Deer antler spread can best be measured while the animal is alive and the antlers are in velvet.
The first step is to find a deer that is comfortable around people. Once you have found a deer approach it slowly and gently pet its head or back. Let the deer get used to your presence before attempting to measure its antlers.
Next find a tape measure and gently place it around the base of the antlers. Be sure to not pull the tape measure too tight as you don’t want to hurt the deer. Once you have measured the circumference of the antlers multiply that number by 2 to get the diameter.
Finally measure the length of the antlers from the base to the tip. Once you have all of your measurements you can then determine the deer’s antler spread.
The antler spread is simply the width of the antlers at their widest point. To measure this take the tape measure and place it at the outermost points of the antlers. Once you have the measurement you can then compare it to average antler spreads for different species of deer.
Whitetail deer antler spread can range from 12-24 inches while mule deer antler spread can range from 20-28 inches.
Measuring deer antlers is a relatively easy process that can be done by anyone. With a little practice you’ll be able to quickly and accurately measure the antlers of any deer.
