I Shot And Lost A Big Old Blacktail, It's Not Always The Big W Out There!

[@GarryCarlson-i7r]

That stinks Steve......... I can see your frustration and guilt. I'm glad you care.

[@caddisguy]

When I got into bow hunting several years ago, researching mechanical vs fixed broadheads, after reading dozens of stories that played out like this, I opted to stick with fixed blade, specifically Montec G5. Never had and issue. All 100% consistent and fly exactly the same as my field tips do out to 40 yards. Like you said, play the game long enough, something like this will happen to everybody. All we can do is decrease the possibilities of failure by removing variables that we cannot control. Ditching mechanicals is a no brainer. There is no benefit and they add a point of failure.

[@xtrmqstable]

Im sorry Steve, I know the feeling. Thank you for all you do. Merry Christmas.

[@bx7993]

It happens to everyone buddy and your a pro! , kudos for beeing man enough to own it …Solid for sure .

[@ButcherisFalse]

wrong

[@bx7993]

@ huh?

[@ogoe_joeoutdoors1088]

There are plenty of examples of mechanical broadheads failing. They either fail to expand or expand too early and don't penetrate. Fixed is the way to go. Edit: Thank you for posting this. All of us who've experienced losing a wounded animal know the $#!++% feeling.

[@hughjunit2503]

I got a good shot on a buck when i was younger but couldnt find it for 3 days and the whole thing spoiled. Felt bad and it made me pass up bucks in the next few years thinking i would lose it if i shot another.......it happens Steve the forest will make quick work of it and nothing will go to waste in the end

[@Hammerback0]

If you hunt long enough, it’ll happen to you! Don’t beat yourself up too bad Steve. I tagged out today, the last day of late muzzleloader season here in Kentucky. Freezer fill, no “inches” involved 😂 Steve “Tooth of the Arrow” fixed blade, resharpen as needed, comes with sharpener, last forever, most precise head available. (my opinion) Thanks for sharing.

[@dillonfalcomer3107]

Sevr is the most precise

[@Hammerback0]

@ as stated “my opinion”. I haven’t read the peer reviewed studies that certify sevr as the most accurate. I know about them, but shy away due to the 🐓 riders on KZbin.

[@jasonbarnes3188]

Killed 4 deer this year with archery gear. 1 buck 3 doe’s, all with a rage hypodermic 2 in cut expandable. Lost track of how many deer over the last decade with the same heads. I have only lost 2 both my fault not my gear. Shot fixed heads for decades, never going back blood trails. With small wound channels suck.

[@dillonfalcomer3107]

@@Hammerback0 i always shot nap thunderheads, killed some blacktails with em. But these sevrs im not even joking you fly more accurate than my field points! They arent fixed though. Just started hunting with them and got a Mulie last year 55 yards went through him broadside full pass through and stuck into a tree and was not damaged. I arrowed a Blacktail this nov. 2nd 30 yards broadside and complete pass through again didnt even find that arrow. Both Deer went 20 yards. If you ever want to try a new broadhead giv em a serious consideration like I say things fly more accurate than my field points its crazy!

[@robjackson4767]

Yeah I had the same problem. I went to a fixed blade stopped all that mess. Good luck brother.

[@joshuareinoehl924]

I've lost 2 buck in my bow hunting career, absolutely terrible feeling all around! Both were lost due to rage broad heads,that was back when they first came out. Fixed blades since,haven't lost a deer. It happens to the very best,God bless you brother 🙏

[@orphan42]

Bad luck brother, next time. ❤❤ to all from Australia.

[@chrisazure1624]

Sabe will enjoy your gift.

[@stevet8121]

I've always stuck with fixed blade broadheads. I will for sure now.

[@lightseeker2242]

Every day hunting the way you do is a good day. Yeah, the time and energy and effort and resources used stings for sure. That's a long walk with an important goal. You get to gripe a bit. And you have a competitor's heart and a warrior's spirit. Thanks for sharing what you do.

[@yoke-munchan1813]

Thanks, God bless and safe travels.

[@M_Rasmussen58]

Thoroughly enjoy your hunting videos and the amazing footage of the outdoors in the Pacific Northwest. Thank you so much!

[@turdfurgeson8006]

Another day above the grass! No worries about the Buck. Mechanical broadheads ain't worth a pinch of dried Owl shit! It happens. Be glad you have what you have. My Grandfather who worked in the back Country for years here in the great State of Idaho in mines, wouldn't eat any Deer meat anymore because he had been eating canned Deer meat for years. Interesting. We are all different. Stay safe out there and you are welcome here in the great, free State of Idaho.

