Maybe I am way off base here but didn't PA just allow full inclusion of crossbows in every deer season?

If so then you wouldn't need to worry about a disabled permit if you wanted to use one.

As for the advantages and/or the effective range questions...there are others on here that are more knowledgable than I on the issue. However, I do have to agree with what Jeff posted above. I was in two situations last year where if I had been using a compound instead of crossbow then I certainly would not have gotten off the shot. Simply not having to draw makes a huge difference in whether or not you fill the freezer.

On the other hand a crossbow certainly does not "guarantee" anything...even the fast models. I had a shot at a nice buck last bow season and ended up missing because I misjudged the distance (actual shot distance was about 35 yards).

Having said that I do know of a few folks who do shoot deer at longer distances with crossbows (in comparison to compounds). They have made good shots with them so I would have a difficult time questioning the ethical component of that issue.

The downside to crossbow use, for me, is their size and weight. There definitely is a noticeable difference in these two areas in comparison to me toting around one of my compounds. Noise is higher too but I have not found it to be a disadvantage at this point.