I have used both in Ohio and I can tell you that neither one truly gives you an advantage over the other. The range is nearly identical, the draw strenghth goes to your own personal choice. The smaller shaft for the crossbow can be a slight disadvantage. It is more bulky to carry but it does hold the draw strenghth locked till you release it. The speeds are a little faster with the crossbow I believe which causes a few more shoot throughs. Basically it all comes down to personal choice. Lets face it, if you are an ethical hunter you are going to make sure what you are using is sighted in and you will have the patience to wait for the perfect shot. As for this religious thing, I aint going to go there but consider this. In alot of states crossbows are illegal unless you are handicapped. I would pose the question or statement that if a person hunts with a bow all their lives and worships bowhunting, and if they become handicapped, are people saying that these folks arent true bowhunters anymore because of what weapon they are using? I dont think so.