Hunting 101: How to Score a Buck

Scoring a freshly harvested buck is a thrill for the hunter. A score can accurately capsulate the quality and size of their trophy buck with fellow hunters. Pictures can be subject to tom-foolery and skew the dimensions of a deer’s antlers. The Boone and Crockett Club scoring sheet for North American Big Game Trophies is to document the deer’s measurements. Following the measurement guidelines on the scorecard is important.

Step 1: Inside Spread

A tape measure is used to measure the inside of the right or left beam to the opposite beam.

Step 2: Tine length

Place a piece of tape along the top edge of the main beam. The top of the tape will act as the bottom point on the measurement. Then measure from the top of the tine to the top of the piece of tape.

Step 3: Circumferences Of One Side

A steel tape is flexible and suggested for this measurement. A section of ribbon or yarn works as well. Mark the place on the ribbon or yarn where they meet and hold down to the measuring tape. The first point to measure the circumference is between the burr(the bumpy portion of the antler that connects to the skull) and the brow tine. Then measure the circumference of the main beam in the middle of each point.

Step 4: Measure Main Beam On One Side

Tape flexible cable or string to the lowest edge of the burr and work the cable along the contour of the main beam. Use a marker or alligator clip to mark the end of the main beam. Remove the flexible cable or string then lay next to a tape measure to record the measurement.

Step 5: Repeat On Opposite Side

Add up both side’s measurements to find the buck’s green gross score.

Step 6: Abnormal Points

If a deer grew drop tines, kickers, leaners, or stickers it is important to measure and add to the buck’s score. There is a designated area for abnormality measurements. To count as a tine, it must measure at least 1 inch and measure greater in length than width.

Step 7: Add Up Measurements

Using the columns on the scorecard it is easy to add together measurements. The sum will be the green net score. After a 60-day drying period, the antlers can be remeasured for an official net score.