1st, it's nothing like firearm hunting. You can expect one rather noisy shot at ranges generally less than 30 yards. Yes one can shoot further but the deer may not be there when the arrow gets there. It's much more like bow hunting than firearms. There is a stock and the bow is ****ed prior to starting the hunt but the rest is more like a vertical bow than a rifle. In fact, vertical bows of comparable speed have a flatter trajectory than CBs.
2. Recoil id negligible, about like a 22.
I can tell you what I own and why it mattered to me -as have those who have already responded - but what's most important is how you hunt and how much support you'll require to maintain your purchase. Do yourself a favor and call Dave, of Wyvern Creations, 603 659 0575 for an objective and informed discussion of options to meet your needs.

PS Your buddies likely consider themselves 'purists' (as if the modern compound bow is anything like a recurve vertical bow, much less a long bow) who generally speaking would prefer that crossbows be banned...so they can have the woods to themselves.