Step-by-Step Guide to Cape a Deer for Taxidermy (With Diagram Steps)

Caping a deer preserves the hide and skull for mounting. Start by making precise cuts behind the shoulders, peeling the skin carefully, and avoiding damage to the ears or fur. Use sharp tools, work slowly, and salt the hide immediately to prevent spoilage. Follow these steps for a clean cape ready for taxidermy.

What You'll Need

  • Sharp knife (skinning or boning)
  • Gloves (latex or rubber)
  • Game shears or pruners
  • Salt (non-iodized)
  • Plastic bag (for storage)
  • Measuring tape (for reference points)
  • Diagram (printed or digital)

Step-by-Step Caping Process (With Diagram Reference)

  1. Position the Deer:
    • Lay the deer on its back, head elevated.
    • Spread the front legs apart for access.
  2. Initial Cut (Diagram Point A):
    • Make a circular cut around the chest 6-8 inches behind the shoulders.
    • Slice through the skin only-avoid cutting muscle or bone.
  3. Shoulder to Neck (Diagram Point B):
    • Cut upward toward the base of the skull, following the spine.
    • Peel the skin away from the body using your knife and fingers.
  4. Head and Ears (Diagram Point C):
    • Split the skin down the back of the neck to the skull.
    • Cut around the ears at their base-leave 1-2 inches of cartilage attached.
    • Slice the eyelids and lips free if keeping the head intact.
  5. Remove the Cape:
    • Pull the hide forward over the head, cutting connective tissue as needed.
    • Trim excess meat/fat from the inside of the hide.
  6. Preserve the Cape:
    • Lay the hide flat, flesh-side up.
    • Cover entirely with salt (¼-inch layer). Roll up and refrigerate or freeze.

Diagram Key Reference Points

Deer caping diagram showing cut lines at chest (A), neck (B), and ear base (C)

  • A: Chest cut (6-8" behind shoulders)
  • B: Neck/spine line (follow to skull)
  • C: Ear base (leave cartilage attached)
  • D: Eyelid/lip cuts (if retaining head)

Caping Methods Compared

Method Difficulty Time Required Best For Pros Cons
Full Shoulder Cape Moderate 1-2 hours Shoulder mounts Preserves most hide; ideal for large displays Requires precise cuts; heavier to store
Short Cape (Neck-Up) Easy 30-45 mins Pedestal or wall mounts Faster; less waste Limited to head/neck mounts
Field Cape (Quick) Hard 20-30 mins Emergency preservation Minimal tools needed; prevents spoilage Less precise; may require taxidermist repairs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Cutting too close to the ears: Severing cartilage ruins the mount.
  • Leaving excess meat: Causes bacterial growth and hair slippage.
  • Using dull tools: Tears the hide; replace blades frequently.
  • Skipping salt: Hide will rot within hours without preservation.
  • Rushing the neck cut: Uneven lines show in the final mount.

Pro Tips for a Clean Cape

  • Use a hacksaw to remove the skull plate if keeping the antlers attached.
  • Apply borax (optional) with salt for extra preservation in humid climates.
  • Take reference photos of the deer's pose before starting.
  • Label the hide with the deer's orientation (left/right) to avoid mounting errors.