Respect for White-Tailed Deer and Crossbows
Many hunters consider any white-tailed deer harvested during archery season to be a trophy, even with the advent of the use of crossbows in Pennsylvania. Some archery purists argue that the use of crossbows is cheating. I recently bought a crossbow looking for any advantage I could find. A compound bow requires a pull back before the shot. This can alert deer to your presence. Experienced hunters know to do this when a deer is looking away or when the animal’s view is obstructed. Another thing I like about hunting with crossbows is that they require far less practice. I was struggling at first with a compound bow and hunting season was quickly approaching. I decided if I was going to have any success with making a good shot, I would have to find a tool easier to use.
Crossbows still require a lot of practice. Users will notice some arrow drop on shots as the distance between you and the target becomes increasingly further away. This can vary quite a bit depending on the model of crossbow and it’s strength. I have a scope on my Barnett Challenger that has sights set up at ten yard increments up to 50 yards. I’ve attempted shots up to 40 yards. I only intend to shoot at an animal up to 30 yards away and figure shooting any further away to be unnecessary.
That is one of the reasons I began archery hunting. It allows me to get close to the animal I’m after. Sitting in a tree stand and watching the forest unfold is not just a great way to spend time wildlife watching. Although I’ve recently seen red foxes and a fisher from my stand. A treestand is a perfect ambush point for hunting white-tailed deer. These animals are not usually looking for predators in trees and stands can carry your scent above and away from them.
When a white-tail does emerge from the forest, I like to know I’m prepared to make a clean kill. All of the time spent practicing my shot and learning distances around my stand will help accomplish this. If hunters find it difficult to judged distance, a rangefinder will help to establish reference points in the area you wish to hunt. Knowing the distance is crucial in making a good shot in the kill zone. Please remember to respect this magnificent creature and only take shots you are confident in making. White-tailed deer are the most sought after animals in America and mistakes will be made. By taking the time to prepare, you can decrease the chances of making one.
0 评论: