shot placement
 

If you didn't have a shot at the vitals where would be the best place to shoot a deer?

goulais

RE: shot placement
 

If you don't have a shot at vitals,wait until you do or don't shoot.

RE: shot placement
 

I agree, if you don't have a good clear shot then just don't take it. Maybe the animal will present you with a good shot at the vitals, just be patient. If you rush your shot and don't hit the vitals, your chances of finding the deer aren't very good.

RE: shot placement
 

Goulais, what do you consider the vitals?

RE: shot placement
 

I agree with thefirst 2 posts, don't shoot unless you
have a clear shot, within your rangeat the "vitals".
This should'nt be thought of as optional.

God bless & good hunting
PK

RE: shot placement
 

But there are good killing shots at the vitals other than straight broadside. There are websites and publications that give you targets at various presentations - I can't refer you directly but maybe someone else can. There's a lot of places a well aimed bullet can get through to the vitals or spine without hitting guts or messing up too much shoulder meat.

What I try to keep in mind is where the heart lungs and spine actually are and then decide if I can get a shot at that spot, aiming "through" the deer, at the angle he's standing. But I also am very conservative and always opt on the side of not shooting if I don't think I have a pretty good shot.

RE: shot placement
 

Neck shots are not out of the question if at close range. A solid neck shot has more stopping power at close range than a vitals shot IMO.

RE: shot placement
 

i usually dont take the shot if it is not good but last year i pegged a doe in the neck form like 15yrds and she dropped dead right there right then.