Look carefully, the heart is sitting on top of the rib cage and the lungs are right on top of the heart. Above the lungs and below the spinal column is a fairly large hollow space. The spinal column is not anywhere near the top of the back like it is in a deer. Again there is a lot of space behind the head that looks as if it should inflict a mortal wound. Don't be fooled. The hog is a determined animal, and it will run away if it is not hit properly. The ear is always a good target.