RE: how far is to far.?
I personally believe that is a question that must be answered by each indivdual for themself. Just as I have no idea what pratical skill another has, (except for maybe one or two of my closest hunting companions), neither does any one else know mine.
I will say this......and it is meant to be judgemental! (But I believe it concurs very closely with what everyone else has stated.) If a hunter takes a shot on an animal that they do not have a reasonable confidence of making....based on practice. Or if a hunter routinely takes shots at ranges....and results in wounded and lost game. I'd have no respect for that person....or their "hunting ethics".
Knowing your limitations....and not exceeding them...are signs of both an ethical and a mature hunter!