Outdoor Blog

Where to Shoot a Deer for One-Shot Kills

Published

3 years ago

May 18, 2021

Let’s face it, tracking the blood trail of a wounded deer is exhausting. It takes forever for the deer to die, and it is easier if they die on contact with the first shot.

Most hunters who look for a one-shot kill aim for the heart or lungs, but that is not the only option on a deer’s body to kill it. Also, killing a deer with one shot is considered to be a more ethical shot, so it is better to have multiple aiming points to have a more humane kill.

Whitetail deer are one of the most popular deer breeds in North America.

Weapon Type

Crossbows shoot bolts, which use a broadhead to kill by slicing through vital tissue. Death by broadheads is caused by extreme bleeding or by punching holes in the lungs, making it impossible for the vital organs to inflate and do their job.

However, broadheads need to be sharpened to ensure that they do the most damage possible. Do not take them out of their factory packaging and start shooting with them; make sure to sharpen them before opening day so they are surgically sharp.

A bow and arrow do basically the same thing a crossbow does. Arrows also have broadheads that cause extreme bleeding and puncture holes in the lungs. These also need to be sharpened before opening day so they cause maximum damage to the deer. Arrows will also need to hit your target with enough terminal energy to be effective. You will need to hit a big buck with an arrow that has at least 45 to 65 foot-pounds of energy.

Bullets and shotgun slugs kill in a different way. They transfer a hydro-static throughout the deer’s body instead of ripping through tissue. Many deer hunting bullets expand to push a wound channel through the deer’s muscle tissue and vital organs. A bullet should strike big game with at least 1000 foot-pounds of energy to be a good shot.

Shot Placement

The high shoulder shot can be extremely effective. For this shot to work, your bullet must go straight through the front shoulder blade, pass through the chest cavity, and hit the inside of the opposite shoulder blade. When done correctly, this shot is catastrophic. It breaks the spinal cord, paralyzes the central nervous system, and drops a deer dead in its tracks. This is often called the ultimate shock and awe shot.

To do this shot correctly, you need a rifle that has lots of power and bullets that are heavy enough to blow through bone without losing its energy in expansion. This shot is not meant for bowhunters, so save this shot for when you use a heavy-duty rifle.

This shot is very easy to miss when aiming for this vital area. The probability of missing is high, and it damages lots of prime meat by grinding through the shoulder and tender backstrap. It damages meat because the bullets that execute this shot the best are extremely volatile and upsetting.

A whitetail is a favorite among hunters.

Obviously, a headshot is a no-brainer because it can drop a whitetail in an instant. A direct hit to the brain disrupts every bodily function. Because of this, the deer feels no pain. Another massive perk to a brain shot is that no meat is damaged in the process. However, this shot is extremely difficult to execute.

A deer’s brain is a very small target, so if you’re off by even a fraction of an inch, that deer might run off and die some days later from the wound. The brain of a deer is also protected by a very thick bone, which makes a perfect hit difficult for even a rifle. This is not a shot that you want to try with a bow.

Very often, bullet trajectory is deflected upon skull contact. Even the best shot could glance off the skull. A terrible scenario is a glancing jaw shot. Even though it’s not immediately fatal, it causes a long, drawn-out death that is very agonizing and painful for the deer. Because of the high risk of missing the vital brain area, most hunters avoid this shot so they do not leave a wounded deer.

A neck shot, when done perfectly, severs the spinal cord and causes instant paralysis. A neck shot sounds like a money shot because it causes minimal meat damage. Although, it’s near impossible to execute this shot correctly, even for the most experienced hunter.

The vital area in the neck is very high and narrow; hit too low and you injure the deer with a small chance of recovery. Hit too high and you could miss the deer altogether. Also, a neck shot could paralyze the deer without killing it, which means massive suffering for the deer. This shot often requires a follow-up shot or a throat slit to finish things up.

This shot is not meant for bowhunting. Arrows travel a lot slower than bullets, and that means that the deer will flinch away from it at the last second. Deer have amazing reflexes, so if it senses the arrow coming, it will duck away and lower the intended target. You will miss that trophy bucks without even nicking it.

Heart shot/lung shot is the most common shot for hunters. If you hit a deer in the heart, you have most likely done some lung damage as well. It’s often referred to as the “boiler room” shot, and it’s highly lethal. A deer shot in the heart/lung area goes down within a matter of seconds because it produces massive internal damage. This shot also provides some forgiveness because you don’t have to be pinpoint accurate to kill a deer this way.

The chest cavity is the largest part of a whitetail deer, especially when compared to the spine, neck, or brain. This is also a very forgiving shot because even if you miss by a couple of inches, it’ll still do enough damage to bring the deer down. An injury to this area also produces massive blood loss, so the blood trail raises the probability of recovery.

If you are hunting with lightweight bullets, it’s possible to miss this shot. The bullet could nick a rib or shoulder blade and move into a less fatal area. Or, the bullet could only hit one lung, and the deer will recover from that. If this happens, you’ll have to follow a blood trail until the deer inevitably falls. Also, deer don’t always go down immediately with this shot.

