Silverficker, my perception of you is not one of a, "chest thumper". I've always enjoyed your comments and contributions in this forum.Besides, you shouldnt care what I think. You, like all of us need to be satisfied in yourself and obviously you are.

In my opinion, there have been some great (there's that word again) responses in this thread. Most have responded, albeit with different words, that great is defined by a compendium of qualities and not just the results of a kill or number of kills, which may be elements within theirrequirement but not the sole determinant. In addition, most feel that we alone can define our own qualities for greatness and I agree.

To many in this forum, myself includedbowhunting is more than recreation or a pastime. It borders on an ideaology and therefore transcends a kill. It has become almost a way of life to many. A simple analogy may be; are Barry Bonds or Pete Rose great ballplayers. If you look at numbers, yes. If your perspective is broader it may be that they are simply cheaters. Your call...and you may apply the same rationale to bowhunters..as you wish.

Again my call for greatness is to a crochety old man that I spent 3 hours with, saw only one of his kills, never saw him draw an arrow but he had more impact on my bowhunting future than anyone in the next 53 years.

laxdad