RE: what shot would put a deer down faster?
The scapula or shoulder bladeis located up higher than some realize a grapefruit sized target just under the spine at the top of the lungs, hit both of these the deer is down(not always dead but won't run anywhere). Get only one then they can go a long way. MarineStud, did your cousin only get one shoulder?
I don't advocate or suggest neck/head shots, justto risky. What part of deers body moves most and without warning their head!A botched neck shot will result in a tough track job and suffering to the animal. Not to mention the target is a lot smaller than the body cavity. If you feel the need toanchor your deer on the spot take the high shoulder, margin of error is much larger.