How to Score a Deer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Field Dressing, Antler Scoring, and Ethical Considerations

I. Introduction

Scoring a deer is an important part of hunting and wildlife management. It helps hunters determine the age and size of a deer, assess the health of a population, and takes into account ethical considerations. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to score a deer, including how to field dress it, score it based on weight and age, score it based on antler size, and take into account ethical considerations and potential risks.

II. Step-by-Step Instructions on Field Dressing a Deer and Scoring It

Before you can score a deer, you need to field dress it. Here are the basic steps:

A. Process of Field Dressing a Deer:

1. Make a small incision around the deer’s anus and cut up to the sternum.
2. Remove the deer’s organs by cutting around them and pulling them out.
3. Remove the deer’s head and legs.
4. Cool the deer’s meat as quickly as possible.

B. Scoring Based on Weight and Age:

To score a deer based on weight and age, you’ll need to use a chart to determine the score. Here’s an example of how to do it:

1. Weigh the dressed deer in pounds.
2. Find the age of the deer by examining its teeth.
3. Find the corresponding score on the chart.

C. Scoring Based on Antler Size:

Scoring deer based on antler size is the most common way to score a deer. Here’s how to do it:

1. Measure the length of each antler beam from the base to the tip.
2. Measure the circumference of each antler at four different places.
3. Add the length and circumference measurements together to get the “typical” antler score.
4. Subtract any abnormal points from the typical score to get the final score.

III. Different Types of Deer and How to Score Them

There are many different types of deer, and each has its own unique characteristics that make scoring them unique. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common types of deer and how to score them:

A. Explanation of the Different Types of Deer:

• Whitetail deer – the most common deer in North America
• Mule deer – typically found in the western United States, with larger antlers than whitetail deer
• Elk – largest member of the deer family, with massive antlers
• Red deer – found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa
• Sika deer – found in Asia and Japan

B. Scoring Methods for Different Types of Deer:

Each type of deer has its own unique antler formations and scoring systems. For example, whitetail deer are scored based on total length and width, while elk are scored based on the number of points on their antlers. It’s important to research the specific type of deer you’re hunting before scoring it.

IV. Using a Deer Scoring System

There are two main deer scoring systems: Boone and Crockett and Pope and Young. Both of these systems use objective methods to score deer and ensure consistency between hunters. Here’s how to use them:

A. Explanation of Boone and Crockett or Pope and Young Scoring Systems:

• Boone and Crockett – established in 1932, it is the oldest deer scoring system and is used for North American big game animals.
• Pope and Young – established in 1961, it is used exclusively for bow-harvested animals.

B. Tips on How to Measure Antlers Correctly:

Measuring antlers correctly is key to accurately scoring a deer. Here are some tips:

• Use a flexible measuring tape.
• Measure the antlers at their widest points.
• Measure each tine and the circumference at each point.

V. Ethical Considerations for Scoring a Deer

Scoring a deer isn’t just about measuring its antlers. You also need to take into account ethical considerations. Here’s how:

A. Explanation of Ethical Considerations for Scoring a Deer:

• Age of the animal – younger deer should be left to thrive and reproduce.
• The impact on the ecosystem – killing too many deer can affect the balance of the ecosystem and have negative consequences for other animals.
• Hunting laws and regulations – make sure you’re aware of local regulations and restrictions, such as bag limits and the use of certain weapons.

B. How to Take Age and Impact on the Ecosystem into Account:

The best way to take age and the impact on the ecosystem into account is to educate yourself and follow recommended guidelines and bag limits. You should also make sure you can accurately judge the age of a deer before taking a shot.

VI. Common Mistakes Made When Scoring a Deer and How to Avoid Them

Scoring a deer can be a challenging task, and there are common mistakes that hunters often make. Here’s how to avoid them:

A. Explanation of Common Mistakes Made When Scoring a Deer:

• Not measuring accurately
• Forgetting to account for abnormal points on the antlers
• Not taking age and other factors into account when deciding whether to take a shot

B. Tips to Avoid These Mistakes:

• Use a flexible measuring tape and measure at the widest points of the antlers.
• Make sure you account for abnormal points when scoring the antlers.
• Educate yourself on local hunting regulations and bag limits.

VII. Risks of Scoring a Deer and How to Mitigate Them

Scoring a deer can involve certain risks, such as exposure to blood-borne illnesses and injuries from handling sharp tools. Here’s how to mitigate these risks:

A. Explanation of Potential Risks When Scoring a Deer:

• Exposure to blood-borne illnesses, such as Lyme disease
• Injury from knives or other sharp tools

B. Tips on How to Mitigate These Risks:

• Wear gloves when handling the deer or any tools.
• Use a sharp knife and be cautious when using it.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the deer or any tools.

VIII. Myths and Misconceptions Surrounding Deer Scoring

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding how to score a deer. Here are a few:

A. Explanation of Common Myths and Misconceptions:

• The bigger the antlers, the older the deer.
• All antlers are symmetrical.
• Using a different scoring system can change the score.

B. Accurate Information on Deer Scoring:

The best way to ensure that you have accurate information on deer scoring is to educate yourself with reliable sources, such as hunting guides, online resources, and state wildlife agencies.

IX. Conclusion

Scoring a deer is an important part of the hunting process, and it requires knowledge of field dressing, antler scoring, ethics, and safety. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can score a deer accurately and safely while taking into account ethical considerations and avoiding common mistakes. Remember to educate yourself, stay up-to-date on regulations and guidelines, and prioritize safety and respect for the animal and the environment.