Quick Answer
Pope & Young records qualify for animals harvested with primitive or traditional archery equipment, including recurves, longbows, and crossbows, with minimum scores and measurements that vary by species.
Eligible Species
The Pope & Young Club recognizes records for a wide range of big game species in North America, including deer, elk, moose, bear, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and caribou. For example, to qualify for a record, a white-tailed deer must have a minimum score of 125 inches (317.5 cm) for a typical buck and weigh at least 150 pounds (68 kg). In contrast, a mule deer requires a minimum score of 190 inches (483 cm) for a typical buck.
Record Requirements
To qualify for a Pope & Young record, the animal must be harvested with primitive or traditional archery equipment, such as a recurve, longbow, or crossbow. The hunter must also meet specific requirements for the animal’s measurement and scoring, which are outlined in the Pope & Young Club’s measuring and scoring guide. For example, a typical antler point must be at least one inch (2.5 cm) long to count towards the animal’s score.
Measuring and Scoring
Measuring and scoring animals for Pope & Young records requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the Club’s rules and regulations. Hunters must accurately measure the animal’s antlers, ears, and other relevant features, using a calibrated measuring tape and a measuring guide. The animal must then be scored using the Pope & Young Club’s official scoring system, which takes into account the size and shape of the antlers, as well as any abnormalities or injuries.
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