Shooting in the dark, or very low light

[Wudstix]

When I'm shooting at the house and there is only moonlight, or maybe some shine from the street lights when I'm shooting it seems I am dead on.  Perhaps it is the need to focus more to see the target, or the elimination of outside visual distractions.  Whatever it is I like it!!!  Also, the arrow just disappears into the dark and all I hear is the thump.
 

[Terry Green]

Yep, its easier to focus as you have better 'tunnel vision' as there is nothing to distract you.  I recovered/shot a really nice 8 pointer in the dark at Solana years ago, and several hogs at night.

I have found the exact thing shooting through holes in the brush.

[Wudstix]

Less distraction make it easier for the few brain cells to communicate!!!
 


 

[Joshua Grimshaw]

In New York State you can shoot a half hour before sunrise and a half hour after sunset. I was hunting the cedar trees on my property. Half an hour before sunrise, a deer came out about 20 yards in front of me. I could tell he had a rack but it was tuff to see him. He hung out for a few minutes then decided to turn around and leave. When he turned around I thought I could see him better. I drew on him with my longbow and it looked good; so I shot. The deer took off; I felt I hit him well, plus I heard the crash. It was another 10 minutes at least before I could see the front half of my arrow sticking in the ground. I waited for 30 minutes after sunrise to go get him. Short blood trail.

[5deer]

     

[Wudstix]

Shooting in the dark or low light is good for I guess to remove distraction.  Shooting in daylight is nice too.  The only difference is that in light I get a glimpse of my arrow in the last few as it hits the target, or enters my gaze at the target.
 

[GCook]

I've been spending some time late evening shooting lately as by the time I get home, eat and rehydrate my system it's after sunset.  I like shooting in lower light however I also can set up a solar flood light to illuminate the target and Procter well after dark.
I find it helpful to call my shot placement before I walk up based on my follow through and such upon release.

[Wudstix]

I shoot when I can, as well.  Also, shooting at first light is educational.
 

[Tim Finley]

I have trouble with shooting in the dark or very low light conditions I tend to shoot low . If theres any lights at all like drive way lights or kill lights . no problem

[Wudstix]

I talking about, just enough illumination to see the target.  Moon or stars!
 

[Wudstix]

Seems like some pre-dawn shooting is in order, to catch the temperature below 70 degrees!!!
 

[PICKNGRIN]

Years back our club used to host coon shoots at night .  All cardboard raccoon targets placed on the bales around the course.  The only shooting light was a single flashlight aimed by one of your shooting partners at the target.  It was suprising how accurate you could be!

[smokin joe]

I have found that my ability to pick a spot declines in low light. Maybe it is because my eyes are getting older, but I think it is because once the target is dark a specific spot is too hard to see.

[Wudstix]

Looks like I'll be dealing with the less hot temp of 0600-0730 shooting.  Sunrise is @0635, so it should be as cool as it is going to be.
 

[Roger Norris]

Try shooting at a single candle during complete darkness.....

[Wudstix]

I've done that, pretty amazing.
 

[Wudstix]

It's 8:17 pm and temp just dipped below 90 degrees.  Went out to throw about 8 arrows and they were all close,(4-5") but my bow shoulder is sore thus the shots were sloppy.  Last one was pure Focus and right on the spot.  Good time to stop.
 

[todd smith]

Shooting in the dark is...different. It's not only forcing you to concentrate, the visual queues that help you with depth perception are minimized or gone altogether. At first, most folks miss because they're brain is giving the wrong information on the distance to the target. Once you practice it enough, you'll start hitting consistently. 

[Wudstix]

Tonight my plan is to ready about four arrows and do some shooting as the temp dips below 90 and the sun goes down.  Fire some St Jude arrows through my Big River D/R longbow.  She has been patiently waiting too long.
 

[Wudstix]

Temp didn't get much below 100, 98 currently.  Forgot how smooth this longbow is.  Even at one pound heavier than my recurve it draws smoother, feels lighter and I can anchor better.  Stepped off to my max of 18 yards before the yard drops off.  All arrows hit within 1" of spot, except when I didn't cant the bow and they sailed high and left.  Had a wonderful evening shoot.