This if my 5th year of "mature" buck hunting (3.5 years or older for me). During this time I have made numerous mistakes and have only taken 1 buck that scored around 120", but was a 3.5 year old. Over this time I have missed 2 bucks (a 130 class 8 pointer and a 140 class 10 pointer), last year it was about to come together as I had a "chip" shot at a 130 inch 8 pointer and I blew the shot, hitting him low. A six day search turned up no deer and needless to say I was CRUSHED. Last Sunday I had a buck who I have the sheds from last year at 10-15 yards. He was about 150" last year, and from my encounter with him this year I would say he makes it to 160". He blew right by me and never would slow his trot. Then yesterday I climb back into that same stand hoping he will show himself again. At 4:25 I look down the ridge and see a large buck SLOWLY walking my way. A check through the binocs show a nice 8 pointer with very tall G-2's and G-3's. After what seems like forever he starts closing the distance. I grab my rangefinder and I see he is at 62 yards and I get any landmark within 40 yards picked out. Then all of a sudden, the wind circles on me and the 'ol boy takes off. Yet another close call. My quick field judge had him about 135", which is plenty big enough to please me.
