String jumping

[RobinBradbery]

Aim low. Yes I know. My problem is a bit more than just aiming low however.

I pull 50# on a Mathews MQ1, 24" draw. The last time I clocked it it was around 198. Pretty darn slow. I practice alot and can drill a traget at 35 yards. My problem is that when I aim at deer they just aren't there when the arrow gets there. They have already ducked and are usually a whole deer legnth away before my arrow arrives. It is getting frusterating.

I seem to remember that my bow clocked 280 when I first got it. My arrows are still flying fine. I don't know what to do to connect with those 20 to 30 yard deer.

Could my string of stretched causing my arrow speed to drop? Should I consider revamping my bow and trying to pull 55# or even 60#? That will mean new limbs. I am going to get a new string for sure. My old one is showing it's 6 yr age now. I love my string release but if I go with a newer release it might increase my draw legnth. Any ideas?

[Cotton]

280 is a little high even for a 70# MQ1. Check your Axel to Axel, it should be 37" also measure your Brace Height and make sure it is 7.5". If these specs are out then you've had some string and cable stretch. Another thing you might want to do is make sure your bow and arrows are supper quiet if they’re not already.

You may want to shorten your effective range to 15 yards and under. I’m shooting 300 fps and don’t like to shoot past 20 on deer due to their ability to duck.

[Cropduster]

Another thing is to never shoot at an animal that is on the alert. If you are familar with their body language you can tell when they are relaxed. I shoot a longbow that is very quiet and haven't had a problem with them jumping the string. Have someone check the noise level of you bow when things are real quiet when you are shooting and that my tell if you need to do some work to make the bow less noisy. Good luck.

[rtarcher]

Also, a six year old string is worn. I don't care if you've only shot it twice,
a replacement is in order. Time will take it's toll on a string and cables. Not
sure if you were talking about string or bow age, though. I shoot a 8 year
old bow with no problems.

Todd