Can I use a rangefinder when measuring for Pope & Young?

Understanding Pope & Young Scoring

Pope & Young is a leading authority on big game scoring, particularly for archery trophy animals. According to their rules, a rangefinder is allowed to help hunters estimate the distance to the animal, but it cannot be used to measure the scoreable antlers. This means you can use a rangefinder to get a rough estimate of the distance, but you must physically measure the antlers to ensure accuracy.

Measuring Scoreable Antlers

When measuring scoreable antlers, you must follow Pope & Young’s exact specifications. For main beams, the minimum circumference is 2.5 inches for whitetail deer and 3 inches for other species. You must use a flexible measuring tape to wrap around the beam, ensuring the tape is level and not twisted. To ensure accuracy, use a digital caliper to record the measurement, and then round it to the nearest eighth of an inch.

Rangefinder Etiquette and Best Practices

When using a rangefinder during the hunt, it’s essential to follow best practices to avoid any issues during the scoring process. Make sure to note the distance reading in your hunting log or journal, and then physically measure the antlers using a flexible measuring tape and digital caliper. This will help you maintain transparency and accuracy during the scoring process, and avoid any potential disputes or issues.