RE: bowhunting
Hunting is hunting, i dont place a monetary value on it. I would consider myself to have middle of the road gear, not the cheapest, not the fanciest, but i enjoy my hunting just as much as the other guy.
Getting a deer (or any other game) is a great feeling but i can still have a good time without shooting anything.
I dont think the price of your gear should dictate the value of the experience