I live in North, and rifle hunted for yrs. To be totally honest with you. I feel safer up here in the woods with other rifle hunters, then I do in the south with shotgun hunters. Both areas I hunt north & south have plenty of woods, and similar terrain. I also hear alot more mulitple shots in the south w/shotguns. You often only hear 1 or 2 up North w/ the rifle. A rifle bullet will fragment easier, then a 1oz slug upon hitting limbs, tree's and such. I firmly believe the accuracy, and distance capabilities of the rifle will make hunters better aware of their potential. They know the rifle bullet travels much farther with greater accuracy. The mentality of the shotgun is under 100yds., less accurate, more shots needed. I personnally have never made a shot over 90yds with my rifle. The woods just don't allow it in areas I hunt. Most my rifle shots have been around 50yds. I understand many peoples concerns, but I think it deserves a chance, and believe you'll find a safer woods then you think.