Lowest Deer Hunting Poundage

[Francis]

I have arthritis in my hands (got them crushed helping lift a car off a friend when I was in high school). I target shoot at 36-38 lbs. Since I have a long draw, I pull slightly higher when I shoot. I have a compound with good let off, and a cross bow, but want to try traditional. From most hunting guides of a few states I have researched, they list 40 as the lowest lb. rate for a traditional bow that can be used during hunting season. I have a 55 lb. but I cannot handle the stress on the hands. Does anyone shoot a 40-45 lb. hunting? I would appreciate opinions. Thanks.

 

[Phil Floyd]

IMO a 45# draw weight at your draw length with properly matched arrows and a SHARP broadhead is plenty for deer and other thin skinned game.

 

[eddie c]

I checked my draw last week and it turns out I am drawing 1-1/2" shorter than originally told and actually drawing at 48#. I got 2 deer with that setup last year.

I'm with Phil on this one.

 

[Locksley]

36-38 lbs with properly matched arrows and a SHARP broadhead is plenty for deer and other thin skinned game. The American Indians did not have that strong a bow. A 40-45 lb. traditional hunting BOW WOULD BE BETTER , but shoot what you can hit with. There is no poundage limit in Tennessee.

 

[8up]

I took 2 bucks a couple years ago with a 26"draw shooting 44# I made the bow myself. So I bet money you can buy a traditional bow that will do it at the weight you want.