Can I see the deer?

Seriously, my true effective range is probably a bit farther than the range at which I choose to shoot at a deer.
On paper I know I am perfectly capable of killing a deer at 40-45 yds with no wind, open shot, known yardage, relaxed deer and good light. However I just choose not to shoot at one that far. Typically the max range that I will attempt a shot is 25 yds. That is not to say if faced with a perfect condition 30-32 yds shot that I won’t 100% not take it. I’ve made that shot before, but I’ve also passed on many more like it. It’ll be a game time decision.

I don’t worry about specific group sizes or % of shots within the bull, I just know if I am aiming for something and I always hit it, that’s good. If I miss my mark on more than just a rare occurrence, then maybe I need more work at that range.

I am hunting elk this year and with a bigger & traditionally less jumpy target, I will not hesitate on a 45 yds shot with optimal conditions.

Longbow confidence range is around 20-22 yds at targets but likely only to be 15-18 yds at a deer.

Recurve 15 yds at a live critter.