In my experiences, mechanicals are more forgiving granted you dont hit a shoulder blade. I consider myslef a pretty good shot and with some patience usually get an easy shot on an animal. As for overall forgiveness, shoot a fixed blade. You hit it in the chest region it should penetrate and leave good blood. But if you're confident on your shot, mecanicals devestate game leaving great blood trails. My head cuts 2.5 inches, though.