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To get started in bowhunting, you need to look at hunting and archery as separate crafts before combining them. Start with small game hunting with a pellet gun or rimfire rifle, and graduate to big game hunting with a rifle while honing your archery skills independently.
You will find much more fun and success in combining the two once a foundational level of skill has been attained in both disciplines separately.
Draw weight depends on the type of game you’re hunting and your personal strength. For small game, 20-30 lbs may be sufficient, while most states require at least 40lbs for deer-sized animals.
For larger game like elk or moose, 50+ lbs is typically recommended, with 60 and 70lbs being the most common choices. In general, higher draw weights will be more lethal, but only if you can handle the weight and shoot it accurately.
Always choose a draw weight you can handle comfortably and shoot accurately and focus on building strength as a secondary to accuracy.
The ethical maximum distance for bowhunting deer is typically 20-30 yards for most hunters. Beyond this range, the risk of wounding the animal increases due to factors like wind, animal movement (string jumping), and human error.
Some highly skilled archers may shoot slightly farther, but the focus should always be on a quick, humane harvest. Practice at various distances so you know your personal effective range.
Every deer species is different too; mule deer are less skittish and safer to shoot at slightly farther distances than whitetail for example. It is up to you to know your target species habits and adjust your plan accordingly. When in doubt, don’t take the shot.
The best front of center for hunting is something that you should not worry about! We recommend targeting a speed range for your arrows, rather than a specific FOC. Shoot the heaviest arrow you can, while maintaining a speed of 270-280 fps.
If you need to add or remove weight to attain that speed range, always add or remove it from the front of the arrow. This takes care of your FOC question naturally and puts your arrow in the optimal speed range for arrow flight, accuracy, and trajectory.
If your arrows are consistently grouping to one side, it could be an issue with your arrow spine, your arrows not being squared or built properly, your arrow rest, your cam/string alignment, or very commonly just your hand form. A professional bow technician can help fine-tune your setup.
You should wax your bow strings every few shooting sessions, before they look dry or fuzzy. As for replacement, most bowstrings last 2-3 years depending on how often you shoot and environmental conditions.
Rain, moisture, and extreme temperature changes can be hard on strings and shorten their life. If you notice a gradual reduction in your accuracy, it may be that your strings are stretching and need to be readjusted for your bow – not necessarily a cause for replacement.
Always check with your local pro shop before making any big decisions, or trying to change your strings yourself.
A bow should be inspected and retuned every few months, especially before hunting season. Check for loose screws, worn strings, or any changes in arrow flight.
If you shoot frequently, periodic paper tuning can keep your setup dialed in, and confidence high. As you become an experienced archer, you will get to know your equipment so well that you will know after a shooting session whether or not your bow is still perfect, or if it needs some adjustment.
Start practicing at 10–20 yards to build accuracy and confidence. Gradually increase to 30, 40, or even 50 yards as your skills improve.
Practicing at longer distances makes closer shots feel easier and sharpens your focus. As you get more and more proficient, it is good to practice out to 100+ yards – which is well outside of ethical hunting distances. Practicing at 100 yards makes a 50 yard shot feel like a 20 yard shot!
Improving archery accuracy starts with practicing proper form, including stance, grip, draw, anchor points, general focus and steadiness, and a controlled release.
Focus on shooting at shorter distances first to build muscle memory and confidence. Use extremely consistent grip, breathing, and follow-through every time to develop consistency.
Over time, gradually increase distance and challenge while keeping your fundamentals solid. If you ever feel your form slipping or accuracy decreasing, come back to close range and focus on the basics again. Even professional archers must do this!
To practice archery safely at home, you’ll need proper targets and safe space to shoot in case you miss. Make sure you have a clear, controlled shooting lane with no people, pets, or obstacles nearby.
Starting with close-range shots is a smart way to build accuracy while staying safe. Shooting at home in garage or basement at close range (3-5 yards) is a fantastic way to practice your form without focusing on aiming, which tends to become the focus over form at longer distances.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss the topic further, please feel free to reach out to us at sales@toothofthearrowbroadheads.com
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