You could have started and stopped right there...and I would have understood completely!
He wouldn't have been "game"...he would have been depredated. Maybe even a mercy kill as ugly as they are.
I only use a guide when required by law (like what I am doing right now)...I have nothing against using them, for various reasons but like you and many others here, I get the DIY satisfaction, plus I am a total tight ass😀.
