What type of shot is preferred when aiming for big game animals from short angles?

The broadside shot is preferred when aiming for big game animals at short angles because it offers a clear and unobstructed path to vital organs. When an animal is standing broadside, its body presents a larger target area, making it easier for the shooter to assess the distance and angle before taking the shot. This positioning allows for higher accuracy and the likelihood of hitting vital organs such as the heart and lungs, which maximizes the chance for a quick and humane kill.

In contrast, other shot types, like the quartering shot or angled shot, present more challenges. They involve hitting the animal at different angles which may require more precise aim to ensure that the shot reaches vital areas, increasing the risk of a non-fatal strike. While an overhead shot might seem advantageous due to a direct view, it often does not align with the vital organs and can lead to injury without a clean kill. Therefore, the broadside shot is favored due to its favorable balance of accuracy and effectiveness.