I like 93mouse's simply put art vs. ethics way of looking at things, the ethical shot only an assumption in my earlier response. The art part will always be subjective but for those of us who are respectful of our quarry and do not take unethical shots the eyesight and "need" to shoot part comes into play. If one doesn't not want to mount a scope on a double (I agree, they look a lot better without) then they will find themselves somewhat limited depending on the quality of their eyesight and of course the distance to their target. Having the option of mounting a scope or not (recommended QD systems) opens up opportunities not afforded to those without said option. I don’t feel there is any need with this group to go through the varied conditions of typical hunts to include distances realized. We all know some people can’t hit “the broadside of a barn” even with the aid of a scope. If it weren’t for the butchery that the animals are put through, the shaking, heavy breathing, and perhaps other involuntary acts that some people do when their opportunity to shoot comes around could be seen as funny. No matter where this thread goes I’m sure most of us, I’m hoping all, agree that good marksmanship takes a lot of practice and that, as goes for many things in life, if you expect the unexpected and prepare for the worst your odds of success will improve.

Peace