When I was younger, I'd tell you 50-60 yards. I've killed 15 deer over 35 yards with bow and my longest was 51 yards with the help of a Nikon rangefinder. Now alittle older, I intensionally set up hunting conditions where shot are 30 yards or less. If a deer walks in its dead if I choose to shoot it. Any longer shots than 30 yards increase your potential for a long evening.