Because I just couldn't have this thread end without these last points being at the end...
BigJ wrote-
This is the point that even I have the hardest time with because it is so different. I guess the way I rationalize it is like this. While that is a big difference, there are still so many similarities that can't be ignored that make it still more bow like than anything else. Including it's legal definition.
Nobody disputes that there are similarities, but that big difference (the holding at full draw vs cocked) is at least, if not more of a differentiator than "loose powder vs shells" as Data put it.
But the difference is loose powder vs shells - a core difference that goes beyond does it have a different stock or way to hold it. But - inlines and modern muzzleloaders have gone way too far too.
The legal definition of archery does not include crossbows, at least not in any place I have hunted.
Do you agree pandora's bow of archery was opened then ?
I do. Which is exactly why we shouldn't rip the lid off, smash it into bits, light it on fire and abandon even the concept of archery. That has not been done yet, because compound still require practice and archery skills to shoot correctly and well. But remove the draw, and anchor point and release part.... and you left archery on your road to crossbows. A valid weapon to be sure .. but not archery.
I don't think people should have to wait just because you don't feel like sharing "your" season.
Silent's point..... as we have learned that he lives in a very very bad neighborhood and his children will join gangs and do drugs if they don't get to shoot crossbows during archery season.
It is not "my" season, it is all of us archers season. I also hunt with ML's, rifles and shotguns .. and I must wait every year to use them. I love my bow, but also love to grab my shotgun and hunt birds or chase bears ... it's ok that hunters must wait till their appropriate season. Each year we wait till fall to hunt deer, wait till spring to hunt turkeys... it's part of the sport... waiting.
So let me get this straight........your NOT a bow hunter if you use a crossbow, but you ARE a bow hunter if you use a crossbow as long as you are handicapped?
Only 1/2 right BigJ .. you are NOT a bow hunter if you use a crossbow, and if you are handicapped and use a crossbow you still aren't a bow hunter... you are a crossbow hunter. That doesn't make you less or inferior, just different.
It's been fun boys ...