Gunners Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Nicholasville, Kentucky

3(4 reviews)
(859) 881-1594121 Dewey Dr, Ste A, Nicholasville, KY 40356View on Yelp

Customer Reviews

3
out of 5
4 reviews

Based on Yelp ratings

Read reviews on Yelp

About Gunners Taxidermy

Gunners Taxidermy is located in Nicholasville, Kentucky, the seat of Jessamine County and a community situated just south of Lexington along the edge of the Inner Bluegrass. The shop holds a 3.0 rating based on 4 reviews, which suggests a small but active customer base that's had mixed experiences. Nicholasville hunters have access to quality whitetail and turkey hunting in the surrounding countryside, and having a taxidermist local to Jessamine County saves the trip into Lexington for mount work. Like any smaller operation, results and communication can vary, so it's worth reaching out directly before committing.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

A taxidermy shop serving Nicholasville's hunting community would typically handle the most common Kentucky requests, including whitetail deer shoulder mounts, turkey full body or fan mounts, and basic fish work. Shoulder mounts involve skinning and tanning the cape, fitting it to a pre-made foam form, and finishing the piece with glass eyes and painted detail work around the nose and lips. Turkey mounts range from simple fan-on-plaque displays to full strutting body mounts, which are considerably more labor-intensive. Basic antler mounting on a plaque or shield is also a common lower-cost option for hunters who want a simple display.

Service Area

Gunners Taxidermy serves Nicholasville and Jessamine County, with proximity to Lexington making it accessible for hunters from the broader central Kentucky region. Clients from Wilmore, Harrodsburg, and the surrounding rural communities may also find this a convenient local option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I evaluate a taxidermist before dropping off my trophy?
Ask to see examples of finished work, either in person at the shop or through photos. Look for natural-looking eyes, tight seams around the nose and lips, and hide that lays smoothly without wrinkles or bald spots. Online reviews give you a starting point, but seeing actual work is the most reliable indicator of quality.
What should I do if I'm unhappy with a finished mount?
Start by having a calm, direct conversation with the taxidermist about your specific concerns. A professional who takes pride in their work will want to know if something didn't meet your expectations and may offer to make corrections. If the issue can't be resolved, you may need to contact your state's taxidermy licensing board depending on the circumstances.
Is a 3-star-rated taxidermist still worth trying?
With only a small number of reviews, a rating can swing significantly based on just one or two experiences that may not reflect the shop's typical work. It's worth calling to ask questions and viewing examples of their work before deciding. A low review count means the rating isn't necessarily representative of the full picture.
What questions should I ask when calling a taxidermist for the first time?
Ask about current turnaround times, deposit requirements, pricing for your specific mount type, and whether they can show you examples of similar finished work. It's also smart to ask how they'll communicate updates during the process. A taxidermist who answers these questions clearly and confidently is a good sign.
How far in advance of hunting season should I contact a taxidermist?
Reaching out before the season starts is always a smart move. Good taxidermists in active hunting areas fill up their workload quickly once deer season opens, and calling in August or September ensures you know where you stand before you're scrambling with a fresh cape. Some shops even offer pre-season discounts for hunters who book early.
Can I get a European skull mount done on a tight budget?
European mounts are one of the most affordable ways to display a whitetail deer, often costing significantly less than a full shoulder mount. The process involves cleaning and whitening the skull and displaying the antlers without any hide or form. It's become a popular modern style that works well in rustic or minimalist home decor settings.

Is this your business?

Claim your listing to update your info and connect with customers.

Claim This Listing

More Taxidermists