Change the bands when they snap and 9.5s are good on game as long as u hit them right i take squirrels all the time with them head shots are the best with small ammo like that but I have taken them with rib shots so yes 9.5 is fine for hunting I didn't even practice when I got a catty I just jumped straight in and I've not had any problems as long as you drop what you hit its dead that's how I see it anyway