Just don't know

[SS Snuffer]

Shot this buck Halloween  night. At 73 I was pretty proud of myself but then I got to thinking about the shot and my bow set up. It's a China bow, a Blackhunter 35# at 28 in. 480 gr. Arrow 250 gr. Upfront Swamp Shark, tuned to perfection. I shot it from the ground at about 12 yards. Bad shot in the gut broadside and didn't even get a pass through, didn't even brake the skin on the far side! Only because of my son's tracking skills did we find it. Through swamps and drainage ditches 800 yards and it never laid down. I know a better hit would have made a difference but, no pass thru? No bones hit . 60 years and many deer killed.  I would like to shoot more draw weight but can't hardly pull 35 lbs. When I'm cold. Just don't know.

[frassettor]

You should be proud. Great job. My sincerest congratulations to you sir . WELL done and way to keep after it 

[Roy from Pa]

Congrats on finding him.
Sounds like you just made a bad shot, it happens.

[durp]

Maybe a work out plan to keep ya in the game...congrates on a fine animal 

[Ybuck]

shot wasnt great, it can happen.
imo, your gear is fine for deer sized game.

keep on keeping on, and most important......congratulations!

[LoneRanger]

You are an inspiration! I hope that I have the grit to continue wielding stick and string at 73. Congratulations on a fine buck! 

[trad_bowhunter1965]

 

[H1tman7]

I wouldn't sweat it, there are so many variables that go into penetration in the moment.  Equally important to poundage is draw length - 35 lbs at 24" draw is not the same as 34 lbs at 30" of draw. Heck, persistence on a track to me is more impressive than a perfect shot. 

you could look at going to some of the micro diameter shafts, they do seem to help penetration in my experience (on game, not just foam or gel). Having the shaft as slim as possible so as not to drag. My kids shoot them - with short draw lengths and sub 40 lbs for 2 of them - routinely blowing arrows all the way though deer. 

Or do some exercises with with bow - draw hold - let down.  10x   DO BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT HANDS - to avoid neck issues.  Think this is something often overlooked by us.

[Wudstix]

Congratulations on the persistence in tracking this deer.  I'm creeping up on 67 and shot placement is important.  I'm lucky in that my body still allows 60#+ bows.  Chalk that up to luck and early athletic life.  Keep at it an shoot straight.
 

[SS Snuffer]

Thanks guys. I didn't mean to whine, was just not liking what I put the animal and my son's thru. I will take all of your suggestions to heart.
Thanks  much appreciated

[frank bullitt]

Nice deer!
You did it the Hard Way!
Have a great day!

[Carpdaddy]

That’s a great tracking job sir, way to stick with it, congratulations!

[rastaman]

Way to go sir and way to stick with the tracking!  Sometimes stuff happens regardless of age.  I feel your pain but some good advice above.