This Will Drop a Deer Instantly

[@LD-qj2te]

At long distance or fast shots I have done this to compensate for margin of error and it does drop them instantly . Usually I do heart lung and it dies the trick . What I do like about the shoulder is they don’t run and you don’t lose them . Which is a big importance in rugged terrain .

[@coppersworld2054]

Im over 60 now. All my shots are high shoulder. Im done chasing! Great video.

[@stevegaines-vq3bd]

just can't do that w/ a bow....I did it once, the broadhead broke, the deer got away, i saw him a week later.....Had a non-typical left rack.....a couple of months later he shed that side & i found it....

[@JulyIsMagaMonth]

It's totally worth losing one shoulder to not track through thorns and mountain terrain.😊

[@scottdavis700]

Very well done video. Most average guys dont know the anatomy and bodily structure of the animal. Being a butcher and meat cutter by trade I am very familiar. Watched just to see how accurate and precise it would be, and was not disappointed. Again, well done. My only concern is meat damage. Shot placement like this basically destroys both top blades, part of the top loin, and some of the neck from hydrostatic shock. But thats not the purpose of the video, again meat cutter views here....I prefer a back lung shot, just in front of the diaphragm, a few ribs back to avoid any meat damage to the shoulder and leg muscles. That is if the animal had room to make its death run and expire in the few seconds it will take. Im an eater, and want to maximize the yield from the carcass. If I cant take a headshot at close and confident range thats my .02.....But very informative and accurate none the less. Great job, very well done.

[@DDHONLINE]

Thank you for your insights, Scott!

[@claudiodominguez.]

Headshot at close range with 100% MOA knowledge and the right bullet is a must.

[@Alloy682]

Honestly yep. Brain shot for the win

[@Setapart2122]

I’m new to hunting but in my spirit I thought a head shot would be the way to go if the shot became available, close range with a weapon that shoots true and zeroed out. Thank you for the insight sir.

[@stoodz]

@@Setapart2122 Head shots are fantastic but it's hard to recommend them to the average hunter. The deer brain is a very small target, broadside double lung + heart is going to be the most ethical shot for the vast majority of hunters.

[@unclefuddelmer9224]

Without knowing Why that shot placement works it’s been my favorite for 45 years, since it first happened to me by accident. The buck dropped without taking another step! I decided to do an autopsy after hanging & skinning our the buck. Was amazed at the amount of damage that .300 Savage bullet did, through the shoulder blade & completely shattering the spinal column. Have used it since and it works Every time. A Very humane kill shot. ThankYou for explaining it.

[@konz2891]

@Wyatt Earp I'm assuming that's for the meat quality? The whole bleed out thing I mean.

[@michaelmiller1824]

Animals it's called a necropsy but yeah I agree my uncle never had a deer run after he shot them in the high shoulder I always took the vital shot and had to track my deer every time I decided last year to start aiming a little higher than I usually do and dropped 3 deer in their tracks no thicket chase and drag for me anymore

[@SilvaDreams]

@@konz2891 Not really that is only an issue if you don't gut and bleed the animal quick enough. THe longer the animal sits the more it is breaking down on the microscopic level. Removing the guts is the most important part (and not puncturing them) as all that bacteria in their gut is not something you want to be able to spread.

[@jackspeth4467]

And did this completely kill the deer on impact, or does this just make the deer not able to move?

[@auburn696]

@@jackspeth4467 Usually kills 'em flat dead.

[@davehoward2791]

I do something similar, but I move my shot to just about an inch forward of where the neck meets the body. Large target, instant drop, and the deer is dead before it hits the ground. I use a .30-06 with 180 gr Core Lokt PSP and only lose a couple of ounces of neck (stew) meat. Has worked like a charm for me for decades.

[@Bowstringdotcom]

Very effective and I would rather shoot neck meat than shoulder meat. I have a family member who has adopted the same shot location for the last several years, and no animal ever takes another step after being hit.

[@The_Judge300]

This is where I usually shoot deer if I want them to drop on the spot. It is extremely effective. Specially when a rather soft bullet is used in a 6.5mm or larger caliber cartridge. I also in some situation shoot the deer in the top of the neck, but that is usually on straight towards and straight from shots. If it doesn't matter that the deer run 100 yards before dropping, I prefer to shoot for the top of the heart when the distance gets longer to have a maximum size of killing area to hit.

[@gradyhernandez4699]

Get a 7 mm 08 or a 25-06 ..no need for a 30-06 a pro said ( not I)

[@Onemanstrash1]

they dont take 1 step

[@slyleprecon5521]

That’s the shot for sure! Did the same with 3006 from 20 yds

[@brob-zy8zi]

In my opinion this is the very best shot. I started hunting again two years ago and this past season was able to take my first deer in over a decade. It had been a long absence for me from the deer woods. I was on a ledge and took a high shoulder shot on a buck quartering slightly towards me. He dropped instantly. Didn't even flinch. I've only done that one other time with a similar shot placement. In my opinion, high shoulder is the most ethical shot.

[@canislatrans8285]

Explains why my between the shoulder blades spine hit dropped my buck without even any residual kicking. He just dropped and that was it. It wasn't just severing the spine, it was frying those nerves. It was the only shot placement I could get as it was almost too dark for me to see him ( 14 or so minutes left of light, but in the woods where its always darker). He was straight on head down at 50 yds and I was shooting from about 11 feet up in a box blind. I had almost no wasted meat too! No bloodshot, just some around the wound I had to trim due to bone and bullet fragments. The heart was intact and I took that with me too.

[@dalanwanbdiska6542]

Nice. Im running canis latrans red dot sights on my 22. Very accrurate 5moa dot sight.

[@mattdelarede9673]

I’ve had this happen several times in my hunting career. Never really understood why and never made the correlation. Now I do. Excellent point and delivered perfectly.

[@robertcaldwell9226]

You never realized that you were destroying the spinal cord? Cool.

[@mattdelarede9673]

@@robertcaldwell9226 we have all spine shot a deer. The old timers always took the “neck” shot. The shortest track ever. That was the interesting part, it not the spinal cord. Your hitting the 3 nerve clusters. That video didn’t show the spine being hit or severed. Maybe I misunderstood the information. I’m going to rewatch it. Thanks for the comment on my post.

[@Bayan1905]

The first deer I ever killed I shot with a high shoulder shot, dropped dead on the spot, the largest deer I ever shot, a large 10 point buck on my wall, dropped dead on the spot with a high shoulder shot. I've shot more deer with high shoulder shots and neck shots and the farthest one ever went was a neck shot, 200 yards and that was it. The rest, on the ground where shot.

[@mcmuskie2563]

Agree

[@kevinthompson5827]

Thanks for sharing this with me. I've got a friend who had never hunted until last year. And even though I tried to explain where to place his shot messed up thoroughly. And then tried to track a wounded elk for 5 miles. Needless to say he couldn't catch up to it. So I'm hoping that he pays attention to your video. Thanks again!

[@nolixss694]

On a broadside shot do you normally aim into the shoulder or just behind it?

