Originally Posted by
Champlain Islander
I still have a range finder but use it to learn correct yardage when I first set up a tree stand or popup blind. I zero in on features like a big tree, stump or high grass in a field. Identifying whether a deer is 25 or 35 yards isn't that difficult for me and if I am off a little the flat shooting crossbow makes up for the error. One thing I will suggest is getting a crossbow with a cocking and de-cocking mechanism. Having to shoot into a target or into the dirt at the end of a hunt isn't good. I can cock mine using the built in crank right up in the tree and de-cock just as easily and all silently.
This is good advise. I do the same thing. When I set up a stand, I range landmarks all around to know in advance what the ranges are. When you see the deer, it's too late to start messing with ranging, especially if it's moving. You need to set up for the shot. Also, the decocking feature is something I wouldn't want to be without.