I must be the only bow hunter in Kentucky that doesn't have a Bowhunter Decal on the back of my truck. I say that, because I have been seeing these things everywhere lately.
My favorite by far has been the Treestand Bowhunter Decal. It shows an image of a bowhunter in a treestand at full draw that is taking aim at a nice buck. I did some checking on these and found that they are manufactured by Gregory's Graphics. The hunter and the buck are two separate decals, so they can be positioned in the perfect location on your vehicle. They come in 13 different colors, but I like the white best. For the lady bowhunter, they even come in pink. If I can hurry up and pull the trigger on buying that new Honda Ridgeline, I'll have this decal on my new truck this season. There are many other variations of decals for bowhunters, depicting archers at full draw. I have attempted to display several of them below.
My number two choice is a simple 1" x 12" decal of an arrow with the word "BOWHUNTER" stretched across it. It is simple, and would look very nice centered across the back window of a vehicle.
So if you are an avid bow hunter, then you can show your pride in your sport with one of these vehicle decals. They are simple to install, but you should make sure the window or surface that you will be applying it to is clean and dry.
If you are in the market for new broadheads, then check out the line that Grim Reaper has to offer. They have two hot open on impact offerings, with the Grim Reaper Razorcut and Grim Reaper Razortip models. For a fixed blade offering, they have the Grim Reaper Hades.
The Razortip line has embedded razors in the point, and 3 mechanical blades that open on impact. No rubber bands or "O" rings are required like with other mechanical broadheads. On impact, the blades open to a 40 degree angle, leaving a huge entrance wound. They are available in 75, 85, 100, and 125 grain weights, with cutting diameters ranging from 1 and 1/8" to a whopping 1 and 3/4". They fly like a fieldpoint and cause massive trauma, minimizing your shot to recovery time.
The Razorcut line is similar to the Razortip, but has a single cut-on-contact tip blade which is mounted on a bullet point. They are available in the same weights and cutting diameters as the Razortips, and offer superior bone-penetrating capability. I have seen pictures of a Razorcut broadhead that completely penetrated and passed through the bone shoulder ball of a mule deer. Now that is some serious penetration.
Grim Reaper's new fixed blade offering comes in the form of their Hades line. This broadhead cuts in both directions, since the front and back blades are both sharpened. The blades are .035" at their thickest point. These broadheads have 3 blades using a 4 point internal locking system. They are steel-tipped for great penetration. The Hades comes in 85, 100, and 125 grain weights. They all offer a 1 and 3/16" cutting diameter.
So if you are looking to follow shorter blood trails, then give the Grim Reaper broadheads a look. Their slogan is "...shorter blood trails ... longer stories...".
A laser range finder is one gadget that I won't get into a treestand without. This tool is critical for ensuring the accuracy of my shots, and results in more successful hunts.
Once I get situated in my stand, I'll use my laser range finder to range trees or other objects that are within my shooting lanes. For example, I'll identify and make a mental note of trees, rocks, or bushes that are out 20 yards, 30 yards, and 40 yards to correspond with the pins on my bow sights. I'll look for these points of reference in all directions that I anticipate my shots will develop. Throughout the course of the hunt, I'll double-check these markers to mentally reinforce their distances.
By getting an accurate distance to these points of reference, I can instantly make the determination on which pin I will shoot from. No guesswork involved. When that deer steps up next to that tree I ranged at 30 yards, I can lay my 30 yard pin it it and cut my arrow loose with confidence. If he has stepped a few yards inside of that tree I ranged at 30, then I can still shoot confidently with my 30 yard pin, and just shoot a little low.
I will also use my range finder when sighting in my bow or practicing. By ranging the target that you will be shooting at, you can ensure that you will have the same accurate range measurement during practice that you will have from your stand during the hunt.