[@susanOkie60]

I agree. I have switched to spiral tips.

[@nono-ml6vt]

Good morning all from NE Ohio.... That sucks to loose a deer.... Myself I use Thunderhead 125.... fixed blade I feel there better for the bone shots.

[@trulylynn9941]

I am waiting for an entire video of your wonderful fishing and hunting scenes in nature. It will be a treat to hear with some good rants in the background as well. That would be sweet for sure on all of your channels brother! It's nice to know there are still people like yourself with a strong kind soul. Keep doing what you do. Truly NE Florida

[@DiggerAlton]

Hello Family... Merry Christmas!!!

[@richardschmeltz5371]

That sucks Brother!! YOU'RE the shit !! I remember the few bucks I've lost and it's the worst feeling you can have even after looking for a couple days knowing your going to find him. Muzzy three blade. 68 years old and still hunting and fishing every chance I get!

[@TrackerOG]

Chit! Happens. I’ve held to the old 3 blade broadheads. The mechanicals made me suspicious! 😎

[@mikekimbrough7978]

I know what your feeling happened to me 3 years ago. It's a worse feeling than being cheated on. Hell, I'd rather feel being cheated on then to lose another animal

[@jessel2831]

BROTHER STEVE AND SERA FAMILY, BEEN HERE SENCE THE FIRST HOW TO HUNT BRO!! LOVE IT AND YOU SERA ROCK !! MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!! JESSE LOIBLE YUMA,AZ. 2024

[@dbuhler171]

Bummer, man. Sorry to hear that. I just started bow hunting and have only bought fixed blade broadheads. I like the idea that they can't fail.

[@Kurtdog63]

Not a fan of mechanicals for lots of reasons. I have experimented with lots of broadheads and still many to go. If you like a wide cut traditional style broadhead, try the Simmons two blade. They make them in several different styles and weights, but all have a pretty wide cut around 1 1/2 inches, and they fly well with a matched spine arrow. I shot one half way thru a car tire. Killed two deer with them and a turkey this season. Impressive results. Turkey staggered 12 yards and fell over on video. Been hunting for a long time. Everybody will occasionally eat a suck sandwich. It happens. Nature recycles. Who knows. If the buck went that far, he may show back up on trail cam.

[@bradmainprize7286]

I've been there Steve, sad day but knowing you did the best to recover is a big help..

[@Mossy-back-blacktail]

A lot of the guys down here in the pnw like using those fixed blade kudos

[@fishduckdog]

I’ve been there and have the T-shirt! 😢. 60+ now and have mentored some “city boys” on whitetail deer 🦌 hunting. One of the boys wounded 2 years in a row, but I don’t think he feels the sting of it all. As if he lost a video game instead of taking the life of an animal. Concerns me. That being said, if you can think 🤔 of any advice, I will take it. Steve, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family! Be safe out there and thanks 🙏🏾 for bringing the great outdoors into my office and my home in the city. Country boy can survive. 😊

[@SheepdogConservation]

Happens to the best of us Steve, I went without a shot this year! I did get spoiled last year though on my first mature buck.. ended up being a stubby ol porker of a 2pt like him that was 8.5yrs! Your stories are what have kept me after ghosts like him even ones like this!

[@cliftoncarr9761]

I have had rage broad heads do the same exact thing to me!!! Ill never use them again! Really scared to use a mechanical Broadhead of any kind. I went back to the older broadheads what's the old saying if it ain't broke don't fix it LOL

[@cheriecronin7688]

Merry Christmas from Texas

[@ericpennington6530]

Hey Steve I've used those rage mechanical broadheads for 20 years with great results, one thing i learned about them a long time ago was you have to watch how you insert them in your quiver, if you push them in to deep or too hard they'll deploy, I learned the hard way, the same thing that just happened to you happened to me.

[@TheRealGroffy]

Bought Rage, never used I prefer Zwickey! Sorry it didn’t go well, I know how you feel❗️

[@Westcoastoutlaw]

Sorry you had to experience that. But like you said, play the game long enough. I’ll never forget the archery bull I never found. Book bull for sure. I will never switch to mechanicals because I have heard so many stories like yours. Thanks for sharing. Your blacktail stories are my favorite.

[@DevinAWhiting]

That's what we learned a while back Steve we use muzzy 3 blade titanium.

