...My goodness, this thread may be a microcosm of why hunting is vulnerable. I find it amazing how quick people are to jump down another's throat in the name of ethics.

After watching this thread for a couple of days and reading the six or so pages of bickering up to this point I find myself shaking my head. We aren't splitting atoms or curing cancer here, we are talking about bow hunting for Pete's sake.

I also shoot all year round but it is certainly not something I feel should be required of everyone. All of us are at different levels concerning our archery ability. Should some practice more to better hone their skills? Sure, but we could say that about any and all of us. Any responsible hunter will do what he has to do to be proficient with his weapon. Those that won't, as we know, are not truly hunters and we will have little influence on their stupidity.

I think BadshotBob has convinced me that he is fully capable of not only shooting efficiently in a hunting situation but more importantly making wise decisions on what shots to take. I see a world of difference between what he is describing and the person who gets a bow the day before going in the field to try and kill something.

I think there are times we spend so much time harping on the importance of shooting the bow and equating it with ethics, we over look other preparations and responsiblilities that are at least as equally important.

We are not going to strengthen our hunting solidarity or raise the level of ethics in bowhunting circles by pointing fingers, attacking those that "don't do it the right way (our way)", and calling people names in a hunting forum on the internet.

...Oh my goodness I sound pompous....That's it, these early morning turkey hunts and late night hours are making a monster out of me!!! I will step off the soap box now.