Stealthy Cat.... MY IF's as you call them were qualifiers. Just like yours would be on a perfect broadside shot at 80 yards. The IF would be "If he's at 30 or less". I'm sorry, but I don't hold the DEER to God like status that some do. If I think I can make the shot and I want to.... I'll take it. Your idea of what is ethical should be confined to your abilities and equipment. What I think is a legitimate shot I'm going to take if I want to. My shot may be something you're totally uncomfortable with. I know what the "BOOK" says for hunter safety. I am a qualified IBEF instructor.

My "IFS" on "Risky" shots as you call them are my choice, my ifs and my risk. If I can make the shot I take it. The question was referring to the Zaft shot (risky or not). I wasn't there. If you'll notice in my original reply to this question I didn't say he shouldn't have taken the shot. I said I've taken similar shots at closer ranges. But, I wasn't there. His idea of a fast walk and mine may be two entirely different things.

Do I support risky shots? Not for me. Do I take walking shots... Yup.. within reason "for ME". Do I have to have the world in perfect motionless harmony to dare take a shot on a deer? NOPE. Will I take a shot you might find risky if not down right immoral? Yup... when and if I think I'll make it. Does the world standstill if my shot is less than perfect. It's an absolute bummer. In 31 years of bowhunting a couple things have happened. But, for the most part it's been a great ride, I've got a lot of game, and I'm always ready for the shot. I will not limit myself to someone elses idea of what is an "Ethical shot" for me.

You bet you there are IFS. It's not black and white... one rule fits all. If you want that it has to be a law, not your feelings. Incidently... I was one of the FEW who said they would probably wait on 1,3 and 4 for a better shot to present itself. The only shot I knew for sure, right now, was number 2. I see no reason to suspect a better shot won't happen. NOW .... if I thought that was all I was going to get... number 1 catches an arrow now at close range.

Edited by - davidmil on 02/02/2002 13:32:09