I fail to see the logic behind the assumption that new hunters will flock to the woods just because crossbows are legal during archery season. A crossbow enthusiast most likely has a crossbow now and uses it during the general season. Are these crossbow owners/hunters lobbying the TF&G for this change in law? Who is leading this charge? I think we all know who is behind this effort.
I've pounded the keys on my keyboard many times on this subject and due to my stance have been labeled anti crossbow, elitist, etc. Ridiculous, I just feel the current weapon restrictions in their respective seasons is correct. I've never been titled an elitist because I feel that hunting with handguns should not be allowed in the archery season why am I so because of my position on crossbows? I think the true enemy is the crossbow manufacturers who are trying to label those opposed to the crossbow during archery season as being guilty of division within the hunting community.
Those that are quick to cast that label must feel that we should abandon our position and principles and fall in line with there point of view so not to become susceptible to the anti hunters and weaken our ranks. When we fall for this rhetoric and buy into that flawed logic, we are truly in trouble. We should not all march hand in hand towards the lowest common denominator. There comes a time when you have to stand your ground and not abandon your principles. When you start moving the line in the sand, you've lost.
If the majority of bowhunters were in favor of crossbows during the archery season, I would accept it (not like it) and deal with it. This is not the case though. It is my opinion that a minority with questionable motivation are beating this drum for change.
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