Antler Farms Deer Antler Velvet Extract: My Honest Review

After experimenting with countless supplements promising improved recovery and performance, I’ve learned to be skeptical. When I decided to try Antler Farms Deer Antler Velvet Extract, I approached it with measured expectations despite the impressive claims. After using it for 8 weeks, I’m ready to share my first-hand experience.

What Is Deer Antler Velvet?

Before diving into the product itself, you might be wondering what deer antler velvet actually is. It’s the soft, fuzzy tissue covering growing antlers of male deer before they harden. This tissue contains growth factors, including IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), which has become popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for its potential recovery benefits.

Antler Farms’ Product Quality

What immediately stands out with Antler Farms Deer Antler Velvet Extract is the sourcing. The company uses New Zealand red deer antler velvet, which I’ve found to be considered the gold standard. Their 75:1 extract ratio is significantly higher than many competitors I’ve tried, meaning each spray delivers a more concentrated amount of the active components.

The spray contains 25,000 ng of IGF-1 per bottle, which is substantial compared to other products on the market. I also appreciate that it’s alcohol-free (unlike some competitors), uses natural lemon flavor with stevia for sweetness, and incorporates liposomal technology for better absorption.

My Experience Using Antler Farms’ Extract

I used the recommended dose of 6 sprays under my tongue, twice daily. The lemon flavor is pleasant—not too strong or artificial tasting. I made sure to hold it under my tongue for the full 20 seconds before swallowing to maximize absorption.

During the first week, I didn’t notice much difference. This is typical with most supplements, so I wasn’t concerned. By week two, I started seeing some subtle changes:

Recovery Benefits

The most noticeable effect for me was improved recovery. After intense training sessions that would typically leave me sore for 2-3 days, I found myself bouncing back quicker—often feeling ready to train again the next day. This was particularly evident after leg days, which usually wreck me for 48+ hours.

Sleep Quality

I wasn’t expecting this, but I experienced deeper, more restful sleep while using this product. This could be indirectly related to improved recovery, but it was a welcome benefit regardless.

Joint Comfort

As someone with occasional knee discomfort from years of running, I noticed less stiffness in my joints. This effect was mild but consistent throughout my use.

What I Didn’t Notice

Despite some of the more ambitious claims sometimes associated with deer antler velvet, I didn’t experience:

• Dramatic muscle gains (my size and strength improved, but at a pace consistent with my training program)
• Significant energy boosts
• Any hormone-related effects

Comparing to Other Deer Antler Products

I’ve tried three other deer antler supplements before Antler Farms. The main differences I noticed were:

The extract quality is noticeably better. Many cheaper products have a harsh aftertaste or alcohol base that burns. Antler Farms’ spray is clean-tasting and pleasant to use.

Most importantly, the recovery effects were more pronounced with Antler Farms compared to the others I’ve tried. I attribute this to the higher concentration (75:1 extract) and standardized IGF-1 content.

Potential Drawbacks

Price Point

At around $60-70 per bottle, this is definitely on the premium end of the spectrum. While I found the quality justified the cost, it might be prohibitive for some people to maintain long-term.

Sports Eligibility Concerns

If you’re a competitive athlete, you should know that despite deer antler velvet being WADA-compliant since 2013, the IGF-1 content might still raise flags in some organizations. Do your research before using if you compete at a high level.

Mild Side Effects

I experienced no side effects, but a friend who tried the product reported mild headaches during the first few days. These subsided quickly and weren’t severe enough to stop usage.

Who Would Benefit Most?

Based on my experience, Antler Farms Deer Antler Velvet Extract would be most beneficial for:

• Athletes with intense training schedules needing faster recovery
• People over 35 looking for joint support alongside workout recovery
• Anyone struggling with post-workout soreness that interferes with consistency

If you’re primarily looking for dramatic muscle gains or energy boosts, you might be disappointed, as the effects are more subtle and recovery-focused.

How to Get the Most From This Product

After experimenting with timing and dosage, I found these approaches worked best:

• Take one dose immediately post-workout when your body is primed for recovery
• Take the second dose before bed to support overnight recovery
• Be consistent—the effects seem to build up over time
• Combine with proper nutrition and hydration (it’s not a magic solution)

My Overall Rating: 4.1/5

Antler Farms Deer Antler Velvet Extract delivers on its core promises of supporting recovery and joint health. While not miraculous, the effects are noticeable and beneficial for serious trainees. The high-quality sourcing, concentrated formula, and absence of fillers or questionable ingredients make this a standout in the deer antler velvet category.

The price point prevents me from giving it a perfect score, as many people will find it difficult to maintain long-term. Additionally, while effective for recovery, it doesn’t deliver dramatic results in other areas sometimes claimed for deer antler products.

If you’re serious about your training and recovery is a priority, this product is worth trying despite the premium price. For casual gym-goers, the benefits might not justify the cost.

Antler Farms Deer Antler Velvet Extract Performance evaluation

1. Muscle Building Potential: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

The science behind oral IGF-1 is sketchy at best – your stomach acids typically destroy these compounds before they reach your bloodstream. The spray delivery might help a tiny bit compared to pills, but results are still minimal for most users. Don’t expect significant muscle gains from this. Try instead: Creatine monohydrate, whey protein isolate, or HMB supplements.

2. Recovery Support: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Some users genuinely report joint pain relief and faster recovery with deer antler velvet. There’s a bit more evidence for its anti-inflammatory properties than direct muscle-building effects. It might help you bounce back between workouts, especially if you have joint issues. Try instead: Collagen peptides, fish oil, or curcumin supplements.

3. Value for Money: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

This is expensive for what you’re getting. The 75:1 concentration sounds impressive, but when the base ingredient has minimal evidence, concentration only helps so much. You could spend this money on supplements with proven benefits and get much better results. Try instead: Basic protein powders, EAAs, or research-backed recovery aids.

4. Scientific Support: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

Despite claims, oral IGF-1 supplements have almost no solid research backing them. The few studies on deer antler velvet show minimal effects on strength or muscle. The spray delivery might be slightly better than pills but still faces the same digestive breakdown issues. Try instead: Creatine, beta-alanine, or other ingredients with actual human research.

5. Ingredient Quality: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

The New Zealand sourcing is a legitimate plus – they have strict standards for deer farming and antler harvesting. The company seems to prioritize quality control in their sourcing and manufacturing. The 75:1 concentration process appears legitimate. Try instead: Other New Zealand deer velvet products or traditional Chinese medicine options.

6. Safety Profile: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Generally considered safe with minimal side effects reported. The lack of extensive long-term safety testing is a concern. Deer antler products could potentially influence hormone levels in sensitive individuals, though effects are likely minimal with typical usage. Try instead: Amino acid complexes, protein supplements, or other thoroughly tested options.

Key Ingredients in Antler Farms Deer Antler Velvet Extract

IGF-1 supports muscle growth and recovery. Glucosamine aids joint health maintenance. Chondroitin promotes cartilage strength. Growth factors encourage tissue repair. Amino acids support protein synthesis. Calcium builds bone strength. Collagen maintains connective tissue health.