizable solution for displaying your prized European-style trophies. Coming from Hunters Specialties, a brand known for its hunting accessories, this mount promises a no-drill installation and an adjustable presentation for smaller game. I was initially drawn to this product because I’ve accumulated a few impressive deer and hog skulls over the years, and my current mounting system is a chaotic mess of wire and mismatched hardware. I needed a clean, professional-looking way to showcase them in my office without further damaging the bone.

Unboxing the Little Hooker, I immediately appreciated the robust feel of the powder-coated steel. The graphite black finish gives it a modern, almost industrial look that blends well with various décor styles. The pieces are simple: a wall plate, an arm, a prong, and a small bag of hardware. Compared to traditional skull mounting methods involving boiling, bleaching, and potentially irreversible drilling, this seemed like a much gentler approach. I considered other options, like wooden plaques or more elaborate metal mounts, but the Little Hooker’s adjustability and no-drill design ultimately won me over. I was cautiously optimistic; the build quality seemed promising, but I remained to see how well it would actually hold a skull securely and present it naturally.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was with a medium-sized whitetail deer skull. Installation was surprisingly straightforward. The included hardware was adequate for mounting the wall plate to a standard drywall stud. I adjusted the arm and prong to achieve the desired angle and position. It took a few minutes to find the sweet spot where the skull sat securely and displayed its antlers properly.

The initial impression was positive; the skull looked fantastic. There were no wobbles or signs of instability. I intentionally bumped the mount to simulate accidental contact, and the skull remained firmly in place. However, I did notice that the prong, while strong, could potentially scratch the interior of the skull if not positioned carefully.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks, the Little Hooker has proven to be a reliable display solution. There’s been no sagging, loosening, or any other signs of wear. Dust accumulation is minimal, and the powder-coated steel wipes clean easily with a damp cloth.

Compared to my previous method of balancing skulls on shelves (a disaster waiting to happen!), the Little Hooker is a huge improvement in terms of both aesthetics and security. The no-drill design is a major selling point for me. I’m confident that it won’t damage the skull in any way. I have been using this inside. I will move this testing outside next week to assess how well the graphite black paint holds up against the elements.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel

Specifications

The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel is designed for small to mid-sized European-style skull mounts. It is constructed of strong, powder-coated steel. This construction provides durability and resistance to rust and scratches.

The unit is finished in a graphite black color. The dimensions are approximately 10 inches in length, 4 inches in width, and 2 inches in height when disassembled. It includes a wall plate, an adjustable arm, a prong for supporting the skull, and all necessary mounting hardware. The design requires no drilling into the skull itself, preserving the integrity of the trophy.

Performance & Functionality

The Little Hooker performs its primary function—displaying European mounts—very well. The adjustability of the arm and prong allows for precise positioning of the skull, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing presentation. The steel construction provides a stable and secure platform, preventing the skull from wobbling or falling.

The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. Installation is quick and straightforward. The adjustable design is a big plus. However, the prong could benefit from a rubberized coating to prevent potential scratching of the skull.

Design & Ergonomics

The graphite black powder coat provides a sleek, modern look that blends well with most interior designs. The unit is relatively lightweight. It doesn’t add significant weight to the wall mount.

The no-drill design is a significant advantage, preserving the integrity of the skull. The adjustable arm allows for customization. There’s a learning curve to finding the optimal position for each skull, but it’s minimal.

Durability & Maintenance

The powder-coated steel construction suggests good long-term durability. The finish is resistant to scratches and rust. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional dusting or wiping with a damp cloth.

The simplicity of the design means there are few parts that can break or wear out. I anticipate this mount lasting for many years. It is a durable and reliable display solution.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties Little Hooker comes with all the necessary hardware for mounting to a standard wall. No additional accessories are required for basic installation and use.

While there are no specific customization options offered by Hunters Specialties for the Little Hooker, the generic design lends itself to aftermarket modifications. For example, users could add a rubberized coating to the prong or replace the hardware with more decorative options. It is also possible to paint the bracket with camo paint to make it more appropriate for a hunting cabin.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel

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Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel?

The Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel is perfect for hunters who want a clean, professional-looking way to display their European-style skull mounts without damaging the trophies. It’s also a good option for anyone who wants an adjustable display solution that can accommodate different skull sizes and shapes. This is a fantastic product for someone setting up a hunting cabin and wanting to showcase a few prized deer and hogs from past seasons.

This product might not be ideal for those with very large or heavy skulls. It is specifically designed for smaller game. Someone looking for a highly decorative or ornate display might also find this product too simple. Someone looking for a mounting option for a moose or elk skull should pass on this product.

Must-have accessories: Consider adding a small felt pad or rubberized coating to the prong to protect the skull from scratches.

Conclusion on Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel

Overall, the Hunters Specialties SKH-RTLH-ASSY-BLK Realtree Little Hooker Small/Mid-Size European Game Graphite Black Steel is a solid and reliable solution for displaying European skull mounts. The value proposition is excellent; at $27.99, it offers a durable, adjustable, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to more expensive and invasive mounting methods.

I would personally recommend this product to any hunter looking for a simple and effective way to showcase their smaller game trophies. The no-drill design, adjustability, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re tired of dusty skulls precariously balanced on shelves, give the Little Hooker a try. You won’t be disappointed!

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