distinguishing antler types

[Kate Peach]

Hello to all.

        I am currently dealing with various collections of bone and antler tools
from northern and southeastern Manitoba, Canada.  Some of these tools are highly
modified and/or eroded.  With collections that I have worked on in the past, it
has been fairly straightforward to distinguish between various antler types,
based on external and internal texture, basic shape, etc.  The newest
collections, however, are proving to be more difficult.  The potential sources
of antler available would have included moose (Alces alces), elk (Cervus
canadensis), and caribou (Rangifer tarandus).  Does anyone have any
ideas/references/information regarding the potential distinctions between these
types of antler?  I understand that the antler can vary based on population,
animal condition, etc.  Do these factors serve to confuse the distinctions
between the species?
                I would very much appreciate any help on this matter! Thanks in
advance.
                                                        Kate Peach

e-mail at: umapeach at cc.umanitoba.ca