If youâve never thought much about scoring your wild turkey or simply donât know what measurements factor into the score, all it takes is four easy steps to get it done.
The NWTF maintains the Wild Turkey Records database, which includes rankings in the following groups:
Thereâs also an interactive map on the NWTFâs website that filters data entered by wild-turkey hunters who have registered their birds. Who knows, maybe this springâs bird is worthy of a top ranking in the record books.
Measure each spur. Spurs must be measured along the outside center, from the point at which the spur protrudes from the scaled leg skin to the tip of the spur. Add both spur measurements and multiply the combined length of the spurs by 10. This is the number of points you receive for the turkeyâs spurs.
Measure the beard length (a beard must be measured from the center point of the protrusion of the skin to the tip) and convert it to decimal form. Next, multiply the beard length figure by 2; this is the number of points you receive for the beard length. If you have an atypical bird (multiple beards), measure each beard, convert them to a decimal number, then add those figures together and multiply by two. This is the number of points you receive for your turkeyâs beards.
Add together the weight, the points for spurs and points for beard(s): This is the score you receive for your turkey. You can also tally your score by using the Scoring Calculator.
Measuring the spurs of a turkey is an important part of scoring the bird properly There are specific techniques and rules that should be followed to get an accurate spur measurement, This article will explain step-by-step how to measure turkey spurs for scoring using common methods like the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and Safari Club International (SCI) systems
Why Measuring Spurs Matter for Scoring
A turkey’s spurs play a major role in scoring and record-keeping systems. Along with beard length spur length is one of the main metrics used to score and compare turkeys. Longer spurs generally indicate an older gobbler so spurs are given heavy weighting in most scoring formulas. For example, in the popular NWTF scoring system, spur length accounts for 10 potential points per 1/16 of an inch, while beard length is only worth 1 point per 1/16 inch.
Learning to measure spurs properly prevents hunters from exaggerating or misrepresenting the size of their harvest. It also allows for consistent standardized measurements that can be compared across record books and scoring databases. Overall accurately measuring spurs is key for ethical, fair trophy scoring and record-keeping.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Turkey Spurs
Follow these steps to accurately measure a turkey’s spurs for scoring purposes:
1. Let the turkey cool completely if possible
For the most accurate measurements, it is best to let the harvested turkey cool down completely before measuring the spurs. The legs and spurs can contract slightly when cooling, so waiting prevents over-measurement. If cooling is not possible, make a note of this for records.
2. Locate the spur protrusion point
Look closely at the scaled skin covering the leg and locate where each spur first protrudes and extends out. This will be the starting point for measurement.
3. Position the spur appropriately
Gently extend the leg and position the spur so it is straight, not curled or curved under. The spur should be relaxed and fully extended for measurement.
4. Measure along the outer center edge
Place the end of the tape measure or ruler at the point where the spur meets the leg scales. Then run the measuring tool along the outer center of the spur, following its curve if present. Measure to the very tip of the spur.
5. Repeat steps for other spur
Follow steps 2-4 to carefully measure the other spur as well.
6. Add both measurements together
Add the measurements for both spurs together to get the total combined spur length.
7. Record to the nearest 1/16 inch
Be sure to record total combined spur length to the nearest 1/16 of an inch. Round up if the measurement falls between two increments.
8. Take photos
Take clear close-up photos of the spurs next to the measuring device for documentation. Photos should show the protrusion point and measurement.
Scoring Formulas
Once you have accurately measured the spurs, you can plug the numbers into different scoring systems. Here are two common examples:
NWTF Scoring
- Measure spurs to nearest 1/16 inch
- Add left and right spur lengths
- Multiply total spur length by 10 for score
For example, if the left spur measures 1 1/8″ and the right spur measures 1 3/16″, the total spur length is 2 3/16″. Multiplying that by 10 gives a score of 23 points for the spurs.
SCI Scoring
- Measure spurs to nearest 1/8 inch
- Add left and right spur lengths
- The total is the score
Using the same spur lengths, rounded to the nearest 1/8 inch would be 1 1/8″ and 1 1/4″. Added together, this gives a total spur score of 2 3/8″ using the SCI method.
Tips for Accurate Spur Measurement
- Use a flexible tape measure that can follow the curve of the spur
- Always measure from protrusion point to tip
- Gently extend the leg and straighten the spur
- Measure along the outer center edge, not inner or linear
- Avoid any stretching, pushing, or manipulation of the spur
- Round up borderline measurements
- Take photos and document for records
With practice, you will be able to measure spurs quickly and accurately. Consistent, ethical measurement techniques ensure your trophy turkeys can be properly scored and compared to record-book birds.
Top 20 Counties With Most Registered Wild Turkeys
If you search the Top 20 Counties with the most record birds harvested, youâll see Florida and Nebraska lead the way.
* Data as of 2019 records.
Welcome to MyWP Email Password Remember Me
Or connect with:
This field is required
An account already exists with this email address. Create Password
This field is required
Password should be at least 8 characters with a mix of letters and numbers. Confirm Password
This field is required
Passwords do not match. I accept the
Terms of Use must be accepted. Sign me up for the latest Whitetail news
There was an error signing up. Please check your fields and try again.
Or connect with:
Your email address will need to be verified before you can log into your account. Please check your email and click the verification link.
If youâve never thought much about scoring your wild turkey or simply donât know what measurements factor into the score, all it takes is four easy steps to get it done.
The NWTF maintains the Wild Turkey Records database, which includes rankings in the following groups:
- Total Score
- Beard Length
- Spur Length
- Weight
Thereâs also an interactive map on the NWTFâs website that filters data entered by wild-turkey hunters who have registered their birds. Who knows, maybe this springâs bird is worthy of a top ranking in the record books.
Weigh your bird in pounds and ounces and convert ounces to decimal form.
Measure each spur. Spurs must be measured along the outside center, from the point at which the spur protrudes from the scaled leg skin to the tip of the spur. Add both spur measurements and multiply the combined length of the spurs by 10. This is the number of points you receive for the turkeyâs spurs.
Measure the beard length (a beard must be measured from the center point of the protrusion of the skin to the tip) and convert it to decimal form. Next, multiply the beard length figure by 2; this is the number of points you receive for the beard length. If you have an atypical bird (multiple beards), measure each beard, convert them to a decimal number, then add those figures together and multiply by two. This is the number of points you receive for your turkeyâs beards.
Add together the weight, the points for spurs and points for beard(s): This is the score you receive for your turkey. You can also tally your score by using the Scoring Calculator.
Spur measurements
FAQ
How old is a turkey with 1 1 2 inch spurs?
How to measure turkey beard with tape measure?
Which turkeys have the longest spurs?