Although I've heard of people starting fires with guns, I'm really not sure how that works. It's not like a vehicle that can throw sparks as far as I know, unless they are using that explosive stuff that some target shooters like to see explode when hit.
I don't think it's that rare. The 36 Pit Fire that burned thousands of acres along the Clackamas River and near, and probably into, the Roaring River Wilderness was started by target shooters.
http://www.oregonlive.com/clackamascoun ... ed_by.html
From my time in the badger creek wilderness I'd be surprised if this were started by guns, but thats speculation. Human caused does seem likely, but again maybe some burning isn't such a bad thing, its a real mess of downed trees over there.
I have no problem with hunting or target shooting, done responsibly.
I think some of the bias on this site against target shooters (less so hunters), or at least my bias, comes from the amount of those blue, red, and yellow bullet casings I seem to find all over the Mt Hood National Forest, and even in places like the Mt Margaret Backcountry unfortunately. Yes I see backpackers camping in areas they shouldn't, and doing other things that make me cringe here and there, but I don't find nearly as many empty backpacker meals, tent pieces, jet boil fuel canisters, and other backpacker gear as I do trash from those who go shooting.
The other thing about target shooting is noise pollution. I know some will agree and some will call me some brand of liberal tree hugger that makes them feel good. The point is, many times I've been deep into the wilderness on Mt Hood and the echoes of rapid fire target shooting echoes up canyons quite loudly. Its a shame that my good time in the wilderness doesn't impact others far away from me, but their good time has to impact the good times of quiet hikers and more importantly wildlife, even from miles away.
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