Do it yourself: European hog skull mount

A European skull mount of a hog makes a unique trophy that you can do yourself.

For hog hunters wanting to preserve a memorable hog hunt, without the expense of a taxidermy bill, try this at-home method for mounting the skull:

1. Get the hide off the head, cutting away as much meat, membrane, tissue, as possible.

2. Using an oversized boiling pot and propane burner, boil the skull in a solution of water, dishwashing detergent and baking soda. A low boil is best to prevent deteriorating the bone tissue.

3. Boil the skull for 30 minutes. Carefully remove and drain the skull of hot water. Use a skinning knife to scrape any remaining tissue from the bone. Repeat as necessary, using the water to loosen any remaining soft matter.

4. Drill a half-inch hole into the brain cavity from the back, flat section of the skull. Using a bent clothes hanger and electric drill, agitate the brain tissue between boiling sessions, then pack the cavity with Borax (available in most grocery stores) to loosen and absorb the tissue.

5. After the final boiling, rub and pack Borax into every opening and crevice and let the skull sit overnight. The Borax will absorb any remaining tissue, including the canals in the teeth to keep the skull from having any odor.

6. Use super glue to reattach any dislodged teeth or tighten loose teeth.

7. After several days of thorough drying, the skull can be bleached in a two-part peroxide formula called Beendare, available from a beauty supply store (wearing latex gloves) or simply paint the skull with an oil base spray paint.

8. Finally, seal the skull by spraying on a gloss or satin coat of clear acrylic like Krylon, which can be found in most paint stores.

9. If desired, the skull can be mounted to a plaque or other wood for hanging. Use drywall screws to mount from the back and wire the jaws in place.

About Phillip Gentry 403 Articles
Phillip Gentry is a freelance outdoor writer and photographer who says that if it swims, walks, hops, flies or crawls he’s usually not too far behind.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply