I do care abut meat damage....not so much that I'll pass on a shoulder shot, ..but it is not my first choice. I'm always looking for the surgical boiler shot...just behind the shoulder of a deer stepping forward...tuck it right in where the esophagus and trachea join the heart and lungs. I get pretty close most times and sometimes hit it right on.
By the way, the shoulder cooked whole can be some excellent eating. Theres really not much to it either if you like to cook. It's an all day slow-cook event and it can turn out some of the best stew type meals you have even tasted. Al you need is a big enough roaster, your favorite spice and enough braising liquid to cover the meat almost half-way. If anybody's interested I'll post the general recipe directions and tips.