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

goulais

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

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.

Goulais, what do you consider the vitals?

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

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.

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.

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.