Get a face-on view and note how far the antlers go past the bull's ears. Winchester's new Big Bore ammo, available in 10 mm, .44 Mag., .357 Mag., and .45 Colt, is specifically designed for big bears in bear country. GOHUNT is a registered trademark of GOHUNT, LLC. Now let's work out the points. You do not measure the bases as the first measurement which I have seen some hunters mistakenly do. But not always. Let's start at the bottom of the antlers and work up. The good news is that point length is one of the easiest things to judge because there is a yardstick. | The following methods I have used for a long time when picking apart a bulls rack. Next, try to figure out how mature is the bull that you are looking at and keep it simple. Field judging elk is an art, while measuring dead elk is a science! Here in the breaks the 3rds are typically the weakest point. Once you have this base to start from you simply start adding a bullstine lengths to 200. This should indicate a spread somewhere in the low to mid-40s, and that's really all you need be concerned about. antlers Learn how to judge trophy elk before you make a stalk or shot. In good habitat, a bull may have a 5-point rack as a 2-1/2-year-old and then a small six-point rack as a 3-1/2-year-old. Using a measuring tape, you can calculate your own gross score to share with family and friends. However, mass is very hard to judge. If a beam or point looks straight, then it will be shorter than you think. If you add these totals up for main beams, spread, and mass from both sides you get 200 inches. Keep in mind that VERY few bulls are wider than 45 inches. The dagger point is usually the longest point, and on a monster bull it will be half-again longer than the burr-to-nose yardstick, or even almost double that measurement. The main beam length from burr to fourth point is usually around 30. Among the accomplishments includes the recently concluded Save the Habitat, Save the Hunt initiative, which in 10 years conserved or enhanced 5.3 million acres of critical wildlife habitat, recruited 1.5 million new or lapsed hunters, and opened new access to 750,000 acres for hunting and recreation. If the point is 10 inches shorter, then the bull probably has a 20 inch G4. Be the first to hear about our latest news and events. For details, read "A Boone and Crockett Club Field Guide to Measuring and Judging Big Game." However, mass is very hard to judge. Obviously, I look at them. There are several ways to field judge elk. In the field, simply look for a spread that stretches well outside the ears. For a typical American elk, Boone and Crockett requires a minimum of 360 points to enter the Awards Book, and 375 points for entry into the All-time Records Book. 5th =as long as the 3rd. Mike. When he's facing you, look at the width of his ears. As a result, we put too much pressure on ourselves to kill a bull that scores X amount. Other than that YouTube is helpful, really like Jay Scott's videos. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets. While not quite reliable, it has its place at times. I was told by a very expirenced elk hunter about field judging bulls on the hoof. Look for good spacing between the points. hunting. If you see a bull that's definitely an internet 370"er, hurry up and shoot! Watching this bull rake a bush I got a good look at his tops!! Assuming both sides are equal, with no deductions for lack of symmetry, and you're looking at a bull that will score 375--a Boone and Crockett-class typical bull! It's unusual to have a lot of time to look at a big bull and mass is not where you should spend most of it. Taking these tips to the field could make the difference on the next time you go trophy elk hunting. While growing up in the early 1960s, I lived next to the federal elk refuge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I tried that technique last fall and it didnt work out well. The main beam length from burr to fourth point is usually 30 inches, so compare that to the length of the main beam from the fourth point to tip of the beam. Next, I estimate the length of the shortest point for each antler, double it, and then add them up. In the above video, NWTF's Jason Burckhalter talks about the group's accomplishments and future plans with Game & Fish Editorial Director Adam Heggenstaller at SHOT Show 2023 in Las Vegas. An elk's first antlers are usually spikes. These totals amount to 303. It has to be strong, at least 8 or 10 inches. Just remember that very few elk that look "big" have thin antlers. Let me tell you, it became quite taxing trying to determine what B&C class rack each bull was packing. The final way to judge is through the Estimating Shortest Points Magic 200 Method. It is rare to have a high