Hey guys,

I just got a new bow from the girlfriend for Christmas and I am pretty new to having my own equipment. I have shot my friends and family's bows many times but finally got my own.

Anyways, I have a couple equipment related questions. I still need a release and arrows and I'm looking for suggestions for the best ones to use for deer hunting. Also I need a new target to practice with and I wonder if you guys have any preferences there as well. I know everyone has different opinions but any help to steer me in the right direction would be greatly appreciated.

Sorry for the long post. Thanks guys!

Trufire release and GT Expedition Hunter arrows. I have a Block target and like it.

Find an archery shop near you and get their help fitting the bow to you (ie. draw length, peep sight, cut your arrows, etc.)

For the money, you can not go wrong using Gold Tip XT Hunters or Expedition Hunters. You really don't have to spend more money on arrows than this.

As for a target, I honestly think you get what you pay for. If you get a bag or block style target make sure it has a multiple dots to shoot at. Do not get a target where you always shoot the center. You will break fewer arrows and your target will last longer if you shoot at multiple spots.

I agree with Moose. Seek help from your local shop, not box store. You will not know which arrow to use until the bow is adjusted to you. The size arrow (spine) will be determined by your draw length and draw weight.

Sorry I forgot to include that information. I have been sized and had the draw length and weight adjusted. I got the opinion of the guys at the shop but I just wanted some more opinions. I was looking for brands of releases, arrows (Easton etc..), and targets that are favorites among you guys.

What's your draw length and weight. I can give you recommendations on arrows and what spine. For a release anything made by Scott is good. For a target shooting field points any bag target will do. For shooting broadheads a Rinehart 18:1. They're a little more expensive up front, but will last 4X longer than anything else. Also with any target you get, store it in out of the weather when not in use. Water and UV rays from the sun will deteriorate any of them.

Thanks for the help guys I appreciate it.

Shaw,

My draw is right at 30". I have it down to a 60lb draw at the moment but they are 70lb limbs.

For a target I would buy a Block. It is pricey but is a good quaility target and the arrows come out easy.

For targets, I would look at Spiderweb, Bulldog, or a Morrel outdoor range bag(the one that costs a little over $100). Although none of these are to be used with a broadhead.

For arrow size, your going to need a .340 spine. My suggestion is to go with a Gold Tip Expedition 7595. They're very reasonably priced and a damn fine arrow.

get the rinehart 18:1 target. you can shoot field points or broadheads and it is small enough to pick up and move out of the elements after each practice session. plus if you shoot up all 18 dots within a year they will replace it for free. trust me you cant do it, ive tried.

Thanks for all the great advice everybody. Hopefully I can get to practicing soon and I will be sure to post that first biggun this coming fall.

Canez, check out the BHA tournament schedule thread and find a shoot near you and come on out and shoot with us. It is great practice for hunting. They have a class for just about everyone. You can get a lot of helpful tips from the veteran shooters and you get to shoot up someone elses targets.

^^true, I have shot an 18-1 for about 5-6 years now and it is still going... for 100$ you can't beat em and it will take years to kill it..

I got 4 seasons out of my Rinehart using it for broadhead practice. It's ready for the garbage cart now.

Good to see. Only thing that was putting me off was it seems to be pretty expensive compared to most targets. If I can shoot broadheads through it and use it for a few years it looks like it might be worth the money after the feedback I have seen about it.