[@georgefortier492]

I have an unsuccessful hunter friend, i am allways relaying Steves's hunting knowledge to him

[@g.l.williams1178]

God Decided the Crittets needed a blessing! The Memories are Everything! Still A CATDADDY!!!

[@donaldanderson3249]

I got a buck like that on the Oregon coast and when we checked his teeth they were worn off at the gums . I truly feel you on loosing your buck it happened to me 10 years ago and I was using new to me ammo and I'll never use that brand or any of their products again.

[@beberle9641]

Your a hell of a guy Steve and super hunter and fisherman and we love and respect what and how you do it even on your worst day your the shit man! Brian from Colorado 🤠

[@colinmacdonald9269]

I got some pictures of a Sasquatch footprint with a tape measure side by side as well as a size 12" boot next to it. Pics have incredible detail! It was in the San Juan Mtns. in Chromo,CO on a Ranch called The Continental Divide Ranch

[@tonygiesige6548]

Man that sucks! I've heard so many bad stories about mechanical broad heads that I never wanted to use them. I use SlickTrick magnum fixed 4 blade, took an Ontario moose with them. Didn't go 30 yards, leaves a gaping hole. Blew clear thru and stuck in a tree clear to the shaft. Unscrewed my arrow and it's still in the tree today! I wasn't going to dig it out with my hunting knife! Never have they failed me. And these things shoot like a field point clear out to 60 yards

[@ScottBrames]

About 20 years ago I got into making primitive gear. Stick bows, cedar arrows with stone points. Successful y harvested more deer for the mere fact it required required me to get closer to shots. Even so shit happens and that sick feeling in the gut hits. All we can do is pray it survives with minimal suffering.

[@shawnkirk2044]

I had those rage arrows happen to me before and I quit using them. Back to traditional fixed blades. Sorry to hear Steve

[@tomhincks9437]

That 2x2 is long bodied. Must be 200 plus dressed. Sucks to have days like these. We all have em. It’s time to go on vacation isn’t it? God bless

[@jmar5787]

Steve it's part of hunting it happens. I went to a mechanical broad head last year seemed to work I took a nine point. I always wondered if that would be an issue, I may go back to a fixed broad head now. Don't beat yourself up, it happens.

[@timbailey4069]

Hard lesson learned. Stopped using mechanicals long time ago same deal.

[@Charleboismtl]

The spirit of the forest Is sending toi a cool message

[@blakealford2454]

It definitely sucks. It will happen to the best. I lost one this year from rainstorm washing blood trail away. Sucks!

[@Im.hurtnLinda]

I screwed up on a pretty good bama whitetail yesterday. Guess we got bad luck this season.

[@dillonfalcomer3107]

Yesterday? When does it close there? Me and Steves reg 2 blacktail close Dec 15th

[@Im.hurtnLinda]

@dillonfalcomer3107 February 10 in northeast Alabama

[@dillonfalcomer3107]

@Im.hurtnLinda hahah crazy!

[@dillonfalcomer3107]

@Im.hurtnLinda then starts up again in September?

[@Im.hurtnLinda]

@dillonfalcomer3107 October

[@funlegomathteachathome1256]

Blessings. Nothing goes to waste. Cleveland

[@toddvandyke1023]

The tree huggers want the world to believe that hunters are ruthless killers, but in reality, we are compassionate for our prey and would never wish them to suffer because of our actions. It's sucks that you had to go through these emotions, Steve. For some strange reason, I think that you will see this dude on the trail cam again. Be safe, and God bless

[@jeremyparsons4996]

There's a reason I've never been a fan of expandables. Tried and true Thunderheads have never let me down. Anyone who has hunted long enough knows the feeling. On a positive note, I just started your book and I love it.

[@Snailmailtrucker]

Harry and his family will probably return your Rifle Bolt to you on Christmas Day as a Thank You for your Generous Christmas Present Deer to them ! *MERRY CHRISTMAS Y'ALL !*

[@ryanmatty7142]

I know that feeling sir. Well, if old2 is alive, then he’s all good, if he died, you know there’s plenty of things walking around out there that will gladly thank you for the meal. Not a waste, guaranteed.

[@338edgefozzy]

That's a terrible feeling. Unfortunately sh*t happens, even to the best Time to switch to fixed broadheads.

[@georgesearcy8599]

Damn it, man! I can relate. My older son just wrapped up a four-day archery hunt in Central Florida with a clean miss at the evening hour. He has been missing similarly as of late. Issues of concern are pin location, vision changes and close-range shooting. Is there any advice on how to fine tune his process? He typically is a dead-on shot with years of experience. He's still quite excitable at the opportunities as they approach, but a cool head usually prevails.

