Scheels as a Taxidermy Resource

Scheels is a sporting goods and outdoor retailer with physical locations across the United States, primarily in the Midwest and Mountain West regions. The chain carries taxidermy supplies in some locations, though availability varies by store and changes seasonally. Scheels is not a dedicated taxidermy supplier — it stocks materials as part of a broader hunting and outdoor merchandise mix, so the depth of their taxidermy inventory depends on which store you visit and what time of year you shop.

If you are looking for taxidermy supplies, Scheels can be one option to check, but it is not the primary source most professional taxidermists use. The store is useful mainly for common items like eyes, forms, and basic tools that hunters and hobbyists need, rather than specialized or hard-to-find materials. Most taxidermists who work regularly source from dedicated distributors instead, because those companies stock a much wider range of species forms, specialty adhesives, and reference materials.

Key Takeaways

  • Scheels carries taxidermy supplies in select locations, but inventory is not consistent across all stores or throughout the year.
  • The chain stocks basic taxidermy items like glass eyes, forms, and hand tools, but not the full range of materials a professional taxidermist would need.
  • Availability depends on your local Scheels store and its focus on hunting and outdoor merchandise in your region.
  • Calling your nearest Scheels location directly is faster than visiting in person to confirm whether they have the specific item you need in stock.
  • Dedicated taxidermy suppliers like McKenzie and Van Dyke's carry far larger inventories and ship nationwide, making them the standard choice for most taxidermists.

What Scheels Typically Stocks for Taxidermy

Scheels stores that carry taxidermy supplies usually have glass eyes in common sizes and colors, pre-made forms for deer and game birds, and basic hand tools such as knives, scissors, and brushes. These items appeal to hunters who want to preserve their own game or to hobbyists starting out. The selection is practical but limited compared to specialty taxidermy distributors.

You are unlikely to find specialized materials at Scheels, such as specialty adhesives, detailed reference materials, or forms for unusual species. If you need items beyond the basics, a dedicated taxidermy supply company will have a much larger catalog and can often ship to you. The difference becomes clear quickly if you work with anything other than common North American game animals.

How to Find Taxidermy Items at Your Local Scheels

The fastest way to know whether your nearest Scheels has taxidermy supplies is to call the store directly. Ask to speak with someone in the hunting or outdoor section, and tell them the specific item you are looking for — whether it is eyes, a form, or a tool. Store staff can tell you when ready whether they have it in stock and can often hold items for you to pick up.

Scheels does not maintain a centralized online inventory system that shows stock at individual locations, so checking the website will not tell you what is available near you. Some stores may list items online as "in stock" when they are actually out, so a phone call remains the most reliable method. You can find your nearest Scheels location on their website and call the store's main number to reach the hunting department.

When Scheels Works as a Taxidermy Source

Scheels is most useful if you need a common item quickly and have a store nearby. If you are a hunter who wants to preserve a recent kill and need eyes and a form right away, checking Scheels first can save you shipping time. The store's physical presence means you can see and handle items before buying, which matters when you are matching eye color and size to your specific mount.

Scheels also runs sales and promotions on hunting and outdoor gear, so if you are stocking up on basic supplies, you may find better prices there than at specialty suppliers during certain times of year. However, this is not may provide, and prices vary by location. Comparing a few quotes before you buy is always worth the time.

Alternatives to Scheels for Taxidermy Supplies

Dedicated taxidermy supply companies such as McKenzie, Northwoods Wholesale Taxidermy, and Van Dyke's Taxidermy carry far larger inventories and specialize in serving taxidermists of all skill levels. These suppliers offer forms for hundreds of species, specialty tools, reference materials, and hard-to-find items. Most ship nationwide and maintain detailed online catalogs so you can see exactly what they have before ordering.

If you are a professional taxidermist or work on unusual species, a specialty supplier is almost always the better choice. If you are a hobbyist or hunter looking for basics, Scheels can work if your local store has stock, but you should also compare prices and selection with online specialty retailers before deciding. Many specialty suppliers offer bulk discounts and loyalty programs that can reduce costs over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every Scheels store carry taxidermy supplies?

No. Taxidermy supplies are stocked in some Scheels locations but not all. Availability depends on the store's size, its focus on hunting merchandise, and regional demand. Calling ahead is the only way to know for certain whether your local store carries what you need.

Can I order taxidermy supplies online from Scheels?

Scheels does sell some items online, but their taxidermy selection online is limited compared to what some physical stores may carry. The website does not show which items are available at your local store, so you will need to contact the store directly or check in person.

Are Scheels taxidermy supplies cheaper than specialty suppliers?

Prices vary. Scheels may be competitive on common items like eyes and basic forms, especially during sales. Specialty suppliers often have better prices on bulk orders or hard-to-find materials. Compare prices for the specific items you need before deciding where to buy.

What should I do if my local Scheels does not have what I need?

Contact a dedicated taxidermy supply company. McKenzie, Van Dyke's, and Northwoods Wholesale all ship nationwide and carry much larger inventories. Most offer fast shipping and have customer service staff who understand taxidermy materials and can help you find the right form or tool.

How long does shipping take from specialty taxidermy suppliers?

Most dedicated suppliers ship within one to three business days, with delivery typically taking three to seven business days depending on your location and the shipping method you choose. Many offer expedited shipping options if you need items quickly, though this costs more.