[@maryfrederickson2526]

I really enjoyed this . The ONLY way it could be improved (particularly for newer hunters) is to show exactly where that shot is on the EXTERIOR SKIN of the deer. The skeleton looks a little different .

[@michaelfuller3477]

I have used both the heart shot and the shoulder shot. It is surprising how far a deer can run with a massive hole in its heart. The shoulder shot does drop it instantly, although I never knew why. Great video! Thank you!

[@martinsuper4545]

I shot a doe with a .450 bushmaster through the heart. She ran 40 yards!

[@jackspeth4467]

Does this shot kill the deer on impact, or just paralyze it? Also do you aim for the triangle part he was talking about, or just the entire high shoulder?

[@rmiller334]

Yup

[@giles-df9yu]

40 yards that's about normal for any chest lung area hit.

[@josh2711]

@@giles-df9yuit depends where the deer was and what it was doing. In a congested area, 40yds makes sense. But if the deer was moving across a wide open area then they can really keep moving. Going for the heart double lung has let me down too many times, now I like to catch some shoulder and make things simple.

[@glorybound7599]

Thanks for the tip. I accidentally hit a nice 8 point there, from 30 yards with my crossbow, while intending to hit 3 inches lower and back. I tracked a weak blood 🩸 trail 200 yards over a 2 and half hour period and never recovered the deer 🦌. I did attempt this shot later on a doe, at 125 yards, with a 30.06. I hit slightly behind the mark but the damage done only allowed the deer to travel 30 yards. I will practice to improve for future hunts.

[@joracer1]

Great advice, I use a 25-06 with bal tips and shoot the neck with the same results...but you are exactly right on high shoulder, I was young, and my friend dropped one like that pole axed we call it. High shoulder 30/30 winchester. Done it and seen it many times. Any round with power I'd say .357mag and up but 30/30 is my favorite.

[@xra1750]

I’m just getting in to hunting and I’m so grateful for this video. I would never forgive myself if I botched a shot and caused the animal to suffer

[@carypeaden4147]

I love your book "Whitetail Wisdom". I have bought about 6 copies and in addition to reading it several times myself, I have given copies of your book to family members and friends that were new to hunting. Thanks for sharing useful knowledge.

[@calcosPR]

I found that book in a thrift shop, had no idea he was the author

[@bunsonhoneydew9099]

After having shot deer in several places, I wholeheartedly agree. This spot always does the trick, quickly. Works well with hogs too.

[@jackspeth4467]

Does this kill the deer on impact, or paralyze it? Also do you aim for the triangle part he was talking about, or just the high shoulder in general?

[@dinosaurcomplaints2359]

2” behind the ear in the beginning of the neck, and they drop too! You just disconnect the computer from the machinery.

[@TommyMarler]

Kick like hell though

[@thorn6810]

Got a 12 gauge for Christmas. I’m 16 and ab to go hunting. Very excited!

[@Matthew-uc7he]

Congrats kid.

[@blackcitroenlove]

How did your hunt go if you've been already? Hopefully well!

[@vengifeugas9348]

I think if you feel bad after you kill something then you can not do it again. Killing or maiming an animal should not be a joyful thing. I love all animals They all deserve to live their life. Just like we do.

[@thorn6810]

@@vengifeugas9348 Sorry man i was hungry 🤷‍♂️

[@jiggyjay682]

@@vengifeugas9348 Love to hunt Lions/Elephants such an adrenaline rush :)

[@mcmuskie2563]

I shoot for low in the kneck when possible. I find the high shoulder shot works very well, but makes a mess when cutting it up. Mid kneck is great if you can make it, not for everyone cause it’s not a large area at distance.

[@genesorg1341]

New to hunting. Good video but any way you can provide still pictures of real live deer with the "kill shot" indicated. The skeleton and chart are nice but I think pictures of a buck and doe would be educational. Thanks again.

[@letree8052]

I started hunting around October in 2021 and a month later got deer

[@TheFlashSpeedforce]

Kudos on your finely made and presented video. I specially liked your introduction in which you unequivocally and clearly address the issues of ethical hunting and the humane treatment of the quarry which entails proper shot placement, shooting within your true skill range and being proficient with the back up shot. I'm an avid fan of long distance precision shooting, and though I'm not a hunter myself, I accompanied my Grandfather who was an accomplished and respected hunter ; through him I learned the ethical and sportsmanship behavior that should be observed while hunting. It saddens me that these fine and important aspects of hunting are often barred aside in many presentations and videos, and all or almost all the emphasis is directed at discussing range issues, calibers and intermediate ballistics, optics, etc., with no consideration made about terminal ballistics, effectiveness of shots and shots placement, and to discussing when is best not to attempt the shot at all, which are the hallmarks of a true hunter and sportsman. Well done!!!

[@DDHONLINE]

Thank you for your thoughtful response!

[@jimbob4692]

Flash, been hunting 55 years, couldn't tell what grain bolt I shoot, couldn't tell ya the FPS of the rifled slug I use, couldn't tell ya grains of shot I used in my muzzleloader. What I can tell ya is I don't shoot beyond 35 yards, I don't take risky shots, I practice throughout the summer with all three of my deer hunting weapons. In 55 years I lost 1 deer. I was taught at a very young age about safety, shot placement and ethical hunting by my dad (RIP). We've lost that, it's all about who's owns the best and latest equipment, camera shot and whom can harvest the biggest buck. Hell been hunting 40 plus years with my 870, my favorite weapon.

[@TheFlashSpeedforce]

@@jimbob4692 I couldn't have expressed any better Jim Bob, ... and thanks for sharing.

[@Dingdongwitchisdead]

@@jimbob4692 yup what you said. Turned 50 this year and been hunting along long time. Same way every year. Hunting isn’t complicated. Find what works and don’t change it.

[@Bowstringdotcom]

Used this same shot placement on a coyote today, legs curl up and they drop like a rock. The other thing happening is you are sending a shock wave, bone fragments, and bullet debris into the spine after you pass through that scapula. If you want to waste less meat on ungulates, do as many have suggested and move the shot slightly forward of the neck/shoulder junction and you will get the same result while saving good roast and steak meat. Great video sir, thanks

[@FreebornJohnLillburne]

On the neck?

[@Bowstringdotcom]

Yep

[@paulh71]

3:30, dropped but didn’t die on the spot. Scene then cut. Taking out nerves doesn’t alway result in immediate death, it just means the deer can’t run away. So is your definition of dropping a deer meaning just that, not necessarily killing instantly?

[@rpcoltrane4340]

I thought the same thing.....paralysis; not dead. I still think I would aim for the heart/double lung with bow or gun.

[@michaelhedgepeth5106]

So much bone damage along with major vascular destruction it's pretty quick 👍

[@treeguy5916]

@@michaelhedgepeth5106 That and at least in humans, the brachial plexus has the nerve that transmits to the lungs. Better than mechanical damage, off switch.

[@guaporeturns9472]

All the deer I dropped with similar shots also had a severed spine , sure that is why mine dropped like they did.

[@yanrac]

Just shot the god damn deer in the heart, no need for dropping it instantly and not dying quick.