[@johnc.wunscheljr2873]

I lost a big buck this year, the same way with those mechanical Broadhead. blades One of the blades came out, and it made my bolt fly crooked.. I went back to fixed blades with a chisel tip. I don't know how many times those mechanic If you don't have the caller's just right, or they Get bumped in your quiver and. that collar gets misaligned. One blade will fly out on its own. So don't feel bad. I lost one do like that same way this year Big buck.30" spread 5x6 . I am still pissed off and talking to myself over that. 🤠J >-W-> Hangtown ca USA PS Merry Christmas to all Of my How to hunt family out there.

[@semajniffirg230]

Steve I've had the same thing happen with the mechanical heads. G5 Montec Carbon Steel is the only broadhead I'll shoot now. Never had one fail. I've punched them through all kinds of bone and saplings and shit and that will kill an arrow but the broadhead always survives, and they sharpen razor sharp really easy and they stay sharp.

[@daveblakeley91]

I'm a ferm believer in Thunder head .Very good broad head😢.It happens to us all dose not feel good though.

[@JeremyBevans-rz5rc]

Get rid of the mechanical broadheads.

[@brianjohnson8918]

Before you even said it I thought "bet he changes broadheads after this!"

[@nickgironda8932]

Man, I feel for you, Brother, man o man I know how you feel

[@breech123]

I had that same wierd arrow flight on a doe. The arrow came out in a corkscrew pattern; missed her. I had probably nocked the arrow wrong. Never happened again.

[@jaredpeterson380]

Owning up! Good man! This stuff happens if you love to hunt. Mechanicals can be awesome and they can be a nightmare. I've always used fixed blades and yes. I hit and lost deer with those but it was always my fault.

[@mikecarey207]

Thunder heads 30 years n still working fine

[@brpnw4r94]

Sucks. Hopefully, it wasn't fatal, and he survives the winter. Who knows? You may catch him on cam and get another shot at him next season. Tough critters. Never shot a mech head.

[@thomasmachovina596]

I love them two blade rage but when u put them in quiver got cut hole so blades don’t catch and pop open there suppose still shot normal if they do open

[@overdbus]

Did you look up in the trees yet ?

[@dillonfalcomer3107]

What date was this? December obviously? Notice the Bucks are back together. I got 2 blackies this year 1 bow and 1 rifle both in Nov, really tryin to get the big boys now. Im region 2 as well but out by Fraser Valley so I mainly hunt here. Couple years ago I found two blackie bucks back together Dec 10th

[@johnchurch3410]

I don't like Rage heads either. I've lost a few deer with them also.

[@tomerickson834]

Yep I'll never use those expandable broadheads ever

[@g-man2228]

Damn…..👊🏻🇺🇸

[@h-minus5537]

I switched my wife to to traditional broadheads but I have to exhaust my mechanicals before I switch,You will find him but it doesn’t

[@SolomonLandscaping]

Happened to me a few times unfortunately. Depressing!

[@joemullet9397]

Try single bevel, look up the Ranch Fairy and Dr Ed Asby for science on FOC arrows and single bevel penetration. Good luck in the future Losing one SUCKS

[@lyzadavis543]

❤❤❤I know that feeling 😢

[@matthewbennett8430]

Unfortunately it happens I’ve been there it hurts

[@Pjjp56]

Maybe with a little luck he’ll show back up on camera? A chance it’s a non lethal hit, I know unlikely but still a possibility. Don’t beat yourself up, it’s never intentional and it’s happened to every seasoned Hunter at some point. Be it a duck, goose, rabbit or deer. It happens and although rare, it always feels awful. Nothing in the wild goes to waste, your possible loss will sustain a Bear, Wolfs, eagles, Ravens and such. As you know. Good luck Steve

[@bryanstaten5585]

100 grain Muzzy Bonecrusher fixed blades!

[@jodybryant1752]

Those times when there is a loss, only will enable the Hunt next time. Good sport and yes that is a Shit sandwich. On the flipside, Any opportunity to do what you do….. Regardless of the outcome, PRICELESS ❤. Merry Christmas 🎄 And happy new year!!2025 Can you believe it?

[@dw6090]

Good reason not to use mechanical. Because they do fail. Several time I seen deer after hit run directly toward where they were going. Then turned around , it's tough at times which u know. . Hope if fir no other reason u and others stop using mechanical, use fixed blade only. Bless u and others.