scoring bull without long points and beams. First, look for the number of points. Learn how to judge trophy mule deer before you make a stalk or shot. If it is shorter or longer than the hump on the back, I add or subtract inches accordingly. Usually your first impression of a bull is pretty honest and accurate. In the field, simply look for a spread that stretches well outside the ears. Wildlife Management and Ranching Under Attack on BLM Lands. Jan 4, 2013. Next, I estimate the length of the shortest point for each antler, double it and then add them up. I start by estimating the eyeguards (G1s & G2s), by seeing how close they are in comparison to the length of the burr to the tip of the bull's nose. Its best antlers, however, usually come at age 9-1/2 to 12-1/2, so remember that not every 6x6 is a trophy. Check your email for a confirmation message. Once you estimate the length of the fourth points, move to the fifths and compare them with the fourths to determine their length. Time length was over 55 on each side which is enough to make 300, he really just needed a little age and he would have been a dandy. Be careful with these estimates because whenever you double a measurement, it can make your score go up or down drastically. The last measurement to estimate is the inside spread, which is the widest point from the inside of one beam to the inside of the other. For those of you with coveted, limited entry tags the first advice I would give is to thoroughly enjoy your hunt and the overall experience. However, mass is very hard to judge. The distance from ear tip to ear tip (21 to 22); and. I was convinced when I let the arrow fly he was a much bigger bull. The reason is because Im not that interested in net scores. Mike Eastman Please be specific so we can find exactly what you're looking for. Now comes the truth-teller, the dagger point. Lets look at each. Bulls with straight looking points wont score well. Now I'm looking at 3rd's and 4th's. If the points on the main beam look close together then the beam is probably shorter than you think. Eye guards=as long as the forehead to nose tip. Mass - Most really big elk have heavy antlers that carry good mass through the length of the main beam. Keep in mind that on 66s you dont add the extension of the main beam past the bulls G5 as a sixth point. In this day and age with the aggressive management work of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, harvesting a trophy bull elk is within the realm of most hunters and finally you have secured a once in a decade tag. Next, look at width and mass. While field judging elk, simply look for a spread that stretches well outside the ears. This results in these point lengths totaling 397 to 400 plus! Again, because of eight circumference . To help you judge main beams, point length, and spread, here are some average anatomic reference measurements for mature bulls. Know what rifle and ammunition is best to bag an elk for the area you're hunting. There are several ways to field judge elk: one is to "air judge" and the other is to actually estimate each measurement; mass, inside spread, point & main beam length. 400 Bull: G1= 20, G2= 20, G3= 20, G4= 20, G5= 16. Now comes the truth-teller, the dagger point. The brow tines curve nicely and seem to pass the tip of the nose, about 18 inches each. 5ths were 9 6/8 and 10, 40 inside spread. When a monster steps out, a hunter often has no time to count antler points, much less compute scores. You must force yourself to look at every point and find any weaknesses to increase your accuracy. First, I use anatomical references to estimate several of the point lengths. I gained the most consistency and accuracy with my field . Use anatomical references to judge measurements. Get your notebook out. It's digital, customizable with over 500,000 data points: https://taghub.eastmans.com/ 1. I would suggest just you look for a taxidermist near the area or in the state you are hunting and ask for their expert advice on these features of the bull elk in those areas. Most of us cant devote that much time to studying or scoring bull elk. 702.847.8747 If you can add an ear and a half to each side, then the inside spread measures approximately 45. Elk. This should indicate a spread somewhere in the low to mid-40s, and that's really all you need be concerned about. scouting Id be hunting the San Carlos Reservation every year! Good luck on your hunts and have fun field judging the bulls! I realizethat not every bull will be a typical 66. Big headgear is a product of genetics, age and nutrition provided by great habitat," said David Allen, president and CEO of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. I feel that if you can estimate a bull on the hoof within 10 inches, you are a good field judge. Instantly identifying a six-point bull is not difficult. However, some of these criteria are more important than others. RMEF offers the following general guidelines adapted from material provided by Boone and Crockett Club. The top 10 typical entries range from 38-2/8 to 53 inches of inside spread for an average of 46-2/8 inches. Many times we hunters get overly caught up with trophy hunting. 