I've rattled in two 8 pointers in two days this year. Both times I smashed the crap out of the antlers. I was as loud as I could be. You can't scare a mature buck during the rut. The second buck was a 130" gross 8 pointer who weighed 220lbs (and this is the PA woods). He came in to 20 yards. I was on the ground and he saw me draw the bow. He just stared at me. I think he was thinking "ha, what are you going to do?". Then he heard the Mathews "thwak"!!!

The other 8 pointer came in on a jog but caught me with the antlers in my hand. When I put the antlers down and picked up the bow, he didn't run away. He just paced back and forth, looking in my direction. He was 40 yards out so I didn't want to shoot. Also, he was looking in my direction so I had to remain motionless. He eventually walked away. He crossed a logging road at 45 yards broadside. With a rifle, it would have been cake.

I used to rattle little 6 point racks gingerly. You know, the tickling the tips together for the curiousity. I only ever rattled in a yearling 6 point.

Smash them like crazy!!!! Just be ready. The buck might only be 100 yards away and on you in 20 seconds.