Depends on the time of the season. Earlier on I focus around rubs, but closer and into the later season, I focus more on the scrapes. Scrapes are a hub of activity for all deer.

Spotting a buck bedding area is awesome! I treat them like a pot of gold. Last time I did this, I didn't get a bruiser, but a nice buck with my compound. I saw the buck activity and noticed one small hardly used trail coming from the swamp early in the year. I then followed that trail into the cattails and swamp and found a line of small islands and each of them had buck rubs on them. I backed out, trimmed a tree for my climber, went back a month later under the cover of heavier winds and waited. Right at last light, I hear a hollow thump, like a deer jumping over something. I ready my bow and sure enough, here's the outline of a deer working his way towards me!...

As for ripping up the trees, I think it's a larger buck with more antlers. Not saying a 4 pointer can't do that, but a buck with more antlers can stick his gear in a bush and twist his head and this will break off branches... of which is difficult to do with bucks with smaller head gear.

If/when you hunt that spot, be VERY quiet and ONLY hunt it when the wind is right. Also determine if you want to hunt it in the evening or early morning. I suggest hunting in the evening because if it's an older buck, he will most likely be back there "before" first light. At least if you do it in the evening, you have a chance during last light. If you don't get 'em, make sure when you leave your stand, you do it quietly... very quietly so you don't ruin it for another day.

Good luck,

iSnipe