When it comes to bowhunting deer the question isn’t how far can you shoot but how close can you get? That’s because the further away you are the more variables come into play and the margin for error shrinks. So while a well-placed arrow from 100 yards might find its mark it’s much harder to guarantee a clean kill than if you were 20 yards away.
Of course there are situations where a long shot might be your only option. If you’re hunting in wide open country and spot a buck bedded down far out of range for example you might have to take a shot you wouldn’t normally consider. Or perhaps you’re hunting with a recurve or longbow that doesn’t have the power to generate the speed needed for a lethal shot at close range. In these cases you need to know your capabilities and limitations and be confident in your ability to make a clean kill.
The first step is understanding trajectory. When you release an arrow it doesn’t travel in a straight line; instead it follows a curved path because of gravity. The further you shoot the more pronounced this curve becomes. So at shorter distances you can simply aim directly at the deer but at longer ranges you need to “aim high” to compensate for the arrow’s drop.
Exactly how much you need to compensate depends on the distance to your target the height of your bow and the weight of your arrow. You can use a trajectory chart or computer program to determine the precise aiming point for any given shot but a good rule of thumb is to aim 1 inch above the deer’s back for every 10 yards of distance. So if the deer is 40 yards away you would aim 4 inches above its back.
Of course trajectory is just one consideration. Wind is another major factor that can affect your shot. Even a gentle breeze can push your arrow off course and a gust of wind can completely miss the target. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the wind speed and direction and adjust your aim accordingly.
Another factor to consider is the size of your target. A deer’s vital zone is only a few inches in diameter so even a small mistake can result in a miss or a non-lethal wound. That’s why it’s important to practice your shot so you know exactly where to aim. A miss might not be fatal but it could result in a long stressful tracking job.
So how far can you shoot a deer with a bow? The answer is: it depends. If you’re well-practiced and confident in your abilities you might be able to take a clean kill shot at 50 yards or more. But even if you can make the shot it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get as close as possible. After all a close shot is a sure shot.
How far can you shoot a deer with a bow?
The maximum distance you can shoot a deer with a bow is approximately 50-60 yards.
How accurately can you shoot a deer with a bow?
You can shoot a deer with a bow accurately up to 30 yards.
What is the best time of day to shoot a deer with a bow?
The best time of day to shoot a deer with a bow is early morning or late evening.
What is the best time of year to shoot a deer with a bow?
The best time of year to shoot a deer with a bow is during the fall.
What kind of arrow should you use to shoot a deer with a bow?
The best type of arrow to use to shoot a deer with a bow is a carbon steel arrow.
What kind of bow should you use to shoot a deer with a bow?
The best type of bow to use to shoot a deer with a bow is a compound bow.
How fast does an arrow travel when shot from a bow?
An arrow shot from a bow can travel up to 300 feet per second.
How much does an arrow weigh?
An arrow weighs between 2 and 3 ounces.
How long is an arrow?
An arrow is typically between 26 and 30 inches long.
What is the best type of broadhead to use to shoot a deer with a bow?
The best type of broadhead to use to shoot a deer with a bow is a fixed blade broadhead.
How many blades should a broadhead have to shoot a deer with a bow?
A broadhead should have at least 2 blades to shoot a deer with a bow.
What is the minimum draw weight required to shoot a deer with a bow?
The minimum draw weight required to shoot a deer with a bow is 40 pounds.
What is the maximum draw weight required to shoot a deer with a bow?
The maximum draw weight required to shoot a deer with a bow is 80 pounds.
What is the minimum arrow length required to shoot a deer with a bow?
The minimum arrow length required to shoot a deer with a bow is 20 inches.
What is the maximum arrow length required to shoot a deer with a bow?
The maximum arrow length required to shoot a deer with a bow is 30 inches.
