Elk archery bow draw weights

[Dave2643]

I recently had surgery that left me too weak to draw my bow. I am 72 and have been fairly successful in bagging elk with a bow and still enjoy getting out that time of year. My bow was an Elite Hunter with a 70# pull. I am trying to regain my strength and have let the pull down to 60 lbs, which is all the local bow shop recommended I go. My question is what is the lowest weight of draw is an ethical pull for hunting elk? I may have to purchase a new bow.

 

[Wind Gypsy]

I'd hunt with a 50# bow. Heavish arrow and a small cut on contact fixed blade.

 

[Nick87]

I'd say you could go all the way down to
40 Pounds. It's just going to limit your effective range that's all. I am not and accomplished archery elk hunter though, so take my advice with a grain of salt.

 

[Jnasa]

I recently had surgery that left me too weak to draw my bow. I am 72 and have been fairly successful in bagging elk with a bow and still enjoy getting out that time of year. My bow was an Elite Hunter with a 70# pull. I am trying to regain my strength and have let the pull down to 60 lbs, which is all the local bow shop recommended I go. My question is what is the lowest weight of draw is an ethical pull for hunting elk? I may have to purchase a new bow.

60 lbs is plenty. That's what I hunt with and don't have shoulder problems. Many people are shooting heavier poundage than they need or can really handle.

Some states had a 50lb minimum for elk. So look to confirm

I think lighter is ok but will want to shorten distance which many people should anyway. If lighter lbs.maybe consider a fixed blade cut on contact broad head.

If using mechanical just look up if there are any recommendations with that specific one.

 

[Southern Elk]

With modern bows 50 is enough.

 

[Mallardsx2]

Minimal archery tackle brought this bull down. A LOT less than 60 pounds..