This is an individual issure. With a rifle your odds of bringing home meat are greatly increased if you are talking limited hours in the woods. With archery you are afforded a longer season and must be much more diligent as to how you approach the hunt. When just starting, I would recommend rifle hunting as it will increase your odds of success and lesson the chance of frustration due to lack of "success." You have plenty of time to ADVANCE to archery as you grow into the hunting like style. And by the way, I believe studies have shown that the average bow shot deer is something less than 20 yards. You really need to be up close and personal to assure a good clean shot. Good luck and keep us posted on your success.