How Important is Scent During Hunting?

One of the most important factors to successful hunting is scent elimination. A deer's sense of smell is 60 times as sensitive as that of humans. By applying a system focused on scent elimination, a hunter can gain an advantage and increase his odds for success.
Function
Eliminating scent during hunting gives the hunter a wider hunting window based on the wind. Deer will detect human presence when the wind blows the scent in their general direction. But eliminating or reducing the amount of scent creates a wider hunting area that will not be detected.
Types
There are several different companies producing scent elimination products. Follow a system of washing clothes in special detergent and storing the clothes in scent-proof bags. Take a shower with scent-free soap and apply scent-free deodorant, lotion or powder.
Benefits
The number-one defense system for a deer is his nose. Eliminating scent reduces the effectiveness of this system and increases the likelihood that the deer will walk within shooting range.
Considerations
Do not forget to apply scent-free spray to all of your hunting gear, including backpack, boots and bow or gun. These items can pick up scent from your home or vehicle that can be detected by deer.
Warning
Stay scent-free by avoiding sweating as you hike through the timber to your stand. Scent is immediately produced once you start to sweat.

How to Measure a Bow Case for an Airline

Overview
Traveling through airports can be difficult with the increased levels of security and consistent changes in regulations. You can double the difficulty when traveling with bulky luggage, such as a bow case. Avoid paying extra fees for oversized luggage by researching the luggage requirements and correctly measuring your bow case before heading to the airport. The airlines measure the luggage in linear inches, which can be easily computed with a few quick measurements.
Step 1
Place the bow case on a table or similar surface and determine the overall length of the case by measuring the longest side. Start at one end of the case and run the tape to the opposite end and record the measurement to the nearest inch.
Step 2
Measure the width by running the tape from the front to the back of the case. This is typically the second longest measurement. Record to the nearest inch.
Step 3
Find the height of the case by measuring from the bottom to the top. Most airline-approved cases will be flat on top and bottom, making the height measurement easy to acquire.
Step 4
Add the length, width and height measurements to determine the total lineal length. For example, if a case measured 32 inches long, 20 inches wide and 6 inches tall, the overall lineal length would be 58 inches.

Things You'll Need
Bow case
Tape measure
Tips
Protect your investment by purchasing the best case you can afford.
Refer to the manual and product details to determine if the case is airline approved.
Warnings
For domestic flights in the United States and Canada, effective November 2008, the maximum lineal length size was 62 inches.
Always check updated information on your airline's website regarding luggage regulations.

How to Sharpen Broadheads

Overview
Broadheads are an extension of the arrow and are available in several different styles, including fixed blade or mechanical. Regardless of your choice of broadhead, the archer has a responsibility to the game they pursue, and that is having sharp broadheads. Sharp broadheads reduce the number of wounded animals and increase the likelihood for success with a questionable shot. Sharpening broadheads can be simple if you utilize today's sharpeners and a process that gives a razor-sharp edge every time.
Step 1
Screw the broadhead into the tip of the arrow using the broadhead wrench. This gives you a handle when you are going through the process of sharpening the broadhead.
Step 2
Place the file at an angle of 20 to 30 degrees from the blade and run the file along the edge of the broadhead from tip to tail with a smooth, consistent stroke. You can change from 20 or 30 degrees based on preference. A 25-degree angle is a good compromise that offers durability and sharpness.
Step 3
Flip the broadhead over and repeat on the other side. Run the file over each side about three to five times and go back and forth on both sides of the broadhead. Your first few strokes can be more aggressive to remove factory burrs. Gradually lighten the pressure on each stroke until the desired level of sharpness is achieved.
Step 4
Finish by softly running the file over each side one time to finalize the edge. Analyze the edge to look for consistency along the entire edge of the broadhead.
Skill
Moderate
Things You'll Need
Arrows
Broadheads
Broadhead wrench
Sharp file

Tips
Always sharpen the broadheads after shooting and hitting dirt or brush. The broadhead will immediately dull when going through dirt.
Practice, practice and practice different sharpeners and files, and try several brands of broadheads.
Keep a consistent angle in your stroke to keep the same edge.
Buy replacement blades as necessary.
Warnings
Sharp broadheads are dangerous. Handle with care.
Always store broadheads in a safe location away from children or pets.

