I am in the later 70's and just bought a crossbow; the Carbon Express Heritage in the sister thread. I too have never had a crossbow before and am learning about them. The "dry fire" and fingers in front of the bow string are major hazards it seems and habits need to be made to guard against both. The crossbow I have has a 200lb. draw weight, that is heavy but manageable, at least so far. I hope you have good luck with your new crossbows, I am happy with mine even if I do not shoot a deer with it. It is a ticket to archery hunt with my sons.