answer:Let me get the safety aspect out of the way. A compound bow should never be dry fired (string pulled back and let go without an arrow.). The bow can be damaged, delaminated, or weakened so that it can break the next time you load it to the limit. A “purist” would take it to a good archery shop and have them look at it under the microscope. A super purist would not even try it unless they knew the complete history from the owner. It would be a wall hanger – never to be fired again. I am not a purist. I would try it while wearing the heaviest gloves, body armor and face shield I could find around the house. I’d wear my Kevlar gloves, winter coat and chain saw face shield. for about a dozen shots or so until I had my confidence up. Your mileage may vary. Can you kill an animal with it? Heck yes! That is a true weapon. All you need for deer is 30 pounds and good broadhead arrows. Figure that bow will give you a lethal range of up to 20 yards. Most of your shots will only be around 10 yards. If you sight in and practice at 12 yards you will have a good compromise setting. DO NOT USE THE WOOD ARROWS! If they are old they can shatter and end up in your forearm!. Throw them away! Really!!! Figure on spending >$6 per arrow. Get carbon fiber or aluminum. Make sure the arrows are designed for at least 65 pounds. Practice, practice, practice. You will be sore but it is worth it. Enjoy.