Minimum bow weight for javelina?

Quercus · July 18, 2014, 07:15:00 PM

Could I ask some experienced javelina bowhunters for their opinion?

My 11 year old daughter wants to hunt javelina with my dad and I in Arizona this coming winter (she will be 12 by then). She is a good enough shot with her 30# recurve; her arrows will be around 325 grains. I see that AZ requires a 30# minimum draw weight for many animals including javelina with 40# required for elk, etc. Is that really enough oomph to kill a javelina ethically? I have never hunted them before and don't know how tough they are, either in hide or character. I would love her to hunt with us, but I don't want to encourage her to hunt unethically. Your thoughts appreciated.

July 18, 2014, 07:24:00 PM

I have a friend who routinely kills animals with a 31# (at her draw length) recurve. She is a serious hunter who has well tuned equipment, razor sharp broadheads, and only takes close shots at non-alert animals.

30# will do it, but shot a placement is most critical!

Bisch

wingnut · July 18, 2014, 07:28:00 PM

javies are 50 # on the high end. She'll do fine.

Mike

stevem · July 18, 2014, 07:55:00 PM

50 pounds would be a real big one, and 35 pounds more typical. They are very narrow side to side. Probably 6" of penetration would result in the broadhead exiting the far side. I don't recall their hide being anything difficult. I think this is a fine idea. This isn't to brag, but I have killed about 14, all with recurves. They are not a tough animal. Here is a tip- if you blow a shot, just sit tight. One or more will usually go the wrong way, and in a few minutes will come back though where the herd split up looking for the gang. Many of my pigs have been these lost ones.

Cory Mattson · July 18, 2014, 07:57:00 PM

my daughter and a bunch of other kids have killed hogs and deer with us using 30# or so - lots of em around the size of javalina - but we use heavy arrows - we don't go lighter. We are 100% recovery with a bunch of kids on their first traditional hunts.
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Quercus · July 18, 2014, 08:54:00 PM

Thank you all for your responses. I was expecting a mixed bag at best, but it sounds like 30# should be okay. My daughter will be thrilled!

old_goat2 · July 19, 2014, 12:05:00 AM

I've only shot one javellina and it was with a 44mag. Like anything else, don't set her up with a snuffer or something similar, go with a highly efficient two blade and keep em sharp for her! Post some pics if she gets one!

Caughtandhobble · July 19, 2014, 12:15:00 AM

She will be fine with a well placed shot.

oldbohntr · July 19, 2014, 12:55:00 AM

Javelina are not tough....unless you're planning to eat them! Then, you REALLY have to know what you are doing!! It's not that hard to get close, and she's better off with the setup she shoots best. As others have said, they're made for the bowhunter, and can't see well at all. Confidence in her shooting and a sharp broadhead are truly important-the piggies will give her the chances!

term · July 19, 2014, 01:44:00 AM

As said above, javelina are made for bow hunters. Iand you are all going to love the hunt. 30# will be fine, and i think its the best thing to hunt for a young archer. Good luck

Friend · July 20, 2014, 11:14:00 AM

Will be looking quite forward to reading of her hunt this winter.

locohunter · July 27, 2014, 10:26:00 AM

I killed several in AZ growing up. If you keep wind in your face, you can get VERY close. 5-10 yards. She will be fine with well placed arrow. The hide is thin and the hair, while wiry, is not real thick. Just killed two with my son last winter. I want to go back every year.