Deer antlers are one of the most iconic and easily recognizable features of the deer family. These large, branched horns are not only a symbol of virility and strength, but they are also used by deer to assert dominance over other deer and defend their territory. While the vast majority of the time deer use their antlers for harmless sparring and posturing, there are occasions when they can become dangerous.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to cut off a deer’s antlers, here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it safely.
- Wait until the deer has shed its antlers
- This usually occurs in late winter or early spring
- Cut off the antlers at the base, as close to the skull as possible
- Clean the antlers with a wire brush to remove any dirt or debris
- soak the antlers in a 50/50 mixture of bleach and water for 30 minutes to disinfect them
- Allow the antlers to air dry completely before using them for any purpose
Cutting Antlers off Big Whitetail Buck
How to cut antlers off a deer skull
It’s not as difficult as you might think to remove the antlers from a deer skull. With a few simple tools, you can have the antlers off and ready to mount in no time.
First, you’ll need a saw.
A handsaw or power saw will work, but a bone saw will make the job go quicker. Second, you’ll need a way to secure the skull. You can do this by clamping it down to a work surface or by holding it in your lap.
Once the skull is secured, you can start sawing through the antlers. It’s important to go slowly and carefully so you don’t damage the skull. Once the antlers are severed, you can remove them from the skull.
With the antlers removed, you can now prepare the skull for mounting. This involves cleaning it and removing any meat or tissue that’s still attached. You can do this by boiling the skull or using a power washer.
Once the skull is clean, you can drill holes into it for mounting. You can also add a plaque or other decoration to the skull before mounting it on display.
With these simple steps, you can easily remove the antlers from a deer skull.

Credit: www.wildlife.state.nm.us
Can you cut antlers off?
You can cut antlers off, but it’s not recommended. Antlers are made of bone, and cutting them off can damage the underlying tissue. Additionally, antlers are used by deer to help them balance and maneuver.
Removing them can make it difficult for the deer to move and could lead to injury.
What is the best saw to cut deer antlers?
Assuming you want to cut deer antlers for some sort of crafting project, the best saw to use would be a band saw. Band saws are able to make very precise, curved cuts which would be perfect for creating whatever project you have in mind. Additionally, band saws are relatively easy to use, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting the hang of it.
Does it hurt to cut deer antlers off?
It is generally accepted that it does not hurt deer to have their antlers cut off. The main reason for this is that the antlers are not attached to the skull by bone, but rather by a soft tissue called velvet. This tissue is full of blood vessels and is very sensitive.
Cutting through the velvet will cause bleeding, but it will quickly clot and the deer will be fine.
There are some who believe that cutting off antlers can be painful for deer, as the antlers are full of nerve endings. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
If deer did feel pain when their antlers were cut, they would likely show signs of distress, such as crying out or trying to escape. There have been no reports of such behavior, leading many to believe that deer do not feel pain when their antlers are cut.
Can you cut an antler with a saw?
Yes, you can cut an antler with a saw. There are a few things to keep in mind when doing so, however. First, make sure that the saw is sharp and that you are using a saw blade that is designed for cutting through bone.
Second, go slowly and be careful not to damage the antler. Third, use a saw with a relatively small blade to avoid damaging the antler. Finally, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the saw blade.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to cut off deer antlers, there are a few things you’ll need to do first. First, you’ll need to find a sharp knife or saw. Next, you’ll need to make a cut at the base of the antler, close to the skull.
Finally, you’ll need to twist and pull the antler until it comes off. Be careful not to damage the skull or spine while doing this.

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