Hay slugman i have been strickly bowhunting for more that 20yr. and the answers that you have received on your bow question is great! I can`t` add much to it .The only thing is if you are picking out a bow and yes the longer axle to axle is more forgiving! also make sure of the bracehight? a shorter bow can also be forgiving! and are really good hunting from a tree.just becouse of being able to move around a little better.But if your mostly hunting from the ground the longer bow will most likly work better! if you have any questins on bracehight.or any thing else your best bet will be go to your achery shop where you live and they can answer your questins a little better in person.