I live in North Eastern California and have been rifle hunting the past three seasons. My first two, I did not have a lot of time to hunt (new babies and building our own house) but I put in my time last year. I did not get a deer, but felt that I learned a ton. We had our family reunion this last week and my uncle gave me his old bow. My wife has given me permission to get my second deer tag and I would like to bow hunt B zone this year (I have a C tag for rifle). I know really nothing about bow hunting, but will have a good friend who has bow hunted the last 3 seasons.

Here is what I got;

Browning Arro Hunter
Draw 28-29"
Weight 60/70#s
String 97"

3 pin Tru glow sight
unknown 5 arrow quiver
Tranquilizer stabilizer
CAR whisker biscuit
5 - north american hunter 2216 arrows with broadheads
5 - easton gameseeter II practice arrows
some kind of cobra release

I plan on getting a target when I head into town mid-week.

I have only shot it 10 times or so. The last few rounds I was able to put all 5 arrows in a 4" bulls eye at 15 yards. My uncle says the weight is set at the kiddie setting right now. I know practice, practice, practice.

Where do i start to get more familiar with my new bow and get ready for hunting in a short time?

first take it to a pro shop and have it checked to make sure it fits you right. Likely the draw lenth is not set right for you. Second shoot it, shoot it, shoot it, and when you think your good to go shoot it from a stand. With bow hunting you have to get close, scent control is worth a million when you get that buck in range and he smells you and makes a run for the thickets. I am anal about it and was not when I gun hunted, though also new hunter like your self. I have been at it 7 years this season with this being my 4th bow hunting and have not killed a deer. SO do not get upset if you miss out this year.

Welcome to the sport and remember shoot shoot shoot.

Thanks for the advice. I will take it with me when I head down to town on Weds (1 hr drive each way). Anyone know any good pro-shops in the Redding area?

While I am itching to get a deer, I understand that it can take time to harvest one. I was tracking a buck last year at camp, but tracked him straight into my buddy who bagged him. The gutting and dragging for miles was an experience.