Old antlers obtained from a taxidermist or garage sale will work, but they often are dry and they certainly lack the pedigree that earns points around campfire smoke. A pair of white, brittle sheds can suffice, but they do not have solid authority. Mass and density are the important factors, and I have seen light-colored antlers in the hands of old masters summon suicidal big bucks. I must admit, though, that dark horns look really good. Some hunters recommend soaking old, dry antlers, or rubbing them with furniture polish to rekindle the deep, oily tones, but a good pair kept out of the weather during the offseasons should have staying power.
Real antlers have a traditional correctness, but a puny or brittle pair is no bargain.
Some veteran hunters use them and vow that the results are excellent. As always amid the magic of bucks and brush, it's not so much what you use but when you use it. And that time seldom should be better than during the next two weeks in deep South Texas. Joe Doggett covers the outdoors for the Chronicle. His column appears on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.