What are you shooting 40 yards for ?

A clean miss is good but there is way to much wounding going on, Its not OK it needs to stop .

Close is best. Wait for your shot Twenty or under and you will not have this stuff.

I agree about the wounding. I take my ethics seriously. I took the shot at that distance because its one I practice on a consistent basis with consistent success. The shot was in an open area and the deer was broadside. In hindsight, though, I shouldn't have done it. I wasn't steady enough and need to gain some more experience afield before considering a similar shot again.

well, theres a first time for everything

There is a big differance in foam deer and real ones. I don't feel that there is any reason for these shots with a bow.

I agree, as a beginner, you need to wait for a closer shot.

40yds for the first time. That can be a tough shot, depending on angle etc. But be happy, at least you got a chance to shoot. U will learn grass hopper, that just seeing deer can be enough!

Don't sweat it buddy, do-do happens! Keep your head in the game (focus), learn from your mistakes, and stay after it! If we killed them all, there wouldn't be any to hunt next year.

Good luck on Saturday!

Sorry to hear about the miss! Another chance will come in time and you'll score when the time is right.

Now I am not going to make too much of a comment about the distance of the shot, but I for one can say that I don't think I've ever taken a shot over 30 yards on a live deer. I guess its just personal preference, but if you practice that shot enough, then like I said its all personal decision. Get out there and take another chance!

Yup what all the guys said above..don't let it eat you up too bad... happens to all of us now or then.. I missed my first buck with a bow.. stuck my arrow right in a log he was straddled...shot low..

Get back in the saddle again and make the next one count..

Hang in there rookie, it will get better, try to keep your cool and limit those shots till ya get a couple under your belt, it will all fall into place.