You can't compare the three as they are not the same thing. you should not try to compare an apple and an orange. I am a bowhunter and do not hunt with a crossbow. I don't have anything against anyone that does as what really counts is the fact we are outdoorsmen(and women). There is little question a centerfire rifle is the best way to kill a deer. that doesnt make it the best way to do it for me, so really it is a personal decision. I know people that will not hunt with a bow and those that won't hunt with a gun. Maybe it is a good thing that we can choose what is best for us. I have got to admit I look at a deer harvested with a bow in a different light thanone taken with a gun or crossbow. Sounds kinda two faced but I know how hard it is to harvest one with a stick and string. If peoople are a little testy remember this is a bouwhunting fourm and we are a testy lot.