Rifle Vs Bow Hunting In 2025

For starters, rifle hunting is a good way to enter the big game. However, this is only the case for some. Hunters I have spent time with started using bows from the start. Since the chances of hunting using a bow are slim. Rifles allow easy entry and a better success rate.

I started with a rifle and learned bow hunting with time. In the first few years, rifles were all I was interested in. With time, my interest expanded, and things changed. I started focusing more and more on bows and arrows.

One of the most critical aspects of moving from rifle to bow was prolonged hunting time. The archery season starts around September and goes till December, giving at least 3 to 4 months of hunting time. On the other hand, rifle hunting is limited to one month only and has a lot more hunting pressure in many zones.

Rifle Hunting Vs Bow Hunting – Easy to Hard

Rifles don’t need particular practice and much caution regarding noise. You won’t have to wait for deer to come near you. For beginners, it is best to start with a rifle. The success rate is higher. The only condition is knowing how to aim, shoot, and control recoil.

Why Should Rifle Hunters Learn To Bow Hunt Too?

This is my personal choice and is the recommendation to everyone hunting with a rifle. Get a bow and arrow and learn it in your backyard. After some success, try it in hunting season. You will know more about big game behavior, how they react to sound, and how they avoid predators. Your senses will be heightened. You will enjoy nature more than ever.

Hunting down a bull elk or big buck while 30-40 yards in complete silence gives ultimate chills and thrill. It is an effort only some people want to do. But real hunters who understand and love these majestic creations do. This is why rifle hunters should start bow hunting, too. However, a lot of learning is needed. For that, you can always learn from experienced hunters in tree stand ranger.

Which Bow Type Is Easier To Start With

Crossbow is easy and is more powerful compared to compound bows. However, it varies from state to state. In certain states where crossbows are allowed, there are limitations on draw weight. There are also other factors involved. It is necessary to comply with state laws.

Among bow hunters, there is a lot of debate on the legality of crossbows and the ethics involved. Some see it as a shortcut to bowhunting. Others say it harms the deer population. But, it is legal in several states. Hunting responsibly with proper education and training is essential. I have seen hunters misuse crossbows in woods and heard stories too. Some states offer training on this too. 
Most hunters say that crossbow hunting should be allowed. But my take is to regulate it, and it should be allowed under certain conditions or limitations. Thanks to Crossbow Hunting Survey (data of 2022).

My First Bow Hunt

The one drawback of hunting with bow after rifle is demotivation. You will see deer but not close enough to shoot a lethal shot. You will miss several shots at the start too. Waiting is another factor. Therefore, getting a tree stand to camouflage yourself from deer is recommended.

Another factor that plays a crucial role in hunting with a bow is scent and wind. I had to clear myself out of any smell or scent. Above all, keeping an eye on wind direction every time you go into the woods is another major factor that decides your success.

Without a doubt, these are important in rifle hunting, too. However, when you are out with a bow and wait anxiously for deer to come close for several days, every step needs more caution and care.

Over several years, my passion for bow hunting grew, and I started hunting bows on tree stands and bought several of them. I, with Henry, tested tree saddle hunting too back in the day.

Conclusion

Both bows and rifles offer different advantages. I recommend going with a gun. In the meantime, start learning bows, too. After 1 to 2 years, start bow hunting along with rifle hunting and maximize both use in the hunting season.

Bowhunting is necessary because it teaches many more fun aspects of animal behavior, surroundings, and environmental factors. It teaches patience, resilience, and strategy to hunt your prey in complete silence. The reason to start with guns is that they are easy and have a low learning curve.