This is my opinion take it for what it is.

Archery season exists for anyone in NYS that wants to purchase the archery privilege. Its for all to take advantage of and enjoy. The same as any hunting season in NYS. If one chooses to not hunt it with a bow, then thats your decision, period. Its your loss. Deal with it. Keep archery as archery. What I don't understand for the life of me is why in heck we need to introduce another weapon into the archery season for more hunters to enjoy it when its alreadly there for you. Seems kindairrogant to me. Compounds have come such a long ways in technology that alone should be reason enough to archery hunt if more want to get into it. The crossbow is heavier, bulkier, noisier, and just a pain to lug around. Why in heck would anyone want to use it over any bow anyways!
I'll tell you why. The main reason is becasue its easier to shoot, andmore accurate. It takes less practice to shoot one accurately. Its obviously more like a gun when it comes to shooting technique. I watched Ted Nugents reality show, where city teenagers, that never picked up any type of a weapon before. Each shot a crossbow at 20yds, and hit the center doton their 1st shots!! Where isthe challenge in that? Its a lazy mans answer to get out earlier, period! Thats the bottom line!

The only justification for allowing the crossbow into any archery season is for the handicap. If lessoning the restrictions for a legit handicapped hunter would allow them more time in the woods. I have no problem with that. Otherwise keep the crossbow out of archery. There's no need for it.

Quote me & bash me, but its my opinion.