One thing I've noticed is the different perspective most "Western" Elk/Muley have vs "Eastern" Whitetail hunters.

I know Whitetails are smaller and hunting them can be night and day vs Elk/Mulies, but I rarely hear of anyone taking long shots for them. I grew up in "big country" in Wyoming and we all took very long shots at game. This is still very common and everyone I know practices it. If a monster bull/buck is out there at 500 yds the lead flies. Plain and simple, nobody even questions it. I'm curious if I'm the only one who grew up in this type of country or not? I'm still comfortable shooting long ranges today, but try to avoid them and get closer (if possible).