By Henry Joseph 
The world record mule deer is not just a big buck—it’s a legendary part of hunting history. When we say “world record mule deer,” we mean the biggest, most perfectly shaped mule deer antlers ever recorded. This deer wasn’t just large, it was once-in-a-lifetime huge. Hunters and wildlife fans still talk about it today, and it keeps inspiring new generations to get outside and explore the wild.
Back in 1972, a hunter named Doug Burris Jr. went on what he called a “poor boy trip” with his friends. They didn’t have fancy gear or expensive trucks—just passion for the outdoors. That trip turned into something big. Really big. Doug spotted a buck so massive, even without binoculars, he could see its giant antlers from far away. One quick shot, and Doug had done something no one else ever had. He brought home the deer that would become the world record mule deer.
The world record mule deer is the biggest and most perfect mule deer ever found. It’s not just big in size but also has very even, natural antlers. That’s what makes it special. This deer was hunted in 1972 and has a score of 226 4/8 points. That number means the antlers are very long, wide, and grow the right way. It’s hard to find deer like that. Many hunters dream of seeing or getting a buck this big, but most never do. That’s why the world record mule deer is so famous in the hunting world. It shows how amazing nature can be and what a lucky, smart hunter can find if they keep trying. It’s also a reminder to always respect wild animals and the outdoors while you hunt.
When hunters get a really big deer, they can have it scored by the Boone and Crockett Club. This club has a system that gives points for antlers. The antlers are measured for length, width, and how even they grow. Doug Burris Jr.’s mule deer was scored and got a final number of 226 4/8. That’s a huge score for a typical mule deer, which means the antlers were natural and not twisted or weird-looking. At first, the buck was scored a little lower, but later rules changed, and they added 6/8 of an inch. That’s how Doug’s buck became number one. Getting a deer scored is important because it tells people how rare and amazing it is. It also helps hunters compare and learn about animals in a fair and official way.
The world record mule deer was found in Dolores County, Colorado. That’s a place with tall mountains, thick trees, and lots of deer. Doug Burris Jr. was hunting there with his friends in the San Juan National Forest. This area is known for its big mule deer because it has good food, cover, and space for animals to grow strong. Doug saw his record buck while walking through Proven Canyon, a place he hunted before. The hills and brush made it hard, but Doug used his skills to sneak close. Colorado is still one of the best places in America to find big mule deer. The record buck shows that great hunting can happen when you explore wild places, stay patient, and look in the right spots. It’s the perfect mix of luck and hard work.
In 1972, something amazing happened in the world of mule deer hunting. Doug Burris Jr. went on a simple hunting trip with his buddies, and they all hoped to find a good buck. But Doug found something much better—a buck with antlers so big and perfect, no one had ever seen anything like it. He got one lucky shot, and that moment made history. When they measured the antlers later, it turned out to be the highest-scoring typical mule deer ever. That trip, which started just like any other, became famous forever. The story shows that big moments can happen when you least expect them. All it takes is one special day, a little luck, and a lot of heart. That’s why hunters still talk about the 1972 hunt today—it’s the one that changed everything.
Spotting a mule deer like the world record one takes patience and a sharp eye. First, look for big ears and a black-tipped tail—that’s how mule deer look. If you’re in the mountains or open woods, that’s a good place to start. Look early in the morning or late in the day when deer are feeding. A big buck usually stays in thick cover and moves slowly. You might see its antlers before you see the whole deer. Use binoculars to check hillsides and edges of trees. Big bucks like the one Doug Burris shot are rare, but not impossible to find. Look for wide, tall antlers and a thick neck. The biggest deer are usually older and smarter, so they hide well. But with practice and a lot of watching, you might spot one that’s close to a record.
If you want to hunt a big mule deer, there are some great places in North America to try. Colorado is at the top of the list, especially Dolores County where the world record mule deer was found. Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah also have lots of public land and big bucks. These states have good food, space, and cover—things deer need to grow large. Arizona has some top-scoring mule deer too, but it can be harder to get a tag. Canada is another good place, especially in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Cold winters and good land make those bucks grow big and strong. Always check the hunting rules before you go. The best places also need smart hunting. Even in great spots, you have to hike, scout, and be patient. The big bucks are out there—you just have to find them.
The story of the world record mule deer teaches us a lot. First, you don’t need fancy gear or a big budget. Doug Burris Jr. went hunting with simple tools and friends. What helped him win was time in the woods, being quiet, and taking the right shot. The story shows that nature can surprise us when we least expect it. It also tells hunters to respect the land, the animals, and the hunt. Good things come to those who work hard and stay patient. The buck also reminds us how scoring works and why records matter. They help hunters learn and improve. Even if you never break a record, you can still enjoy the hunt, the outdoors, and the memories you make. That’s what hunting is really about—trying your best and loving every moment.
The Boone and Crockett Club uses a special way to score mule deer. They look at the antlers very carefully. They measure how long the beams are, how wide the spread is, and how many points the antlers have. Everything has to be even and match on both sides if you want a high score. That’s called “typical.” If one side is crazy or uneven, that’s called “non-typical.” A clean and even rack scores better. You need an official scorer to get a real score. They use tools like a tape and follow strict rules. If you think your deer might be special, you should wait 60 days for the antlers to dry before getting it scored. That’s the rule. This way, hunters know the score is fair. Scoring is a fun way to learn more about your deer and maybe get in the record book.
Yes, the world record mule deer could be broken one day, but it will be very hard. Doug Burris Jr.’s buck has held the top spot since 1972. Many hunters have taken big bucks, but none have scored higher yet. Some have come close, but not close enough. For a new record, the deer needs to have really long antlers, lots of matching points, and no strange shapes. That doesn’t happen often in the wild. Also, the scoring system is very strict. Everything has to be measured the right way. But nature is full of surprises. A buck like that could be out there right now, hiding in the woods. If someone finds it, they might make history. Until then, Doug’s buck is still the champion, and that makes the story even more special.
The story of the world record mule deer is more than just about antlers. It’s about adventure, friends, and nature. Doug Burris Jr. didn’t plan to make history. He just went hunting and had a very lucky day. That’s what makes it fun and real. Anyone can dream big, and one day, your story might be next.
Hunting is not just about big trophies. It’s about being outside, learning, and having fun. Even if you never see a record buck, you can still enjoy the quiet woods and time with family or friends. That’s what really matters in the end.
Q: What is the world record mule deer score?
A: The score is 226 4/8 points, the highest ever for a typical mule deer.
Q: Who shot the world record mule deer?
A: Doug Burris Jr. shot it in 1972 during a hunting trip in Colorado.
Q: Where was the world record mule deer found?
A: It was found in Dolores County, Colorado, in the San Juan National Forest.
Q: Can someone break the world record mule deer score?
A: Yes, it’s possible, but it’s very rare and has not happened since 1972.
Q: How do you get a mule deer scored?
A: You contact an official Boone and Crockett measurer and follow their scoring rules.