Here is how I look at it. I believe every hunter has his own max range based on environmental conditions for that day and time of shot. However, as a general rule this is what I plan to follow: whatever range I can consistently shoot 3-4 inch groups at under perfect conditions would be a good starting point for my max range. The vital area is larger than this, but you need room for error to allow for wind, adrenaline, bulky clothing, heavy breathing, standing on uneven ground, etc. To clarify, if I was shooting 6 inch groups under perfect circumstances, I would not make that my max hunting range since hunting is usually under less than perfect conditions.