Quick Answer
Boone and Crockett scoring is primarily used for white-tailed deer, mule deer, and a few other North American deer species, while other organizations like the Pope and Young Club have their own scoring systems for other species like black-tailed deer and Sitka black-tailed deer.
Species Eligibility for Boone and Crockett Scoring
The Boone and Crockett Club has specific species eligibility criteria for their records book. White-tailed deer, mule deer, and Coues deer are the primary deer species accepted for scoring. For example, in order for a whitetail deer to be eligible, it must be a male, have antlers that meet specific minimum scores (typically 80 or 100 inches), and be harvested in a specific region during a designated hunting season.
Regional Scoring Variations
While the overall scoring system is consistent, there are regional variations that account for differences in deer populations and habitat. For instance, the minimum score for a whitetail in the South is 70 inches, while in the North it’s 80 inches. These regional variations ensure that deer harvested in different areas are compared fairly. Hunters should consult the Boone and Crockett Club’s website or publications to determine the specific scoring criteria for their region.
International and Exotic Species
The Boone and Crockett Club also accepts records from other North American deer species, including black-tailed deer and Sitka black-tailed deer, but these are scored using different criteria. For example, the minimum score for a black-tailed deer is 60 inches. International and exotic deer species, such as those found in Europe or Asia, are not eligible for Boone and Crockett scoring, as they are assessed by different organizations.
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