Wyvern, my point was just the fact that most states don't recognize them as standard archery equipment. I don't stand on that definition as the reason I don't consider them a bow--states can come up with some screwy rules--but the fact remains that in most states they are not considered legal for archery season under normal circumstances.
Sure, they weigh a lot--that's why stands have shooting rails.
Till someone can come up with something other than "I dont want them in my season" or " They are not a bow because "I" dont think they are a bow" this conversation is going nowhere....
Isn't that the same basic argument that is used for crossbows? "I like them, I want to use one in archery season, therefore I say it's a bow."
Why call it a bow? Here's my take on it. A bow doesn't have a stock, it doesn't have a forearm, it can't be propped up to steady the shot, it can't sit at ready for hours on end but rather must be drawn in the presence of game.....personally I'm not too fond of trigger releases and 80+% let-off, but that's a different discussion.
If a crossbow can be considered a bow, then why can't a slingshot that fires arrows be a bow? Or a converted rifle that fires bolts? I see it as a slippery slope, possibly leading to one season for all.
Chad