I prefer three shot groups with sporters also, wanting to see several at different ranges before I know it to be "the load". Even then, I've been known to foul up a group here and there with a flier, especially in the wind at 300-400yds. It's how the gun/load behaves most of the time that matters, as I'm honestly not as consistent as my equipment.
That being said, if I have the itch to try a new bullet or a new rifle and time is short, I'll hunt something that gives me a quick group or two at 1-1.5". Sometimes things don't have to be tweaked and tested to the max. It all depends on your goals.
