Sonoran desert stumping

[centaur]

We are doing the snowbird thing right now, and where we are is some of the nicest desert country around. Love the look of the Sonoran desert; lots of saguaros and other stuff that will stick you if you give it half a chance. Stump shooting is hard on arrows if you aren't careful, but wandering the desert, bow in hand, is a great time. This country is extremely rugged, and is a great workout. Just be careful when stumping, and pick a target that isn't solid rock.
 

Mormon tea plants make for pretty good targets; they usually grow in soil that is a bit less rocky, so your arrows may get a reprieve.
 
It is cool enough now that you don't have to worry about snakes; once it gets a bit warmer, I will be watching my step to avoid the western diamondbacks that are thick around here.
It is a harsh but wonderful place, and it is great to be here rather than putting up with the Wyoming winter for a while.

[Eric Sprick]

Good stuff!  Like seeing different parts of the country

Eric

[wooddamon1]

Beautiful country.

[Maxx Black]

Looks like a nice place to lose your thoughts of the winter storms and such. To take a walk in someone else's backyard so to speak, looks like a fun day , for sure. Don't worry if an occasional arrow gets bruised,you will find time to make more when you get home. Thanks for the photos,good to look at , it is -42 with wind chill here today. Have fun ! Maxx

[maineac]

Beautiful, looks like a great way to spend the day!

[maineac]

Oops double post, but I will add I would love the opportunity to see the desert with bow in hand some day.

[Blackhawk]

Beautiful country and great weather in the winter.

Centaur, are you allowed by AZ law to pack around a handgun with you while stumping?  

What's been your past experience in encountering any two-legged varmits?  Home grown or south-of -the-border types?

[bill langer]

Been there, done that. Jealous!! Looks like you had great fun. Planning on going back this December...

[centaur]

Blackhawk, Arizona is an open carry state, and I pack, either open or concealed (I have a CCW from Wyoming, and it is reciprocal).
So far, no problemas with the varmints.

[steadman]

Looks like you're having fun Pat. Thanks for the pics. It sure looks warm  

[Charlie Lamb]

That Hill bow is getting to be pretty well traveled. Looks like you are enjoying it. That's cool bud!

[Tater]

Thanks for the pictures,..Nice to get away and enjoy a different landscape..

[chinook907]

Nibblin' on sponge cake. Watchin' the sun bake...

Thanks for the pics, looks fun.

[Longbow917]

Pat, I am sitting here with 5" of fresh powder (kind from the sky!) anticipating 4" more and I see THESE photos.....not cool!  I would love to be stumping there with you! That is a different bow than I have seen you with before, did I miss the post where you introduced her?  I love the looks of those ol' D longbows.  Fits that country well!  Enjoy your winter vacation!!

[Todweelz]

Looks awesome ! my first bowhunting adventures were in the desert around Tuscon 35 years ago , chasing cottontails, jack rabbits and quail, pics brought back some great memories. Need to get back there someday

[centaur]

This morning's hike/stump shoot.....
 
 

It's a dirty job, but somebody has to do it. I don't miss the snow all that much right about now.

[TLANE]

Was this in Tucson?  Is the last 2 pics taken close to Mt. Lemon?

[centaur]

Not Tucson; not too far from Superior.

[Richie]

Great pictures, thanks for sharing.  

[Big Lefty]

Beautiful!  What I wouldn't give for sunshine and warmth to shoot in right now!