Gunsmoke School of Taxidermy

At our Taxidermy School, learn How to Mount
Big Game Animals in Craig, Colorado



"The Elk Hunting Capital of the World"


Welcome to the Gunsmoke School of Taxidermy, located in Craig, Colorado. This is a great opportunity for you to learn taxidermy as a business or as a hobby. Our 3-week course is designed specifically for the student wanting to learn how to mount Big Game animals.

Course Overview

Our Goal over the 3-week period is to have you mount 3 Big Game Heads and an Antler mount. You are free to choose the species you would like to mount or specialize in. You will learn all aspects of mounting including:

  • Skinning and fleshing
  • Salting
  • Tanning your own hides (a great time and money saver)
  • Form preparation
  • The actual mounting process
  • Finish work including air brush techniques

We will also show you how to make your own glues and maches - more money savers! Other subjects covered in class include:
  • Antler or horn repair
  • European mounts
  • Making crates
  • Pedestal and Habitat construction
  • Business strategies
  • Ordering from catalogs
  • Scoring of antlers
  • ... and more

Our Typical class hours will be Mon.-Fri. 8:00-5:00 and Sat. 8:00 to midday. This is a very challenging, but rewarding course!

About Us

The Gunsmoke School of Taxidermy is also the home of a professional Taxidermy Studio known as Gunsmoke Taxidermy. The studio consists of a new 2400 sq. ft. building with ample work space & showroom.

We are located 6 miles North of Craig, CO on Hwy. 13. Here also, is the headquarters of Elkhorn Outfitters, one of the most recognized outfitters in the U. S.

If you love the outdoors and wildlife, Craig is a great place to visit. Also known as "the Elk Hunting Capital of the World," Craig offers many recreational opportunities, museums, restaurants, and mountain views. There is even a strong probability of seeing antelope and mule deer out of our shop window as we are working!

Tuition & Expenses

Tuition for the 3-week course is $2,950. A 25% deposit will secure your enrollment to class. Class size is limited so we can give each student the attention they deserve. The remaining balance will be due on the first day of class. 50% of your deposit will be refunded if you cancel no less than 30 days prior to the start of class. If you cancel less than 30 days prior to class, your deposit is non-refundable.

Housing is also included with your tuition price. The modern cabins include a full kitchen, bedrooms, bathroom and satellite T. V. Bring your own food, towels, and toiletries.

Students will be supplied with the necessary tools, equipment, and expendable supplies to complete their projects.

Additional expenses the students are responsible for include the cost of any specimens you ask us to supply for you. We will typically have elk, mule deer, and antelope specimens for purchases, but would appreciate at least 30 Days notice for availability. Bringing your own specimens is encouraged and will help to reduce this cost! (Capes are typically in the $50 to $70 range and Horns and Antlers can range from $50 to $300 depending on size and species.)

Students are also responsible for the cost of forms, eyes, wood panels, and any other additional parts or supplies you wish to order for your projects.

2012 Class Dates

Session 1
June 10 - June 29

Session 2
July 8 - July 27

Class size is very limited so reserve your spot now!

Contact Information:

Dean Malizia - Instructor
Shop #: (970)-826-4293
Home #: (970)-824-4293
E-mail: gunsmoke4293@msn.com
Address: Gunsmoke School of Taxidermy
37399 N. Hwy. 13
Craig, CO 81625
















Please contact us with any questions or Details about the course!

We hope you will choose the Gunsmoke School of Taxidermy for you opportunity to learn this exciting art form. Whether you are interested in starting your own business or doing mounts for yourself and friends, we are eager to be a part of your learning experience!