ORIGINAL: TerryM
Here in Ontario crossbows have been legal for over 20 years and there are no issues at all with the stories the anti crossbow guys like to spin. They have no more effective range than a regular bow either. What they are is obviously much easier to shoot and kill with. You still need the same "HUNTING" skills as the guy shooting a compound. You still need to find a deer, hang in a tree and take him within @ 30 yds. The deer does not die any quicker or slower. Its still a broadhead that does the job in the end. I would rather a guy admit he can't shoot a bow well enough and switch to a crossbow than go out every year and wound game. Its not entirely as challenging to be sure (the shooting part ) but it allows more people to hunt. I could use one if I wanted, I don't but have absolutely no problem with a guy who does. Hunters should help each other not try and prevent each other from hunting.
TerryM,
Thanks for sharing! Honestly - this wasn't the kind of reply I was anticipating! I was expecting to get lynched for my opinion!
Seriously - its very impressive that the stigma of the crossbow is slowing fading. We have a group here in NYS that absolutely detests crossbows and their organization has been THE reason we still do not enjoy the crossbow. Your right - its not terribly challenging in the fact that they are easier to master - but the guy does still have to guess the yardage (unless close) and do everything else right. My guess if legalized here after the initial excitement dies off some guys will find that they want more challenge and still use their stickbows (or both).
I think the perceived fear is worse than the actual threat!