Bob, your absolutley right, a 40 yard shot should never be attempted when there is the presence of doubt. Archery is more mental than physical and when doubt is present, doubt takes over. The same variables exist at 40 yards as they do at 20 yards. The animal is the same size, the animal can move just as far in that millisecond it takes an arrow to travel at 20 yards as it can at 40 yards. The biggest factor in taking/not taking a shot at that distance is confidence in your ability, execution of your shot and simply put mechanics. Not everyone should attempt it and most shouldn't ever shoot over 30 yards. I've passed animals at 35 yards because the shot is not right or I had doubt. I've passed them at 20 yards as well. I've taken two shots over the 40 yard mark both being double lungs and I've passed animals over 40 yards as well. The two I took were not record book animals. I've missed under 30 yards, and one at 40 yards because I held low. I've had misfortunes at 20 yards, not one over 40 yards.

It comes down to the hunter and the hunter alone at that very moment the opportunity exists. All we can hope for out of one another is that you use your best judgement, don't shoot beyond your abilities and pass it if doubt exists. We live with ourselves alone and each of us knows that ache in the pit of the stomach and I believe we all strive to never feel it again. Do what is right for you and you alone, I will do the same.