When should you take the shot?

Leaving aside the stalking skill, knowledge of the quarry, correct rifle mount, stability of position, breath control and all the other disciplines needed for an accurate shot, what do I wait for in those few seconds before the message is despatched to squeeze the trigger?

Period of calm

With the scope crosshairs on the target, a clear sight picture, and your breathing is under control, there is a brief moment when it all feels right to take the shot. A moment in which you feel focused and calm.

“If I do not take that shot at that precise time I will lose that opportunity”

Of course, there has been lots of preparation before this. But there is a critical point after the rifle has been mounted, is steady and the deer is clearly in your sights, that all these actions become one. It is at that precise moment I know that a clean and humane shot can be taken. It could be as little as a second or so of realisation and if I do not take the shot at that precise time I will lose that opportunity. If that second or so is not taken advantage of (it does happen), then rather than take a rushed shot I would start the process again before following through with the shot. The result of this will often mean that I lose the chance of that deer. However, think what the outcome would be if you ignored the perfect moment. That should tell you that it’s not worth taking a hurried shot.

Postscript

We have some catching up to do in March. It has been a very erratic season where our roe deer are concerned. With the game season over, the deer will get back to their normal territory and movement. They certainly aren’t that hungry yet.  The promised cold weather has not arrived and they are doing well.