Handicap HuntingWhen most people think of handicap hunting, they think mainly of helping disabled people with limb mobility problems hunt by way of adaptive equipment.
However, we want everyone to know that they should not overlook anyone when thinking of crossbow hunting. ZJ is autistic and slightly mentally retarded but wanted to deer hunt because the rest of his family did. No one had even considered this as a possibility until he specifically asked when he could go hunting. Now, several years later, it is the one activity that not only brings him the most pride, but all of those around him. 
We are convinced that almost anyone can hunt, regardless of their handicap. You simply need to take the time to access the individual's limits and what they need, to help them succeed. Take small steps, this isn't a race. ZJ started hunting in a shed, near an Oak tree that had dropped hundreds of acorns. That year the crossbow was attached to a 2x4 that was nailed to the sides of the shed. A camo shoot-through netting was placed in front of him to help hide his movements. He shot a 4 point buck that year. After that successful season, we wanted him to be able to branch out regardless of his handicap, and have more areas to freely hunt.
This was accomplished by attaching a camera tripod to the crossbow with zip ties, to help with stability. The tripod is light enough to allow the crossbow to be portable, yet provides the steadiness, that he needs. We also set up blinds in various locations and place them over bait piles. Each year ZJ learns new skills. He has learned to hike through the woods, duck under branches, and climb over fences. Learning to sit still and stay quiet is still an ongoing lesson, that is improved upon every year. He goes out to hunt more often than the average hunter and frankly, puts most people to shame with the hours he is willing to put in. 
When ZJ got his first buck, a small 4 point, trust us, it was a world-record-breaking buck. It was the same with his first doe. Hunting has created in ZJ, a whole new person. He has become a man in his own right, and in some ways, a monster has been created, as he will now pass on bucks that he considers to be too small! When considering teaching a handicap person to hunt, you just need to think outside the box in helping them reach that goal. Ask yourself, "What will it take?", then go for it! For some hunters, the biggest handicap in their hunting, is not what they themselves can accomplish, but rather, other people's incorrect mindset instead.
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