Shot Angle

It can be very tempting to take a shot at a deer as it walks away, but you should not try the walking away shot. A projectile has a lot of deer to travel through to reach its vital organs. It usually ends up becoming a gut-shot, which is messy to clean up, ruins good meat, and risks injuring an animal that you can’t recover.

A straight-on shot is very exciting when you get the opportunity to execute it. While your nerves may want you to take a quick shot before you are seen or smelled, it’s sometimes best to wait for a better angle. This is especially true if you are using broadheads or lightweight bullets because you risk the chance of hitting bone and your projectile deflecting off course.

If you do try a head-on shot, make sure that you’re aware that the kill zone is much smaller than a broadside shot. Aim about one-third of the way up the deer’s chest, center your sights, and pull a steady shot. If you miss, follow it to make sure it’ll recover or drop.

Many people find hunting very therapeutic.

A quartering toward shot is doable at close range and with a good rifle, but it’s not the most perfect position for a clean shot. The skeletal structure of a deer, including rib, leg, and shoulder bone placement, makes this shot tricky. You want an unhindered track to the vital organs, but these hard obstacles make it incredibly difficult.

Place your crosshairs where the leg meets the body just, forward of where you would aim for a broadside presentation. If you’re hunting with a bow, avoid this one and wait for a better angle, as the chance of simply wounding an animal quartering toward you is high.

The quartering away shot is the second-best angle. It offers plenty of opportunities to slice through the vital organs. While your projectile might have to pass through a bit of extra space before it reaches the heart and lungs, it should still reach them from a clean, quick kill.

For this shot, aim your sights behind the ten ring (The broadside area that includes the heart and lungs; the term for “vitals” is from competition archery). Your bullet or broadhead will travel straight through the vitals. Aim too far forward, and your projectile may clip the lungs or miss all the organs.

A quick trick for this shot is to think of aiming for the animal’s far side front leg. This trick will help you find a sweet spot that will cause your projectile to go straight through the heart and lungs. The broadside shot is the ideal angle, no matter what weapon you use.

A broadside standing deer gives the hunter a straight shot to the animal’s exposed vitals, giving the best chance of a clean kill or an easy recovery. When aiming at a broadside deer, visually divide the deer’s chest cavity into three equal, horizontal quadrants. You will want to use the top of the imaginary line that separates the bottom and middle thirds of the deer’s body.

Now draw a line from the spot where the deer’s front leg meets the body. Where these two imaginary lines intersect is the sweet spot or the “pocket”. A hit in or near the “pocket” with an effective projectile is almost guaranteed to result in a quick, clean kill.

A good hunting dog is a must-have for all hunting seasons.

Should You Use A Treestand?

The simple answer is yes. Whitetails live in a broken, wooded terrain where stand hunters won’t have much room to blend in. Hunting from a stationary position above the animal’s eye line is by far the most effective way to hunt whitetails. If you want to be invisible in the woods, practically unsmellable by even the wariest buck, and be in the best position to see, hear, and shoot a whitetail deer, you need to get a treestand and learn how to use it.

There are so many different kinds of treestands, so it will be easy to find the best one for you. There’s the ladder stand, the stealth climber, the comfy climber, the stealth hang-on, and the comfy hang-on. Which one you want really depends on the kind of hunter you are. If you hunt deer for leisure, you should consider one of the comfy treestands. If you hunt to feed your family, you should consider one of the stealth treestands.

Final Verdict:

The best kill is from the broadside angle with a crossbow. It has the best results and is very humane. The bolts that crossbows use are very good at puncturing lungs, and the broadside angle gives a good position to hit the lungs. However, do not forget to sharpen the broadheads of the bolts so that they will actually puncture the lungs and do maximum damage.

Accuracy is key with all of these shots, and honestly, with everything that comes with deer hunting. Knowing where to hit a deer and being able to execute it well are two completely different things. Make sure that you get lots of practice with your weapon of choice, going through lots of rounds or arrows to gain proficiency and confidence.

Your first shot is very crucial, so make sure that you place it very carefully. You might not get the chance to shoot a second one. Hunting is often like a complicated, constantly changing math problem. There are many external factors that can ruin an otherwise perfectly good shot when you’re in the woods.

Branches and other foliage can deflect your projectile, the animal can move, the wind can pick up, and bone and muscle definition can deflect bullet and broadhead trajectory. You need to be ready to quickly adapt and assess your chances of success.

If you question any aspect of your shot, there is no harm in waiting for a better opportunity. Spotting a trophy buck doesn’t happen every day, which is a good reason to wait, even if it costs you a shot. A deer that walks away uninjured lives to be hunted another day, and it’s okay if it’s not hunted by you again. An injured deer wanders off to die alone, which benefits no one.

Bonus tip: Be sure to check out this video for tips about common deer hunting mistakes!

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

2 weeks ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

3 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

3 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.