Shed Hunting with Ben Dettamanti: How "Shedcrazy" Turned Antlers into a Career
Ben Dettamanti, better known in the hunting world as Shedcrazy, is one of the most relatable and entertaining hunting influencers on social media today. From humble beginnings as a janitor to a full-time content creator, Ben has redefined the landscape of shed hunting with humor, authenticity, and a deep love for the outdoors. Who Is Shedcrazy? Ben's journey from school custodian to viral shed hunting sensation is as inspiring as it is unique. Choosing to follow his passion, he quit his day job and began documenting his adventures searching for shed antlers across the United States. His down-to-earth humor and honest approach to hunting earned him a loyal fan base on Instagram (@shedcrazy) and YouTube. Unlike many hunting creators who focus on extreme fitness or dramatic content, Shedcrazy shows that hunting can be fun, light-hearted, and accessible to everyone. His videos often mix parody with real shed hunting tips, making them both entertaining and informative. Preferred Hunting Style: What Makes Shedcrazy Unique? Ben specializes in shed hunting, the art of finding naturally shed antlers from deer, elk, and moose. He prefers hiking through the rugged terrain of western states, searching public lands and remote areas for trophy-quality sheds. Shedcrazy approaches hunting with a minimalist and humorous style—no fancy gear, no dramatic edits—just real, raw exploration. His vehicle of choice? An old van. His attitude? "Don’t take yourself too seriously." Favorite Types of Hunts While shed hunting is his main focus, Ben also participates in: Whitetail deer hunting Elk hunting Antelope hunts His content often combines these hunts with behind-the-scenes humor and candid commentary that resonate with both seasoned hunters and newcomers. Where Does Shedcrazy Hunt? Ben primarily hunts in the Western United States, including: Wyoming Utah New Mexico South Dakota He’s also on a mission to find antlers in all 50 states, as part of his ambitious “United Sheds of America” project, which showcases the diverse hunting landscapes across the country. Trophy Sheds and Big Finds Some of Ben’s most impressive finds include: Massive elk sheds weighing over 7 pounds Multi-tined mule deer antlers Rare and unusual antlers with unique characteristics His shed collection has both monetary and sentimental value, often featuring in educational posts about shed seasons, scoring antlers, and public land ethics. What Gear and Weapons Does He Use? Shedcrazy isn’t about showcasing the latest high-end hunting rifles or expensive optics. For his shed hunting trips, he uses: Basic hiking gear Durable outdoor clothing (often partnered with brands like Vortex and First Lite) Simple GPS tools and mapping apps When participating in actual game hunts, he may use bows or rifles, but weapons are not the main focus of his content. Why Shedcrazy Matters in the Hunting Community Ben Dettamanti is a refreshing voice in the hunting industry. His influence is built not on bravado or elite gear, but on authentic passion, humor, and a genuine connection to nature. By promoting ethical shed hunting, responsible land use, and light-hearted outdoor adventure, he inspires thousands to get outside and enjoy the hunt—for antlers or otherwise. Whether you're a seasoned shed hunter or someone looking to explore the outdoors for the first time, Shedcrazy offers a relatable and inspiring perspective that proves hunting isn't just about trophies—it's about the joy of the chase and the stories along the way. Ben Dettamanti's Instagram (94,6k followers): @shedcrazy
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