As you probably know, the National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) promotes responsible bowhunting through education. The NBEF organizes and implements its International Bowhunter Education Program (known simply as Bowhunter Education) worldwide by supplying educational materials, student and instructor guides, charts, posters and other support materials. The NBEF often works with local, state and federal authorities in the administration of Bowhunter Education.

For many years, one the NBEF’s favorite teaching tools, the Mini 3-D “Stick Pin” Deer, was frequently requested for purchase but it was unavailable. Good news: The NBEF has it back in stock and available for purchase.

The Mini 3-D ‘Stick-Pin’ Deer — and also the Mini 3-D Bear — are tremendous teaching tools when it comes to shot placement with a bow and arrow. And a special FYI for elk hunters: The Mini 3-D Elk is expected to be reintroduced soon.

Constructed of an ultra-durable foam by Rinehart Targets, the Mini 3-Ds measure approximately 12 inches nose to tail. One side of the Mini 3-D shows the animal’s lifelike hide, while the other side reveals the animal’s vitals and bone structure. The Mini 3-Ds come with a mock arrow shaft that works well for teaching shot placement. 

The way it works is you hold the Mini 3-D so you’re seeing an animal as you would in the field, either from the ground or a treestand. Using the stick pin, you mimic the flight of an arrow, choosing the spot you think is best for the given shot angle and elevation. You leave the stick pin in the Mini 3-D, then turn it around to check out whether your arrow (stick pin) penetrated the vitals.

Not only are Mini 3-Ds valuable in Bowhunter Education classrooms, but outfitters and guides can use them to discuss shot placement with clients. Even if you don’t operate a whitetail or bear camp, Mini 3-Ds are popular among hunting buddies in deer camp who want a simple and effective way to talk about archery shot placement. Archery shops should have one on-hand to help customers understand proper shot placement, and consider stocking them for sale, too.

MSRP for either the deer or bear versions is $75, but dealers can order them for $60 by calling the NBEF at (605) 716-0596, or sending an email to info@nbef.org.