Dr. Mick Hellickson, one of the top deer scientists in America, conducted a three-year project on whitetail behavior and antler rattling on a 10,000 ranch in South Texas. The deer population was healthy and the buck:doe ratio was near 1:1. His researchers rattled in two-man teams during all three phases of the rut each November and December. When a buck came in, they noted the time, weather, etc., and videotaped each deer so later they could estimate its age and rack score. I mention that Mick’s research was conducted more than a decade ago, which has been a good thing for me. It has allowed me to compare and analyze the study’s key points against my field notes and observations [...]

Ethan said: “Mike, I know you like a good drop tine buck. I do as well, and I finally made my dream come true in central Virginia! Big Old Dominion dropper went 23” wide!” Yes, love me some drop tine, especially an old main-frame 6 with a big drop club like this! And sure love me a big old Virginia buck! Congrats man thanks for sharing.