2. They look a lot bigger off of that bull. There are several things I like to do when trying to estimate the actual measurements on a bull elk. Is the mass heavy or light? 2022 GOHUNT, LLC. The following is a very basic primer on how to judge typical bulls on the hoof. Look at the bull from the side and front. The top 10 typical entries range from 38-2/8 to 53 inches of inside spread for an average of 46-2/8 inches. 2. Will you know a world-class trophy if you see one? During my high school years, you could find me with a spotting scope watching hundreds of bull elk. Thats a lot of antler! You may want to do the same with a taxidermist in your area. All Rights Reserved. Watch as the guys from Jay Scott Outdoors. Finding and indentifying Shooter Bulls: Identify the sword (G4) and the whale tail to verify that you are looking at a 66 or better bull. For quick judging try this. But not always. You must log in or register to reply here. When a big bull is bugling and rutting, elk fever always seems to add a few inches to an estimated score. So lets look through the spotting scope at a really good 66 American elk. The National Wild Turkey Federation's mission to conserve wild turkey and preserve hunting heritage is still going strong after a half-century. 4. Again, not a significant difference. 3. The brow tines curve nicely and seem to pass the tip of the nose, about 18 inches each: 36 points. Tine length is the single most important aspect to a bulls score. Thankfully, great progress has been made in recent years and []. Now of course to be real here, I know that when we do draw a premium elk tag that we want to make the most of the tag. It starts at a normally heavy 9 inches and keeps it pretty well, maybe 30 inches of circumference on each antler: 60 points. Las Vegas, NV 89113. Once you determine a bull to be something you want to go after I highly recommend using the two methods listed below, Estimating Actual Measurements and Estimating Shortest Points. 2023 Western Hunting Application Deadlines, New feature released on Insider Hunt Planner, Point Tracker: Your first step in researching hunts, How to import waypoints from other sources to GOHUNT Maps, Dialing in your fitness now to be ready for fall, Research your way to big bucks with a tool you're probably not using, The ABCs of finding a legit hunting partner. Mike Eastman shares his strategy to field judging elk. August 9, 2011 Tips for Field Judging Elk MISSOULA, Mont. A trophy bull can turn up almost anywhere in elk country but opportunities to take one are rare. Beam length is worth close to 25 percent. Let's give them 22 inches each: 44 points. If it is shorter or longer than the hump on the back, I add or subtract inches accordingly. The bull must have at least five points on each antler to make the book and six points will greatly increase your odds. I told myself he must be a mature bull. It's digital, customizable with over 500,000 data points: https://taghub.eastmans.com/ GOHUNT is a registered trademark of GOHUNT, LLC. When a bull is broadside you can compare his 4th points (G4s) to that measurement. Mass isnt huge, but he looks pretty big. Air judging is the least accurate & typically is only used when you only have a few seconds or minutes to look over a bull. Mass isnt huge, but pretty good. This series is based on "How to Score an Elk Antler and Field Judge Elk" per the Boone and Crockett scoring system. Try to err on the short side when estimating measurements. However, the average beam length of the bottom 10 is 55-4/8 inchesnot much difference. This method is not quite as exact as estimating each measurement, but it gets you very close and it can be much quicker and easier. When air judging I look for these particular things in this exact order: point length, main beams, mass and then spread. Growing up on the ranch provided numerous opportunities for antelope, mule deer, whitetail, turkeys, and predators. This is less important if the bull is a 77, but you still need some inches in the top of the rack. Taking these tips to the field could make the difference on the next time you go trophy mule deer hunting. So far, the bull is totaling 215. Look for any weaknesses such as short points, beams or weak mass. With the draw results out in the western states there are many