I don't think it will have that much of an impact on the numbers of hunters. I think those that have used them will continue...permits weren't that hard to ontain if someone wanted one before, and you may get a few more experimenters. Otherwise I think it will still predominately be archers. i am concerned that there will be those that try to use their crossbows like rifles extending shots that are just unethical. Of course, that same argument was used with all the upgrades to the compound bows way back. At any rate, with numbers declining in the hunting fraternity, I say welcome to crossbow hunters, be safe, and stay ethical.

I had a feeling it was going to be allot of gut shot deer. I was right. You put a crossbow in a kids hands... to them it's a rifle. They figure if they aim in the middle of the deer and shoot at any distance the deer should drop. My oldest boys friend has shot a spike and a doe. BOTH GUT SHOT! They couldn't find either one. Surprise surprise. I had my back broke in three places, got a permit and crossbow. It was accurate. It just got old carrying it and loading in on my climer. I went back to Martin Fire Cat.Now I'm happy again.

From what I can tell, I have seen an upswing in the amount of people in the woods this time of year. I guess that is also due to the early muzzle loader doe season, gone are the days of not fighting with many people for the early deer hunting season. Oh well, I guess I had better work hard to get in the right spot at the right time.

Good Luck

Dave