There is a distinct charm to bow hunting which makes many hunters switch from their rifles to a bow. Many bowhunters claim that bow hunting gives them a greater sense of being connected to nature which enhances the hunting experience. But bow hunting is very challenging and requires tons of dedication, technique, and experience to master.
If you also feel the urge to experience the thrill of hunting like your ancestors, then this guide is exactly what you need. In this guide, you will learn how to shoot a compound bow, its uses, advantages, disadvantages as well as safety measures.
So, let’s get started! About how to shoot a compound bow
What Is A Compound Bow?
Just by appearance, you can tell that a compound bow is very different than a standard recurve bow. Compound bows use a number of pulleys and have much stiffer limbs that give it a greater advantage over the recurve bow. They are much more efficient and can shoot bows at a greater speed.
How Does A Compound Bow Work?
Before you learn to use a compound bow you need to have a basic idea of how it works. There are various types of compound bows that differ drastically in function and design. But here we will provide a simple explanation of how the compound bow works.
A standard compound bow has the following parts:
- Pulley
- Cams
- Cables
- Limbs
- Riser
In the case of the recurve bow, the draw force is very linear. When you draw your arrow, the force is stored with some additional force requiring you to hold the drawn arrow. When you let go the energy transferred to the arrow and it flings forward. Pretty simple.
But for compound bows, the process is not as straightforward. The compound uses a pulley system that allows you to draw arrows further back with much stiffer limbs applying the same amount of force. As a result, the arrows are shot with a much stronger force and with much less effort.
How To Shoot A Compound Bow For Hunting?
Learning the basics rules of shooting a compound bow is the key to mastering the art of bowhunting and preventing injuries while doing it. In this guide, we will talk about shooting for right-handed people. But if you are left-handed then just do the opposite of some of the instructions and you’ll be fine. Here are some basics on how to shoot a compound bow:
Proper stance: When shooting with a bow the first thing that you should focus on is your stance. Stand up straight. Your legs should not bend and your back should be straight. Your feet should be pointing 90 degrees to your target. If you are right-handed then point your left shoulder slightly left of your target.
Proper grip: Proper grip is necessary when hunting with a bow. Grab on the bow with your left hand. You should grab using only your thumb and index finger. But don’t exert unnecessary force. The bow should not be held tight but rather rest on your fingers. Tuck the rest of your fingers comfortably in your palm and make sure your knuckles are at an angle to the bow.
Nock your arrow: Putting your arrow on to the string of your bow is called nocking. Take an arrow from your quiver and place it on the string pushing the knock into the D-loop. Make sure the colored feathers are pointing upwards. Now your bow has been properly nocked.
Hooking: Attach the release aid to the D-loop. Put your hand on the release.
Aim: Aim the bow at your desired target.
Pull and release: Draw the string back until your hand is right behind your jaw. The tip of the string should be touching your nose. Now, trigger the release.
And this is how you shoot a compound bow.
Types Of Game To Hunt With A Compound Bow
If you are new to bow hunting then you should start with large game such as –
- Dear hunting
- Moose
- Bear
- Elk
- Wild Boar
- Caribou etc.
Large animals are easy to target and are usually found in stationary positions. So, it will easier to hunt with a compound bow. This is a great way and tips to practice for new hunters.
If you are already adept at bow hunting and looking for a bit of challenge then you can hunt small animals like –
- Rabbits
- Doves
- Turkeys
- Skunks
- Pheasants
- Raccoons
- Squirrels etc.
Disadvantages Of Bowhunting
Bowhunting is fun and all but there are some disadvantages to it.
- Rifles, pistols, and shotguns are much more efficient than bow hunting
- Bowhunting is more difficult
- Requires great skill
- Requires tons of experience to master
- Has lower range than rifles
- More likely to miss shot
- More expense per shot
- May need to use Ghillie Suit to hide from target
Of course, these disadvantages won’t hold back a bowhunter. In fact, the challenge is part of the reason people take up bow hunting. But It is good to know what is to be expected if you pick up bow hunting.
Safety Measures
Some safety measures must be taken to avoid injuries and accidental mishaps. These are –
- Make sure the fingers of your bow holding hand are tucked in.
- Nock the arrow right before shooting.
- Bring a first aid kit.
- Inform someone where you are hunting beforehand.
- Do not shoot blindly into bushes.
- Do not hunt where a lot of other hunters are hunting.
- Do not hunt while under any sort of drugs or drunk.
- Do not shoot before nocking.
- Check for defects in bow or arrows before going to hunt.
- Store arrows in a quiver.
- Pack an adequate amount of food and water.
- Wear a brightly colored vest so that you are easily visible to other hunters.
- you can use ladder stand for bow hunting to hide from your target
- use Archery sights and bow stabilizer to fix your target
Conclusion
Bowhunting is fun and exhilarating. It allows us to tap into our ancient hunting instincts and makes every kill much more thrilling and satisfactory. So, now you know how to shoot a compound bow. I hope, this guide was of help to you. Best of luck on your next hunt.
