To be honest, I searched and searched also didn't find much. I too found most references about bot flys talking about the nasal issues.

I do know that antlers, when in the velvet phase, are tender and do get injured sometimes. If an antler were to get harpooned by a crabapple thorn, what would that area of the antler loook like once the antlers hardened?

Bsurplus makes a very good point with that last post.

I just can't buy the theory that it is somehow hereditary or they just grow that way.

I've taken a few bucks that have that sorta acorn shaped tip at the top of a tine. These are just where the antler was damaged when in velvet.

You'd think a deer breeder would have the answer.