Who Makes the Best Bow Release on the Market

Overview
Many different companies are producing high-quality bow releases but Scott Archery is consistently introducing new bow releases that outperform the competition. The company offers many different models and features that will fit the needs of any archer.
History
Founded in 1984, Scott Archery began making bow releases and have been introducing industry standards ever since. The Nylon Connection System (NCS) was introduced in 2004 which allows the adjustability to fit any size of wrist. In 2008, Jesse Broadwater, Scott Archery pro staff member, won the outdoor national championships.
Types
Scott Archery offers bow releases in single caliper with one moving caliper that attaches to the bow string, double caliper with two moving calipers, and the string loop that is designed to attach directly to a string loop.
Features
The trigger sensitivity adjustment is available on every Scott Archery model. This feature allows the archer to individualize the sensitivity of the trigger to meet their personal needs.
Considerations
Consider how you are going to use the bow release with your bow. If you focus on tournament shooting, you might consider a thumb release. If hunting is going to be your primary activity, consider a single caliper or double caliper.
Fun Fact
Every new Scott Archery release offers a five year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

Guide to Purchasing Hunting Land

Overview
Hunting land is becoming harder and harder to find, which has led many hunters to search for their own piece of land. Owning your own hunting land can be very rewarding and offers control to how you manage the wildlife. Purchasing your own hunting land has never been easier than it is today.
Research
Begin your search by researching the Internet or local real estate publications. Determine your hunting goals and center your search around that goal. For example, look for timber and crops if you enjoy deer and turkey hunting, or marsh and wetlands if you enjoy waterfowl hunting. Search for hunting land near your home. If the land is not easily accessible, you will not spend an ample amount of time at the property to make the most of the investment. Utilize Google Earth or MyTopo to view the potential land from above and locate creeks, hills and other terrain not seen from the ground. Always talk to neighboring land owners to find out how they manage wildlife and to see if they are willing to cooperate with your goals.
Locate a Recreational Real Estate Agent
Many real estate companies are turning their focus to recreational properties. Cabela's Trophy Properties and similar real estate agencies offer hunting land around the world. The biggest advantage to dealing with a recreational land specialist is that they research the area for you. Before they even list an available property, they research the area and list it accordingly based on the land features.
Consult the Bank
Determine your budget and the amount of land you can afford. Narrow your search according to the amount you are willing to invest. Consult a bank or group of investors to finalize the details of how you are going to pay for the hunting land. Look for a local bank which will make it easier to deal with in the future. The real estate broker will often assist in locating a bank willing to offer loans.

How to Attach Quivers to a Bow

Overview
For an archer, the quiver is an essential piece of equipment. The type of quiver used is dependent on the type of bow and how the archer plans to use it. Quivers typically carry between four and eight arrows and are available in many different sizes and colors. Most hunters using crossbows or compound bows will choose quivers that attach directly to the bow. Bow-mounted quivers offer many advantages as they eliminate the need to carry an extra piece of equipment to transport arrows.
Step 1
Lay out the quiver and included hardware and locate the screws. Determine the appropriate Allen wrench that fits the included screws.
Step 2
Line up the holes on the backside of the bow next to the sight and use the Allen wrench to tighten screws. Start by getting the screws hand tight and then tighten securely to prevent the screws from vibrating loose during shooting.
Step 3
If your quiver is a two-piece repeat the process for the second piece. Two-piece quivers can offer a lightweight option for the backcountry bowhunter.
Step 4
Align the quiver by adjusting the screws to position the arrows in relationship to the quiver. This will center your quiver and arrows on the bow.

Things You'll Need
Allen wrench
Screws
Tips
Review several different models that fit your bow before making a buying decision.
Consult your local archery pro shop for more advice.
Continue to check the screws and retighten as necessary.
Warnings
Be aware of quivers with small parts as these can come loose or break in the field.

How to Make Your Own Compound Bow Arrows

Overview
Making your own compound bow arrows enables you to customize arrows to fit your shooting style. Many brands and styles of arrows are available. You can apply different colors and lengths of fletching, add a customized wrap or add different colors of nocks.
Step 1
Determine your arrow length based on your draw length. Set your arrow saw and cut every arrow to that length. Take your time so every arrow is cut accurately. Clean any residue from the arrow shaft.
Step 2
Roll the arrow in an arrow squaring device to square the tip and clean any residue from the shaft. This will improve accuracy once the broadheads or field points are inserted.
Step 3
Prepare the insert epoxy included with the arrows. Apply a small amount of epoxy to the insert and use the installation tool to install the insert in the arrow shaft. Lay the arrows on a table and allow the epoxy to dry for 24 hours.
Step 4
Adjust the fletching jig so the clamp is about 3/4 inch from the end of the arrow. Apply a small amount of fletching glue to the fletching and place into the clamp on the jig. Allow the glue to dry as recommended on the package and move to the next until all the fletching is glued to the arrow.
Step 5
Install the arrow nocks and align the nock with your bow string and fletching.
Skill
Moderately Challenging
Things You'll Need
Arrow saw
Arrow squaring device
Insert epoxy
Insert installation tool
Fletching jig
Fletching glue

Tips
Use the squaring device as needed until the tip of arrow is square.
Experiment with different arrows, arrow lengths and fletching.
Consult your local archery pro shop if you have questions.
Warnings
Follow the instructions included in accessory packages.
Allow the fletching and insert epoxy to fully dry before shooting.