Welcome to the addiction that is bowhunting. This board is a great place to learn things. The readers are good about answering even the simplest questions from rookies (like me). I've learned a lot just by reading other people's posts and responses. As a starter, I think you'll find the answer to your question about finishing a deer under the topic "Would you slit a deer's throat?"...a lot of guys w/ a lot of experience on this board. Good luck.