Let’s Talk About Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount offers a unique and aesthetically pleasing way to display your prized trophies. Manufactured by Skull Hooker, this mounting kit is designed for larger game animals, like elk and moose, providing a sturdy and adjustable display solution. I’ve been mounting my own trophies for years, from simple DIY projects to more elaborate taxidermy. I was looking for a cleaner, more modern way to display my bull elk without the cost and space commitment of a traditional shoulder mount.
My search led me to the Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount due to its advertised ease of installation, adjustable arm, and high weight capacity. The promise of a simple, wall-mounted display that could swivel to different angles was highly appealing. Unboxing the mount, I was immediately impressed by the heft of the steel construction and the smooth, even powder coat finish. The pieces felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to support a heavy skull.
Compared to traditional European mounts that require significant wall space and fixed positioning, the Skull Hooker offered a more adaptable and visually dynamic alternative. Other options included DIY skull mounting kits made from wood or plastic, but none offered the same combination of industrial strength, sleek design, and adjustability. I was excited to get my elk skull mounted and see how this system would transform my trophy room.
My first impression was one of pleasant surprise; the Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount looked even more robust and well-finished than I had anticipated, promising a secure and visually appealing display.
Real-World Testing: Putting Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount in my dedicated trophy room, which is essentially a converted spare bedroom. The walls are reinforced to handle the weight of various mounts and displays. Mounting the system was straightforward. I found a suitable stud, drilled pilot holes, and securely fastened the base plate to the wall.
The initial setup took about 30 minutes, including leveling and double-checking the stability of the mount. The Skull Hooker performed admirably, even with the significant weight of the elk skull. The single 8-inch swing arm swiveled smoothly and effortlessly, allowing me to experiment with different display angles and orientations.
I encountered no issues during the initial setup. The mount felt incredibly solid, and the skull was held securely in place.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount has proven to be a reliable and durable display solution. There are no signs of wear or tear on the steel construction or the powder coat finish. The swivel arm continues to function smoothly without any loosening or sagging.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dust or fingerprints. Compared to my previous methods of displaying skulls, the Skull Hooker is far superior in terms of both aesthetics and ease of maintenance. It has outperformed my expectations by providing a secure, adjustable, and visually appealing display solution that requires minimal upkeep.
Breaking Down the Features of Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount
Specifications
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and user experience. The mount is constructed from steel, providing exceptional strength and durability. It is finished with a black powder coat, which protects against corrosion and provides a sleek, professional appearance.
The 8-inch swing arm offers a generous range of motion, allowing the skull to be positioned at various angles. The mount is rated to hold up to 150 lbs, making it suitable for large game animals like elk, moose, and caribou. These specifications are important because they ensure the mount can safely and securely display heavy skulls while offering flexibility in presentation.
Performance & Functionality
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount excels at its primary function: securely and aesthetically displaying large animal skulls. The mount holds the skull firmly in place, preventing it from shifting or falling. The adjustable swing arm allows for easy repositioning, enabling you to find the perfect display angle.
The primary strength of the Skull Hooker is its combination of strength, adjustability, and ease of use. The only potential weakness is that the skull’s orientation depends on the mounting hardware within the skull itself. It meets and exceeds expectations by providing a visually appealing and functional alternative to traditional mounting methods.
Design & Ergonomics
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount features a simple yet elegant design. The steel construction provides a robust and durable platform. The black powder coat finish gives it a clean and modern aesthetic that complements any trophy room or hunting lodge.
The mount is surprisingly user-friendly, requiring minimal assembly and installation. The swing arm adjusts smoothly and effortlessly, allowing for quick and easy repositioning. The ergonomic design ensures the skull is securely held in place without putting undue stress on the mount or the wall.
Durability & Maintenance
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount is built to last. The steel construction and powder coat finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, this mount should last for many years, providing a reliable and visually appealing display solution.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dust or fingerprints. The durable construction and easy maintenance make it a practical and long-lasting investment for any hunter or outdoor enthusiast.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount does not come with a wide range of accessories. Its primary focus is on providing a secure and adjustable mounting platform. However, the Skull Hooker system itself offers different sized “hooks” for different sized skulls.
While there are no direct customization options for the mount itself, you can easily customize the display by adding decorative elements around the skull. The Skull Hooker is compatible with a variety of wall-mounting hardware, allowing you to choose the best option for your specific wall type and load-bearing requirements.
Pros and Cons of Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount
Pros
- Robust steel construction and durable powder coat finish ensures long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable 8-inch swing arm allows for versatile display options and easy repositioning.
- High weight capacity (up to 150 lbs) is suitable for large game animals like elk and moose.
- Simple and user-friendly design requires minimal assembly and installation.
- Provides a sleek and modern alternative to traditional shoulder mounts.
Cons
- Limited customization options beyond the angle of the skull.
- Requires secure wall mounting to support the weight of the skull.
Who Should Buy Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount?
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount is perfect for hunters who want a modern and adjustable way to display their large game trophies, such as elk, moose, and caribou. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate a clean aesthetic and want to save space compared to traditional shoulder mounts. Landowners may also use this for showcasing shed antlers.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer the traditional look of a full shoulder mount or who require a display solution for smaller game animals (deer, antelope, etc.). Additionally, if you are uncomfortable with DIY projects or unsure about your wall’s load-bearing capacity, you may want to consult with a professional installer.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality level to ensure the mount is perfectly aligned during installation. Consider purchasing heavier-duty mounting hardware if you are concerned about the stability of your wall.
Conclusion on Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount
The Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount is a well-designed and highly functional display solution for large game animal skulls. It offers a compelling combination of strength, adjustability, and aesthetics. The steel construction and durable powder coat finish ensure it will last for years.
The price of $68.49 is justified given the quality of materials and the versatility of the mount. I would definitely recommend the Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount to any hunter looking for a modern and space-saving alternative to traditional taxidermy. This innovative mounting system offers a unique and visually appealing way to showcase your hard-earned trophies. Upgrade your trophy room today with the Skull Hooker Large Shoulder Mount!