C H -
It's a sickening feeling no matter how many Xs you re-live it.
I certainly don't like it but it happens IF you hunt long enuff and shoot enuff animals. STUFF happens.
I agree with your assessment. "The problem wasn't the cartridge, the rifle, or the bullet."
ONCE - I had a bullet deflected >>> horrible story. Many yrs. ago. I remember every detail.
I had a friend who hit a deer in the nose....found its tongue! He hasn't forgotten either. ( I wasn't with him and don't know why/how)
Jerry