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Daniel Schindler

This morning I saw what I believe is a common post on another forum. This individual wants to know which 7mm and optic combination to purchase, being the best for 1,000 yard “hunting?” Where does one begin to explain to this soul why this is not “hunting?” Yes, OK, I know, there are a VERY, VERY few who can actually place a hunting bullet with the correct, remaining terminal velocity inside the 8” killing circle at 1,000 yards. Provided adequate bullet drop has been calculated and compensated for. Provided the animal doesn’t take 2 steps forward as the trigger is pulled. Provided the 10 mph crosswind has been correctly compensated for at 1,000 yards. Provided the rifle, scope and bullet all perform EXACTLY as expected. And, of course, provided the shooter has the skill to perform this shot in an absolute perfect manner. Perfect because that’s what this animal deserves from the “hunter.” It’s called “ethics.” A trigger pull responsibility that falls on every hunter regardless of age, gender or skill level.

We are all aware that equipment does exist that can make this very long, killing shot. The key word there is “can.” Maybe. Provided. Because there also exists a literal mountain of variables that stand in the way and MUST be overcome to make all this 1 shot, 1 kill work. Because now we’re talking about everything hinging on one shot – one try – one bullet. Agree with me or not, there’s risk involved. The risk of wounding this animal is extremely high for your average week-end warrior. IMHO, too high, equipment be damned. This animal – and every animal deserves better.

Trial and error has been a very real component in the hunting fields since forever. Missing and wounding – despite our very best efforts – will and does happen. That does not, however, excuse blasting away at any distance, blindly hoping the bullet will find its mark. Ethics require more than hope. Before that trigger is pulled, there are conditions to be met. Conditions that rest squarely on your shoulders, and mine. Before that trigger is pulled – conditions that clearly define what hunting is – and what is not hunting.

Many will never see my words here. Instead – lured by all the latest manufacturers gizmos and gadgets almost guaranteeing your success – the one factor never mentioned is the ever-present questionable level of shooter competence. And here – good enough at 200 or 300 yards – just ain’t good enough at 1,000 yards. Never will be. Unfortunately, none of us will ever see that mentioned in all the advertising.

Shooting at long distances – and “hunting” at long distances – carry completely different personal obligations and responsibilities. Obligations and responsibilities that are far too often overlooked as so many are seduced by videos and manufacturers promises, not one of which can promise a successful outcome at 1,000 yards under every day field conditions. Collect all the gear you want and be rightfully proud of what you have purchased. Seriously, good on you. But have no delusions about that gear assuring you of a 1 shot, 1 kill at very long distances. That responsibility falls directly on your shoulders and should weigh heavily as you contemplate pulling the trigger.

No one here is disputing the select few who have trained and are capable of dependably hitting their target at long distances. I am disputing those who think they can too. Our freedoms to hunt do not include irresponsible actions. “A man’s gotta know his limitations.”

Thank you for your time here.