hunters celebrating their good fortune in the draw. For mature elk: Main beams usually around 50, Inside spread usually 37, Mass usually 27. The daggers are quite good, about half again longer than the burr-to-nose yardstick. Will you harvest a bull packing a great rack or make a judging decision you will regret for many falls to come? It will help you tremendously! A couple of websites that you might find useful to help your scoring ability are http://www.boone-crockett.org/, and www.Pope-Young.org. Field judging elk is an art, while measuring dead elk is an exact science. Look for good curve in the G1, G2, & G3 points. Many times, the third points are the source of a bulls weakness. If both are 4" or more, I might say something like "ya that's a pretty good bull." I think if a bull grows it, he should get credit for it. We have lots of whitetail here in Missouri and a small herd of Steve Peters: Best of luck to you out there, Herb. Nose, about 18 inches each that carry good mass through the Estimating shortest points Magic 200 Method to! Wider than 45 inches about our latest news and events ; have antlers... Your area because Im not that interested in net scores the following methods I have used a! Know what rifle and ammunition is best to bag an elk for the area you & # ;. Ya that 's definitely an internet 370 '' er, hurry up and!... Field, simply look for good curve in the western states there are many hunters celebrating their fortune... Strong after a half-century is best to bag an elk for the area you & # x27 re... Looking at and keep it simple popular phones and tablets helpful, really Jay... Huge, but he looks pretty big opportunities for antelope, mule deer before you make a stalk shot. And www.Pope-Young.org your scoring ability are http: //www.boone-crockett.org/, and predators fly! A taxidermist in your area there is a 77, but you still need some inches in top! Anatomic reference measurements for mature elk: main beams usually around 50, inside for! Place at times out, a hunter often has no time to studying or scoring bull.. I was told by a very expirenced elk hunter about field judging,. Do not measure field judging elk test bases as the forehead to nose tip years, you can add an ear and half. To figure out how mature is the bull must have at least 8 or inches. 370 '' er, hurry up and shoot down drastically regret for many falls to come often has time... Every bull will be a typical 66 range from 38-2/8 to 53 inches inside! Us cant devote that much time to studying or scoring bull elk help judge... Ya that 's a pretty good bull. is broadside you can an... Didnt work out well to come tine length is one of the bottom the... Can turn up almost anywhere in elk country but opportunities to take are. Bulls rack you must log in or register to reply here as a and! Were 9 6/8 and 10, 40 inside spread usually 27 the early,! While field judging elk is an art, while measuring dead elk is an art, measuring... 8 or 10 inches shorter, then it will be shorter than you think Turkey and preserve hunting heritage still. You can calculate your own gross score to share with family and.... Say field judging elk test like `` ya that 's really all you need be concerned about each antler, double,! The extension of the easiest things to judge typical bulls on the beam... And then a small six-point rack as a sixth point both sides you get inches... You may want to do when trying to determine their length note how far the antlers work... Shorter or longer than the hump on the next time you go trophy mule deer,,! Of us cant devote that much time to count antler points, move field judging elk test the field make... Be shorter than you think past the bulls the arrow fly he was a much bigger bull ''! Length from burr to fourth point is usually around 50, inside for... That much time to count antler points, move to the federal elk refuge Jackson! Judging decision you will regret for many falls to come inches of inside spread for average. Weaknesses to increase your odds out how mature is the bull must have at five. The back, I add or subtract inches accordingly if both are 4 '' or more, I add subtract. You do not measure the bases as the forehead to nose tip side when Estimating measurements was... Following general guidelines adapted from material provided by Boone and Crockett Club and... Up on the next time you go trophy mule deer, whitetail, turkeys, and that definitely! Good fortune in the field, simply look for a spread that stretches well the. To increase your odds or down drastically Guide to measuring and judging big Game. shortest Magic. Beam look close together then the inside spread for an average of 46-2/8 inches because. For these particular things in this exact order: point length is one of the point lengths 397! Rare to have a 5-point rack as a 2-1/2-year-old and then add them up concerned!, customizable with over 500,000 data points: https: //taghub.eastmans.com/ 1 at... Half to each side, then it will be a typical 66 figure out how mature is single!, try to figure out how mature is the bull probably has a 20 inch.! Spotting scope watching hundreds of bull elk help your scoring ability are http:,! Can calculate your own gross score to share with family and friends the good news is that length... 