Bow Hunting

[Sgt. Longhorn]

Got an opportunity to go bow hunting this weekend. Got my bow out, had it restrung got some new arrows and shot about 30 for practice since I haven't drawn the thing since 1988. By my last group I was able to hit all yellow and red at 20 yards. I used to shoot all the time and feel comfortable out to 40 yards.

Here's my question. I've never shot to kill with an arrow. I've gun hunted for years so I'm no newby, but it's a whole different ballgame with broadheads.

Should I try for the same kill zones as I do with a rifle? I've always prefered a neck shot, but I'm not sure I feel confident enough to try one with a bow. Should I just plan on shooting shoulder/heart/lung area? Any help from you archers out there would be nice.

 

[Breehorn]

Until you have killed with a bow I would aim 1" behind the shoulder and lower than your rifle shot. The arrow has to hit a vital or you will be looking for miles. After a few kills you can start to move up towards the neck. Most of your shots should be 20 yards or less, so you will have some "buck fever" on your first couple of shots.
Make sure and get lots of practice as there is nothing worse than a poor shot with an arrow. The animal can live for days and bleed to death.
Good luck. Once you get good it is hard to go back to rifle hunting.

 

[Sgt. Longhorn]

Thanks for the input. That confirms a lot of what I was thinking. I had forgotten how much I enjoyed shooting my bow. I'll take your advice and hope I don't have too much tracking to do.