RE: Tips on getting my first deer.
Definately go to the range. Practice will help. try shooting free hand as well as on a rest. If you can I suggest trying toshoot shots that you would be likely to take when your out in the feild.
Alsotrydifferent types of ammo for your gun. When I was just starting I used a smooth bore 12 ga. single shot H and R Shot gun, which i tried to shoot sabots out of and couldn't get any predictable shot with but then i switched to rifled slugs and they were very good in that gun. I guess my point is that different types of ammo shoot better than others out of different guns. Find what works best for your gun when at the range and practice with that.
Good Luck. Hope that helps
INDY