1. Much of whatI read says that genetic makeup/potential CANNOT be determined from 1st year racks. So you have just as much chance at killing the next booner whether you shoot a forky or a basket 8.
Agreed.
2. What I (my opinion only) is that, a healthier herd is one that allows the deer to grow and reach thier potential and lets THEM sort out who breeds. (to the best extent possible).
Sure it (your scenario) lets them sort it out. But how is this different than letting the ones who make it through (sans AR's)do the same? We seem to be hung up on older deer having superior genetics. I can't think of another explanation. How is (_____") of headgear a better arbiter of who should breed or not?
To me....you're kinda looking at this from an "Affirmative Action" POV.
3. Bucks eluding hunters in PA have nothing to do with being the best at elduing hunters nad being the best natural selection tool, it ALL has to do with random luck.
Won't argue that. You guys have your hands full, up there. Valid point, here. Very.
4. The significance of small(less points) bucks living real long and dilluting down the gene pool is statistically insignificant. We are not over run with mature 4 pts like the gloom & doomers predicted.
Trust you on this, too.
5. No one said AR's are perfect, and I know they have thier short comings. BUT unless you can get a VAST majority of people to buy in to QDM, one of the few ways to achieve saving a few more bucks each season, is implementing an AR program
And I agree that it will save bucks. Based on your #3 bullet point.....I think THAT ALONE would hold a LOT of water in your state.
Great post there, Ryan.
We kill more bucks in MI than NC kills deer[&:] We have 1.8 millon deer
[:-][:-]
Really? How many bucks did you kill, last year? (Michigan)