The two most prestigious and recognizable record keeping organizations for North American big game trophies, Pope and Young (P&Y) and Boone and Crockett (B&C), have some key differences:
Entry Qualifications:
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Weapon Type:
- P&Y: Exclusively for trophies taken with archery equipment (bows).
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B&C: Accepts trophies taken by any legal hunting method.
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Minimum Scores:
- P&Y: Maintains stricter minimum scores for entry in their record book. For typical whitetail deer racks, the minimum score is 125 points, while non-typical racks require a minimum of 155 points.
- B&C: Generally has lower minimum score requirements compared to P&Y. For typical whitetail deer racks, the minimum score for the three-year awards program is 160 points, and 170 points for the all-time book. Non-typical minimums follow a similar pattern.
Scoring System:
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Both P&Y and B&C utilize the same basic scoring system that assigns points based on the following measurements of the antlers:
- Inside spread
- Main beam lengths (left & right)
- Beam circumferences (at four locations on each main beam)
- Symmetry Bonus: Both may award additional points for symmetrical racks.
- Non-Typical Deductions: Both may deduct points for abnormal points or non-typical growth patterns.
Other Considerations:
- P&Y: Focuses on promoting bowhunting ethics and fair chase practices.
- B&C: Has a broader focus on overall trophy quality, regardless of hunting method.
- Record Books: Both maintain online record books showcasing exceptional trophies.
In simpler terms:
- P&Y: The archery purist's choice, with stricter entry requirements for trophies taken exclusively with a bow.
- B&C: More inclusive, recognizing trophies from various legal hunting methods and with slightly lower minimum scores for entry.