North American Mule Deer 20 H.A.R.T Challenge

The North American Mule Deer 20 H.A.R.T Challenge is a pursuit of the rugged West, calling on H.A.R.Ters to track and verify H.A.R.T shots on mule deer bucks across twenty distinct regions. From the high deserts of New Mexico to the snowy plains of Alberta, this challenge offers more than a list of places. It’s a lesson in landscapes, movement, and respect for one of North America’s most elusive species.

Whether you’re glassing cliffs at dawn or navigating dense brush, each verified shot represents not only a successful encounter but a deepened understanding of mule deer habitat and behavior. The real trophy? A cross-border experience rich with challenge, story, and legacy.

What You’ll Need to Complete This Challenge

To successfully complete the Mule Deer 20, you’ll need to verify a H.A.R.T shot on a mule deer buck in each of the following areas.

Qualification Criteria

Animal Type

Mule deer bucks only
Must have at least one antler (velvet and spike qualify; slick heads do not)

Location

U.S. States: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, New Mexico, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Canadian Provinces: Alberta and Saskatchewan
Mexico: One verified shot within Mexico

H.A.R.T Shot Verification

Must be completed using the H.A.R.T Shot App
Each shot can only be applied to one challenge
The challenge is selected after verification

Weapons Divisions

You may pursue this challenge using any of the official H.A.R.T weapons divisions:

Firearms Division:
Any firearm or replica that activates the H.A.R.T Shot app

H.A.R.Tchery Division:
Any bow system or faux bow compatible with the app

H.A.R.T Stick Division:
Camera-based shots designed to capture the moment without harm, in the spirit of the Native American Coup Stick tradition

Where to H.A.R.T

Land Access & Ethical Guidelines

You may complete this challenge on:

Public Land with H.A.R.T Stick only
Private Land (with permission)
Preserves or Hunting Ranches

You must:

Follow all local wildlife laws and obtain the proper licenses or permits
Never trespass on private land
Avoid disturbing animals unnecessarily
Use the H.A.R.T system from a safe distance of 30-50 yards
When using the H.A.R.T Stick, follow ethical wildlife photography practices

The H.A.R.T system is designed to work at a safe distance of 30–50 yards. Anything closer is discouraged unless unavoidable. Your goal should always be minimal disturbance and maximum respect.

Tips for Completing the Challenge

1

Know Your Terrain

Mule deer thrive in varied terrain. Be ready for long hikes, glassing ridges, and tracking through elevation.

2

Watch the Weather

Seasonal movement patterns and harsh conditions can shape your window of opportunity.

3

Use the Right Division

Some preserves may restrict certain weapon types; the H.A.R.T Stick offers maximum flexibility.

Recognition & Record-Keeping

Each verified H.A.R.T shot earns you a Skullie and a place in the official H.A.R.T the Hunt Record Book.

The first person to complete the Mule Deer 20 will help design the official trophy, which will be named in their honor. Others who complete the challenge will receive the award and may purchase a replica trophy engraved with their name.