As a hunter, one of the most exciting moments is getting a deer. However, it’s equally important to measure the antlers of the deer accurately, as this determines the size of the animal and is a crucial element of the hunting experience. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to measure deer antlers accurately.
Table of contents
Understanding the Basics
Before you start measuring, it’s essential to understand some basic terms that are used in the measurement process. Here are some terms that you should know:
Tine
A tine is a projection or point that protrudes from the main beam of the antler.
G1, G2, G3, etc.
The “G” in G1, G2, G3 stands for “point,” and it refers to the number of points on each antler.
Beam
The main stem of the antler is known as the beam.
Spread
Spread is the distance between the two antlers.
Inside Spread
Inside spread is the distance between the inner edges of the two antlers.
Now that you know the basic terms let’s move on to the measuring process.
Measuring the Antlers
Step 1: Measure the Main Beam
The main beam is the central stem of the antler, and it’s the most prominent feature. To measure it, start at the base of the antler and extend the tape measure to the tip of the beam. Make sure that the tape measure is touching the outermost point of the antler.
Step 2: Measure the Tines
The next step is to measure the tines. Start by measuring the length of the first tine on the main beam. Measure it from the base of the tine to the tip, following the curvature of the tine. Repeat the same process for all the other tines, starting from the first one and working your way up the main beam.
Step 3: Count the Points
Count the number of points on each antler. Start by counting the number of points on the first antler, and then repeat the same process for the other antler.
Step 4: Measure the Spread
To measure the spread, extend the tape measure from the outermost points of each antler. Make sure that the tape measure is in a straight line, and there are no curves or bends. Note down the measurement.
Step 5: Measure the Inside Spread
To measure the inside spread, place the tape measure on the inner edge of one antler, and extend it to the inner edge of the other antler. Note down the measurement.
Related: How to Clean Deer Antlers
FAQs:
Why is it important to measure deer antlers?
Measuring deer antlers determines the size of the animal and is a crucial element of the hunting experience. It’s important to measure antlers accurately for hunting records and bragging rights.
Can I measure the antlers with a regular tape measure?
Yes, you can measure the antlers with a regular tape measure. However, it’s better to use a flexible cloth tape measure for more accurate results.
How do I measure the spread of the antlers?
To measure the spread of the antlers, extend the tape measure from the outermost points of each antler. Make sure that the tape measure is in a straight line, and there are no curves or bends. Note down the measurement.
Can I measure antlers without removing them from the deer’s head?
Yes, it’s possible to measure antlers without removing them from the deer’s head. However, it’s recommended to measure them after they have been removed to avoid any inaccuracies.
How can I ensure that my antler measurements are accurate?
To ensure that your antler measurements are accurate, use a flexible cloth tape measure, follow the measuring process carefully, and take the measurement multiple times to confirm the accuracy.
Conclusion
Measuring deer antlers accurately is essential for hunters as it determines the size of the animal and the success of the hunting experience. In this article, we have provided a step-by-step guide on how to measure deer antlers. By following these steps, you can ensure that you get accurate measurements and make your hunting experience more enjoyable.
