Bow and arrow hunting can be a rewarding sport, but it also takes a lot of preparation and a certain amount of patience. The first thing you need to do is get familiar with the equipment, including how to draw a bow and how to shoot it correctly. This will help you avoid the many mistakes that can ruin your hunt and make you a less-than-effective archer.
The Right Equipment:
There are a few basic pieces of equipment that you need for bow and arrow hunting, including a bow, arrows, and a quiver. You can buy these items at a pro shop, a big box sporting goods store, or online. The best place to start is at a pro shop, where you will find knowledgeable staff who can help you make the best choices for your needs.
The Proper Draw:
A proper bow draw consists of using the back muscles to pull back on the bowstring. You want to be able to keep your bow straight, and you should have some bend in your elbows as you draw back the bowstring. Keeping your bow straight is very important for accuracy and keeping it from twisting.
The Correct Stance:
A good stance consists of standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing 90 degrees to the target so that your shoulder of the arm with which you grip the bow points to the target. If you are bowhunting for deer, it is important to note that your stance should be very close to the center of the field. This will prevent the animals from detecting you as you move in on them and it will help reduce your chances of spooking them.
The Right Sight:
An effective bow sight is very important for accurate shooting. The sights on a bow are very similar to gun sights and should be used with the same care. Ideally, the sight should be on a spot that you can see easily and that is a few inches below the target.
The Right arrows:
There are several different types of arrows, and they vary greatly depending on the target you are trying to hit. The most popular arrows are carbon, but you can also use aluminum or even aluminum with a carbon core. Generally speaking, the carbon variety travels faster and is more durable.
The Right Arrowheads:
A broadhead is a type of arrow that has a point attached to it that is very sharp. This makes it more likely to enter the target without causing too much tissue damage. It is a bit more expensive than other arrowheads, but it is worth it.
The Right Arrows:
If you are bowhunting for whitetail deer, you will want to choose a broadhead that is at least 125 grains in weight. This is the weight that will penetrate the most meat in the target animal’s body. You can choose from a wide variety of broadheads, so it is important to research the ones that are best for your particular target species.