First Thoughts on the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER
The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER offers a unique solution for displaying shed antlers, turning them into a presentable trophy without the need for a full shoulder mount. Instead of letting those impressive sheds gather dust in the garage, you can create a lasting reminder of successful hunts or scouting trips. Mountain Mike’s aims to bridge the gap between simply finding sheds and creating a visually appealing display.
As someone who’s spent countless hours scouring the woods for shed antlers, I’ve always struggled with how best to showcase them. I’ve tried various methods, from basic plaques to integrating them into rustic furniture, but nothing quite captured the professional look I desired without the expense of a taxidermist. The promise of easily mounting sheds to a spare cape was what drew me to the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression is of solid, utilitarian design. The polymer construction feels robust, and while lightweight, it doesn’t feel flimsy. It’s a simple, unassuming piece, but the molded skull plate design is evident. I considered other options, like crafting my own mounting solutions from wood or metal, but the low price point and convenience of the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER ultimately won me over.
My initial excitement is cautiously optimistic. I’m eager to see how well it integrates with a cape and how securely it holds the antlers, but the simplicity and apparent durability are encouraging. This promises a neat way to display my finds, provided it lives up to its promise of easy mounting and lasting durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER in my workshop, using a spare deer cape I had from a previous taxidermy project. I chose a set of matched whitetail sheds from a buck I’d been tracking for years. The workshop environment provided a controlled setting to assess the ease of attachment and stability.
The initial mounting process was surprisingly straightforward. The polymer material drills easily, allowing for quick and secure attachment of the sheds using standard wood screws. I experienced no issues with cracking or splitting of the polymer during drilling. Once mounted, the sheds felt remarkably secure, and the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER provided a stable platform for the cape.
There were no immediate surprises. The product performed as advertised. The only initial issue was ensuring the sheds were properly aligned and symmetrical on the plate. However, that’s purely aesthetic and dependent on the individual sheds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of having the mounted sheds displayed in my den, the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of warping, cracking, or loosening of the screws. The polymer has maintained its integrity despite fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER requires minimal maintenance. A simple dusting is all that’s needed to keep it looking clean. Compared to previous methods of displaying sheds, this is a significant improvement in terms of both aesthetics and convenience.
My previous attempts at shed display often involved more complex mounting systems that required more upkeep. This product outperforms those by offering a simple, durable, and low-maintenance solution. The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER allows me to showcase my sheds with confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER
Specifications
The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER is a single-piece polymer bracket designed to mimic the skull plate of a harvested deer. This provides a mounting surface for shed antlers, allowing them to be attached to a spare cape. The key feature is its compatibility with standard taxidermy forms, allowing for easy integration into existing display setups.
The bracket’s weight is negligible, adding virtually no extra burden to the mounted display. The durable polymer construction ensures longevity and resistance to cracking or warping. The design is intended for easy drilling and screwing, facilitating quick and secure attachment of sheds. These specifications translate to ease of use and a lasting, professional-looking shed mount.
Performance & Functionality
The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER performs its primary function admirably: providing a stable and secure mounting platform for shed antlers. Its simple design and robust construction make it a reliable solution for creating a trophy mount.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The weakness, if any, lies in its lack of adjustability. However, for the price, it meets and exceeds expectations, delivering a functional and aesthetically pleasing display solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER boasts a functional, no-frills design. The polymer material is lightweight yet durable, making it easy to handle and install. The molded skull plate design provides a realistic base for the antler mount.
Its user-friendliness is a major selling point. There’s virtually no learning curve involved. Anyone with basic DIY skills can easily attach sheds and create a professional-looking display.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER ensures its longevity. Under normal display conditions, it should last for years without any significant degradation.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple dusting is all that’s required. The durable polymer is also resistant to moisture and insects, further extending its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER doesn’t come with any specific accessories, focusing on the core functionality of shed mounting. However, it is highly customizable.
It readily accepts standard wood screws for attaching sheds and capes. The polymer can also be easily painted or finished to match the desired aesthetic. Its compatibility with standard taxidermy forms allows for seamless integration with existing display elements.
Pros and Cons of MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER
Pros
- Provides a simple and affordable way to create a professional-looking shed mount.
- Durable polymer construction ensures longevity and resistance to damage.
- Easy to install, requiring only basic tools and DIY skills.
- Compatible with standard taxidermy forms and capes.
- Lightweight design minimizes the added weight to the display.
Cons
- Lack of adjustability might make precise alignment challenging for some sheds.
- Basic aesthetic; may require painting or finishing for a more customized look.
Who Should Buy MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER?
Perfect for hunters and shed hunters who want to display their finds in a professional and aesthetically pleasing manner without the expense of a full taxidermy mount. It’s also ideal for taxidermists looking for a cost-effective way to offer shed mounting services.
Those who are looking for a highly adjustable or intricately detailed mounting system should skip this product. If you are seeking a high-end, museum-quality display, this product is not for you.
Must-have accessories include wood screws, a drill, and a spare deer cape. Consider adding paint or stain to customize the appearance of the mount.
Conclusion on MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER
The MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER is a surprisingly effective and affordable solution for turning shed antlers into impressive trophies. It simplifies the mounting process, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to more complex and expensive methods.
The price is more than justified, considering the ease of use and the professional results it delivers. For around ten bucks, it transforms sheds from clutter into conversation pieces.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER to any hunter or shed hunter looking for a simple and affordable way to display their prized finds. If you want to showcase your sheds with pride, grab a MOUNTAIN MIKE’S SHED SPREADER and get mounting!