It is my humble opinion that many American hunters are missing on hunting opportunities in Europe and particularly in Romania…reasons?
I think Africa has greater appeal and New Zealand outfitters are simply so much better at advertising.
But also the centimeters/millimeters and kilograms/grams money scale scares many potential hunters away which is a shame.
Europe and Romania in particularly has such a variety of game , much better than USA and especially for red stag hunters, you can find better price for wild stags here than anywhere else.
In spring and summer when is offseason in USA, you can hunt roe deer in Romania and make wives and girlfriends happy doing touristy things in old towns, castles and also river cruises that are just fantastic.
Anyway, coming back to CIC measurement system and SCI system.
From the beginning I have to say those two system are completely different and you can not say a 190 CIC stag trophy will have “x” many SCI points. Both are different system don’t exist a table that you can compare. This article is to give you a general idea how big is a silver medal red stag for example.
Measurement of Red Deer
C.I.C Medal Measurement of Red Deer:
Bronze medal ……….Silver Medal…..Gold Medal
Cervus elaphus hippelaphus – Red Deer central european
170,00 – 189,99….190,00 – 209,99 210,00 +
Cervus elaphus elaphus – (Swedish)
160,00 – 169,99….170,00 – 179,99 180,00 +
Cervus elaphus hispanicus – (Spanish)
160,00 – 169,99….170,00 – 179,99 180,00 +
Cervus elaphus scoticus – (Scottish)
140,00 – 149,99….150,00 – 169,99 170,00 +
Cervus elaphus atlanticus – (Norwegian)
160,00 – 169,99….170,00 – 179,99 180,00 +
Cervus elaphus atlanticus – (Norwegian – NJFF. medal categories)
140,00 – 149,99….150,00 – 169,99 170,00 +
Measurement nearest to 0,1 cm and 0,01 kg.
I am not familiar with SCI scoring system but it looks like SCI measures mass/size by measuring every last tine while CIC measurement system leans toward weight.
Measuring the size and quality of red stag trophies is crucial for hunters, conservationists, and wildlife managers. Two of the most widely recognized systems for scoring red stags are the Safari Club International ,SCI Measurement System and the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation , CIC Measurement System. Both systems aim to provide an objective way to assess the antlers of red stags, but they differ in methodology, focus, and scoring criteria. This article provides a comparative overview of these two measurement systems to help stakeholders understand their differences and potential applications.
- Overview of the SCI Measurement System
The SCI Measurement System is a comprehensive scoring system used globally by hunters and trophy evaluators. It was developed by Safari Club International, a worldwide organization dedicated to hunting and wildlife conservation. The SCI system is known for its detailed approach, measuring various aspects of the antlers to generate a total score.
Methodology: The SCI system measures the length of the main beams, the number of points (tines), the length of each tine, and the circumference of the antlers at multiple locations. It also accounts for symmetry by deducting points for any irregularities or asymmetries.
Scoring Focus: SCI places a significant emphasis on the overall size of the antlers. Larger, more massive antlers generally score higher, regardless of symmetry or proportion. This system is particularly popular among hunters who prize the sheer size and grandeur of the trophy.
Application: The SCI measurement system is widely used in North America and is the preferred system for many international hunters. It is recognized in hunting records and competitions globally.
- Overview of the CIC Measurement System
The CIC Measurement System is the official scoring system of the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation, an organization with a strong European influence. The CIC system is more focused on the ecological and biological aspects of the trophy, emphasizing balance, symmetry, and natural beauty over sheer size.
Methodology: The CIC system also measures the length of the main beams, the number of points, and the circumference at various locations. However, it places a stronger emphasis on symmetry, proportions, and the aesthetic quality of the antlers. Points are added for symmetry and deducted for irregularities, with a focus on the natural development of the antlers.
Scoring Focus: Unlike SCI, the CIC system values the overall harmony and balance of the antlers. While size is still important, antlers that are well-proportioned and symmetrical are more highly regarded. This system is reflective of European hunting traditions, where the aesthetics and ethical aspects of hunting are emphasized.
Application: The CIC measurement system is predominantly used in Europe and in countries with strong ties to European hunting traditions. It is the standard for many European hunting organizations and is often used in wildlife management and conservation efforts.
- Key Differences Between SCI and CIC Systems
Emphasis on Size vs. Symmetry: The most significant difference between the two systems is the emphasis on size versus symmetry. SCI rewards larger antlers with higher scores, even if they are asymmetrical. In contrast, the CIC system places a premium on symmetry and proportionality, which may result in a higher score for a smaller but more balanced trophy.
Scoring Complexity: The SCI system is often considered more straightforward, with a clear focus on measurable attributes like length and mass. The CIC system, however, involves more subjective assessments related to the aesthetic qualities of the antlers, making it slightly more complex to score.
Geographical Preferences: SCI is more popular in North America and among international hunters who prioritize size. CIC, on the other hand, is favored in Europe, where the tradition of hunting often emphasizes the ethical and ecological aspects of the sport.
- Conclusion
Both the SCI and CIC measurement systems offer valuable perspectives on evaluating red stag trophies. The SCI system is ideal for those who prioritize size and mass, making it a popular choice in North America and among trophy hunters worldwide. The CIC system, with its focus on symmetry, balance, and natural beauty, aligns more closely with European hunting traditions and is well-suited for those who value the ethical and aesthetic aspects of hunting. - GENERAL CONCLUSION FOR US HUNTERS
In Romania, the trophy fees for red stags are based on the weight of the skull and antlers, after the head was boiled.
A nice stag will be over 7.5 kg and up to 8 kg, that will be a bronze medal in CIC scoring system.
A good stag will be between 8 kg and 9 kg, that is a silver medal according to CIC scoring system
A very good stag will between 9 kg and 10 kg, that is a gold medal for CIC.
A red stag trophy over 10 kg is a dream stag and any stag over 11 kg is once in a life time stag.
In few weeks, after the rut season of the red stags, I will write an article with displaying many trophies with different weights.
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