[@wyosundancer]

Great information. Have not hunted in years (getting old) but when young I hunted a lot. I had tried the so-called heart shot with limited success. Very seldom did an animal drop immediately even though they were dead. When the .243 was first introduced one of my friends bought one and complained it would not kill a deer. I borrowed it. I also did not have much use for it after shooting a small buck at about 175 yards. The first shot through the heart only caused the buck to change direction, other than that couldn't tell it had been hit. An immediate follow up shot through the top of the shoulder dropped the buck on the spot.

[@chriscogsdell6805]

Destroy to much good meat for me. I like head shot my self drops dead and don't mess up any meat

[@mikewilliams7218]

I kill deer all the time with a .243 with no trouble. Be wary of .308. I hunt with it also, but be careful.

[@jorgejimenez5563]

@@chriscogsdell6805 just killed a doe last night, I aimed for the white spot right under the chin. Dropped immediately. I’ve used a 243 with no problem. Used a 270 last night.

[@chriscogsdell6805]

@@jorgejimenez5563 good job on your doe. Not a bad spot to aim for either. All I hunt with is my single shot 243. Love that rifle. Half the deer I've killed with it ran off other half dropped like a sack of potatoes. And recovered all.

[@michaeldaltonsr9690]

TY4 very gud vid! Have full 58 years deer hunting exp. Dad taught me to WAIT, PICK SHOT. #1 heart(many pepl do NOT KNOW where heart lies; 4 inches above sternum) #2 vertical line where neck meets body. You either hit jugular or, as you explain, the nerves. It has worked reliably for many sucessful years.

[@huntfisheat73]

Every deer I've ever shot in the heart has ran the further. I absolutely blue the heart completely apart disintegrated nothing but blood clots the last one ran over 160 yd. When I cleaned it there was nothing but coagulated blood where the heart was or used to be. Not to mention the fact the heart is one of my favorite to eat I no longer try to shoot them in a heart. I will take a neck shot if I can get it or a lung shot and definitely that high shoulder shot will drop them every time. If you get it too high though you won't hit anything but it'll run off and normally live. Worst case scenario if you don't hit the scapula just right A lot of times you'll hit the spine and drop it where it stands as well with the high shoulder shot.

[@63DW89A]

Outstanding video. A concise, informative and direct to the point explanation of how to humanely harvest a deer. VERY well done!

[@gradyhernandez4699]

Z

[@NeilGraham.I.M.F]

It always helps to get great information from a reputable source

[@manouchecool]

3:23 ?? Never rest the barrel on anything to shoot. Rest on the forestock.

[@rpcoltrane4340]

I'm with you on that; however, this is obviously how he shoots and how he practices his shooting. If the bullet ends up landing exactly where he aims then I would say continue doing whatever it is that you do. I.e. if he is in a ground blind using a bag/rest much like the one that he was using in the video then he would most definitely want to rest the barrel on the bag/rest. I personally wouldn't shoot with the barrel resting on anything either, though. It looks like it works for him though.

[@depressed4215]

It matters what gun you use. I use a 450 bushmaster and I rest the barrel at the end of my blind stand. Works like a charm

[@michaelhedgepeth5106]

For a tight, long range shot, it Will affect the harmonics(flexing) of the barrel and indeed your accuracy 👍

[@james3946]

@@rpcoltrane4340 You should get somewhat consistant result if you always rest on the same spot on the barrel. But its a pretty narrow spot for consistancy. I'm pretty sure he always shoot sitting in the same place, same distance from the `wall` etc. However the rifle is only ajusted for that specific shooting stance. I'm pretty sure he's gonna shoot high in every other shooting stance. Even if it "works", its still wrong.

[@isaiahtolo9819]

Really informative - thank you! I mostly hunt with a muzzleloader and had really bad luck last year - I lost a deer and almost lost 2 others during the course of the season but was able to locate them after a lot of tracking. This year I had much better luck - almost every deer (and a black bear) dropped in its tracks. I attributed this to a change in bullet choice - went from a solid copper to a cup and core bullet. While the bullet change probably has a lot to do with the improvement I think that shot placement may have been equally or more important. I noticed that some of my deer that I almost lost (both does) last year were heart shot but left no blood trails and one actually got 70 yards away and almost out of the public land I was on. In comparison - this year I shot two large bucks and I selected a slightly higher and further forward shot than last year and both dropped in their tracks (with similar results on two does and a black bear). I didn't realize that there was a nerve component - I mostly thought the high shoulder disrupted the motor functions of the front legs but those "instant death" like reactions did look as if there was a nerve component as well - especially considering that the bones were not broken on these deer.

[@DDHONLINE]

Thank you for your comment and insights!

[@isaiahtolo9819]

@@DDHONLINE no thank you- I am hesitant to go back to solid copper but this video has got me thinking that if led is banned in my state I may focus more on shot placement with this information in mind and try not to be so worried about having to change bullets again.

[@jayely3301]

can you provide bullet brand and grain? I have shot powerbelts 250 but behind the shoulder. Wanna try the high shoulder but afraid the powerbelt will not get it done. Please advise. ty!

[@jwnagy]

Great video. I did this with a crossbow a few days ago on a deer at less than 10 yards. Farther, and I would not have tried, but at that close range the bolt was more like a bullet and the expanding broadhead was 2". Dropped it.

[@josephtreadlightly5686]

What did that head look like after the shot?

[@jwnagy]

@@josephtreadlightly5686 It was fine this time. Sometimes the broadhead is damaged, depending on what it hits after the pass through.

[@josephtreadlightly5686]

@@jwnagy Momentum is everything. Light arrows with a short draw on a bow with that head is usually a much different outcome.

[@parecshooting4140]

The first deer I ever shot was a 140lb doe with a .223(legal in PA), it was a single lung shot, only hitting one. She took off running and I took a second shot taking out the hind leg. That was what it took, now I’ve switched up to a .308

[@mikewilliams7218]

Be careful with the .308. You will lose some deer with it if not. Hit some bone.

[@94hondaman1]

Should think about 300 blk they have. 150 grain deer season round for it

[@mcmuskie2563]

I’ve shot a pile with my 308’s had a few moan and kick, but never lost one. I shoot 150gr. A new guy to the group used 140gr Creedmore last year and after hitting it twice and another fella had to finish it off. Some think it’s all about the bullet. I think shot placement is 70% 30% bullet.

[@jordanfrisco8516]

Best shot is the lung-heart-lung shot with longbow/crossbow at ground level or long range from above in my opinion. Doesn't drop on the spot (last 3 I've shot have gone 20, 30, and 15 yards) but saves more meat than gunshots and you're more likely to also save the heart while contributing to massive blood loss.

[@tb1629]

If you dont drop then your a shithead.

[@Champino443]

Tb wtf are u talking about ya clown

[@ZeLogicnator5k]

This video was very helpful. I have a 5 acre lot and was researching shot placement to prevent runs as my previous harvest was with a bow and it almost ran off property. Not a bid deal, but something I would rather not deal with. This placement plus my 20ga slugs @

[@racegts]

Same situation, 5 acres- so 30 yards and less would a 12ga slug be too much?? I’m thinking that either 12 or 20 gauge is the way to go when compared to a traditional rifle round that may tend to go through and through, but would it still shut off the breaker box?

