New to Bow hunting...

[NBDeerHunter]

I am looking for any kind of info that would assist me in getting started with bow hunting. I am an avid deer hunter (rifle) but lately I have had the earge to hunt with a bow. I am being given a bow with a few practice arrows in a few weeks (not sure brand or model). I am sure its not the top of the line but hey its a start. I will probably need a few more arrows. I want to get setup to practice with it so I can hunt with it when the 2007 season comes around. I just need some insight (ie ideal draw weight for deer, type of broadhead. etc)

any info would be greatly appreciated

thanks

[nodog]

Well it will be tough going for a while. 3 things greatly affect where the arrow will land and 2 of them are pretty major, you and the bow. The arrow is the third but there's less to that to figure out. Until you get things going in the right direction you won't know which of the 3 is causing you the trouble. Just start shooting and try and narrow things down as they come up.

Look your equipment over and make sure it's safe to shoot. Check the strings for cuts and the arrows for cracks. Make sure any thing that's on the string will stay there after a shot. Stuff like that. If you can't figure out what your draw length is get some help, that is if your new rig is changeable. If the length of the bow is to long you might want to think it over.You don't want to seewhat a string can do to an arm. Very painful.

[Buckfu]

hey NBD,

Like you, I'm pretty much a complete rookie to the bow hunting scene (just picked up my 1st bow as well).

I would really recommend you find a pro shop in your area. It can be intimidating sometimes to walk in there with all the regulars around, but if you do, it'll be worth it. (I staked out my local shop for days until I sawjust a few cars there, then stopped in). Tell them you're being given some gear, and that you'd like to have it inspected by them prior to shooting it, for any defects. The peace of mind you get just from them doing that and knowing your gear is ready to go, will help a lot. Plus they will be able to measure your draw length, and get your equipment set up and tuned for YOU.

heh, I dropped one of my arrows twice at the range whilepracticing w/ the new gear, felt stupid but hey, I can only get better! give your proshop a chance, you'll be glad you did.

[NBDeerHunter]

thanks for the tips guys... I found out last night it is browning bow with 45-60lb draw. It is apartly set at 60 now.
I spoke with the president of the local archers & bowhunters club here in my town and he said once I receive the bow to give him and call and he will help me out.
I don't plan on hunting with it this season so I have lots of time to pratice.

[CLOUD 9, MN]

Visiting your local Pro-Shop would be a good idea......usually there will be plentyof helpful hunters will to give you their suggestions and tips. The Pro-Shop should be a help.....they want you as a future customer. The guy who offered to help you sounds like just the ticket...ask lots of questions and read all the posts here....you'll learn a ton here!

Good Luck.....its a blast!

[heeze gutshot shortee]

ur in good hands now...keep at it