Deer antlers are bone structures that bucks develop and shed annually. Their size and shape are influenced by genetics, nutrition, and the buck’s age. “Points” are the individual projections extending from the main body of the antler, serving as the primary metric for assessing the rack’s size and maturity. Standardized scoring systems quantify these points and other antler dimensions into a single, comprehensive measurement, providing a consistent, objective method for comparison.
Defining a Scoreable Antler Point
A projection must satisfy specific criteria to be officially counted and measured as a scoreable point, often called a tine. The fundamental rule is that the projection must be at least one inch long. This minimum length filters out small bumps and minor irregularities on the main beam.
The length of the point must also exceed its width at the base. For instance, a projection one inch long but two inches wide at its base would not qualify. A tine’s length is measured from its tip to the nearest point on the main beam where the beam’s normal surface exists without the tine.
Points growing in the expected, upward-sweeping pattern are called normal points, or G-points, with the brow tine designated as G1. Projections that deviate from this pattern, such as those that drop down or grow off another point, are classified as abnormal points. The tip of the main beam is not counted separately because its length is included in the total main beam measurement.
The Methodology of Counting: Typical Versus Non-Typical Scoring
The method used for counting and scoring antler points depends on whether the rack is classified as typical or non-typical. A typical rack is defined by its relatively symmetrical growth, with points on one side mirroring the points on the other. The scoring system heavily rewards symmetry using the concept of matched points.
Typical Scoring
In typical scoring, each normal point on one beam is paired with its corresponding point on the opposite beam (e.g., left G2 matches right G2). The final point count is often described by summing the number of normal points on both sides, such as a “10-point buck” having five normal points per side. Crucially, any differences between the lengths of these corresponding matched points are identified as deductions.
The length of any abnormal points present on a typical rack is also measured. These lengths are then subtracted from the total score, further penalizing the lack of perfect symmetry. This system encourages a visually balanced and uniform antler structure, where the final net score reflects the gross score minus all deductions for asymmetry and abnormal growth.
Non-Typical Scoring
A non-typical rack is characterized by significant, irregular antler growth that deviates from the standard symmetrical pattern. These racks feature numerous abnormal tines like drop tines, kickers, or points growing in unusual directions. For a buck to be scored as non-typical, the total length of these irregular points is measured and then added to the overall gross score.
While non-typical scoring still measures the symmetry of the main frame points, the focus shifts to maximizing the total amount of bone mass and length, including the irregular projections. This method results in a high gross score because the length of the abnormal points is a benefit rather than a deduction. Hunters often choose this classification when a rack has substantial abnormal growth, as it generally yields a higher final score than if the same rack were scored using the typical method.
Beyond the Point Count: Additional Measurements for a Full Trophy Score
The final numerical score is not solely determined by the number and length of points. Standardized scoring systems, such as those used by Boone & Crockett and Pope & Young, combine point measurements with several other dimensions to generate a comprehensive gross score. These additional measurements provide a complete picture of the antler’s mass and spread.
The length of the main beam is measured along the outside curve from the burr at the base to the tip. The inside spread is the widest distance between the inside edges of the two main beams, contributing to the overall width.
The thickness, or mass, is quantified through circumference measurements, often called H-measurements. Four separate measurements are taken on each main beam at defined intervals. These linear and circumference measurements are totaled and combined with the point lengths to arrive at the final gross score.