Some of us can hit birds with practice, perfect conditions and the right equipment. Others have to rely on superb talent and natural ability. Lacking the later I tried the former.
What I learned from the entire process is that it is not the arrow or bow as much as the ability to adjust as you get older. A good shooter can shoot any bird in a number of ways and pick and choose which one he uses as needed. I have learned how to spot shoot low six when I flinch quickly or ride it out if I flinch late, shoot high two with a swing through after a great flinch and shoot low five with a sustained lead after another flinch. All because of great gun fit and more spasms than a fish flopping out of water.
But all modesty aside, every fitter sees something different and stresses what works for him. So if you have had a fitting and are not seeing results, get fit again. And as you get older do not think that it was a "lifetime" fitting. Work past rotatory surgery and you will learn how to mount guns differently. Get old and fat or loose flexibility due to neck, back, hip or knee problems and you have to make adjustments. You learn and adjust or just hit so few birds you tell people you just are there to watch the dog work. My dog likes retrieving more than running around and watching me miss birds.
I intend to see how much I have learned tomorrow when I get to shoot a few released pheasants with my middle son. He gets to shoot my Lefever 12 and selected a Ithica NID 20 for me. Bragging rights are at stake and he hates to loose. Just like I did 30 plus years ago. Perhaps I get a fitting for him on his next birthday.