[@ZeLogicnator5k]

@@racegts you can go wrong with either @ 30 yards. As far as too much penetration with the 12ga, if you hit the shoulder blade no. If you happen to miss or just so happen to only hit soft tissue, it depends on what's behind the target. If you can shoot from a higher angle, that's obviously best as the drop will put the round into the ground. Honestly I would go with whatever you have slugs for, has the cheapest ammo, or even use 00 for the 12ga at that range.

[@wiscokid9890]

12 GA. 50 or less yards that deer is toast with this shot! I try to aim right behind the should but having a smooth bored barrel the bullet floated usually less than 6 inches in any direction of where i was aiming. Mostly northwest of my crosshairs is where the bullet would land typically and just drop them. Hunted in shotgun only area for years! I use a 350 legend rifle now with winchester deer season XP 150grain and I have to say I love it WAY better than my shotgun! Way more accurate and it 100% puts them deer down! Furthest I've had one run with that rifle is 30 yards! 4 deer taken with it now. I love it! Give a whirl I bet you'll like it!

[@drewswigart1257]

good tip for rifle. as for the crossbow i shot a nice 10 point at 50 yards with a $250 killer instinct 380. deer ran probably 60 yards before it died.

[@jackinsane6928]

I have shot 46 deer in my life,using 12 gauge,.243,.264,and now I use 7mm rem mag.shooting every one of them in the neck and not a single one has ever done anything but drop

[@davidfriesen9512]

Wow! That's the best hunting top I've ever heard.👍 I never liked the idea of an animal running 75 yards and then expiring.

[@jonathanyates5198]

They can run 75 yards in seconds

[@SoloRenegade]

if you're not a good shot, it's not like everyone has a say in the matter.

[@rickburr9605]

High neck on bucks & head shots on doe has worked for me for 20+ years. Drops them on the spot.

[@thomash196]

How much shoulder meat are you losing from bloodshot scapula damage. I’ve been there and done that, and would NEVER, EVER shoot for the shoulder scapula again. Double lung or heart shot is THE ONLY way to go

[@eggbert191]

Difference between meat hunter and trophy hunter. I'm with you

[@robertboyd3863]

Nonsense

[@johncrouch5778]

We always grind the shoulder anyways so it doesn’t matter much to me

[@papajohnsy6659]

So you prefer the deer to endure extra suffering and pain, and also have the chance to run into an area that would make recovery difficult sometimes impossible, just so you can get an extra lb of meat? You sir seem extremely greedy, valuing a few extra bits of food over the quick death of the animal.

[@thomash196]

@@papajohnsy6659 no bitch, I respect the animal and hate waste. I kill an animal and I honor it by feeding to my family, eating it myself and making sure I reply to ass hats like you for making dumb fuck comments.

[@DannyHarris-o5g]

You said with a bow the deer will recover and live, if the arrow is stuck in him 99% of the time they die from infection. That’s why the do what bear do and that’s run to a creek or lake . But with the arrow stuck on him or her, they usually die 2 or 3 days later.ive found deer other people shot dead with the arrow still in them, most break off but they still die

[@gregmulfort9577]

Interesting. Good to know, but I think I'll stick with the vitals.

[@mikewilliams7218]

What's more vital than all the nerves going to the brain? You need to research why this shot is best a far as loss of game verses your behind the shoulder shot. I don't have time to explain it to you. I'm headed back to sleep. Good luck

[@raytyre750]

@@mikewilliams7218 Oh boy. If you like to kill but not eat venison, I guess that's your business. I'd rather not give half my deer to the coyotes.

[@BB-pg5kl]

@@raytyre750 my thoughts exactly. I'm going to guess most deer hunters hunt for the venison. Lots of good venison destroyed with that shot.

[@williepelzer384]

Good luck finding them if your in thick brush, I have blown the heart into jello and he still ran 100 yard . Have seen those shots fail many times, they die for sure but many times you may not recover them! And that is wasteful.

[@mephistopheles6806]

7mm 08 in the bread basket works for me everytime. Shot an 8pt this year and he dropped instantly with a lung shot. Shot 3 does one dropped instantly with a heart shot, the other like 30 maybe 40 yards max with a front side through shoulder and heart, the other trotted off and died only about 30-40 yards with double lung shot. I'll stick with aiming for vitals.

[@keithstettler647]

Confusing terminology. When you describe your shot placement in the vitals, I've never heard that ever referenced as the bread basket. Bread basket has always meant stomach, unless someone here can learn me something new.

[@TommyMarler]

​@keithstettler647 I've always heard the bread basket referred to as behind the front shoulders

[@buyUSA9808]

​@@TommyMarler The terminology you're looking for there is the "boiler room". Breadbasket is generally the GI area

[@gud2go50]

I was always told to drive that shoulder into the vitals (with a gun). Seems to work better, than hitting the deer further back like many hunters tell they do. I have helped to track a deer that had this perfect placement when we finally found it, but it ran for a long way. Driving through the shoulder seems to work better in my opinion and limited hunting experience. I dropped one deer on the spot, by aiming small and missing small in the shoulder area. I will keep using this method, until I am proved wrong. Seeing an animal suffer is very painful to me.

[@mcmuskie2563]

I hit one running at me in an Angel, bullet ricocheted off the shoulder blade, (308) dog found it 1/2 mile away the next day. Be careful of your angel.

[@robertdahle7216]

@@mcmuskie2563 It didn't Is ricochet off the shoulder you just made a s***** shot dumb a**

[@derekjsmith1453]

i have used this shot for years and not had to track one. every deer on my wall is high shoulder or neck shot and they drop on the spot. Poeple question it and think i am nuts for taking such shots just glad i see someone validate it. great video and great way to break it do, ive tried explaining all the nerve to to even my dad but most dont understand until they see it happen. Oddly this was an accidental shot i made and tried again and never went back to the behind the shoulder.

[@TommyMarler]

I'm with you. I've argued with people for 35 years or more.

[@paulsimmons5726]

A great lesson, hope to see the results of I get a chance to go this year. Thanks for sharing!

[@tylertapp131]

I've always gone for neck and head shots, seems to work pretty good, been doin it for years.

[@ikesquirrel]

That quartering shot with the rifle destroyed half the loin!

[@gregeliason2536]

Yes, I agree. You want to drop that animal quickly and humanely, but the sacred 'Strap! There is a bunch of meat there, wasted.

[@BodyRocker70]

You are exactly right here in Louisiana people like to double lung shoot them but they run forever before you find them. I always sacrifice some front shoulder meat which is crap anyway by shattering those front shoulders and I have never lost a deer. You are correct it drops them in the spot you shoot them and they do not move however you do lose a little bit of shoulder meat due to the blood shock

[@Giolongino1963]

The deer might drop where it stands with the BP shot, but now you've wasted 50% of the meat. Both shoulders, especially on exit wound side will be filled with hematoma along with lead and bone fragments. Who needs lead poisoning... other than the deer? If you take a neck shot right at the base of the skull and C1, there is very little waste and trust me, once you sever the connection of the brain and the spinal cord, that animal will drop like a rock. If you miss low, you will sever the carotid arteries and/or jugular veins which is just as good. If you miss high, the deer lives uninjured/unwasted. If the distance is to great for this target, then a heart shot will insure a quick kill as well. The most ethical thing to do is efficient practice on the target range. If you have trouble hitting C1 or the heart, then you will also have trouble hitting the brachial plexus.

