When I hunt I only ever use the .22 (varmint rifle) and arrows. Most all animals can be killed with perfect pelts using these two weapons, you just need to know which to use. Small game arrows get small birds, snakes, squires, etc. .22 used for rabbits, muskrats, beavers, skunks, animals of that size. Regular arrows for deer, pronghorn, boar (I think). Anything larger use improved arrows.
Also, when using the .22, I never had an issue not getting a perfect belt regardless of where the animal was shot, if it falls into the appropriate category for the weapon. Just lock on and shoot. With arrows I usually have to hit them in the head.