How To Evaluate A Bighorn Sheep For A Trophy Hunt?

Assessing Horn Quality and Size

When evaluating a bighorn sheep, the first thing to look at is the quality and size of its horns. A mature ram’s horns should be strong, symmetrical, and evenly matched. Look for a horn that is at least 40 inches (101.6 cm) in length and 20 inches (50.8 cm) in circumference. The horn’s shape should be a long, sweeping curve, with the tips pointing upwards. A good rule of thumb is to look for a horn that is at least 10% longer than the ram’s body length. For example, a 5-foot (1.52 meters) tall ram should have horns that are at least 55 inches (139.7 cm) long.

Evaluating Body Condition and Size

In addition to horn quality and size, it’s also important to evaluate the ram’s overall body condition and size. A healthy ram should have a well-developed body, with a strong chest, well-sprung ribs, and a well-muscled hindquarters. Look for a ram that weighs around 150-200 pounds (68-91 kg), with a body length of around 5-6 feet (1.52-1.83 meters). A ram with a good body condition will have a shiny coat and a well-defined jawline.

Scoring a Bighorn Sheep

If you’re planning to enter your bighorn sheep into a trophy hunting competition, you’ll need to score it using a standardized system. The Boone and Crockett Club’s scoring system is the most widely used system for scoring bighorn sheep. The system takes into account the ram’s horn size, shape, and quality, as well as its body size and condition. The score is calculated based on a formula that takes into account the horn’s circumference, length, and weight. A good score can range from 150-250 points, depending on the ram’s quality and size.