The general and accepted definition of a bow by most states is as follows: A long, recurve, or compound bow with a minimum pull of 40(substitute for state minimums) pounds at some point within a 28 inch draw.

A crossbow or any mechanical device capable of maintaining a drawn or partially drawn position on a bow without the hunter exerting full string tension, is illegal.

A crossbow works because it maintains a fully drawn position WITHOUT the hunter having to exert any tension whatsoever! In essence it works in the same way that a draw-loc would work on a compound bow, which is illegal in almost every state! Data, you surely don't think draw-locs are acceptable do you?

Don't tell me that an archer shooting 80% letoff can hold the bow at full draw for as long as a person who is holding the crossbow locked into place!!! Its simply not true.

X-Legion.....you made some very good points. Bravo!