Bullet placement… I hear this over and over it is usually offered as a criticism or a qualifier.
Whenever someone asks about what caliber to choose for a specific animal a “shooting expert” will opine that it is all about bullet placement and the implication is that caliber is not important as long as you are a real good shot like him.
If anyone mentions semis, pumps or levers for hunting a “sniper in his own mind” will invariably cop the attitude that you only need one shot with proper bullet placement.
If a discussion develops on bullet construction or premium bullets there is no doubt that one of the I only need one shot death dealers will jump in that he needs only the cheapest of bullets if you place the shot PROPERLY
God forbid that someone admits to a miss or a wounded animal, you will be vilified by the holier than thou who only ever kill cleanly with one well placed shot.
What is that about anyway? Do you really think that even the newest hunter does not know that he should shoot for the vitals? Do any of you believe that these statements are constructive to the discussion?
Lets give this a name shall we… this is not giving good advice but highlighting a perceived weakness in someone else to bolster a weak ego.
Those type of statements imply that you never miss! You know more than him! And you certainly are a better shot than him! Horse-Hockey!
I am not going to say that bullet placement is not important or that it is secondary to any other aspect of being a successful hunter.
All I am saying is bullet placement is an elusive skill that cannot be defined in absolutes when applied to hunting.
The reality is that perfect bullet placement is unlikely in many hunting circumstances. The most accomplished hunters strive for shooting perfection but realize they are not perfect. They also know beyond a shadow of a doubt that stuff happens when taking a shot and they are prepared for that eventuality. Lost or wounded game is an unfortunate aspect of hunting but it is the truth.
I think it is important to practice and develop your shooting skills.
I believe that high percentage shots are always the best option but not always the one you are offered.
I also think it is important to use enough gun, good quality bullets, the best equipment you can afford.
Most important is to remember we are not perfect and neither is anyone else.
I am almost done venting on this subject but just in case there is someone who feels the need to lecture about bullet placement here is a couple of quotes on Humility…
Mohandas K. Gandhi:
It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err.
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people, nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts. It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all. ~William Temple
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