If its a buck, and I am very picky, it has to be pretty big. At least an 8, but a trophy class deer. I know everyones opinion of a trophy varies, but in the neighborhood of 135-140 as a minimum. And I have probably let more than one of these go. The deer has to look big to me. I am still proud to say I have never taken a buck I have had to make an excuse for. If there is any question in my mind, even if its on my own land, I'll let him go. I'm used to having unfilled buck tags, so it doesn't really break my heart. We have plenty of does, and there are always more that need killing, so why shoot a buck this year that would be a true giant next fall when you can have the doe? I just don't personally see the point. And if someone else would get more enjoyment out of that buck than I would by killing him, hey thats awesome too! But I'd just feel guilty if I shot a buck that wasn't truely at his peak potential.