Guys and Gals. There is a reason these fine people post these knowledgeable threads listed above. Read them and understand that the information comes from folks who have hunted for years and years. Please go read the "Recovery" thread.

You did the right thing by backing out but you also stated you may have pushed the deer. My philosophy goes like this, If I can not see the deer drop, I will not move, make a sound etc. for a minimum of one hour. If I see the deer drop I will glass it for a minimum of 15 minutes to ensure it is down.

Think of it this way: You spend all the time preparing for the bow season, practicing, gear checkout and placement, scouting etc. Then you shoot and in my opinion waste all that prep time by not waiting to recover the animal. Please read the thread, it will serve you well !!!!!!!!

Good luck finding your deer.

Dave