Minimum antler/spike length definitions?

[RedSpruce]

Why do some states set minimum antler length for defining what is a legal antlered or bull elk?

For example Colorado defines an antleredl elk as any elk with antlers of 5 inches or longer.

Thanks

[saddlesore]

That makes just about possible to see them at close distance. However,in Colorado most units have 4 pt minimum or 3 points on a side and a 6" brow tine. An either sex tag is not an any elk tag. If you have a cow tag or an either sex tag and you shoot an elk with less than 5" of antler, its is considered antlerless. If it goes over 5 " and you shoot it, you are in trouble because it does not meet the criteria for an antlered elk 4 pt or 3 pts with a 6" brow tine. If in an unit with a bull tag and no point restriction, it has to have 5 " or better of antler. I thought it was 6" , but I don't have my brochure handy

[RedSpruce]

Thanks

Looks like in Wisconsin and Utah its 6 inches or more.