THE BASICS

The fundamental tools required to measure and compute the score of a big game animal are:

* Measuring cable (along with an alligator clip) - for measuring the length of main beams and points with curvature, as well as marking base lines.

* Lip-end measuring tape - for measurements taken with the cable and for directly measuring points.

* Ring-end measuring tape - useful in taking the circumference measurements, because the "zero" reading is inset from the end of the tape.

* P&Y Measurer's Manual - a complete guide to the measuring procedures for all big game species. Those interested specifically in whitetail deer would find the publication, A Hunter's Guide to Measuring Whitetail Deer, very useful, as it contains the detailed procedures for typical and non-typical whitetail deer.

The above items can be ordered from the Pope and Young Club on-line in the Merchandise Section of this web site, or by contacting the Club's national office at PO Box 548, Chatfield, MN 55923 (507) 867-4144.

These basics will enable you to determine a rough idea of the score for a specific animal. To be considered an accurate and official score, the animal must be measured by a certified P&Y official measurer and then the entry materials must be submitted to, and accepted by, the Pope and Young Club for inclusion into the Records Program.