I have to start by saying I have very bad raynaulds syndrome in my hands, and the temps in Maine are already putting a hurt in. My closest indoor range is about an hour and a half away so I’m looking to setup a small range in my cellar. The house was built in the 1800’s so it has a dirt cellar with granite and stone for the walls. I was thinking of hanging a horse stall mat behind some targets. Anyone have better ideas? Either that or I need to pick up some electric heated gloves haha.

I have been hunting for most of the past 15 years. Up until this year it was mostly with a compound. I had a handful of cases of coming full draw, but didn’t have a perfect shot so I let down. Closest I came to success was a few years ago I shot at a doe, heard a terrible noise and watched my arrow fly over the back of the dear. Found the top cam bushing broke. Decided to go full traditional only this year and put in many hours and countless arrows down range. Took my daughter Saturday for the season opener and saw some deer but got winded on every one due to swirling light breezes. This morning, I said a good long prayer and walked in the woods. About 30 minutes later, this little one walked up. Of course, the breeze was going right to it. The nose was going to work and I figured it was another bust. To my left, there were a couple squirrels in an argument and a bunch of chipmunks running through. Apparently this was enough of a distraction for the deer to continue its walk. I drew back at my one opportunity with a tree blocking me and waited. At ten yards, full broadside, I waited till the shoulder blade opened up with its steps and let my arrow loose. I was met with a solid smack of an arrow making a full pass through. The deer kicked out but didn’t snort or blow and trotted off. A few moments later I heard it crash and I was slammed with so many emotions. It may have even brought a tear or two to my eye. So much time and work has gone into archery and it has become a part of me over the last couple of years far more than I would have thought. Between backyard shooting with the kids, 3d events, setting up and scouting, it finally all came together. It’s not the biggest, it doesn’t have a basket rack, but it is perfect. I said my thanks to the deer and god and just took it all in. I wish everyone good luck, stay safe, and happy hunting. Double lunged, less than a quarter inch from the heart. If the three blade was rotated just a bit, it would cut the heart. For anyone interested, the bow is a trad al reflex longbow shooting 550 grain TAW safarituff taipans, 100 grain insert, aluminum outsert and nock ring 150 grain ozcut elite 3 blade.

Life has thrown some bad curve balls lately with my wife’s health so with my duties revolving around my wife, kids, and being the sole income, archery unfortunately took a spot on the back burner for a while. I finally got back out yesterday and was expecting the worst. After a few bareshaft shots to verify my stance and mechanics, the first group was far better than I could ask for from 20 yards. The bigger group was at 30 yards and while it needs improvement to get to where I was, I’m optimistic for turkey season starting Monday.

Is anyone going to this? I was wondering if anyone had been in previous years that might know about the archery range. I know they have a 3D course set up and mention a range but they definitely seem to be focused on the 3D and I've never done that before and not sure if I would embarrass myself. 😂 Also, any info overall on the event in general? I've never been to something like this before and it's REALLY close to me (only about 30 miles!) so I am VERY tempted to go and bring my bow. 👀 https://huntstockevents.com/massachusetts?utm_source=HuntStock%20Retargeting&utm_medium=Retargeting%20Video&utm_campaign=Retargeting%20MashUp%2030SEC&fbclid=IwQ0xDSwLvCrFleHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQBqyMbkm_3_AEeZTkflp_GBccik_Xyh1xwo8hpb8GPYwlNZcspiKrH-Jp7MXbKdNMune94zWg_aem_nb8GWGXWoJD0xw-c8cFjNQ&utm_id=120225837053750780&utm_content=120225842085640780&utm_term=120225837054120780

Hi! Getting my first bow, arrows, etc. I’m getting a black hunter bow, but not sure if there’s anything I should know about getting my first arrows. Like how long they should be (I’d this standardized? Based on draw length?) what type of arrowhead, etc. This is just for learning not hunting. Thank you all!