I have written this letter about being in favor of legalized crossbow hunting in New York to Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, state Sen. Bonacic and Gov. Andrew Cuomo. I believe the legislation for crossbow use by all hunters was derailed because of the unconstitutional Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Act. I would like to see crossbow use legal for every hunter preferably in rifle and muzzleloader season rather than archery season, however I am not against it being legal for all seasons as the bow is.

The crossbow is great because, once it is sighted in, anyone can use it just like a rifle, but its shooting range is more like a compound bow. With the compound bow each archer needs to have their bow customized and specifically set up for that archer. The crossbow also is a great way to manage deer and coyote populations closer to town. I have not yet invested in one, however I am considering purchasing one and hunting in Pennsylvania next year so that I can use a crossbow. Please contact our New York State (NYS) representatives or the governor, and let them know you are in favor of crossbow use in New York State.

God bless America.

John “JP” Pasquale

Livingston Manor, NY