For some, hunting is a casual hobby. For others, it’s a way of life, a tactic they use to bring in a significant amount of food for the year. Some do it basically as a sport; they know they don’t need to do it, but they enjoy it and want to improve their skills and results.
For all of these individuals, one common factor is that hunting can be dangerous. Below are five injuries and tips to help you avoid them.
The gun fires on its own
An accidental discharge of a firearm can cause serious injuries and may even be fatal. The best way to avoid it is to always assume a gun is loaded and to keep the safety on at all times. However, there have been reports of guns firing without anyone pulling the trigger, so this can happen even when you’re careful.
You fall from the treestand
Treestands offer a great advantage, but a fall from 20 or 30 feet can be devastating. Since these falls often happen to tired hunters, a good tactic is to secure yourself to the tree with a rope and harness. You can even use something as simple as a kayak strap lashed around the tree.
The bowstring hits your hand
This is bad with any bow, and can lead to serious cuts and lacerations. It is arguably the worst if firing a crossbow, though, as your forehand grip can put your fingers in the direct path of the string and amputations are possible.
You suffer a knife cut
Hunters wear and use knives to clean game. Injuries can happen while cleaning or simply while carrying the knife. For instance, a hunter who falls from a faulty tree stand and lands on their knife could be severely injured in a remote location.
You get into an accident on the way
Most people have to drive to their hunting grounds, sometimes covering significant distances. Car accidents are always a risk. If you get injured in one — or in any of the other ways mentioned above — make sure you know what options you have.
