Guys, I love bowhunting, but I love hunting period first and foremost. Now that Minnesota allows crossbows during gun season and our gun season has been extended, I've been thinking about getting a crossbow. I'm going to hit the local pro shop I know and trust to try several out first, but I also wanted to get some opinions on here because I know there are a lot of people who have a great deal of knowledge on crossbows here.

The main reason I want to get one is that I think it would extend my effective range in my hunting grounds where I do not feel safe firing a gun, even thought its legal. Too many neighbors and houses within the potential path of a bullet. Right now, I can confidently shoot 30 yards with my bow. I mean, 40 would probably not be a problem but I don't want there to be even a one in ten chance I wound one. Am I mistaken about extending my effective range? I've read articles that say with practice, a crossbow would be deadly at 50 yards with extreme confidence. But others will tell me its no different than a bow, in which case, I'm not really interested in adding another weapon right now.

Well guys, any insight is much appreciated. Take care and happy hunting.