[@rexmontana3058]

Totally agree....I like to minimize meat destruction. I’ve never done a high shoulder shot, but I know they are effective for sure. It seems to me you would ruin an awful lot of meat with that shot, including some of the back strap. I do understand his reasoning for doing it, like he said, he’s hunting small areas of private property and sometimes can’t go on to someone else’s land to track. I always go for the boiler room🫀🫁, and have never had one go more than about 30 yards though...🤷 They’re not gonna make it far without lungs!

[@snakeman48]

I hunt on my 5 acre wooded plot. I always use head shots for doe's and the neck shot for Bucks I might want the rack from. All shots have produced DRT's

[@Giolongino1963]

@@snakeman48 Absolutely. I think the best remedy to his situation would be to get to know his neighbors and get permission in advance to track and retrieve his game if one ever does cross property lines. If he worries about disturbing the neighbor, have the number, give him/her call on a cell phone and see if all is clear to track and retrieve.

[@goddukee]

@@rexmontana3058 I always found the eyeball is a very good target. Anywhere close will drop one

[@rchastain2523]

50% of the meat? It would seem you've never actually butchered a deer.

[@tobyhorn9641]

Your high shoulder shot does work but you will mess up a lot of meat but if you hit the neck does the same thing with less meat looks the second best is a face on shot at the halow space in the brisket otherwise stick to the hart lung shot and use enough gun

[@K3Flyguy]

Heart/lung for all bow hunters and maximum meat retention for gun guys, but this shot likely involves a bit of trailing a blood trail. High shoulder shot is for gun hunters only for instantly disabling a deer from running off, used often by antler hunters, not meat hunters.

[@guaporeturns9472]

Talking straight out your ass I see. I hunt for meat and use a high shoulder shot often. I shoot moderate velocity hard cast 30-30 handloads. High shoulder drops them every time with a minimum of waste. When I bow hunted I used a high shoulder shot on more than a few occasions and dropped them right there. You shouldn’t speak in absolutes... you’re just begging to be proven wrong.. like right now for example.

[@K3Flyguy]

@@guaporeturns9472 no sir, speak from my mouth, not my ass. Replies on u tube are understandable kept short. Much is lost in short, non face to face communication. I'm sure your a good and ethical hunter. I merely feed myself with venison legally, ethnically and humanly. But I do not speak from my ass when it comes to harvesting deer. Your pompous attitude and aggressive speech indicate your having a rough day. Understand, you sir are not the only person that harvests deer well. My ways are equally as pertinent as yours. The video is about high shoulder shots and gun hunting, not many guys can pull the poundage bow needed and be accurate enough to bust through the shoulder. Have a good day, and good luck this season!

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@K3Flyguy No, you are the self important , pompous one stating that you can tell a trophy hunter from a meat hunter by their shot placement. Ridiculous.😂 You spoke out your ass and got called on it. Sometimes it’s better just to admit you misspoke , like a well rounded , mature adult would. Instead you chose to do this , and here we are ... you trying to "wordsmith" your way out of admitting you said something stupid. Oh well.

[@jiggyjay682]

@@guaporeturns9472 Did your poppy finish on you or in you baby boy ?

[@whatevenisamedic]

Hit one today, dropped instantly. 6.5 creedmoor, plexus, gone...first deer ever taken 😊

[@chrisdavis3652]

I done it this year and it works like a charm.

[@hero3pov498]

I second that.

[@robertcaldwell9226]

I’m just wondering if the fact that the spinal cord is behind that shoulder blade makes a difference? I mean thanks for the lecture about all the nerves though. I’m pretty sure the smashing of the spinal cord is what drops a deer in it’s track.

[@mmedrano21]

Great anatomy lesson but your physiology could use some improvement. The brachial plexus, part of the peripheral nervous system, does nothing more than control the skeletal muscles of the anterior limbs of the deer. The loss of nerve conduction is downstream from the scapula. The “breaker” that is shut of immediately, in this scenario, is the use of the limb... which is why the deer drops immediately. It can no longer stand. Rapid incapacitation is is generally caused by central nervous system trauma or blood loss, which starves the central nervous system. Hydrostatic pressure is a better explanation for immediate death in a shot to the scapula.

[@Scoopster]

Good post, worth reading Terminal Ballistics if you want more detail. I shoot for the Brachial plexus every time with my rifles and not the high shoulder shot. Red Kettle has great diagrams on KZbin and the web too.

[@rossmcclure5618]

Thanks for this video . I hunt a small property and this shot has done great for me on 2 deer this year. Dropped them on the spot , didn’t have to ruin my neighbors hunting tracking a deer

[@randysanders6620]

Worked for me last Sunday of NY muzzleloader.. Hunt 10 acres and did not want to terrorize my neighbors with a deer on there lawn

[@John-mk7om]

If you do want to scapular shot a deer with a bow, use a heavy grain bodkin and high poundage bow. The point as I understand it is to crack the bone and send a shock through the nervous system rather than kill by bleeding as most archery hunts do. A good heavy bodkin with a correctly tuned heavy bow should work just fine. A 3 sided bodkin will probably split the bone apart with enough force.

[@colt10mmsecurity68]

I’ve dropped two deer with a 9mm 147gr Federal HST and another time with the Winchester 147 Ranger T’s, both in close range and in the scapula, just like explained in the video. Makes sense.

[@wtfbehindyou1892]

I hope to harvest a deer with my Ruger gp100 .357 mag later this week. Using a 158 grain JSP. I will bring my rifle in case of longer ranges but I'm hoping for a close range shot. Good luck this year btw.

[@boostimalaka1]

I prefer the Winchester SXT 124 gr +P for the extra velocity. Under 400 foot pounds of energy from a 9mm on deer isn’t the best option for deer hunting. It’s all about proper shot placement!

[@bwn60]

Interesting video and some great info. The question I would like clarified is how this shot 'kills' the deer. As a physical therapist I understand completely how severing the spinal cord (which in effect is what you are doing) will drop the animal as the signals from the brain can no longer reach the muscles, but how does this kill the deer?? It would seem to me what is happening is you are paralyzing the deer and will then have to use another shot to actually kill the deer. If this is incorrect can you please clarify how this shot kills the deer. thanks

[@jtmoney416]

Just did this shot with a crossbow a few days ago. Not intentional. Shot was about 3/4” into the left point of the scapula blade. Dropped it, got into lung though. Died in 20 minutes.

[@mikewilliams7218]

Really? This shot stops the heart, lungs, kidneys, diaphragm, every bodily function instantly. No signal from the brain.

[@bwn60]

@@mikewilliams7218 OK , so that was my question since my research on where heart/lungs innervate the spinal column on a deer turned up nadda.. Thanks!

