Ststutz, Don't be to quick to rule out wieght and compact design as a factor for an elderly hunter. I don't know how old your dad is or his general health but weight and handling has become my most important concern now that I have aged a bit. I am 79 now and seldom walk very far however I have discovered that just handling and shooting a heavy bow can be a chore. I use a rope aid rather than a cranking aid and get by fine with that. I recently sold my fast crossbow and only use my lightweight one now that shoots at 260 FPS and that has worked fine for me. I have shot a couple of deer with it and they have been pass throughs. I would highly recomend your Dad try some before buying if at all possible.