Understanding the Core of Point Counting
What constitutes a “point”?
The thrill of the hunt, the crisp morning air, the rustle of leaves – all contribute to the exhilarating experience of pursuing a buck. But the excitement often peaks when you finally have your trophy in sight. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, the moment you lay eyes on a magnificent buck with impressive antlers, a natural question arises: How many points does it have? Accurately counting the points is a significant aspect of hunting, offering a way to appreciate the animal’s size and potential, and often, leading to a sense of accomplishment and a story to be told. This beginner’s guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can confidently and correctly count the points on any buck you encounter.
Before delving into the specifics, it’s important to establish a firm grasp on the basics. Knowing the terminology and the rules is the foundation for accuracy.
What exactly constitutes a “point”? At its simplest, a point is any projection of antler that meets a specific length criterion. This means that a true “point” must extend a minimum distance from the main beam. The general rule of thumb, and the defining characteristic, is that a projection must be at least one inch long. This measurement is taken from the tip of the projection (the very end) to the nearest point on the main beam. Any projection that does not meet this standard is not counted as a point, no matter how impressive it might look.
Understanding the distinction between a point and a non-point is therefore crucial. A small “nub” or a slight projection might appear on an antler, but if it falls short of the one-inch mark, it does not qualify. It’s important to keep a critical eye and measure, rather than make assumptions.
Now, let’s familiarize ourselves with the vocabulary. You’ll need to know these terms to navigate the process.
- Main Beam: This is the primary antler stem, the backbone of the rack. It is the longest and usually the thickest portion. All points originate from the main beam. Identifying the main beam is a crucial first step.
- Tines/Points: These are the individual projections that extend from the main beam. They are often the most visually striking part of the antler.
- G1, G2, G3, G4: This is a standardized system for identifying the tines. It helps in clear communication and scoring. The G1 is generally the first point you come across as you move up the main beam, usually the brow tine. After this, the points are simply labeled G2, G3, G4 and so on, moving from the base of the antler towards the top, as needed.
- Rake: This term refers to the measurement of a point, taken from the base of the point (where it connects to the main beam) to the tip of the point. The rake will often be measured with the point standing up straight to ensure an accurate measurement of the length of the point.
There are a couple of critical considerations to factor in. Occasionally, a buck will display anomalies, which can impact the final count. These might include “split” or “double” points.
- Split Points: When a single point forks or splits into two distinct tips, the rules vary. A split point is often counted as a single point IF the split occurs near the tip, and the projection is only very slightly divided. However, if the split starts further down the point, and the separate tips are well-defined and the two parts of the split are nearly parallel to each other, then it might be counted as two points, especially if the two projections extend one inch or more from the main beam.
- Broken Points: If a point is broken or damaged, the existing section is measured if possible. A broken point is counted if the remaining section meets the one inch rule.
A Step-by-Step Approach for Counting Points
Now, let’s get into the practical side of things. This is where you will take everything you have learned, and actually start counting those points.
Preparation
- Gather your tools. The most basic necessity is clear views of the buck’s antlers. Ideally, you should have access to multiple photographs of the buck, including both the left and right sides. High-quality photos from different angles provide the best view. If you have the real antlers in front of you, this can simplify the process.
- A flexible measuring tape, the kind used in tailoring, is helpful for taking accurate measurements.
Counting the Points on the Left Side
- Start by visually identifying the main beam. It’s the base of the antler, the foundation.
- Once you’ve established the main beam, begin your point count. Start with the point closest to the buck’s head (towards the front). This point is generally called the G1, or the brow tine.
- Move up the main beam. As you go, identify the G2, G3, G4 and so on, as needed.
- Carefully measure each projection. Use your photographs or the antlers themselves. The one-inch rule is paramount. Each projection needs to be measured from the tip to the main beam.
- Make a note of each point that qualifies, and then count them. Keep a tally as you go, writing them down as you move along.
Counting the Points on the Right Side
- Now, repeat the exact same process on the right side of the antlers. Use the same approach: Find the main beam, identify the G1, G2, G3, etc., and carefully measure each projection.
- Count the points on the right side.
Total Point Calculation
- Add up the number of points you found on the left side and the number of points on the right side. This will be the total number of points.
- If an antler is missing some points (for instance, because of an injury), and you have the buck’s antlers to count, you must still count both sides. If one side has fewer points than the other, you simply use those as the count for that side. You should count the points on both sides, regardless, even if it means you have to use an incomplete rack.
Navigating Tricky Scenarios and Important Details
Sometimes, the process isn’t as simple as it seems. Some scenarios can throw a wrench into the scoring process.
Abnormal Points
- These are points that don’t follow the standard pattern or are otherwise irregular. They might be smaller, not well-defined, or grow in unusual directions.
- The scoring of abnormal points varies based on the measuring system, but the general principle remains the same. If the abnormal projection meets the one-inch threshold, it is generally included in the point count.
Broken or Damaged Antlers
- As mentioned before, if a point is broken, the remaining section can still be counted, provided it’s long enough. If a point has been partially broken, and you can determine how long it was previously, by comparison to the opposite side, you might be able to take an approximation. Always err on the side of caution and accuracy.
Tips for Accurate Counting
- Take your time, and pay close attention to detail. Multiple photos from different angles are immensely helpful.
- Use your photos, and count the points repeatedly. Comparing what you see to known information about buck antler growth or known scoring methods can increase the accuracy.
- If possible, consult with an experienced person. There are many websites, discussion boards, and local hunting groups that can help.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
Like any skill, accurate point counting requires practice. Here are some of the pitfalls to avoid:
- Counting projections that are too short. This is one of the most common mistakes. Always double-check the length of each projection against the one-inch standard.
- Misidentifying the main beam. This can lead to inaccurate identification and an incorrect point count. Remember, the main beam is the foundation.
- Neglecting to count one side. Be sure to count both sides, even if one side seems less impressive than the other.
- Inconsistency. Counting the same rack repeatedly and getting a different result suggests a problem with your approach. Develop a systematic method and stick to it. Take breaks if needed.
In Conclusion
Counting the points on a buck is a skill that combines careful observation, knowledge of the rules, and a little bit of patience. This guide has hopefully provided you with the tools to accurately assess those antlers.
By understanding the basic terminology, following the step-by-step process, and being mindful of the potential challenges, you can confidently identify and count the points on a buck, contributing to your appreciation of these magnificent creatures. Remember to practice, compare your counts, and always strive for accuracy. Learning how to count points will enhance your hunting and viewing experience.
Ultimately, the most important aspect of the hunt remains the experience. Enjoy the time spent in nature, respect the animals, and appreciate the beauty of the bucks you encounter. Accurate point counting can provide a valuable measure of a buck’s size and value, but the true reward lies in the overall adventure.
(Optional) Resources
To further your knowledge, consider using these resources:
- Websites of the Boone and Crockett Club or the Pope and Young Club are great places to learn about more accurate scoring and point counting, as well as understanding the rules of each organization.
- Online videos and tutorials can demonstrate the point counting process in action. Search for “how to score deer antlers” on platforms like YouTube.
- Hunting forums and online communities often feature discussions about deer scoring and antler identification. Engage with experienced hunters to learn and share insights.
