But, thats getting away from the point. I think that long range capabilities will help keep the herd numbers in check, but also feel that more and more smaller bucks that should be left to grow will be taken just for something to shoot at.
I'm not understanding. I use bow, ml'er, and rifle. Just because I use a rifle doesn't mean I'm automatically shooting 500yds! Even with a rifle my shots are within 100yds or LESS.
What in the world does rifle hunting have to do with killing small bucks? I see plenty of small bucks taken by bow, black powder, shotgun, AND rifle.
The weapon won't change the PERSON'S ethics, standards, etc.