Boone and Crockett (B&C) is one of the most renowned organizations in the world of hunting, known for their scoring system of big game animals. This scoring system is used to rank and compare animals based on their size and antler/horn characteristics. The system was established in 1932 by James Boone and William Crockett, and has since become the standard for measuring big game trophies in North America.
The B&C scoring system for deer measures two main factors: the size of the antlers and the symmetry of the antlers. The antlers are measured in four main categories: main beam length, tine length, beam circumference, and spread. Points are awarded for the length and circumference of each tine, the length of the main beam, and the distance between the two antlers (spread).
Once all the measurements have been taken, a score is calculated based on the total number of inches of antler, as well as any bonus points that may have been earned. Bonus points can be awarded for a variety of characteristics, including abnormal points, palmation, and drop tines.
To be eligible for B&C scoring, the deer must meet certain criteria, including the minimum score requirement for each species. For example, a typical whitetail deer must score at least 160 inches to be considered for entry into the B&C records. Non-typical deer (those with abnormal antler growth) must meet a minimum score of 185 inches.
The process of measuring and scoring a deer can be quite complicated and requires careful attention to detail. It typically involves a panel of B&C measurers who have been trained and certified to ensure accuracy and consistency in the scoring process. The measurers take several measurements of the antlers and then compare those measurements to a detailed score chart to determine the final score.
The B&C scoring system is widely recognized and respected in the hunting community and is used to compare animals across different regions and hunting methods. The B&C records are also used to track population trends and the health of different species of big game animals.
The Boone and Crockett scoring system for deer is an important tool for measuring and comparing the size and characteristics of big game animals. The system takes into account a variety of factors, including the size and symmetry of the antlers, and is used to compare animals across different regions and hunting methods.