Scoring the inside main beam of a deer is an essential step in determining the total score of the antlers, especially in scoring systems like the Boone and Crockett Club or Pope and Young Club. The inside main beam measurement is a critical component of scoring a whitetail deer, as it helps assess the overall size of the antlers. This measurement is included in the final calculation to determine the antlers’ quality and rank.

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to score the inside main beam of a deer:

Materials You’ll Need:

• A flexible measuring tape (preferably one used for scoring antlers)
• A ruler or caliper (for more precise measurements)
• A notepad and pen (to record the measurements)
• A calculator (for scoring calculations)
• A reference for scoring (such as the Boone and Crockett or Pope and Young measurement charts)

Step-by-Step Guide to Scoring the Inside Main Beam of a Deer

Step 1: Understand the Importance of Inside Main Beam Measurement

Before diving into the measurement process, it's important to understand that the inside main beam measurement refers to the distance between the inside edges of each main beam of the antlers. This measurement helps assess the width and spread of the deer’s antlers. The inside main beam is one of the most significant measurements when determining the final score of the antlers, as it contributes to the overall size.

Step 2: Position the Deer or Antlers

If you’re measuring the antlers of a mounted deer, make sure the rack is positioned upright and level so that you can take an accurate reading. If the deer is fresh or not yet mounted, carefully position the rack to stabilize it while measuring.

1. Place the Deer in an Upright Position:
   • Ensure the antlers are positioned naturally as they would be on a live deer. The antlers should not be twisted or angled unnaturally. Ideally, the deer should be standing with its head facing forward and the antlers at their most natural position.
2. Secure the Antlers:
   • If you're working with a freshly harvested rack, make sure the antlers are secured so they don’t move while you are measuring. You may need someone to help hold the antlers in place or use a clamp to keep them still.

Step 3: Measure the Inside Main Beam

The key to scoring the inside main beam is taking an accurate measurement of the distance between the inside edges of the antlers at their widest point. Here’s how to do it:

1. Find the Inside Edge of the Main Beams:
   • Start by locating the inside edges of each main beam at the point where they are closest together. This is the point where the beams will be measured, typically at the widest part of the antlers, between the brow tines or at the main beam itself.
2. Use the Measuring Tape:
   • Take a flexible measuring tape and run it horizontally from the inside edge of one main beam to the inside edge of the other main beam. The tape should run along the horizontal plane that spans across the base of the antlers.
3. Keep the Tape Straight:
   • Ensure that the tape is straight and parallel to the ground. If the tape is bent or slanted, the measurement will be inaccurate. The measurement should represent the shortest distance between the inside edges of the two beams.
4. Record the Measurement:
   • Note the distance where the tape meets. The measurement should be in inches or centimeters, depending on your system of choice. Round the measurement to the nearest eighth of an inch or the nearest millimeter for accuracy.

Step 4: Repeat the Process for the Other Side

If the antlers are symmetrical, the inside main beam measurement for both sides should be similar. However, it's essential to measure each side separately to ensure consistency.

1. Measure the Inside Main Beam for the Opposite Side:
   • Follow the same procedure to measure the inside edge of the opposite main beam. Measure the horizontal distance from the inside edge of that beam to the other beam’s inside edge.
2. Record the Measurements:
   • Once you’ve taken both measurements, note down each one. If both measurements are identical, you’ll only need to record the measurement for one side. If they differ, you’ll need to keep track of both values.

Step 5: Calculate the Total Score (if applicable)

The inside main beam measurement contributes to the overall score in various scoring systems. It’s part of the total "spread" measurement that’s used in formulas like those used by Boone and Crockett or Pope and Young.

1. Boone and Crockett System:
   • The Boone and Crockett Club uses a total spread score (which includes inside main beam measurements) to calculate the overall antler score. The inside main beam measurement is added to the overall score along with other measurements like antler length and circumference.
2. Pope and Young System:
   • The Pope and Young scoring system also includes the inside main beam measurements as part of the overall gross score, along with other measurements for length and circumference.

Step 6: Double-Check for Accuracy

To ensure the accuracy of your measurements, follow these tips:

1. Measure Twice:
   • Always measure twice to ensure consistency and reduce errors. Small mistakes can add up and impact the final score, especially in competitive scoring.
2. Use a Level Surface:
   • Make sure that both the deer’s antlers and the measuring tape are placed on a level surface to avoid slanted measurements. A slight angle can skew the results.
3. Measure from the Same Point:
   • Always measure from the same points (the inside edges) of the beams for both sides. Avoid measuring at different points, as this could lead to inaccurate measurements.

Conclusion

Scoring the inside main beam of a whitetail deer is an essential part of the overall process for determining the size and score of the antlers. This measurement helps assess the spread of the antlers and is an important factor in both Boone and Crockett and Pope and Young scoring systems. By following these steps carefully and measuring accurately, you can contribute valuable information to the overall assessment of the deer’s antlers. Always double-check your measurements for accuracy, and remember that precise measurements are key to determining the quality and size of your trophy.