How Far Should You Shoot?

by
posted on September 16, 2017
know_how_how_far_should_you_shoot.jpg

Many hunters go to great lengths shooting groups from the bench at the range. But how well can you place an ethical shot on your quarry in the field when a bench isn’t available? The answer is simple to find.

First, determine the size of the heart/lung area of the animal to be hunted. For instance, the heart/lung area on a mature whitetail buck is very close to 8 inches. In some parts of the country where the deer are smaller, 6 inches may be more realistic.

In either case, pick up some paper plates of the appropriate size at the local grocery store and head for the range. Hang several plates at a distance you anticipate to take a shot at game while hunting. For example, if your stand is 60 yards from a well-used deer trail, hang the plates at that distance. If you expect to shoot across a draw to a ridge 170 yards away, make that the range to the plates.

Next, decide what position you are likely to be in when taking a shot in the field. If you’re going to hunt from a treestand or blind, you’ll most likely be seated. Still-hunters will probably shoot from standing or perhaps kneeling when the moment of truth arrives. A Western spot-and-stalk hunt may afford you a shot from prone. Settle into the appropriate position and fire five shots at a plate.

All five shots need to be within the diameter of the plate in order to validate the distance, position, equipment and your ability to ethically take that shot. If all five aren’t in the plate you will either have to find a way to get closer, change positions or practice to improve your marksmanship ability until you can consistently put five shots in a row on the target.

Try multiple positions with the same goal of five consecutive shots (no misses) on the plate. Incorporate shooting sticks or other improvised rests like a pack if they will be available in the field when hunting. With each position start at a distance that ensures success (hopefully the range to game you first anticipated) and move back from the target in 10-yard increments. When you miss, you have exceeded your ethical shooting distance with that particular firearm in that position. You have determined your limit for taking game cleanly.

Latest

Ledehenry SPD HUSH
Ledehenry SPD HUSH

Henry Repeating Arms Launches HUSH Series Optimized for Suppressor Use

Henry Repeating Arms has officially introduced the HUSH Series. This new line of suppressor-optimized lever-action rifle is the debut release from the company’s Special Products Division (SPD), a new R&D initiative focused on forward-thinking innovation.

Member's Hunt: A Tale of Two Treestands

This latest Member's Hunt comes from Erin Prajzner of Glen Rock, Pa.

New for 2025: Zeiss SFL 50 Binocular

Zeiss has presented its all-new SFL 50 binocular, an extension of the company's SFL family of binocular. It combines the optical performance of a 50 mm binocular, with the size and weight category of competitors’ 42mm frame sizes.

New for 2025: Savage AC30 B.O.B. AccuCan Suppressor

Savage introduces the AC30 B.O.B. (Back Over Barrel) suppressor, a great option for those looking to enhance balance and reduce overall firearm length while shooting suppressed.

First Look: Barnes Harvest Collection Ammunition

Barnes has debuted its Harvest Collection line of ammunition, targeted squarely at American whitetail hunters. Topped with the venerable Sierra Tipped GameKing (TGK) bullet, Barnes Harvest Collection is designed for maximal lethality on thin-skinned game, combining near match-grade accuracy with impressive terminal performance.

First Look: BANISH 30-V2

New from Banish Suppressors, the Banish 30-V2 is an upgraded version of the company’s popular Banish 30 suppressor that is shorter, lighter, quieter and more versatile than ever.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.