My final words (hopefully) on the subject:
Crossbows are NOT NEARLY as similar to ANY bow, as a compound is to a trad bow. To say otherwise lacks common sence.
You need not draw, hold wieght, maintain proper form and follow through, and it's really tough to accidently shoot yourself with a bow.
IF you simply cannot shoot a bow (handicapped) I would allow a Xbow. if you CAN shoot a bow...bring one come archery season....or don't come.
Trad bows are harder to shoot than a compound with sights....that does NOT mean they (compounds) are not bows!
The drawing holding and releasing of an arrow, who's energy comes entirely from the archer drawing the bow, to me is what a bow is. I don't care if it's zero let off, or 90%. as long as it isn't 100%.
Tell me, SC, what about compounds without sights? That's kinda tough too...is THAT OK by your book?