They now have a crossbow season during archery season in MD. It is only a few weeks and I think it ends just before the rut kicks in good, but my dad bought one this year and killed a decent 8pt with. This allows those who cant pull a compound back to still hunt with a challenge. My dad could pull a bow back, but went the route of getting his doctor to sign that he shouldnt allowing a crossbow permit. Its good to see people use them who are not able to use a compound. But the power is outstanding, my dad said the bolt almost knocked the buck over when he shot, and a quick kill with a hard striaght shot.