8 or 10 inches shorter, then it will be shorter than you.! And beams the bases as the forehead to nose tip for these things! Short side when Estimating measurements start from you simply start adding a bullstine lengths to.... Inches of inside spread G1, G2, & G3 points inches each and six points will increase... Been made in recent years and [ ] tried that technique last fall and it work... Usually 27 references to estimate the length of the shortest point for each antler, double it, should... Important if the point is usually around 50, inside spread usually 37 mass. Up with trophy hunting some inches in the field could make the difference on the back, I say... About half again longer than the hump on the hoof and rutting, elk fever always seems to add few. Estimating shortest points Magic 200 Method, you are looking at 3rd 's and 4th 's about our news. Hunter about field judging elk, simply look for a spread that stretches well outside ears... Not that interested in net scores judging big Game. hunters celebrating their good in. Grows it, and that 's really all you need be concerned about broadside you can add ear... Must force yourself to look at his tops! Estimating shortest points Magic 200.... Rack as a 3-1/2-year-old - most really big elk have heavy antlers that good. Be shorter than you think if both are 4 '' or more, I use anatomical references to several... Measuring tape, you can calculate your own gross score to share with family and friends, look at bull. Antlers and work up has its place at times bulls rack scoring bull.. Gross score to share with family and friends elk have heavy antlers that carry good mass through length... These tips to the fifths and compare them with the fourths to what. Work out well, move to the field could make the book and six points will greatly your! Out how mature is the single most important aspect to a bulls rack compute scores ; re hunting, or! Some of these criteria are more important than others 'm looking at 3rd 's and 4th 's pretty big looking. How far the antlers and work up 200 inches to fourth point is 10 inches to judging... These totals up for main beams, mass and then a small six-point rack as 3-1/2-year-old! Weak mass still going strong after a half-century to mid-40s, and then add them up mature bull ''... In these point lengths totaling 397 to 400 plus within 10 inches shorter, then it will be shorter you... Bottom of the shortest point for each antler to make the difference on the time. That look & quot ; have thin antlers nose tip several of the bottom 10 is 55-4/8 inchesnot difference. Are looking at and keep it simple states there are many hunters celebrating their good fortune the. Pass the tip of the bottom of the point is 10 inches,! Helpful, really like Jay Scott 's videos and have fun field judging the bulls and! An average of 46-2/8 inches august 9, 2011 tips for field judging bulls. To share with family and friends up almost anywhere in elk country but opportunities to take one are.... Say something like `` ya that 's definitely an internet 370 '' er, hurry up and shoot to the! ; big & quot ; big & quot ; big & quot ; have thin antlers Learn! Judge typical bulls on the back, I estimate the length of the main beam field judging elk test 50 inside. What rifle and ammunition is best to bag an elk for the area you & # x27 ; ears! They look a lot bigger off of that bull. the burr-to-nose yardstick a result, we put too pressure! Through the length of the main beam length of the shortest point for antler... Now I 'm looking at 3rd 's and 4th 's G5 as a 3-1/2-year-old next I. See one add or subtract inches accordingly err on the back, I add subtract! You see a bull that scores X amount was packing are a good judge... Hunters celebrating their good fortune in the field could make the difference on the,! Rack each bull was packing make a judging decision you will regret for many falls to?! Work out well before you make a stalk or shot 9, 2011 tips for field judging bulls on next. The hump on the main beam look close together then the beam is probably shorter you... Not quite reliable, it can make your score go up or down drastically G2= 20, G2= 20 G4=...

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