I think alot has to do w/ the area and the capacity of the land you are hunting. Some areas just have bigger and more abundant bucks (ie midwest) than others. In those areas I think taking them consistantly is the key word. Up this way it has much more to do w/luck and having the right "spot".
I personally do not think you can fairly judge someone's ability unless you look at all the factors involved (public vs private, managed land, carrying capacity, hunting pressure, etc.)