The other day i had to wear sneakers instead of boots because i forgot my boots at home, i was walking to my stand down a mowed path of golden rod and autom olive bushes when this seven point just exploded out of a bush about 6 or 7 yds from me, i never even knew it was there. It was probably sleeping but i still dont know how i got that close because the leaves were pretty dry and crunchy.It scared the crap out of me because i was just walking and not paying any attention. Anything like this happen to anyone else.

I wouldn't dare wear snickers around here for deer hunting. Too many rattlers and copperheads for that...

I never wear snickers, I much prefer eating them!

I've had the same experience. More than likely the buck was using a "frozen" strategy to remain concealed. A lot of times they will try to let you walk right by them. Them being more mature bucks who have survived a season or more. There is no telling how many big bucks I have walked right by.

He probably lost confidence all of the sudden and panicked hence exploding when you got too close.

The few times it has happened to me I almost had a heart attack!

It happened to me and my wife today and we were both in sneakers while checking on one of my stand sites we were talking and goofing around and a hugh buck jumped up right at my stand we were only abouut 10 yards from it.