[@mikewilliams7218]

@@bwn60 You are welcome. A complete severing of the spine, of all the deer I've killed, makes me feel the deer died so quick they think they are still alive today. It does damage some meat. If you want to research the average wounding loss of this shot versus behind the shoulder shot there is lots of info on it. Or You can ask my opinion, I've killed many deer, skinned around 6,000, and talked to many hunters. Up to you. 🇺🇲

[@Countryassjim]

I've taken high shoulder. I really prefer double lung or heart shot. You don't blood or waste nearly any meat. Yes long distance or small property I would more than likely take high shoulder just to be safe

[@danno1800]

This is a terrific explanation! Thanks - much appreciated…

[@Fit4C]

Jesus loves you all very much repent and believe onto Him and be saved from eternal punishment of sin amen, Jesus DIED for you

[@mkshffr4936]

Would the meat damage issue be less of a problem if you are using a big slow caliber such as 44 Magnum, 45Colt, or 12 gauge slug?

[@thesneakyapguy7172]

Love videos like this. And content like this. I know too many people that preach and preach and preach to use this and that broadhead, or this and that bullet. As if that is the only deciding factor to a kill. Shot placement is and always will be king. Last year I took a doe with a rage mechanical (I'll never use them again). The shot was a front facing quartering shot at the heart/lung. But my bow tilt threw the bolt towards the rear and I gut shot her rear and high. Poor shot but I lucked out by fully severing the Femoral Artery that is just below the spine. I like to inspect what my arrow or bullet actually damaged while I gut and field dress. I'll check every organ that was impacted to see exactly how it died. Basically an autopsy in the woods. But even tho I could easily prove that the shot placement cutting an artery in half. I still had family and friends giving credit to the broadhead. ANY BROADHEAD WOULD HAVE DONE THE SAME THING. All the head needed to do was cut the artery. Luck, is what happened. A lucky shot that hit the artery, forcing a rapid bleed.

[@tbjtbj4786]

Why will you not use them again? What did it do or not do where you want to use something else? From my limited use of a bow the mechanical killed better than the fixed heads and were more accurate to. I didn't stick with the bow hunting it was just not for me.

[@thesneakyapguy7172]

@@tbjtbj4786 that shot it worked fine. But I had a few that failed to deploy the blades. One even hit a tree and only deployed two blades. I simply don’t trust that mechanism of the Rage. I prefer the guaranteed opening of a broadhead that folds backwards. There’s virtually no way for that to go wrong. I do like the increased cut mechanicals have over fixed tho. This year I’m running 125gr NAP DK4 broadheads. With fixed blade muzzy as backup and long range throw away shots. I’ll still do my normal field autopsy haha. This go around I’m bringing two phones and a small tripod. I want to start recording that process.

[@richb8303]

Is this shot recommended with a crossbow?

[@gryph01]

I stopped hunting years ago. But I really like this video. Thank you for sharing an ethical way to bring deer down instantly.

[@jm52128]

If you are able you should get back out there sometime.

[@mafirearmsafety]

Good information, I’ve always done heart shots and it is amazing how far a deer can go with a heart shot, for me, as far as 45 yards! I will now concentrate on the shoulder.

[@Onemanstrash1]

we have seen them go farther with no heart...75 to 100 yards

[@randolphbehm877]

I can certainly see a use for this shot. Some of the reasons you’ve mentioned. I used to hunt overly hunted public land. One time I put a lethal shot on a buck and during his 100 yd death sprint another hunter cracked one off at him and hit the deer in the ass. As a young hunter back then I was upset knowing the deer was killed by my bullet but the last bullet in gets to pin the tag... I still prefer to center punch the rib cage and steer clear of major bone structures to conserve meat. But I mostly hunt private land these days.

[@guaporeturns9472]

Same here.

[@troyjohnson462]

Overly hunted public land is such a bad place to hunt unfortunately...your experience is one reason and safety is most important..yes if one can get onto private land that is the best!

[@chrisberg1228]

My 12 gauge drops them with that shot. My 20 gauge same shot took out both shoulders same shot. Deer kept going on adrenalin using back legs only. Caught up after couple hundred yards. Lot of meat loss. Will stick to boiler room in future.

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@chrisberg1228 every animal is different and can react differently to identical shots. My son just shot a three point Blacktail last Wednesday with his .243 that jumped higher than any deer I have ever seen. Right through the heart .. I bet the bottom of that deers chest was 6 feet off the ground at its maximum altitude.. it was crazy. I’ve seen em hump before but never that high. Trotted about 20 ft and fell over.

[@ianstradian]

I dropped a 120lb doe last week with this shot. It works, she dropped where she stood. The 270 bullet hit the scapula then the spine and basically exploded, there was no exit wound. There was an area behind the scapula the size of a large fist that was jelly. I found bone and bullet fragments in both lungs and the heart. Nasty wound but the doe was dead instantly.

[@DDHONLINE]

Way to go, Ian!

[@groundrootsoutdoors627]

Did I miss the short tracking shot with a bow? I’ve watched it and must have missed it

[@aliharajli95]

Watched it 3 times. Seems like i missed it all 3

[@DDHONLINE]

It's at the 3:38 mark ... if you are referring to a deer dropping from a scapula shot. Again, this is NOT recommended. In that clip, my arrow missed its mark. That happened about 6 years ago on a hunt.

[@groundrootsoutdoors627]

@@DDHONLINE oh ok I did get that but I thought you were going to give a more affective way but no worries. Thanks

[@stephenembrey883]

That shot placement also works very well with my 300 Winchester on cottontails...

[@countryboy3763]

Can u shoot a deer with 243 on high shoulder and it drop?

[@jeffwilliams9718]

Yes I just did . 243 high shoulder shot dropped imedieantly .

[@harkanezer]

Been doing it for 40 years.

[@mikewilliams7218]

Absolutely

[@scottkoprevich3128]

This explains so much! I keep thinking the bullet changed path and hit the spine!

[@Akhazmat907]

3:47 you get all shaky in the knees and your all full of adrenaline. I've never had that, I grew up my whole life here in Alaska, hunting moose, grizzly, black bear, caribou, doll sheep, elks you name it. Never got excited. Even when I was a kid, I just aim, shoot, go out gut it and pack home. I'm a subsistence Hunter. I don't buy meat from the store. To me hunting is just another chore, if I don't do it I starve.

[@DDHONLINE]

Hi Chris - yeah, I get a little excited even after all these years. Hunting is a rush, for sure, but I'm the same way in that I am a sustenance hunter. I don't shoot what I will not eat or provide for family/friends.

[@raphaeldumont-lavoie1985]

Yeah I get you, but for alot of us hunting is a privilege that we wait for a whole year before we can go harvest meat.. Quebec, anyways... 😓😓

[@mcmuskie2563]

Agree, I hunt for meat not pictures although I’ve knocked down some nice racks..

