Taking a 40 yard shot on a deer has nothing to do with ethics. It has to do with archer skill as everyone has already stated. Right now I will not hesistate to shoot a deer at 40 yards, I can place 3 arrows inside a golfball sized group at that distance. I am now working my way to 60 yards so I am prepared for my upcoming antelope hunt out west. If you don't feel proficient at longer ranges, don't take the shot.