i hate to lose an animal. i think its the lowest feeling i have ever felt. but i will say this IT HAPPENS! GUN OR BOW IT HAPPENS! i have shot several deer with a bow and even more with a rifle. i have lost 3 deer with my bow in my entire life. all 3 were my fault. i was just getting started and in the excitement i pushed them. i think the majority of deer shot with a bow or gun can be found if given enough time to expire. i have helped find a lot of deer and LONG tracking efforts that were shot with guns. dont let them make you believe a bow is not an effective hunting tool. its all about shot placement no matter what the weapon. be confident in your shooting and be patient. good luck!!!