I have an xbow that I bought after losing everything due to a hurricane. Bought it thinking I can use it and also bring my young boys to get them involved. It is a Parker cyclone that shot 350 FPS. It was also the first one to have an anti dry fire system. Killed some deer with it and the “flair” of the xbow wore off quickly. As I was much younger and didn’t need one.....still don’t. But I love hunting and any form of weapon to pursue my quarry I’m all about it. Later bought a used bow and still hunt with it.
There has been a lot of improvements made over the past 15 years. Weight, speed, draw loading and now unloading without shooting a bolt. Yes they are faster now, lighter and more compact. For some reason and still self implied the kill comes w an asterisk. It’s not a bow nor a gun. I intend on buying a new one in a few years just cause it adds to some setups where you cant use a regular bow so it still appeals to me. Ground hunting thick shit where no trees exist. Xbow give you an advantage that you can’t get w a bow. That is less movement, consistent shots and blazing speeds. As a hunter you still need to know your yardages. Some people take shots in most people’s eyes that most wouldn’t because of the constant groupings, not taking account that the deer moves and a bad shot could and will most likey be the outcome. I’m happy that we are given the choice to hunt w one and the advancements made. Eventually I will buy a xbow and never look back.
I don’t look down on xbow hunters unless your hunting unethical. To a true hunter it’s about fair chase, beating them on their terms. It’s exciting that we have options and also keeps aging bow hunters or youngsters the opportunity to stay in the field or to get in the field earlier than normal.
As an outdoorsman it is us that put divides on other peoples methods of the hunt. Shame on us! We are losing the battle to keep our heritage alive. Sorry George if this seems like I’m on a soap box, wasn’t meant to be. I’m very passionate about the outdoors as everyone here is.
Get that bad puppy and kill as you see fit.