ORIGINAL: shepdogwv
why is that with the shot right above the shoulder blade and under the spine? I just shot a doe saturday like that and it put it down instantly but I had to wait a few minutes before it died for good (after the dang thing flopped around and made it into a gully I had to get it out of first). There was a whole bunch of blood, more than usual, when I gutted it.
I think you may have been just a touch off on your placement. I have found the greatest no tracking required success by shooting directly through the front of the scapula. The spine dips between the shoulders before entering the neck. This shot takes out both shoulders and the spine. Basically, you are slashing the tires and busting the drive shaft. I have never had a deer so much as roll over when hit in that spot. I did manage to hit one shoulder and the spin at an odd angle (almost facing me) and had the deer do a half gainer and light on its head.
James:
The open/closed heart valve is certainly something to consider. Sounds like that may very well be the difference in one going poof and one going for a wind sprint. If do stumble across the article, please to post up or shoot me a link in a PM.