Why Antler Scoring Matters for Big-Game Hunters
Antler scoring is far more than a number—it’s a structured, repeatable way to measure maturity, symmetry, and overall antler development across whitetails, mule deer, elk, moose, and other big-game species. For hunters, scoring helps document achievements, compare trophies honestly, and preserve the story behind a great hunt.
It also helps set realistic expectations when planning guided hunts, especially through vetted outfitters found on Find A Hunt.
Major Antler Scoring Systems
Although many hunters default to Boone & Crockett (B&C) or Pope & Young (P&Y), several scoring systems exist, each with unique rules.
Boone & Crockett (B&C)
-
The most recognized big-game scoring system for rifle-taken trophies.
-
Focuses heavily on symmetry, rewarding balanced racks.
-
Uses gross and net score formats.
Pope & Young (P&Y)
-
Similar framework as B&C but for archery-taken animals.
-
Emphasizes fair-chase and bowhunting standards.
-
Net score determines official ranking.
Safari Club International (SCI)
-
Rewards total antler size, giving full credit to all measurable inches.
-
Less penalty for asymmetry.
-
Popular for international hunts and non-typical trophies.
State & Regional Systems
Some states use simplified scoring for contests or recognition programs—often close to B&C but less strict.
Key Terminology Every Hunter Should Know
Understanding a few basic terms makes scoring easier and more accurate.
-
Main Beam: The primary antler shaft extending from the base.
-
Tines (G1, G2, G3…): Points growing from the main beam on deer; “tines” or “points” vary across species.
-
Inside Spread: Widest measurement between main beams.
-
Mass Measurements: Circumference measurements at four designated locations per antler.
-
Typical vs. Non-Typical:
-
Typical: Symmetrical, standard frame.
-
Non-Typical: Additional abnormal points or irregular growth.
-
-
Gross Score: Total inches before deductions.
-
Net Score: Final score after subtracting asymmetry and abnormalities (B&C/P&Y only).
How to Score Deer Antlers (Whitetail & Mule Deer)
The process is similar for both species, with small variations in tine count and configuration.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
-
Measure Inside Spread
-
Widest inside distance between main beams.
-
-
Measure Both Main Beams
-
Follow the natural curve with a flexible tape.
-
-
Measure Each Typical Point
-
Points must be at least 1 inch long.
-
Record G1, G2, G3, etc.
-
-
Record Abnormal Points
-
For B&C/P&Y typical entries, these are deductions.
-
For SCI or non-typical categories, they are bonuses.
-
-
Take Four Circumference Measurements Per Beam
-
H1: At smallest point between burr and G1
-
H2: Between G1 and G2
-
H3: Between G2 and G3
-
H4: Between G3 and G4 (or last tine gap)
-
-
Calculate Gross Score
-
Sum all measurements per side plus inside spread.
-
-
Calculate Net Score (B&C and P&Y)
-
Subtract differences between left and right antler lengths, mass, and tine length.
-
Subtract abnormal points for typical categories.
-
Scoring Elk Antlers
Elk racks include additional measurements due to their size and point structure.
Elk-Specific Measurements Include:
-
Main beams
-
Brow tines (G1)
-
Long G2 and G3 tines
-
Whale tails (G5–G6)
-
Five mass measurements per beam (instead of four for deer)
Elk are scored in either typical or non-typical categories depending on crown shape and extra points.
Scoring Moose, Caribou & Other Species
These species differ from deer and elk due to their unique antler structure.
Moose
-
Scored by palm width, palm length, and number of points on each palm.
-
Spread credit often significant.
Caribou
-
Scored using a detailed system that includes:
-
Top points
-
Bez tines
-
Back tines
-
Palm width & length
-
Shovel size
-
-
One of the most complex scoring systems.
Pronghorn (Antelope)
-
Not antlers—horns.
-
Measured by horn length, prong length, and mass at four locations.
-
No shedding, so age and genetics heavily influence score.
Gross Score vs. Net Score: What Hunters Actually Care About
Gross Score
-
The total inches of antler.
-
Many hunters prefer gross because it reflects all growth.
Net Score
-
Deducts asymmetry.
-
Important only for official record books (B&C, P&Y).
-
Often lower than what hunters informally reference.
SCI Style
-
Uses a “give credit to every inch” method.
-
Popular for non-typical or highly irregular trophies.
Most outfitters and hunters today talk in gross inches for realistic trophy comparisons.
Official vs. Unofficial Scoring
Green Score
-
Taken immediately after harvest.
-
Useful for estimates but not official.
Mandatory Drying Period
-
B&C and P&Y require a 60-day drying period before an official score.
Official Scorers
-
Certified measurers can score your rack for record books.
-
Many taxidermists and conservation officers are certified.
Tools You Need to Score Accurately
-
Flexible steel measuring tape
-
Quarter-inch steel cable (for curved beam measurements)
-
Carpenter’s square
-
Pencil and score sheets
-
Calipers (optional but helpful)
-
Good lighting and a flat workspace
Printable score sheets are available through all major scoring organizations.
What Antler Scores Tell You About the Animal
Scores can reflect several biological factors:
-
Age: Older bucks and bulls generally have more mass and tine length.
-
Genetics: Trophy genetics matter, especially in managed herds.
-
Nutrition & Habitat: High-protein forage and mineral-rich soils boost growth.
-
Stress & Weather: Harsh winters or drought years impact antler development.
Use scores to understand herd quality—not just bragging rights.
Antler Scoring on Guided Hunts
Good outfitters help hunters understand scoring expectations before the hunt begins.
What a Quality Outfitter Will Do
-
Explain average class of animals in their area
-
Share photo examples of typical trophy sizes
-
Teach clients how to judge animals in the field
-
Encourage ethical shot decisions regardless of inches
If you want hunts where trophy expectations and antler evaluation are clear, you can compare trusted outfitters through our hunt marketplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need official scoring for my own records?
Not unless you want to enter your animal in a record book. Many hunters keep personal gross scores only.
Do deductions make sense?
Deductions matter for official rankings, but not for personal or outfitter-based trophy evaluation.
Are bigger spreads always better?
Not necessarily—mass, tine length, and symmetry often add more score than width alone.
Can I score antlers mounted on a shoulder mount?
Yes, but it’s slightly harder to reach measurement points. Many hunters score before mounting.
Why do elk often score higher than deer?
Their antler structure includes more tines, longer beams, and additional mass measurements.
If you’d like this article tailored to a specific species—whitetails, mule deer, elk, moose, or pronghorn—just let me know and I’ll customize the scoring guide for that hunt.
