IMO - the objective of the sport lies in the retrieval of the quarry. On occasion, there will be a predator involved that ruins the carcass. However, I have to believe that mortally wounding an animal only to retrieve its antlers is not a bowkill...it is a disaster. I know - I' ve had a few disasters in my time. And, like someone said earlier, I put the rack where I can see it as a reminder to always be sure of the next shot before I take it.

Did your friend feel good about finding the rotten carcass? That should answer your question about whether this can be considered a bowkill. It' s up to him to decide for himself. I don' t think anyone is being critical of your friend. We' ve all made a bad shot. We' re questioning how satisfied he is with this particular hunt.