How to Display Your Hard-Earned Turkey Spurs

As an avid turkey hunter, there’s no prouder moment than when you finally bag that elusive longbeard you’ve been chasing all season Your tireless scouting and preparation culminates when you make the perfect shot on a gorgeous tom But the hunt doesn’t end there – now it’s time to commemorate your trophy by properly displaying the beard and spurs.

Showcasing your prized gobbler spurs is a time-honored tradition among turkey hunters. Not only does it showcase your success, but it allows you to relive the hunt each time you gaze upon it. With the right technique and materials, you can create a spur mount that will last a lifetime.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about preserving and exhibiting your hard-earned turkey spurs. From how to remove them without damage to mounting techniques, you’ll have all the information necessary for a display that honors your triumphant spring hunt.

Removing the Spurs

The first step is carefully detaching the spurs from the tom’s legs without causing any harm. Here’s how it’s done:

• Wait until the turkey has fully expired before attempting removal This ensures the legs are limp

• Lay the bird on its back with legs outstretched. Pluck any feathers around the shank and spur area.

• Firmly grip the foot and use game shears or a sharp knife to sever the tendons at the spur’s base.

• Gently work the spur loose, twisting and applying upward pressure. Go slowly to prevent breakage.

• Repeat for the other leg. Rinse away any residue and pat dry before mounting.

The key is taking your time and avoiding force when detaching the spurs. The skin and tendons will cut easily if the legs are relaxed. Proper removal preserves the spur intact for mounting.

Preparing the Spurs

Once detached from the legs, prepare the spurs with these steps:

• Cleaning: Trim any residual tissue at the base so it’s clean.

• Whitening: Submerge in diluted hydrogen peroxide to brighten and accentuate details.

• Conditioning: Soak in mineral oil or turpentine to restore flexibility after whitening.

With cleaned, whitened, and conditioned spurs, you’re ready to mount and exhibit your prize.

Mounting Materials

To properly showcase your spurs, affix them to a mounting plaque or board. Good options include:

• Wood: Oak, cedar, or poplar boards create a natural, rustic backdrop.

• Marble/Granite: Elegant stone slabs make an upscale statement piece.

• Plexiglass: Modern, transparent look that can illuminate spurs with LEDs.

• Shadowbox: Floating 3D effect with backlighting for dynamic display.

• Corkboard: Inexpensive and casual way to show off your spurs.

Mounting Adhesives

You’ll need a durable adhesive to permanently fix the spurs to your mounting surface. Recommended options:

• Epoxy – Won’t weaken or deteriorate over time. Allows adjustments during drying.

• Construction adhesive – Heavy duty bonding power ideal for various materials.

• Cyanoacrylate gel – Quick “super glue” drying ideal for delicate displays.

• Two-part epoxy – Multi-component adhesives like JB Weld form maximum strength bonds.

Mounting Technique

Follow these steps for secure, long-lasting spur mounts:

• Plan the layout before adhering spurs 4-6 inches apart at a slight outward angle.

• Apply adhesive only to the non-visible backside base, avoiding the shafts.

• Use clamps to hold spurs flat until the adhesive fully cures (12-24 hrs).

• Gently check that spurs are firmly fixed once dry.

Take your time positioning spurs during the mounting process. The end result will proudly display your hard-earned trophy for years to come.

Displaying Your Turkey Spur Mount

You invested hours of hard work into your custom spur mount. Now it’s time to exhibit this masterpiece! Creative display ideas include:

• Hanging horizontally at eye-level on a wall.

• Placing on a mantle, bookshelf or cabinet to admire.

• Using an easel or stand for stone or marble plaque.

• Incorporating in a framed case or shadowbox with photos and memorabilia.

• Mounting in a man cave, game room or office with your hunting gear and other trophies.

• Pairing symmetrically with beard and fanned tail feathers.

However you choose to showcase them, your skillfully crafted spur mount will draw eyes and spark hunting tales. Let all who enter your domain admire the spoils from your successful spring hunt!

Caring for Your Display

To keep your mounted spurs looking pristine for years on end, proper maintenance is key:

• Dust regularly with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid excess moisture.

• Check adhesive bonds yearly and reapply if any loosening occurs.

• Re-whiten spurs annually if dulling or yellowing develops.

• Refinish or reseal wood boards if scratches or water damage arise.

• Repair cracks in stone, plexiglass or other materials to prevent further damage.

• Replace faded background materials like cork or fabric as needed.

With occasional upkeep and repair, you’ll enjoy your treasured turkey spur display for a lifetime – reliving memories of that perfect spring hunt.