Extending your archery shooting capability

One thing that I have focused on in my career is having the ability to shoot longer distances with my bow. I have had many times where I've had great animals just out past that 40 yard mark. So a couple years back I decided to extend my range, which in return has greatly helped me in the "success" category. Most people these days use single pin adjustable sights, which makes it very easy to dial in an exact distance and have your pin right on and not have to guess how high to put your next pin. Me personally, I use a 7 pin trophy ridge sight, starting at 20 and going to 80 yards. I don't often shoot 80 yards but having practiced that shot thousands of times, if the opportunity arises I will have great confidence that I will be able to make the shot. The antelope above I killed this past season at 74 yards, quartering away from the opposite side of the picture, entering in front of the second to last rib, breaking the opposite shoulder. I had practiced this shot hundreds of times before the opportunity came for me. 

Its very important that when taking long shots you have a bow you are very comfortable with, and can hold very steady. A flinch at 70 yards will look like 8 inches once it hits the target! Its also important to be strong in the ability to hold your bow very steady. I have found the best way to practice that semi live long range hunting shot is to take your 70 and 80 yard shots first. This tests your ability to hold steady and make a great shot on your first shot. It also teaches your body to relax and steady itself right away compared to the traditional warm up shots from close distances to get prepared. Shooting these long distance not only will help you be more comfortable out to longer distances, but will also help you greatly in your close game as well. Give these ideas a try and email me how they worked for you!