First Impressions of Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 offers a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to display a successful turkey hunt. Manufactured by Walnut Hollow, this kit provides all the necessary components to create a lasting memento of the hunt, featuring a satin finish and designated spaces for the fan, beard, and spurs. My initial impression is that this is a well-thought-out, user-friendly product for hunters seeking a professional-looking display without the need for custom taxidermy.
For years, I’ve struggled with finding the right way to showcase my hard-earned trophies. Traditional taxidermy can be expensive and time-consuming, while homemade solutions often lack the polish I desire. I was looking for an affordable and relatively easy way to create a presentable display of my turkey harvests and the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 seemed to offer the perfect balance.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately pleased with the rich oak color and smooth satin finish. The kit felt sturdy and well-made, definitely not flimsy or cheap. The individual components were neatly packaged, and the included hardware appeared to be of decent quality.
I considered a few alternatives, including the “Skull Hooker Little Hooker Trophy Mount” for a European mount and a DIY approach using a wooden plaque and epoxy. Ultimately, I chose the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 because it offered a complete, purpose-built solution at a reasonable price, and the traditional fan and beard mount is simply classic.
My first impression was definitely positive; I was excited to get started and see how it would transform my last turkey fan and beard into a prized possession for my hunting room. I was pleasantly surprised at the overall quality and look of the kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 to the test immediately after my last spring turkey season, mounting a Rio Grande turkey I harvested in Texas. The project was undertaken in my garage, which offered a well-lit and organized workspace. I followed the included instructions closely, taking my time to ensure each step was completed properly.
The mounting process was surprisingly straightforward, even for someone with limited experience in this type of project. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and all the necessary hardware was included. The large slot for the beard was particularly helpful, as it allowed the beard to hang naturally without any awkward twisting or catching.
There were no major issues during the initial mounting, but I did find that the face plate, while generous in size, required some slight trimming to perfectly cover the quill feathers of my particular turkey. This was a minor adjustment and easily accomplished with a utility knife.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of displaying the mounted turkey fan and beard in my hunting room, the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 has held up remarkably well. The satin finish has maintained its luster, and there are no signs of wear or tear. The mount remains sturdy and secure, providing a stable and visually appealing display.
The durability of the kit is impressive, considering the relatively low price point. I was initially concerned that the wood might be prone to warping or cracking over time, but this has not been the case. The kit has proven to be resistant to humidity and temperature fluctuations, maintaining its structural integrity even during the hot summer months.
Maintaining the mount is simple; a quick dusting with a microfiber cloth is all that’s needed to keep it looking its best. I appreciate the low-maintenance nature of the kit, as it allows me to focus on enjoying the display without worrying about constant upkeep. Compared to previous attempts at DIY mounting projects, the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 is far superior in terms of both appearance and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337
Specifications
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 is designed to provide an easy and attractive way to display your turkey hunting trophies. Key specifications include:
- Manufacturer: Walnut Hollow
- Color: Oak
- Suitable for all turkey species: Eastern, Osceola, Rio Grande, Merriam’s, Gould’s. This versatility ensures compatibility regardless of the turkey species harvested.
- Assembled size: 15? x 8? x 1.625?. The compact size makes it suitable for display in various spaces.
- High-quality satin finish. This adds a touch of elegance and protects the wood.
- Large slot for natural beard hanging. This design feature prevents twists and ensures a natural display.
- Spurs can be added to the back panel. Allows for a complete display of the turkey’s trophy elements.
- Generous face plate covers quill feathers. The face plate provides a clean and professional look by concealing unsightly feather bases.
- Easy-to-follow DIY instructions included. This makes the mounting process accessible to all.
- Mounting hardware provided. Ensures a hassle-free setup.
- Made in Wisconsin, USA. This highlights the product’s domestic manufacturing and quality control.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall quality, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal of the mount. The satin finish protects the wood and enhances its appearance, while the generous face plate and beard slot ensure a professional-looking display.
Performance & Functionality
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 performs its intended function exceptionally well; securely and attractively displaying a turkey fan, beard, and spurs. The kit’s design is intuitive and the included hardware is sufficient for a stable mount.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The pre-cut slots and pre-drilled holes significantly streamline the mounting process. One area for potential improvement is the inclusion of more detailed instructions for spur mounting, as this step is somewhat vague.
The kit meets and slightly exceeds expectations; while I anticipated a decent display, the final product looks surprisingly professional for a DIY kit. It’s a testament to the thoughtful design and quality materials.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The oak finish provides a classic and timeless look that complements any hunting room or display space. The weight is well-balanced, ensuring stability without being overly bulky.
The kit is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills. The instructions are clear and concise, making the mounting process accessible to hunters of all experience levels. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 is constructed from solid wood and finished with a durable satin coating, suggesting a long lifespan with proper care. The finish protects against moisture and minor scratches, ensuring the mount remains in good condition for years to come.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional dusting with a soft cloth. The kit is not designed to be repaired, but the robust construction minimizes the need for repairs in the first place.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, including screws and a pre-drilled hole for easy installation. There are limited official customization options available directly from Walnut Hollow, but the kit can be easily personalized.
Hunters can add their own touches by staining or painting the wood, engraving a nameplate, or adding decorative elements such as shotgun shells or turkey feathers. The kit is compatible with most standard spur mounting brackets, allowing for further customization of the display.
Pros and Cons of Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337
Pros
- Easy to assemble: The included instructions and pre-drilled holes make the mounting process quick and straightforward.
- Attractive design: The oak finish and satin coating create a professional and visually appealing display.
- Durable construction: Solid wood and quality hardware ensure the mount will last for years.
- Affordable price: Offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional taxidermy.
- Suitable for all turkey species: Versatile design accommodates Eastern, Osceola, Rio Grande, Merriam’s, and Gould’s turkeys.
Cons
- Limited customization options: The kit comes in only one color (oak) and offers few opportunities for personalization beyond painting or staining.
- Spur mounting instructions could be more detailed: The instructions for attaching the spurs are somewhat vague and may require additional research or experimentation.
Who Should Buy Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337?
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 is perfect for hunters of all experience levels who want an affordable and attractive way to display their turkey hunting trophies. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate a DIY project and want a personalized display without the expense of professional taxidermy. The kit is ideal for hunters who value simplicity, durability, and a classic aesthetic.
Hunters who prefer highly customized or elaborate displays may want to skip this product. Also, those unwilling to perform minor trimming/fitting adjustments should look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory is a small, fine-toothed saw or utility knife for trimming the face plate, along with appropriate spur mounting hardware if you choose to display the spurs.
Conclusion on Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337
The Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed product that offers exceptional value for the price. It provides a simple, affordable, and attractive way to display your turkey hunting trophies, allowing you to create a lasting memento of your successful hunts. The kit’s easy assembly, durable construction, and classic design make it a standout option in the DIY turkey mounting market.
The price of $49.99 is justified by the quality of the materials, the ease of use, and the professional-looking final product. Compared to the cost of traditional taxidermy, the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 is a budget-friendly alternative that delivers impressive results.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Walnut Hollow Turkey Mount Kit 1302337 to any hunter looking for a simple and effective way to display their turkey trophies. It’s a rewarding DIY project that will transform your turkey fan, beard, and spurs into a cherished keepsake. Get yours today and proudly showcase your hunting achievements!