The final procedure involves pulling the skin down to the head and then cutting the neck off about three inches from the head. We can fix just about anything, but it may not look quite as good. Use common sense. Make sure you hang the deer by the feet or antlers. Take your time, and if you're not sure, ask a friend who has done it before.
Mayes notes another common mistake made by hunters happen when they drag the deer out of the field.
The wear and tear is often seen on the shoulders and chest of the deer, resulting in bare spots and blemishes on the hide. He encourages hunters to either wrap a tarp around the deer or try to fold the front legs over the head. Another option is sticking the front legs between the antlers. Mother Nature should help eliminate another of the mistakes. With cold temperatures predicted for opening weekend, the urgency of getting the cape to a taxidermist as soon as possible is lessened.