Aging a buck on the hoof

Determining the age of a buck is better done through an analysis of its body features, not the size of its rack.

Look at body, not rack size when determining age of buck

Many hunters have been in their deer stand and “something” steps into a field or shooting lane. The typical scenario is a buck on the prowl, usually at a considerable distance and in low light conditions. The hunter’s eyes immediately go to the rack.

“The rack has little to do with whether or not a deer has reached it’s potential growth” claims quality deer land manager Leslie Smith from Hampton. “Many hunters see what they think is a trophy deer because it’s got a visible rack over it’s head.”

Since a deer reaches it’s best antler maturity at somewhere in the 5 ½ year old range, learning to distinguish body features that classify that deer at it’s maximum potential, is much more reliable than simply judging by it’s rack. In the accompanying photo, which Smith took at a distance of 200 yards and under low light conditions, it’s easier to judge this trophy deer based on it’s body features, especially since it’s rack isn’t clearly visible. In comparison, a trophy deer shares many characteristics with a middle aged man. Smith describes each characteristic individually to put together a full picture.

Thick Body – “The most reliable characteristic is a full, thick, mature body which identifies this animal as a trophy buck based on sizeable body weight”, he said.

Sway Back – “Age and maturity, as well as a big gut, give this deer a slight sway in its back.”

Rounded Shoulders – “One trait that distinguishes this animal from a husky younger deer are rounded shoulders, another indicator of heavy body weight.”

Roman Nose – “A hooked or round nose, also referred to as an Aquiline nose, is derived from the fullness of the face but also makes reference to a fierce fighter.”

Squinty Eyes – “This is also caused by higher body mass, eye lids may even look puffy.”

Wide Neck – “This photo was taken during the rut, which further increases this buck’s size based on its swollen neck. The neck minimally decreases in size from the shoulder to the head.”

Fat Brisket – “These are “man boobs”, another place weight accumulates.”

Saggy Belly – “Years of consuming “grain products” have the same effects on deer and humans.”

Short Legs – “Overall this deer’s legs are normal sized but look short when compared to the size and girth of the body.”

After a full analysis, Smith deemed the deer was definitely a shooter.

-To read more about determining a buck’s age, click here.

About Phillip Gentry 817 Articles
Phillip Gentry of Waterloo, S.C., is an avid outdoorsman and said if it swims, flies, hops or crawls, he's usually not too far behind.

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