Sean
When I look at this forum it is not only about birds, but almost every imaginable pursuit related to optics, which includes hunting. In many cases it has nothing to do with birds at all, but seems more about the endless pursuit of the perfect optic.
Being a hunter myself, I am constanly amazed at how truly ignorant people seem to be with regards to hunting, and the vast benefits it provides for wildlife. In the USA it is the hunters thru licensing fees, excise taxes, donations, and the many clubs, that pay for many of the refuges, public land and programs available to "BIRDERS". The world over, it is thru the sport of hunting that wildlife has flourished and is at record levels. Is it the hunters who are contributing to the decline of the Red Knot and many other bird species? Instead of being critical of hunters who contribute more to the well being of birds, as well as all animals, maybe you should direct your anger toward pollution, poor land management and development. And while you are at it, you ought to thank your lucky stars that the hunters of the world are providing you with many oppotunities you would not otherwise have without them.
Ignorance is bliss