How to Accurately Measure a Deer Cape

Taking measurements of a deer's head is an important step in field care for a head that is to be mounted. You must take measurements of the head before it's skinned. The taxidermist must order a head form for the cape to be mounted over. The hunter supplying accurate measurements helps him secure the proper size form. If the deer is to be fully caped in the field, you must take seven measurements before skinning. A caliper gives the most accurate measurements, but a metal tape measure works, too.

Things You'll Need

  • Metal tape measure
  • Caliper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take a straight measurement from the tip of the nose to the back of the head.

    • 2

      Measure from the tip of the nose to the front corner of the eye. You only have to do this on one side.

    • 3

      Wrap the tape around the neck at the base of the skull. Lay the tape against the neck, making contact with the neck all the way around. Don't pull the tape hard into the hide; this will give an inaccurate reading.

    • 4

      Measure a straight line between the front corners of the eyes. Measure another straight line between the back corners of the eyes to find the thickness of the head. A caliper is the best choice for these measurements.

    • 5

      Lay the tape on the side of the head and record the measurement from the base of the antler burr to the corner of the mouth. You only have to do this on one side of the head.

    • 6

      Stretch the tape from the bridge of the nose to the uppermost tip of one side of the antlers. Repeat the measurement for the opposite antler. The metal tape is best for this measurement.