Just finished mounting my mule deer buck from Colorado last fall. This guy had a beautiful cape with dark contrasting colors and silky smooth hair texture. Killed him by himself, well before the rut on October 26th. He's darn good eating to boot!
I remember seeing this buck in your post earlier last season; it was the first time I admired a bucks cape more than the rack (even though he has a great set of antlers). I am glad you didn't leave the cape up on the hill. Congrats and nice work!
Mike-
Super, beautiful job and an incredible looking cape! Your son's elk mount was equally nice. Many of us wish you hadn't "retired" from doing taxidermy for others.