Reply To: Arrow confused

[Ireland]

#8903

dabersold wrote: Red Beard – I could count all the big game I’ve killed with archery equipment on my fingers and toes, so like the other 99% of the people who post on these sites, I’m an “armchair expert”.
Here is what I do know from history.
1. Traditional bowmen have always seemed to favor a heavier tip weight than compounders(especially recently), and heavier arrows.
2. Arrows with an FOC of 10%-15% and around 10gr/lb of draw weight have been effectively and efficiently blowing thru big game since Pope and Young.
3. I have yet to read about any of the other big boys of traditional bowhunting dropping their proven arrow combinations to chase the “magical” EFOC.
So, with no disrespect towards Dr. Ashby or anyone who “chooses” to chase the EFOC, it seems to me that as long as you follow the long proven guidelines stated in #2 above, tune your bow/arrow combination for good arrow flight, use sharp broadheads, and pick your shots, then history has long proven you should be fine.
I have read Dr. Ashby’s studies and think they are valid and useful(many thanks for your dedication and allowing us to learn from them), but they are just ONE way, not the ONLY way to responsibly hunt big game. And, as valid as they may be, they are only one small part of the overall recovery of game animals. If you are ONLY looking to maximize your penetration then by all means go for it. But, as we have all seen, you don’t HAVE to shoot an EFOC arrow to get pass thru shots on game, or bust bone. Fred Eichler busted a shoulder bone of a moose, and recovered it, with his #54 bow and 500gr arrows with 125gr head.
I’m sure there are going to be those who disagree. That’s fine, but before you bash me, prove me (or I should say, prove history) wrong.
Respectfully Abner.

Abner,

We have compound bow shooters using 400 grain arrows and mechanical broadheads killing moose also. Vicki Cianciarulo of Hoyt archery shows us how to do on video. I know that I for one will stick with my present “Ashby inspired” set-up.
You do have history on your side Abner. I won’t disagree…
With a national wound rate of around 55% (19 studies), I’m personally going to do all I can to prepare for when “things go wrong”.

Ireland