Shots Outside the Main Body Cavities

Shots that do not strike the chest cavity or the abdominal cavity may still cause immediate, massive blood loss and death. For example, shots that strike the neck (carotid arteries or jugular veins) or hind legs (femoral artery) will cause death. However, these shots should never be attempted because the size of the vital area is smaller. Big game animals are likely to survive arrow strikes in the shoulders, back muscles, neck, brisket, hams, or legs.