As everyone has said, it is hunting, not killing. Do not get caught up in the commercialization and buy every new product. Many times the advertisements are more in hunting than in golf!

#1 rule for someone learning to hunt. GET IN THE WOODS! Deer live in the woods and you will learn more by being out there then anywhere else. Get outside and experience the great outdoors. Best way to hunt is to observe (deer, birds, hawks, squirrels, fall colors, migrating flocks, etc...), just get outside and enjoy.

#2) Get a saftey harness if you are going to be in a tree! No exceptions.

#3) Every deer that comes into range, raise your weapon and prepare to fire. Even if you are not going to kill the deer. Practice making those final moves to be able to kill the deer.

#4) Aim for a spot that will make the bullet or arrow exit the other side in a perfect spot. "Aim for an exit". I always try and take the top off the heart. In this shot, if you are a little low you hit the heart. High = lungs. Back = liver and forward breaks the shoulders.

#5) Practice, practice, practice... hunting, shooting, stalking, tracking, observing, etc...

Talk to us and to your friends. Many of us would love to help someone learn the sport. So as admirable as your quest to be self taught is, you may be selling yourself short by not talking to your friends.