[@charlessavoie9332]

Switched those broadheads years ago,they suck

[@buckimmel3159]

I agree. Blame that broadhead. They r junk. I tracked for ten years behind great dogs. 70 percent of my business was from rage broadheads. They a stamped metal riveted together . And often dull out of the package. Complete junk.

[@donaldducksavechina3298]

Anti-Spiral is a cosmic entity and the primary antagonist of Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. It is a collective consciousness formed by a race of Spiral beings that chose to abandon their evolutionary potential to prevent the catastrophic consequences of Spiral Power overuse, which they believed would lead to the destruction of the universe through Spiral Nemesis. Possessing godlike abilities, the Anti-Spiral exists outside normal dimensions and wields immense power, including the ability to manipulate reality, create alternate dimensions, and suppress Spiral Energy. It embodies absolute order and self-sacrifice, opposing the chaos and boundless potential of Spiral Power. The Anti-Spiral uses its overwhelming might to enforce its philosophy by annihilating civilizations that display advanced Spiral potential, viewing this as a necessary act to preserve universal stability. The Anti-Spiral’s chilling demeanor and godlike presence make it a symbol of despair and existential dread. Despite its monstrous power, it is driven not by malice but by a tragic sense of duty, believing its actions are the only way to save the cosmos. This conflict between its noble intentions and ruthless methods creates a compelling philosophical clash with Team Dai-Gurren, who represent hope, freedom, and the belief in infinite potential. In the epic finale, the Anti-Spiral engages in a titanic battle against Simon and his allies, testing the limits of their resolve and proving the indomitable spirit of humanity’s will to evolve and overcome insurmountable odds.

[@jasonhaskell-qy1ue]

Always exta O ring your RAGE Expandables. Or tape them Steve! Come on! If am stalking I use fixed blade. Stand hunting i use rage. Brother people that don't hunt will never feel your loss. It stays with you till you die. It's like losing a friend. On to more adventure! Another day!

[@mikepyle8883]

Single bevel fixed broad heads Brother...Chin up!

[@johnnybumpous9108]

train Ruby to track 🦌.

[@wdaniel9]

Mechanical arrows no good. Fixed blades!

[@tolt1776]

**STEVE GET ON THE FAIRY DUST. UNCLE TROY FOWLER AKA THE RANCH FAIRY EXPLAINS WHY HIGH FOC ARROWS AND PROPER BROADHEADS WOULD'VE GOT YOU THIS BUCK! 100% EXPANDING BROADHEAD ARE GARBAGE. 1 TIME IS 1 TIME TOO MANY! ADULT ARROWS!!!🎉🎉**

[@eulaliorodriguez5325]

👍👌💯

[@jimerscree3802]

Mechanicals suck I’ve practiced with them and like one out of 3 open fixed blade forever

[@williamturley2422]

Stopped using mechanicals in 07-08 for that reason, unreliable

[@rogermilholland2341]

Chisel point broadheads..

[@claymac7895]

Mechanical broadheads are garbage.

[@darrenturcotte7799]

Damn Steve that’s rough I lost a 6x6 herd bull elk this September still kicking myself. Went and bought a 300win mag with 200gr shells so hopefully that doesn’t happen again.

[@Foxman876]

The older I get the more I think bow hunting should be outlawed

[@ButcherisFalse]

You didnt make a killing shot dude..period...quit making excuses like play the game long enough...bullshit man...45 yrs hunting never lost an animal..ever...make a quality shot and the animal goes down quick...cmon man....

[@repetemyname842]

We all been there, brother. I lost the first big 10 pointer I ever had a shot at, we had just gotten out of the truck and got maybe 60 yds into what was going to be a 400yd hike when out of nowhere this dang buck came trotting right in front of us. I had him broadside at 20 with brush in the way, as soon as he cleared he turned right at us at the moment I shot. Big loud thwack, the buck turns back to his right I know I saw a spot of blood as he turned. We sat and waited until dark, my greenhorn buddy all jacked up couldnt believe his eyes, he wasnt able to draw his bow he was so freaked out lol. Got some people and flashlights together and got on the huge blood trail, literal pools of it where he stopped three or four times, until it stopped at a tamarack swamp. The buck had snuck into the middle of his little swamp and had bedded down until we obviously bumped it. Found one pinhead of blood 25 yds due east and never saw him again. Local guy shot him 4 days later on opening morning of gun season, big ragged wound on his right side but he was running does lol, them old bucks are built tough.