In the past I've been just like you guys - get it as close to my stand as possible because I wanted to know what I was missing when I wasn't around. And while I dont' believe that the flash will scare a deer completely out of my area, I do believe now that it will make them alter their travel patterns, and even if it's just far enough to keep them out of bow range that's too much.

This year I'll be focusing on travel corridors into and out of my spot that are away from my stand. I would say 100+ yards minimum.