As most hunters know, the early archery season woods will see a few more hunters as crossbows are now legal to use for hunting statewide in Virginia. The idea of a crossbow being held equal to a traditional vertical bow has frustrated some primitive weapon users. There was quite a bit of outcry when the topic was first mentioned, but in the end the crossbow was accepted as a legal form of hunting.

So, why all the hype? Some say that crossbows do not belong in the woods as an equal to vertical bows because they are much easier to shoot, and have longer effective ranges. Gun hunters that oppose crossbows complain that even more trophy deer will now be taken out of the lineup before they get a crack at them. It is no secret that many really nice bucks are taken during the archery season. But, it is also well known that gun hunters still take the majority of trophy bucks.

Crossbows are extremely accurate to shoot with little practice. A crossbow, such as the Horton Explorer 175, in the hands of a good shot will bring home the venison this year.

Before delving into the question of whether I supported crossbows or not I really was neutral to the idea. I liked the thought of having one more tool to do the job, provided it did the job effectively. I also warmed to the idea that my wife and others like her that cannot draw and hold a bow back might now enjoy a deer hunt during warmer weather when the conditions are more pleasant for sitting in a tree. But I did not want to complicate matters with yet another license or season to deal with unless the idea was truly worthwhile.

Once the word got out that the crossbow season was going to fly I began doing my homework on the subject, I got a crossbow (A Horton Explorer TR175) and I began tinkering with the weapon. I shot the crossbow right out of the box. I spoke to a number of people in the industry to include crossbow reps and traditional archery reps. I was surprised to learn a few things that I think all hunters should be aware of. I spoke with Ottie Snyder, of Horton's public relations, who was more than willing to answer all of my questions very thoroughly. I wanted to be sure I did not mislead anyone in this article with my findings.

First of all, the claim that the crossbow has a longer effective range seems to be bogus from what I can tell. Snyder told me the ranges were comparable with crossbows maxing out at 40 yards in hunting situations. I took the crossbow I have and shot it at various distances and found that the arrow or bolt drops at virtually the same rate as an arrow shot from a vertical bow. This was especially true past thirty yards where things get much more noticeable.

I began my experience with the Horton right out of the box. The crossbow came unassembled, but very easy to put together. I had the bow put together in less than twenty minutes after I thoroughly read the manual. The manual was refreshingly straightforward, uncomplicated and to the point. Once I had the crossbow together I took it outside to where I had a 3-D target set up. I began by shooting at the target from just under ten yards to ensure the bolt did not disappear over the target never to be seen again. With a few adjustments to the scope I had the crossbow grouping so tight that I had to shoot one bolt at a time for fear of ruining the bolts. I found that being a good rifle shot made me a good crossbow shot. The same basic rifle shooting principles rewarded me with well-grouped shots. After looking at my watch I realized that after reading the manual I had assembled, sighted in and felt comfortable in my abilities to shoot the crossbow in roughly an hour. Yes, I said, "An hour." That may sound far-fetched but using the crossbow was pleasant and with previous shooting experience the model Explorer TR175 was very easy to learn and master.

I am shooting the Horton MX Carbon Vanes, which are matched weighted for extreme accuracy. The 100-grain Assassin Broadheads that Horton had made just for their crossbows are said to work great on whitetail deer. I hope to find out on opening day and report back to you.

Overall, I am extremely pleased with the Horton crossbow I have. The bolts are great and the whole package is easy to use. The scope on the crossbow really helps with accuracy for me and I believe that will lead to more humane shots and less chances of losing a deer. The only complaint or issue I have with the crossbow would be that is can be tough to cock. However, Ottie Synder pointed out that the EZ Draw the company sells as an accessory can reduce the strength needed to cock the bow considerably. The crossbow has a safety on it just like a firearm and is very safe to use. Go to www.crossbow.com for more information.