Hi. This is going to be my first year hunting whitetail with a bow. For the past couple of months I've been practicing daily on a range that I set up in my yard. I shoot 10,20 & 30 yds on a flat surface, 10, 20 & 30 from my deck, and 10, 20, 30 from my roof approx 12-15 feet off the ground. From all three shooting areas I notice very little difference in adjusting my aiming or shot placement. My question.....from my stand, how do I actually measure shot distance - from the base of the tree or from the stand itself & my stand is about 20 ft up. How will this affect my choice of pins?? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

To tell you the truth JerGiz, I would take some shots from your stand which would probably be a much more confined area then anything you mentioned. It does not necessarily have to be the exact tree, but one of about the same height. You may hear some very general statements made here, but in all honesty you have to find what is working for you. Another suggestion is to take a practice arrow with you to your stand while you are hunting, and take a shot once in a while.

It doesn't matter which you use- you just have to be consistent.

I would suggest shooting from your stand as much as possible...especially your first year. The roof thing is good practice, but remeber that your on an angle (Unless you have a flat roof) and you won't be when your in your stand. Besides, the more confidence you have from shooting out of a stand the easier it will be when the big one comes wakin in!

I was told to measure out from the base of the tree. If you find that buck coming in from the place you did not get a measurement pick a tree where he is near to get a bearing; measure straight out in front of you just like on the ground. this works for me hope this helps.

Definitely be careful shooting from your roof unless it is flat. This will cause your body - shoulders, and hips - to also be at an angle. Shooting from this position, you might not see any difference as far as your sight pins from standing on the ground. However, go 12 to 15 feet in the air and stand on a flat surface - you'll be able to tell because now you have to bend at the waist. If you don't you're guranteed to shoot high.

Your first year you can't practice enough.........Definetly shoot from 20 ft if thats your stand height. Preferably actually shoot some out of your stand. Your probably shooting in a tee-shirt.........its may be hot but what will you be wearing in November......layers make it harder to draw your bow and if you have any clearance issues on your forearm you want to know now!

Practice everything and you will have great success!

Good Luck!

This will be my first year bowhunting as well. I bought my bow last year right before the season, but decided to shoot it for a year prior to hunting w/ it. I've shot so much I've already replaced the string ;-)

I put up a stand in my neighbor's yard (w/ permission) and shoot back into mine. I practice from the stand as much as possible. Shooting from a stand is very different than any of the places you mention. I've gotten really comfortable in my stand at this point. I think that is important.

Just my two drachmas...