How to Measure a Turkey Spur: A Comprehensive Guide for Hunters

Even if you’ve never scored a wild turkey before or are unclear of the measurements that go into the score, it only takes four easy steps.

The NWTF maintains the Wild Turkey Records database, which includes rankings in the following groups:

Additionally, the NWTF website offers an interactive map that lets users filter data provided by hunters of wild turkeys who have registered their birds. Who knows, maybe this spring’s bird is worthy of a top ranking in the record books.

Measure each spur. Measurements for spurs must be made from the point where the spur emerges from the scaled leg’s skin to the spur tip along the outside center. Add both spur measurements and multiply the combined length of the spurs by 10. This is the number of points you receive for the turkey’s spurs.

Determine the beard’s length in decimal notation by measuring the beard from the middle of the skin protrusion to the tip. Next, multiply the beard length measurement by two to determine the total points you will earn. If the unusual feature of your bird is its abundance of beards, measure each one, convert it to a decimal, add the numbers, and multiply by two. This is the number of points you receive for your turkey’s beards.

Your turkey is scored by adding up its weight, spur points, and beard points. You can also tally your score by using the Scoring Calculator.

A crucial step in figuring out a wild turkey’s final score is measuring its spur. Turkeys are ranked using this score in a number of categories, such as weight, spur length, beard length, and overall score. Knowing how to measure a turkey spur accurately is essential for making the most out of your hunting experience, regardless of experience level.

Gathering the Necessary Tools

Before embarking on the measurement process ensure you have the following tools readily available:

  • Flexible measuring tape: A flexible measuring tape, preferably with a width of 1/4 inch, is ideal for conforming to the curve of the spur.
  • Sharp knife or scissors: A sharp knife or scissors will be needed to trim any excess tissue or feathers around the base of the spur.
  • Caliper (optional): A caliper can be used for more precise measurements, especially if the spur is particularly thick or curved.

Step-by-Step Measurement Process

  1. Prepare the Spur: Using your sharp knife or scissors, carefully remove any excess tissue or feathers around the base of the spur. This will ensure an accurate measurement.
  2. Locate the Starting Point: Identify the point where the spur protrudes from the scaled leg skin. This will serve as your starting point for measurement.
  3. Measure the Spur Length: Place the flexible measuring tape at the starting point and extend it along the outside center of the spur to its tip. Ensure the tape follows the natural curve of the spur.
  4. Record the Measurement: Note down the measurement in inches and tenths of an inch. For example, a spur measuring 1.25 inches should be recorded as 1.25.
  5. Repeat for the Other Spur: If the turkey has two spurs, repeat the measurement process for the other spur.

Calculating the Spur Score

Once you have measured both spurs, add their lengths together. Multiply the combined length by 10 to obtain the spur score. For instance, if the combined length of the spurs is 2.5 inches, the spur score would be 25 points.

Additional Tips

  • Use a consistent method: It’s essential to use the same measurement technique for all your turkeys to ensure consistency and comparability.
  • Double-check your measurements: Taking multiple measurements and verifying them against each other can help minimize errors.
  • Consult official guidelines: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the measurement process, refer to the official guidelines provided by the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).

Accurately measuring a turkey spur is a simple procedure that needs little effort and equipment. By taking the above-mentioned actions, you can positively identify your wild turkey’s spur score and help to preserve this amazing game bird. Recall that precise measurements are essential for equitable ranking and enhance the overall pleasure of the hunting process.

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.

how to measure a turkey spur

Even if you’ve never scored a wild turkey before or are unclear of the measurements that go into the score, it only takes four easy steps.

The NWTF maintains the Wild Turkey Records database, which includes rankings in the following groups:

  • Total Score
  • Beard Length
  • Spur Length
  • Weight

There’s also an interactive map on the NWTF’s website that filters data entered by wild-turkey hunters who have registered their birds. Who knows, maybe this spring’s bird is worthy of a top ranking in the record books.

Weigh your bird in pounds and ounces and convert ounces to decimal form.

how to measure a turkey spur

Measure each spur. Measurements for spurs must be made from the point where the spur emerges from the scaled leg’s skin to the spur tip along the outside center. Add both spur measurements and multiply the combined length of the spurs by 10. This is the number of points you receive for the turkey’s spurs.

how to measure a turkey spur

Determine the beard’s length in decimal notation by measuring the beard from the middle of the skin protrusion to the tip. Next, multiply the beard length measurement by two to determine the total points you will earn. If the unusual feature of your bird is its abundance of beards, measure each one, convert it to a decimal, add the numbers, and multiply by two. This is the number of points you receive for your turkey’s beards.

how to measure a turkey spur

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.

how to measure a turkey spur

Top 20 Counties With Most Registered Wild Turkeys

Florida and Nebraska top the list of the Top 20 Counties with the highest record bird harvests.

how to measure a turkey spur

* Data as of 2019 records.

Spur measurements

FAQ

How do you measure turkey spur length?

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 turkey’s spurs.

What is a good size turkey spur?

Gobblers with spurs one-half inch or less are juveniles, 5/8 inch up to 1 inch are 2-year-olds, 1 to 1 3/8 inches are 3-year-olds and birds with spurs greater than 1 3/8 inches are older than three years. Gobblers with longer spurs (1½ to 2 inches) probably range in age from 5 to 8 or more years.

What is the largest turkey spur ever recorded?

The longest spur in Wild Turkey Records is a 2.3125- inch spur on an Ocellated turkey.

What are the measurements of a turkey?

The Domestic Turkey has a wingspan in the range of 59.1”-70.9” (150-180 cm) and total weight of 29.8-86 lb (13.5-39 kg). The body of the Domestic Turkey has an overall length between 39.4”-49.2” (100-125 cm), body width of 15”-18.5” (38-47 cm), and standing height of roughly 25.6”-31.5” (65-80 cm).

Leave a Comment