[@tatoo190]

What a great video. There’s not enough helpful videos like this on gun hunting

[@AFreeThinkingDawg09]

This shot only works if they’re almost perpendicular/broad side to you tho. Any angle and you risk a bullet glancing off the scapula and wounding the deer. That’s why it’s important to know deer anatomy and where the exit point will be. If a deer is quartering towards or away from you the shot needs to be adjusted for the angle of the deers internals

[@mcmuskie2563]

Agree, I had a 308 ricochet of the shoulder blade. Deer tumbled down a hill, left Blood,Bone and hair behind as it took off. I hugged my buddy thinking it was game over, then seen it take off. Next day the dog found it 1/2 mile away. Nearly lost it, I completely agree with you!

[@AFreeThinkingDawg09]

@@mcmuskie2563 thought I missed one this past season with a 308 165gr Barnes TSX (all copper hollow point). Found it 20 yards away in a creek bed. No blood whatsoever. When I field dressed it it had no heart and barely a lung left. They’re tough animals that’s for sure. There’s never a guarantee no matter what anyone says. Aiming for bone intentionally is a no no for me. I try to aim right in that bend below the scapula if possible and adjust for the angle. I actually prefer if they’re slightly angled so I know I’m getting vitals.

[@bigrob1887]

Exactly the explanation I was looking for, thanks. I'm a classic lungs and heart guy, but I'll be giving this one a try next time.

[@stevenbarron4370]

Great video. When I saw the title , I was afraid that you were going to tell folks about head and neck shots. As someone who has owned and worked a blood tracking dogs, I am very opinionated about shot placement and have seen many neck and head shots gone horribly wrong.

[@robertboyd3863]

Yes, head and neck shots are never recommended by knowledgeable hunters, I can see cull hunters using them on pretty much tame deer

[@guaporeturns9472]

Agree. Head has a lot of area that isn’t brain. Have seen several deer and elk running around with nose or jaw shot off... lived for a long time afterwards too... ugly.

[@jiggyjay682]

I only take headshots

[@_elijah_anderson]

Interesting, makes total sense… except doesn’t that shot ruin the shoulder meat? I hunt mainly for meat and a rack is a bonus here and there but I’m all for a deer going down faster to.

[@bryangeorge9461]

Most of the deer I have harvested dropped in their tracks whether it be neck lungs or chest. I try not to hit bone other than in the neck. Some say a neck shot is a bad shot, but when they are close it is instant death.

[@TheBlackrider85]

Easily accomplished with most modern crossbows as well, but I do agree that a lot of shoulder meat is sacrificed from this shot. I feel the quick death is worth more than the loss of some meat, but that's a personal opinion and everyone needs to hunt according to their own preference (within ethical reason).

[@larryfine4498]

In my state, property owners can not block you from retrieving your deer. If they do, one call to game warden ends it.

[@kennethhicks2854]

Here you have to obtain permission before tracking deer onto private then the owner has 3 options he can let you retrieve your kill,he can retrieve it fir you or he can refuse to do either then you call the game warden they will usually ask the land owner to grant you permission but if the land owner refuses the warden then will have to retrieve the animal for you.....I've only had one land owner refuse me and refuse to retrieve the animal but after the warden let him no how he felt about making a 40 minute drive from one side of the county to the other just to pick up a deer less then 70 yards onto his property I'm willing to bet he wont say no again..

[@tbjtbj4786]

What state makes you let someone on private property? I would have a problem with that.

[@larryfine4498]

@@tbjtbj4786 Massachusetts. We were told, by the game warden in my hunter safety course years ago, you can retrieve the animal on private property. However, he said don't get in to a confrontation. Call a warden instead. He will walk you to your kill.

[@georgesakellaropoulos8162]

@@tbjtbj4786 I would have a problem with some idiot that would let a dead deer go to waste rather than let the hunter retrieve it.

[@tbjtbj4786]

@@georgesakellaropoulos8162 I understand the wast. But to me it should not over ride properly rights. All of ore naboring property owners have a agreement on recovering animals. But if you had issues with a nabor or you were anti- hunting. Or the big one having liability if someone got hurt on your property.

[@jastilts]

Do you have a video that shows this method when using a crossbow. I’m using a Ravin R10x 425 ft per second

[@winstonskafte5505]

base of the skull works pretty good to and makes butchering much pleasanter .

[@russellkeeling9712]

I very much agree that taking the nerves is the way to drop an animal with no further movement. I do not agree with shooting through both shoulders to hit that small area. I find that creates far to much damage to edible portions of meat and much poundage is lost. It is just as large a target to actually shot the animal through the neck where that nerve target becomes longer and the velocity shock of the bullet is to your advantage without the massive meat loss.

[@garywest5896]

I'm a meat hunter, and I have been doing his neck shots for years, waste less meet and they fall in there tracks

[@ilovenythismuchilovenewyor5801]

What about a trophy buck u still take beck shot??

[@garywest5896]

@@ilovenythismuchilovenewyor5801 LoL I only shoot trophy cull bucks, I never could make those antlers eatable

[@ilovenythismuchilovenewyor5801]

@@garywest5896 man im asking if u see a trophy buck u want to mount 🤔

[@ilovenythismuchilovenewyor5801]

Are u still taken a neck shot on a trophy buck u want to get mounted ??

[@garywest5896]

@@ilovenythismuchilovenewyor5801 I'm 61 I've been hunting all my life and never had one mounted

[@SoloRenegade]

first deer kill was through the heart. didn't leave much of a blood trail at all. but we eventually found it by expanding our search radius systematically. it didn't make it very far.

[@mcmneverreadsreplys7318]

Interesting, and informative. I would have gone for the heart.

[@depressed4215]

I have shot a deer with a 450 bushmaster in the heart she ran about 30 to 40 yards she was very quick. Not an insta kill but a very good technique but it optimizes your chance of killing a deer.

[@michaelhedgepeth5106]

@@depressed4215 My Dad taught Me to shoot'em high like that many years ago. He never went into anatomy or anything except "break both of them front shoulders and his running away day's are Over!" I can still hear him sayin it. . he's been gone since 77. If Any of y'all still get the chance to hunt/fish with your Dad/Child DO IT !

[@depressed4215]

@@michaelhedgepeth5106 me too my brother in law told me either head,heart or lungs so the the blood doesn’t go to the meat as bad, what gun, bow did you use?

[@michaelhedgepeth5106]

@@depressed4215 ALWAYS a older(late 60's) 30-30 Marlin, with a type of sight called Buckhorn. It's a very fine(small) brass bead up front and a very small notch for rear sight and it has a bright white diamond tipped in the very bottom o the small notch. If the too tip of the diamond is centered up with the small brass bead an on Target..It's 💯 chance of putting the bullet on Target ! Hard to find ANY iron sights as good as those.

[@depressed4215]

@@michaelhedgepeth5106 I looked up your gun and it’s actually pretty nice, I’m guessing it has pretty good recoil tho.

[@jamisonbrooks5887]

Does this shot ruin any of the shoulder meat or backstrap?

[@DDHONLINE]

Yes - it will take out some shoulder meat. At the end of the day, a hunter has to weigh that potential loss. But speaking from experience, a few pounds of lost shoulder meat is worth the risk of having a deer jump a property line and not being able to retrieve it.

