Broken or Bad Genetics?

I noticed this guy on the camera. I tried to blow it up and brighten it where you can see the tip of the deformed antler. You guys think its bad genes or just broken in a fight? He's still pretty young so trying to decide to take him out or leave him be.

looks hollow & broken

Looks broken to me. Probably ok to shoot him as well. Not sure of the genes in your area but looks like he will not amount to much. Maybe a good one to take out of the herd.

broke

Looks broken to me, but what do I know.

Bang! I bet he will make some great chilli or jerky!

You'll have to "ground check" that one to be sure.

both..

By that long nose he looks to be a younger deer. Definitely broken. Looks like he's got some good brow tines too!

Both

Damage incurred during velvet can be really deceiving sometimes.

Fresh breaks on dark antlers can be really obvious if caught early.

If he's young, and you have lots of other options, let him walk.

In the end: it's your call.

Have fun!

And if you shoot him, take pics and let us dissect him and you and you motives! HaHa!

Hard to tell much from one pic. Need another angle when you get one of him.

Looks broken to me!!!

Yah, I agree he's pretty young. Doesn't have the big thick neck yet. I'll probably let him walk and take a poke at him next year.