Abstract: Mounting systems and methods, including those for mounting animal trophies, are disclosed. Embodiments can include a ball, a coupling member for coupling the animal trophy to the ball, and a base having a locking feature. The base can further include a bearing seat which is configured to support a portion of the ball and permit the ball to simultaneously rotate about three axes. Embodiments can further include a cap having a retaining feature at a first end and a second locking feature at a second end. The cap can be configured to mate with the first locking feature of the base and form a locked connection with the base. The cap can retain the ball in a position between the retaining feature and the base, providing increased force onto the ball and securing the position of the ball and animal trophy relative to the base.