An interesting thing happened on the way to this article--we were informed that what we were doing, so successfully, was unethical, controversial, and offensive. Writing and publishing an article showing others how to do what we were doing would be even worse. To quote one editor verbatim:

"If we ran an article of that nature, it would be quite controversial as it would suggest that we promote shooting at targets far beyond the range of what is considered standard. While I am making no judgements (sic) about the topic, I can assure you that many of our readers would take offense and I respectfully decline your suggestion for an article."

Wow! Would someone please define for me what is a "standard" shooting range? My dad raised me to be an ethical shooter, but never mentioned anything about arbitrary limits. He figured ethical boundaries were adequate. I guess the above quoted editor hasn't mastered thinking outside the box.

Our personal definition of the ethical long-distance shooter:

The ethical long-distance shooter is someone who knows their shooting capabilities without a doubt, and stays within them.

In other words:

1. Always follow all basic gun and shooting safety rules.

2. Decide what you want to accomplish with your shooting efforts, and cut no corners to get there.

3. Make your rifle as accurate as it can be, learn its limitations, and honor its maximum range of efficacy.

4. Make yourself as good a shooter as you can, practice diligently, learn your limitations, and honor your personal "do not exceed" range without fail. Ideally, your rifle has greater capabilities that you do.

5. Do not attempt long shots in a hurry, or without a spotter.

6. Before you commit to harvesting a game animal, be prepared to keep shooting until you get that animal down for good.

7. Don't gripe afterwards about the missed opportunities due to lack of preparation.