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Are you thinking of hunting deer with a crossbow this season? Crossbows are becoming more and more popular for hunting deer every year. In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about how to hunt deer with a crossbow.
We will discuss the different types of crossbows available, as well as the best ways to use them for hunting deer. So whether you are a beginner or an experienced hunter, this guide has something for everyone! After reading, you will know how to hunt deer with a crossbow.
Table of Contents
Types of Crossbows
The two most popular types of crossbows are compound and recurve crossbows. There are other types of crossbows such as reverse draw limbs, pistols, and repeating or automatic crossbows.
1. Compound Crossbows
Compound crossbows have many parts. They feature a set of pulleys and a bowstring. The amount of force needed to draw back the string is minimized by the pulley system. Compound crossbows are a good option for a beginner. They are stiffer than recurve bows and they provide more power when fired. We reviewed the best recurve bows on the market today and you can read it from this link.
2. Recurve Crossbows
Recurve bows feature a simple design with curved limbs, a handle, and a bowstring that connects the ends of each limb. Recurve bows have fewer moving parts than compound crossbows. It features small curves that serve as a lock and strain pointing away from the shooter to prevent injuries. They are lightweight and low maintenance.
The Parts of A Crossbow
1. Bow
To learn how to hunt deer with a crossbow, it is important that you learn the parts of a crossbow. The bow is the main part of the crossbow. It propels the arrow forward. Bows are made of wood, aluminum, and fiberglass.
2. String
The string is fixed to the bow and runs through the center of the bow. It powers the arrow forward when the bow is fired.
3. Trigger
The trigger releases the string and fires the arrow. it is found at the back of the crossbow.
4. Arrow
The arrow is like ammunition; it is what hits the target. The arrow is attached to the string and is made of wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber.
How To Choose The Right Crossbow
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a crossbow. There are many brands and models of crossbows on the market today. And not all models are created equal.
1. Size
When you are choosing a crossbow, you want to choose one whose size is the right fit for you. You want a size that works for you easily. The size of the crossbow you choose should take into consideration your own physical stature.
2. Draw Weight
The draw weight is another factor to consider when choosing a crossbow. The draw weight is the amount of force needed to pull back the string and fire the arrow. The heavier the draw weight, the more powerful it will be. Conversely, the heavier the draw weight, the more difficult it will be to cock the crossbow. Additionally, the heavier the draw weight, the larger and more powerful the animal you can take down.
3. Power Stroke
The power stroke is the vertical bow’s draw length. It is the distance the string travels from the cocked position to the final position after the shot. The power stroke is another important factor to consider when choosing a crossbow.
4. Velocity
The velocity of a crossbow is the speed; it is how fast it travels.
How To Hunt Deer With A Crossbow
1. Choose The Right Crossbow
This can’t be overstated. You have to choose the crossbow commensurate with your body size.
2. Distance To Deer
Don’t get too close to the deer. You need to accurately shoot a deer and if you are too close to it, the shot may not be your best shot to take it down.
3. Different Positions
You should practice shooting from different positions such as kneeling, sitting, and standing. This kind of practice prepares you for just about any situation you may find yourself in when hunting deer with a crossbow.
4. Always Be Aware Of Surroundings
Make it a habit of always being aware of your surroundings. Always remember where other hunters are located.
5. Practice, Practice & Practice
You need to put in many hours of practice to hone your crossbow-hunting skills before going out to hunt. Set up a target in your backyard or somewhere and practice shooting from different distances, angles, and situations.
6. Always Follow Up on A Shot
Always follow up a shot. If you hit a deer, most of the time it will sprint away out of shock even if it is badly wounded. The deer are strong and might go for a few yards before falling. You should always track and locate it.
7. Blood Trails
Sometimes no matter how quickly you are on to tracking a deer you hit, it can be difficult finding it. In those situations, always look for a blood trail and follow it. It will lead you to the final resting place of the deer.
8. Use A Rest
When you are hunting from a tree stand, use a rest for the crossbow. The rest helps keep the crossbow steady and increases your accuracy. We discussed tips on how to hunt from a tree stand and you can read that article from this link.
9. Take Your Time
Always take your time when shooting a target with a crossbow. Take your time to line up your shot to get it as accurate as you can.
10. Aim For The Kill Zone
The small area behind the shoulder where the heart and lungs are located is the kill zone. if you want to increase your chances of taking down your target with one shot, then this is the area to hit. Practice hitting this area and you will take many whitetails home.
Crossbow Accessories
1. Crossbow Scope
The crossbow scope will help you aim accurately.
2. Quiver
The quiver holds the arrows.
3. Release Aid
The release aid is used to draw back the string and release the arrow.
4. Broadhead
The broadhead is a type of arrowhead used for hunting.
5. Arrows
Arrows are like the ammunition for the crossbow. it is what hits and takes the target down.
The Bottom Line
How to hunt deer with a crossbow has become a popular hunting topic lately. Hunting deer with a crossbow is another way to hunt. Hunting with crossbows has become popular in the last decades. It requires fine-tuning your archery skills but it can be very effective. In this article, we discussed how to use a crossbow to hunt. If you are interested in broadheads, then read the best broadheads for deer.
