Believe me Petey,
With what a good shooting iron,and optics cost, and the time invested in obtaining load data at the bench to optimize cartridge selection, I completely understand!
I'm just messing with you.
You are correct that the overwhelming majority of my firearm hunting is now done with shotguns. (Not typically known for MOA groups-although that is starting to change with some of the newer sabot and rifled barrel offerings)
When I did more rifle hunting up North some years back, I too used to just sling them across my back but found this cumbersome and sometimes dangerous when climbing some "less than ideal" trees from which to hunt-probably more of an issue with my tree selection criteria than anything but that's when I switched to hoisting my gear up.
Next year, I am planning on muzzleloader rifle hunting. I unfortunately did not have muych time at all this past year to spend much range time with my new ML's and therefore opted to wait until I am more experienced and thus proficient. Who knows, perhaps these will be slinged across the back going up next year!
I've also never varmint hunted Petey-something I thought that you partook in and have found to be the starting point where alot of accuracy buffs begin their obcessive compulsive shooting disorders!
Whattya think GSL, should we facilitate an intervention here for Petey, get the poor soul some help. We'll use the HC support group resources at our disposal. There's hope, my friend. Do not dispair.
I will fondly think of this topic as I am hoisting my slug gun up from high atop my perch at 4am tomorrow morning looking for Bambi's great grandpappy!