The long range shooting craze is tied directly to fear of failure. We're always looking to increase our odds of success. Doesn't matter what it is. Better equipment for fishing, hunting, camping, golf, etc. Increasing your odds by way of equipment has been part of modern human society since, forever. Failure makes us feel bad, or makes us realize that we have to work harder, or suffer longer. Why bother when you can save yourself a hike, or a blown stalk with the latest improvements?
I think that's a pretty good statement regarding the fear of failure.
However, to be fair, I think a little discussion as to the "why" hunters feel the pressure of failing.
I think it runs deeper than just killing an animal or not. I think it comes from the way hunting has changed in the West due to the influx of applicants and the scarcity of tags. I also think the amount of money it takes to purchase NR tags, go with a guide, and all the other associated costs puts a lot pressure on hunters to succeed. As infrequently as the average guy draws a quality deer, elk, pronghorn, sheep, moose, etc. tag...there is a desire to do everything you can to increase your odds of success. Some hire outfitters, some take all their vacation time for the hunt, some choose a rifle over archery gear, etc. etc. and some also choose to refine their skills to extend their effective range with their firearm/bows. Are any of those things unethical? I don't know? But I don't blame people for stacking the deck in their favor when they draw a once in a lifetime tag either.
Point being that if I could draw, say, a sheep tag every year, I wouldn't give a chit if I had to hunt them without a guide, using grandpas 32/40 with open sights. However, when I will likely get a couple/three tags my entire life...yeah, probably not interested in packing that 32/40.
I think it was psinclair that said something to the effect that having the capability to shoot long range is a trump card that you can use when necessary and appropriate. I think what he was implying, was that it should be used sparingly and when/where a GOOD hunter finds it appropriate to pull that trump card.
Some guy going out with no other intention than simply making a LR shot on an animal, that's a totally different situation than a good hunter, with great shooting skills, using them on rare occasions to find success.
Personally, I will always try to cut as much distance as possible and will strive to never take a low percentage shot, near or far. Wounding and losing animals is what I fear the most about hunting.
