What Is a European Mount?
A European mount — sometimes called a skull mount — is the cleaned and whitened skull of an animal displayed without the hide. Antlers or horns remain attached, making it a dramatic, minimalist display that's become one of the most popular mount styles in recent years.
Why Hunters Love Them
Cost is a major factor. European mounts are significantly more affordable than full shoulder mounts, making them a practical choice for hunters who take multiple animals in a season. They're also faster to complete — typically 4–8 weeks — and lighter and easier to hang than traditional mounts.
Aesthetically, they've shed the "old hunting cabin" stigma and fit naturally into modern, minimal interiors. A whitetail skull mount over a fireplace or on a clean white wall looks sharp in any home.
Species That Work Well
Whitetail deer are the most common, but European mounts work beautifully on bear, elk, predators like coyote and bobcat, and even turkey. The skull structure of each species tells its own story.
Preparation Before Drop-Off
Remove as much meat from the skull as you reasonably can before bringing it in. The skull can be fresh or frozen — either works fine. Don't boil it yourself unless you know what you're doing; improper boiling can damage the bone and loosen teeth.
Display and Care
Keep your European mount away from moisture and direct sunlight, which can yellow the bone over time. Use compressed air periodically to clear dust from the cavities. With basic care, a skull mount will look great for decades.
Interested? Reach out and we'll get you a quote — European mounts are one of the fastest turnarounds we offer.