When looking for a range finder, note the expected accuracy error. Most of these will be + or - 1 yard, which really won't affect your shot. Also ensure that you find one that will range objects at a minimum of 20 yards, since this is typically where most bow hunters have their first pin set. I personally use a Bushnell Pro Sport 450. It is water resistant, and can range objects between 5 - 999 yards. Should I choose to gun hunt or muzzleload one season, this range finder can be used then as well.
I've found the bow for my wife. It's the PSE Pink Chaos Bow.
Yes, It is Pink ! ! !
New for 2009, the Pink Chaos measures 32" axle to axle and has 12" split limbs. With draw lengths adjustable from 17" to 27", there is a fit for every frame. You get 10" of draw length adjustment without a bow press. The draw weight is adjustable between 30 to 40 lbs, and it has a 65% let off. This bow is also available in a 40 to 50 lb model. The Chaos is still rated at 286 IBO. With those speeds, this bow is perfect for the lady hunter or the hobbyist. The pink break up finish is styled for the lady's touch.
I like the fact that the PSE Pink Chaos is comes in a ready to go package. With a peep sight and loop, the Cobra 3 fix pin sight, and a drop-a-way rest, it is ready to shoot right out of the box.
Or how about a setup with F-16 sights, a Whisker Biscuit rest and a peep wheel.
It's time to take the wife hunting!
I am kicking myself. Well, I would be if I could kick my own rear.
I had ordered the Stealth Cam Epic the other day with plans of filming some of my bow hunts this year. I've experienced so many great hunts over the years, that I figured it's about time I start documenting them with video to share with others. It is something I have wanted to do for some time now.
Well, I'm flipping through new Cabelas Fall catalog tonight, and I saw the Roscoby Riser Cam. At first, I thought is was just another torque stabilizer, but then I realized that it was a combination camera/stabilizer.
It screws into the stabilizer receptacle, and acts as a stabilizer.
The camera accepts standard SD memory cards, and has control buttons and an LCD display built into the stabilizer. At 30 frames per second, it records fast enough to catch your arrow in flight, and the impact. The integrated microphone will capture the sounds of your surroundings and your shot. It leaves you with a realistic view of your hunt.
After the hunt, you can hook the Riser Cam up directly to your TV or computer for playback. You can also remove the SD card and read the videos through a card reader.
OK, so how does this compare with the Epic by Stealth Cam that I ordered? They both shoot at 30 frames per second, but how does the quality match up. See for yourself below:
Here is video from the Stealth Cam Epic.
Here is video from a hunt using a Roscoby Riser Cam.
I personally think the Roscoby Riser Cam has a better look. The video is more clear, the colors more vivid, the sound is more sharp, and the overall quality looks better. Now the Roscoby Riser Cam is limited to just being used with your bow, where the Epic comes with additional mounts and can be used for other activities like fishing, biking, etc. So they both have their pluses and minuses. And the Roscoby is more expensive than the Epic. But if it is quality video from the hunt you are after, my Epic Stealth Cam was probably the wrong choice. You be the judge.
If you are tired of your noisy treestand, then you must not be hunting in a lone wolf stand. I own many different tree stands, from APIs, Ole Mans, Gorillas and Loggys. Some are better than others, but most all of them carry the potential to make noise. I like to stand up when I shoot. I try to stand up as early as possible, partly because of my concern that my stand might creak or pop. It is a problem that has cost me deer in the past. It is tough enough to beat a deer's nose, let alone their ears. That is why I've been looking at the Lone Wolf treestands.
They solve this problem by manufacturing their platforms in one piece cast aluminum. This provides a sturdy, but silent base. No creaks or pops from hollow tubes or worn welds. They have also added non-slip footing to their base to minimize the possibility of slips. The one piece aluminum platform is at the core of their quality design. It doesn't stop there though. They have minimized the amount of moving parts on their stands.
