ORIGINAL: GMMAT
Iwould "think".....that the sound of the arrow hitting something gets their attention a LOT more than the sound the bow makes.
Am I crazy?
Yes, you are Jeff, but not for asking that question.
It really depends on the deer. I've had deer that seemed very relaxed nearly come out of their skin on the shot and nearly jump the string. I've also had at least one case where I pinballed my arrow off of about 3 trees and the deer just stood there for a second like "Huh, what was that?" and go about her business.