23 replies to this topic

[HogBane]

manchops, on 24 August 2011 - 10:38 PM, said:

I might just have to think about getting together with some other x/b shooters in my area and seeing if we can put something together. I knew the insurance line was a crock.

manchops,

I would be interested in helping with that endeavor. I too live in the DFW area. Yes, it is difficult to find a place to shoot here. As hunting friendly as this state is perceived to be it is surprising that it is so difficult to find a place to practice. I only know of one place in Richardson. The distance I could shoot was 20 yards and I had to bring my own target. It would be nice to be able to practice 50 yard shots.

[Highlander]

See4miles, on 31 January 2012 - 09:13 PM, said:

The real issue is that a cocked crossbow is just like a rifle.  It can be set down cocked and loaded, pointing in any direction.  A vertical bow is shot immediately (or the draw relaxed) rendering it inert. And when its drawn, the shooter is always pointed toward his target.

That is the real issue IMO.  It makes people nervous, and with good reason.

I am NOT siding with the clubs, just presenting a possible reason.

I don't buy this argument. I have seen guys at 3D ranges drawl back their compound bow with a release which is usually pointed not at the target but perhaps much higher up into the air. The release has no safety and if the trigger is pulled while drawling the bow the arrow flies accidentally. Who knows where it lands? At least with a crossbow, there is a safety.  

I might point out that there are trap and skeet ranges which are similar to 3D ranges. The shotguns used rely on safeties to transport loaded shotguns throughout the range. Rules can be initiated if necessary such that loaded crossbows should not be laid down nor transported loaded, however there is no requirement that shotguns be unloaded between sites where shooting takes place. They simply rely on the safety.  

Edited by Highlander, 13 March 2012 - 07:18 AM.

[vaguru]

ASA and IBO rules state that the crossbow will only be cocked once the shooter is at the stake.  The arrow must be loaded in a direction facing the target.  I have seen the arrow loaded in an elevated manner, but never have seen a cocked crossbow before or after the shooting stake.  We, the shooters, take responsibility for ourselves and others on the course, and enforce the rules.

Safety First!

[See4miles]

Both valid points in controlled circumstances.  But reality is exactly what I said. Maybe thats not the reason. But if I considered it as a crossbow proponant, then other who aren't will certainly consider it. JMO