Lone Wolf has several models of Hang On Stands, Climbers, and Climbing Sticks. They also offer a selection of hand climbers and seats. Their hang on stands typically weigh in the 11-22 lb range, but have a weight rating of approximately 350 lbs. I'm particularly fond of the Assult Hang On Stand, that comes in at 11 lbs ... Ideal for a long hike into the woods.
As far as climbers go, I like the Lone Wolf Alpha Sit & Climb. It weighs just 20 pounds, a huge platform, and a comfortable, contoured foam seat pad and back rest. It fits trees betwee 6" - 19" in diameter, but longer traction belts are available for larger trees. The Alpha Sit & Climb has an exclusive cam-action fastening system that features a locking tooth design. This makes for easy on and easy off, as well as easy adjustment.
Lone Wolf has also made a Wide version of the Alpha Sit & Climb. It only weighs one pound more at 21 lbs, but has a roomy 21" wide seat.
So if you are in the market for a new stand, check out what Lone Wolf has to offer. Lone Wolf is making a lot of noise amongst hunters, but their stands are quiet as can be.
The most important piece of gear that a hunter who hunts from a tree stand can have is a safety harness.
Do you wear one?
Hunting with a safety harness is common sense. Let's face it, hunting from a tree stand can be dangerous. You may think that since you are in a climber that you don't need one, but accidents can still happen. Should a cable fail, or some other mechanical malfunction occur, what's to stop you from taking a 20+ foot drop to the ground?
My safety harness is the one piece of gear that I am always double checking to ensure that I have before I leave for my hunt. I do this, because I have forgotten my harness in the past, and I have to tell you that I just wasn't comfortable sitting in the stand. The risks are great, and something as simple as nodding off during a hunt could be the last thing you do. Besides your safety harness, you also need to make sure that you have a good point to anchor it to the tree. I love the cinch ropes that come with the API tree stands. They are adjustable, easy to put up, and offer great security.
Many years ago, I heard stories of a hunter on the property near us that fell from a stand and died. He was missing an arrow from his quiver, and it was suspected that he had fallen while taking a shot.
The following year, a good friend of mine took a fall from his tree steps, and ended up with a pretty nasty concussion. He was wearing his safety harness, but was untethered at the time, because he was transitioning from his hang-on stand to his tree steps. This can be one of the most dangerous times of your ascent or decent. The time where you are transitioning from your steps to your stand. He didn't remember much of what happened after the fall, but did remember losing his balance, and reaching back for his stand. Appearently he missed.
So it is important to make sure you are tethered before making the transition from steps to stand. And don't untether until you have transitioned from stand to steps at the end of your hunt.
This is one piece of gear that you don't want to skimp on. The safety harnesses that come with your tree stand are typically junk, and should be thrown away. I recommend a lineman style harness, or a vest style harness. I have been hunting with a Seat of the Pants harness that I have owned for years.
There is nothing unmanly about wearing a safety harness. It's just common sense. In some states, such as Arizona, the use of safety harnesses is even included in Hunters Safety courses now. If you own a cheap harness, or no harness at all, then take a look at some of the deals below.
Whitetail deer hunting is typically perceived as a relaxation sport for many. Think about it. You sit up in a tree for potentially hours. You take in the sounds of nature. You watch the wildlife in its natural habitat, unbeknown to them. Heck, you might even take in a couple of cat naps.
Experienced hunters are well aware of the dangers of the outdoors though. When hunting from tree stands, there is always the risk of falling. Not to mention the risk of stray bullets. In some areas, you may even have to watch out for dangerous animals such as bears, or for poisonous reptiles.
None of these are the biggest danger that a hunter faces in the woods though. Per a CNN health minute article, the biggest danger to a hunter is heart attack. The article states that heart attack is three times more likely to result in the death of a hunter, than an accidental gunshot injury. Those who already have known risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or have experienced a previous heart-related incident need to take special precautions.
