What makes a great hunter? I feel that a great hunter is a person who enjoys their time in the wild even if they dont get their animal. If all you are out there for is the killing then to me you are not a 'great hunter'

Does it involve skill, technique, instinct? Hunting involves alot of all three. A person truly dedicated to the sport spends off seasons reloading and shooting, practicing calling, scouting, working on their property, ect. Technique comes with experience in the field, as does instinct. All are necessary to be a SUCCESSFUL hunter, which is different then a great hunter.

Does it matter by region, religion, or politics? Regions change what your hunting, and when you are hunting. It can also make you more successful then others, take me in CA, it is rare for me to get a deer because of how few bucks there are(we cant kill does). Religion can change what people may hunt, how they may hunt, and what part of the animals they are allowed to eat. Politics affect hunters greatly. Politicians try to dictate what weapons and ammo may be used, they put taxes on all equipment, and decide the price for licenses tags and stamps.

Is there a sort of ranking system among professional hunters? I dont pay attention to professional hunters...

How are hunting valued in your life? I have grown up hunting with everyone in my family, duck and goose with my dad, deer and turkey with both parents. My sisters both hunted before me, but have dropped out. Hunting is one of my favorite things to do in life, to the point that if i had to describe myself in one word, it would be 'hunter'

Does equipment matter? Equipment matters to some people, such as bow hunters who hate gun hunting, but to me it does not matter as long as no one accuses me of being less of a hunter for using a rifle for deer, and a shotgun for turkey