Do You Want to Try Bow Hunting? Then You’ll Need These 6 Items

Have you always wanted to go bow hunting but aren’t sure where to begin? Don’t worry if you’ve never gone bowhunting before; everybody has to start somewhere. Keep in mind that bow hunting is also much simpler to master than most people realize.

The trick is getting the right tools in place before you go so you can work on mastering the basics during your first few trips. You’ll also need to take your time to learn basic safety measures and the types of large and small game you can hunt with a bow. Most people choose deer, moose, and pheasants to start filling their freezers with meat they can eat throughout the year.

Keep reading this guide to learn more about the six items you need for bow hunting.

1. Choose a Bow

If you already have a bow that you’ve been practicing with, it’s fine to stick with it. If not, then your first step should be choosing a bow that works for you. If you’ve used a basic bow in the past and know it well, it will be easier to stick with something basic vs. a newer model.

If you don’t have a bow, then you’ll need to make some decisions. You’ll first need to look at the size and design you want your bow to have. Compound bows are the most common and easiest to shoot. They’re designed to reduce the strain on your shoulder while you’re drawing back to shoot. This makes it easier to draw back and hold the bow for a few minutes while you shift positions to hit your target.

On the other hand, longbows and recurves use older technology and don’t allow you to hold your draw for as long as a compound bow does. However, these bows are designed for a quick draw and release, making them perfect for large animals like deer.

It’s best to do your research on the different bows available. The bow manufacturers from Legend Archery say you should look for bows, bow kits, and cases and get a better picture of the different types to choose from. Take your time to read the descriptions before deciding on a bow.

2. Buy Arrows

Once you buy a hunting bow, your next step is picking your arrows. You’ll first need to determine your draw length by standing with your back against the wall and stretching your arms out. 

Next, measure the distance from the end of one middle finger to the end of your other middle finger. The draw length is basically the length of both your arms, chest, and hands. Once you get this measurement, you’ll subtract 15 and divide by two.

This process can be complicated if you’ve never done it before, so if you need help, try finding a local archery store to help you with this step in the process. You can also look at arrow manufacturer websites for a size chart of different bows or YouTube videos.

3. Consider Buying Bowheads

Arrows have tips known as practice points, which are used for target shooting and other practice. There are also other types of points you can use, like:

• Combo points are best for foam targets

• Field tips are best for small game and target practice

• Pin points are used in competitive archery competitions

• Bullet tips are used for practicing archery

Broadheads have razor-sharp blades that are good for game hunting. They’re considered more ethical since their sharpness cuts through an animal’s hide quickly. You can find many different types of broadheads for your bow, so it’s best to ask an archery expert for advice.

You should change your tips to broadheads during hunting season to ensure you’re ready to go. If you begin bow hunting during hunting season, be sure to talk to local experts and research the rules and regulations so you’ll know what to expect.

4. Buy Camouflage Clothing

Having camouflaged clothing for bow hunting is necessary. Remember, you can’t stick out like a sore thumb while you’re hunting. Camouflage clothing helps you remain unseen by any game that comes near you. 

It may seem overwhelming at first to figure out the best type of clothing to buy, but the professionals at a local sporting goods or archery store can help you. Since you’ll be active and sweating in wet, chilly weather, you should dress in layers to protect yourself from the elements. Doing this allows you to add or remove layers to adjust to the temperature and stay comfortable. When you’re buying your camouflage clothing, you should also look for a backpack or shoulder pack to carry your gear in.

5. Find High-Quality Boots

You’ll be miserable out in the woods if you don’t buy yourself a pair of high-quality boots. You know how it feels when your feet get wet outside and your toes go numb. When this happens, you don’t last long outdoors. 

So, you’ll need to find a good pair of waterproof boots that go at least 9 to 10 inches past your ankle. They should also have enough insulation to keep your feet warm in extremely cold conditions. Rubber boots are a popular option since they keep your feet dry in swamps, streams, rivers, and almost any type of weather. 

You also want your boots to be lightweight enough to allow you to move quickly when you need to. Be sure to do your research and look around at different options before you buy.

6. Invest in Bow Accessories

Finally, you’ll need to consider buying bow accessories, depending on your bow and overall budget. If you have a compound crossbow, you’ll need a hunting quiver. A hunting quiver is a standard bow accessory that permanently attaches to your bow and serves as a container for your arrows, bolts, darts, etc. Most people attach quivers to their bow, but you can also carry them over your shoulder or attach them to your backpack.

Another standard accessory for a compound bow is a release aid, which is a mechanical device that helps you fire arrows more precisely. It does this via a trigger that releases the bowstring instead of your fingers. You’ll also need to look at bow sights. These devices act as reference points for aiming. You can adjust these according to your shooting distance.

You’ll also need other accessories like scopes or other cocking devices, depending on the bow you have. Make sure to talk with an archery pro at a local store to determine what basic accessories you should buy right away.

Using These Items for Bow Hunting

These six items will get you started with bow hunting, but you’ll need to continue your research to learn more about the different bow-hunting accessories available. You can buy more items as you get more involved in bow hunting, like binoculars or a tree stand.

Remember, you only need the basics, so if your budget doesn’t allow you to buy extra accessories, you don’t need to worry. You’ll still be able to improve your skills with regular practice. Don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog for more hunting, camping, and hiking tips that will inspire you!