Well there is no silver bullet right, and there are many factors in a situation like yours. Lets say you're hiring for a Java position to make web apps. Is a b

Well there is no silver bullet right, and there are many factors in a situation like yours. Lets say you're hiring for a Java position to make web apps. Is a better candidate someone with lots of desktop Java experience, or someone with lots of Django experience? The answer is of course, it depends. On the person, the job etc. I'd interview both and it's probable the second person has more relevant skills. The problem with putting emphasis on years of experience is that the second person might not get through the HR filter.