The best place to shoot a deer is at the vital area around the heart and lungs, particularly aiming at the front side of the near shoulder. For a broadside deer (one standing sideways), the ideal shot is aimed just behind the front leg, between halfway and the lower one-third mark of the chest, slightly below the horizontal midpoint. This shot targets the heart and lungs, providing the most ethical and effective kill with quicker recovery of the animal.

Key Shot Placements:

• Broadside shot: Aim just behind the front shoulder, between the bottom of the chest and the top of the back, to hit the vitals (heart and lungs).
• Quartering-away shot: Aim at the opposite shoulder when the deer is angled away; this allows the shot to pass through vital organs.
• Elevated shots from tree stands: Aim behind the front leg or shoulder for wickets from slightly higher vantage points.

These placements maximize lethality and ensure a humane kill while minimizing lost game and preserving quality meat.