[@jamesvatter5729]

The "Crunch shot." I've never seen it fail to be instant.

[@chickennuggetinagutter.7864]

Instantly ruin a ton of meat

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@chickennuggetinagutter.7864 nope. My moderately loaded hard cast 30-30 and 45-70 hardly ruin anything , can eat right up to the hole. Drops em on the spot. You obviously have limited experience shooting big game with a variety of loads.

[@chickennuggetinagutter.7864]

@@guaporeturns9472 I’m talking about shooting bone trashes meat, and no rifles are not legal where I live.

[@chickennuggetinagutter.7864]

@@guaporeturns9472 oh and shooting high shoulder your destroying front shoulder meat your destroying some back strap your also sending bone fragments through your back straps. When a shot to lungs pretty much nothing there except some scrapes. I can only see this shot if your worried about the deer running onto other properties.

[@jiggyjay682]

@@chickennuggetinagutter.7864 WRONG AGAIN BABY BOY

[@rollinOnCode]

If you use a bow or crossbow then is it a good idea to go for heart instead? Cause it might not go through shoulder blade

[@stanleymosel6049]

Sure can waste a lot of good meat with that shot.

[@DDHONLINE]

Yes, there will be shoulder meat lost, but this is a decision a hunter needs to make. For example, I do not use this shot 100% of the time. When hunting on small, private parcels where the risk of a deer jumping a fence is real (and not getting permission to track it), then I will use it all the time. On other situations, I will opt for a lung or heart shot. But at the end of the day, the meat loss is typically less than 5 pounds on an adult-sized deer, depending on shot angle and size of the deer (buck vs doe).

[@jasonbroom7147]

@@DDHONLINE -- Another time when you might forfeit some of the meat from the shoulder, and possibly the backstrap behind it, is when you're hunting very rugged ground, like swamps or areas with a lot of vertical drop. In places where 40 yards might mean a hellish time get a deer out, dropping it right on the spot can be worth the meat lost.

[@Bayan1905]

It really also depends on the gun and bullet you're using. Shoot a deer in the high shoulder with something like a .270 or a .30-06 and you will quite a bit. I have shot deer in the shoulder with a .30-30 and lost hardly any. The shoulder on the .30-30 as far as the meat went wasn't all that bad because the bullet didn't come apart. I shot a large 10 point in the same way with a 16 gauge slug at 35 yards, it hit the shoulder and went down into the right lung and stopped underneath there, I hardly lost any meat at all. I found slower, big bullets do less damage than lighter and faster bullets that come apart. I saw a deer taken in the high shoulder with a .243, 100 grain Nosler ballistic tip. That whole shoulder was a write off, the bullet fragmented, didn't hold together.

[@georgesakellaropoulos8162]

@@DDHONLINE What I can't understand is anyone who won't let you recover a dead deer that was legally shot. Just can't wrap my mind around that bleeding heart mentality.

[@tunafish8769]

@@georgesakellaropoulos8162 It's called being an asshole.

[@MrRyanmcmahon]

Will this work the same for coyotes?

[@DDHONLINE]

Yes

[@rancewarschak6304]

Destroys a lot of meat .... I’ll stick to the double lung

[@horsefly1020]

Yep. If it's super late evening in thick woods high shoulder shot is the way to go.

[@tangovue6840]

I agree 100% with you. All my shots, from bow to rifle have been double lungs. If I cannot get that shot I do not shoot.

[@mikewilliams7218]

Good way to wound a deer.

[@joshp2542]

@@tangovue6840 The last doe I took was a clean double lung shot with my crossbow. It ran 30 yards then dropped. I don't understand the idea of loosing part of the backstrap just so it doesn't run 20-40 yards.

[@tangovue6840]

@@joshp2542 Huh... I think you responded to the wrong guy. I, like you, rather take a double lungs shot. My original response was to Rance. Perhaps you should read more carefully before posting to specific people?

[@wiseguysoutdoors2954]

My first two deer were taken with a. 222 Remington and both were shot center body, right where the neck meets the chest. Dropped both deer in their tracks. Stone dead. Pretty much where he said the ulnar nerve was

[@edwardsadler6003]

This man is dead on that's the only shot I take, I track alot of deer for family and friends who still believe in the right behind the shoulder shot and it's amazing how far the deer can go after that shot.

[@rpcoltrane4340]

The deer that you are tracking for family and friends are clearly because they shot right behind the shoulder with the animal quartering toward them rather than quartering away. If the deer was quartering away and they shot right behind the shoulder that would result in a double lung/ heart shot and they could run for less than a minute before they have lost too much blood; adrenaline is what lets them run for that long. If they use an excellent broadhead and get a pass through and are not shooting behind the shoulder and too low; the deer should be on the ground not too far from where it was shot. Regardless of whether it was a shotgun slug or a broadhead. Maybe if they are shooting a .22 it might be able to go amazingly far.

[@edwardsadler6003]

@@rpcoltrane4340 yes I agree with some of what your saying I’m sixty years old and to this day I like tracking deer for others. But me I’m on the shoulder with any gun I’m using, all deer are different I’ve seen heart shot run for hundreds of yards and same with double lung, and if you hunting Midwest agro fields but we hunt the nastiest stuff in nc and sc and the swamps is there favorite place to run the bloods harder to find in water like that and I’ve seen them wallowing in the mud to help with there injury or something like that. Have a great year my friend.

[@rpcoltrane4340]

@@edwardsadler6003 Yeah, Midwest/NorthEast; Ohio. I guess I have to try that. You have way more experience than me. Have a great year too.

[@Saltystylez]

@@edwardsadler6003 You're right about that. I shot a doe right behind the shoulder this past week using a 12g shotgun with buckshot and thought I dropped it when it fell 3 times trying to run away. Then it got up and took off about 100 yards away towards a large stream and we lost tracking on it at the water. Searched for almost 2 hours.

[@ferret19731]

My dad heard of that shot and tried it on a large buck that snuck in on him about 60 yards away with his .270. Standard Remington factory ammo, and he destroyed both shoulders and the entire neck. Not enough meat left to justify the shot. Since then, he's back to double lung just like the last 60 years hunting.

[@twhatmore]

Studying anatomy for years, this is partially accurate. Yes, 100% the deer drops on the spot with this shot but his rationale is only partially accurate. The deer dies quickly because of the hydrostatic shock from the energy transfer from the bullet to the vitals and thru the nervous system to the brain. The nerves he discusses are all nerves that control the muscles of the front leg. You are not killing the deer because you’ve damaged the nerves controlling the leg muscle. Your killing the deer quickly d/t the energy transfer to the vital organs, the deer drops because you destroyed the “muscular nerves”.

[@dkn2128]

I work in trauma neurosurgery and you nailed it. Good video but your follow up explanation is spot on. Hydrostatic shock can also causes hemorrhaging in the brain. Thanks, from one anatomist to another.

[@crimehqstories153]

I was 12 years old when I first killed a deer with a .243 .It was a 6 point buck And it dropped dead when I shot it.

[@wildwills]

Single bevel broadheads go through bone like butter even out of my longbow.