Bow Versus Crossbow

Rich Raspy Shawver Another eternal debate. Which one is best depends upon its intended use and the end user. Both have one very definite advantage over any firearm made. They are virtually silent. When used enmasse as in warfare precise accuracy was not an issue. Both beyond 50 yards or so because of the arcing trajectory function more like artillery rather than direct fire weapons. Yes I know that both are capable of aimed fire beyond 50 yards but it does start to become iffy. In most cases when used in hunting this is about the maximum range and shorter shots should be considered. In general the effects of temperature, humidity, etc. have about the same effect on both. A bolt for the crossbow tends to be shorter than the arrow for a bow. Because of the potential for higher power levels in a crossbow the speed of a bolt is usually the higher of the two. Therefore any wind involved would have a longer time to effect the flight hence more effect. This is not really that much of a factor as users of both would learn to compensate for this with their particular weapon. Crossbows tend to be more inherently accurate. The more consistent all factors are in any system means more accuracy. Because a rigid mechanical structure holds the shooting form there is one less variable. Whereas the human arm holds the bow at draw. The higher potential of the arm flexing in unpredictable ways can cause inconsistencies in total accuracy equation. Crossbows general have a higher draw weight because its structure holds the draw and can use mechanical advantage to draw the string. Bows normally run a maximum 50 to 60 pounds while modern crossbows go to upwards of 150 pounds. In olden times war bows rated up to 100 pounds and heavy crossbows topped out at around 300 pounds. Those monsters used a winch to draw the string. It takes years of practice to train a good bowman. Because on the mechanical nature involved the average person can quickly become proficient with a crossbow. True some people can pick up the skills of either almost immediately. Conversely there are some that couldnt hit the broad side of a barn from the inside no matter how long they worked at it. Because of different draw methods persons of lesser physical strength, those with handicaps or those suffering injuries will find the crossbow a better choice overall. The draw on a crossbow can be held almost indefinitely while fatigue will quickly become a major factor if a bow is held at full draw for more than a very short time. When it comes to concealment especially in a hunting situation the crossbow has the advantage. First by its design it can be used easily from a prone position. Yes a bow can be shot when prone but not very well. Ive tried it. It can be done. Doing so is a real royal PITA. Because a crossbow is held already drawn there is very little movement involved to signal your presents. The need to draw a bow just prior to a shot adds a factor that can spook the game. To this point it would seem that I advocate the crossbow over the bow. I have used both and prefer the bow in most cases. Probably because I first learned to a bow then later experienced the crossbow. The bows advantage is it has a higher rate of fire. The difference is usually 3 or 4 to one. Although if using a heavy crossbow where a winch is involved this could go as high as 10 to 1. Bows tend to be lighter. If a takedown module is involved they form a more compact package for transport. Bows also normally come with a much lower price tag. They are generally more socially acceptable. Hunting laws are far less restrictive. There are more ranges set up for bows but crossbow normally are accepted although there may be some restrictions because they can be harder on targets. Bows are more readily available. They can be found almost anywhere even at the mart type stores. Crossbows are a more specialty item. Even in sporting goods stores they are not common and often have to be special ordered. So when it comes to picking between them you need to weigh the pros and cons and make a choice.