RedAllison,
I cannot argue with your assertion that that being ridiculed is not fair. Certainly you don't deserve that - NO one does. If I added to your frustration, then you have my apologies. I mostly wondered whether the level of "persecution" is actually as great as you seemed to be saying. However, if you feel it to that degree, that is your right. As I said, neither you (nor anyone else) deserves that.

I, for one, have no comment or criticism to offer as regards your hunting techniques. Those are a matter of your choice, not mine. If they are effective, then good for you. I certainly agree, as a former Elk and Mule Deer hunter, that magnum rifles do offer an advantage at longer ranges. That is not open for dispute. That is why I used a 7mm magnum for such hunting. I don't enjoy hard-kicking rifles myself. I also prefer relatively mild loads now, as it is easier on the rifle, the brass...and my shoulder. My hunting ranges now rarely exceed 100 yards....and if the shot is beyond 125 yards, I forego it. For my uses now, a magnum does not make sense. However, that is entirely a matter of personal choice. If magnums are what you prefer...and they work well for you (in your specific circumstances), then more power to you. There is nothing whatsoever wrong with that.

I suppose that much of this kind of debate boils down to personal choices - which many perhaps try a bit too hard to foist on others, as the "only" logical solution. The debate about recommendations to new or perspective hunters has raged on forever....and probably always will. Everyone has his prefered cartridge(s)/ equipment. The problem comes in, I think, when any of us try to assert that our particular choice - is the BEST choice. I think that we all would do well to realize that there are many possible choices in this matter.....and no one is automatically "wrong" because of their personal preference. The concept that a magnum is perhaps not best for beginning shooters has a lot of weight....I happen to agree with that. But, yet again, it's a matter of personal taste. I for one, make a point of recommending magnums only to those whose needs involve longer-ranges - IF asked. That does NOT go to suggest, however, that magnums are a bad choice. They definitely have their uses... as I know from direct experience.

So, to sum up..... perhaps some of us should take more care in not being too assertive as to the ultimate wisdom of our particular preferences in equipment. There are a lot of choices available. If we stick to the facts and avoid hyperbole....and maintain a willingness to admit that our particular solution is NOT the ONLY solution...... then there might be a bit less acrimony. That, I suspect, would be pleasing to all. I intend to do my part.