November 04, 2010
By Randy Ulmer
By Randy Ulmer
Over the years, I've taken about half my big game animals while shooting from my knees. That's partly because I do a lot of spot-and-stalk hunting, and after crawling into position the last thing I want to do is to stand. So I shoot from my knees. I also shoot from my knees when hunting from a ground blind.
This position has a lot of advantages — it decreases the size of your profile; it keeps you low to the ground and out of the wind; and, if done right, it helps you to hold steadier.
Some folks have a hard time shooting accurately from their knees. I think the following ideas will help any bowhunter.
Rather than rising all the way up by straightening your knees, shoot while sitting on your heels. That's the steadiest position. Position yourself at just the right angle to the target. You'll find it difficult to hold steady if you twist either left or right while at full draw. Carefully place your hand into the grip exactly as you would while standing. This may be a little difficult, because your bow is in a different position. Maintain good T-form — meaning your arms are held perpendicular to your torso. Make sure your bottom limb won't hit the ground. Don't slouch. Keep your torso upright, and use back tension. Maintain good follow-through. Most importantly, practice shooting from your knees at home. With a little practice, you'll find yourself shooting as well or better from your knees as you do from a standing position.