As we all get ready to head back to the woods for the start of a new season, it is worth taking the time to become prepared for the worst. Dr Eric Good was quoted in the article as urging hunters to see a doctor for a checkup prior to the hunting season. He also suggests that hunters take measures to stay in shape by taking part in cardiovascular training during the off season.
Let's face it, while hunting in the outdoors can be very relaxing, it can also be a sport that requires a lot of physical exertion. Think about the potentially long hikes into the woods, carrying all of your necessary gear. Once you get to your stand, you still have the ascent up the tree. If you harvest an animal, there is a lot of physical exertion to dress your game in the field, and haul it out. These are a few of the activities mentioned in the article that could be heart attack-inducing factors.
Aside from never hunting alone, and always carrying a cell phone on your hunts, you should also consider keeping aspirin in your field pack. Taking aspirin at the first sign of heart attack symptoms could be a life-saver. You may also consider carrying two-way radios if you are buddy hunting in areas with poor cell phone reception
It is good to be armed with the knowledge that may save your life in the woods. So I urge you to review the following CNN article. Enjoy your hunt, and be safe this season.
Every avid bow hunter wants to carry the best gear possible into the woods. For me, this desire extends past my bow, and includes arrows, broadheads, clothing, and other accessories.
To maximize the hunt, arrow selection is probably the most important factor for a bow hunter outside of the bow and bow accessories. I used to shoot heavy aluminum arrows, but switched to carbon arrows years ago. I did this for several reasons.
One of the first things that sparked my interested in carbon arrows was the hype associated with them. With so much talk and industry buzz around carbon, I had to see what the hype was.
I had several problems with aluminum arrows that switching to carbon arrows solved for me:
Bent Arrows
A problem that I have experienced when transporting my bow back and forth to hunts, or on the 4 wheeler. The durability and flexibility of aluminum was always a concern for me.
Life Expectancy
I used to retire aluminum arrows after shooting a deer with one. In my experience, the life expectancy to aluminum after shooting a deer was not good. Maybe it was the type or size of aluminum arrows I was using, but I have destroyed many aluminum arrows over the years.
Quietness
I believe that carbon arrows are much more quiet that aluminum. Removing aluminum arrows from the quiver, dropping it in the rest, or contacting brush or branches would often result in the metal 'tinking' sound. I don't have that convern with the carbon arrows I shoot today.
So I've made a quick case for why I like carbon arrows better than aluminum arrows. This is often a debated topic, and you will find people on both sides of the fence that are adamant about their arrow selection.
Which arrows do I like? I'm a big fan of Carbon Express, especially the Maxima line. Carbon Express is a very respected manufacturer of carbon arrows and shafts. They have four different offerings in the Maxima line:
The Carbon Express Maxima
The Carbon Express Maxima Hunter
The Carbon Express Maxima 3-D Select
The Carbon Express Maxima Hunter Mathews Edition
I'm shooting the Carbon Express Maxima Hunters this year. These arrows fly like a dream. They use Bull Dog Nock Collars, Blazer Vanes, have a great Timer Illuzion camouflage pattern, and integrated weight forward technology. They are light-weight and strong, and the Blazer vanes give them added velocity.
I haven't measured the speed of these arrows off my Mathews Switchback, but I am driving nails with them. So if you are looking to move to carbon arrows or just looking to upgrade, check out what the Carbon Express Maxima series has to offer.
Hunters for the Hungry is a government sponsored program that assists in providing meat to needy families. I am a big fan of this program here in Kentucky, and recommend that hunters check for the availability of this program in their home state.
The way the program is structured is pretty simple. Designated game processors will accept whole deer from hunters wishing to donate them. There may be a nominal charge involved in donating a deer, or the cost may be completely covered depending upon the state. The game processors will take the meat that is donated, and provide it to needy families.
This is a great way to take a sport that you love, and give back to the community. I urge all hunters to check their local fish and wildlife agency for details on this program, and participate if possible.
In touch economic times, I anticipate that the need for donated venison will be higher than ever this year.
US $6.00
