Harkey's Taxidermy & Wild Game Processing

Taxidermist in Vale, North Carolina

(704) 472-46957713 Matthew Miller Rd, Vale, NC 28168View on Yelp

About Harkey's Taxidermy & Wild Game Processing

Harkey's Taxidermy & Wild Game Processing in Vale, North Carolina combines two essential post-harvest services under one roof, which is a genuine convenience for hunters in Lincoln County. Vale sits in the western Piedmont, close to Lincolnton and within an easy drive of hunting grounds in both the Catawba River basin and the foothills to the west. The dual offering of taxidermy and wild game processing means you can drop off your animal and handle both the mount and the meat in a single stop. Reach them directly at (704) 472-4695.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Harkey's handles the full picture after a successful hunt. On the taxidermy side, whitetail shoulder mounts and skull cleaning are the likely core services, with antler mounting available for hunters who want a simpler wall display. The wild game processing side covers field-to-freezer work, including skinning, butchering, and packaging venison, bear, or hog to your specifications. Having both services available means the taxidermist can cape the deer properly before the carcass moves to processing, which protects the hide quality better than doing it yourself in the field.

Service Area

Harkey's serves Vale and Lincoln County, along with customers traveling in from Cherryville, Lincolnton, and the rural areas along Highway 182. Its location makes it a practical stop for hunters coming in from Gaston and Cleveland counties as well, both of which have limited combined taxidermy and processing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my deer processed and mounted at the same place?
Yes, Harkey's offers both services together, which is one of its main advantages over shops that only do taxidermy. The staff will cape the deer for the mount before butchering the carcass, keeping your hide in the best possible condition.
What cuts of venison can I get from processing?
Standard processing typically includes steaks, roasts, ground venison, and stew meat, with most shops offering options for sausage and other specialty products for an added fee. Ask about their specific cut sheet when you drop off.
Does wild game processing affect how long my taxidermy takes?
The two processes run on separate timelines. Processing is usually complete within a week or two, while taxidermy can take several months due to tanning and form work. You won't be waiting on one to finish before the other starts.
What's the difference between antler mounting and a full shoulder mount?
Antler mounting displays just the rack on a finished wooden panel or plaque without any hide or form. It's faster, cheaper, and works well for hunters who mainly want to show off the antlers rather than a full reconstruction of the animal.
How do I transport my deer from the field to your shop?
Keep the carcass as cool as possible during transport, using ice in a cooler or keeping it in a shaded truck bed. Avoid leaving it in a warm vehicle for extended periods, as heat accelerates spoilage in both the meat and the hide.
Do you handle bear and hog in addition to deer?
Many combined taxidermy and processing shops in the region do accept bear and wild hog since both are regularly harvested in western NC. Call ahead to confirm availability and any specific requirements for those species.

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