While this has been a debate for a long time, there are certain facts that are indisputable. Vanes are less expensive, more durable, and easier to work with. Feathers are lighter, steer better, and eliminate clearance problems. Generally, indoor competitors will use feathers because there is no concern for adverse weather conditions. Many bowhunters use vanes for the durability, but if there are any problems with grouping or arrow flight, feathers will usually straighten things out.
Many people have the perception that crossbows are more like guns than bows.
The truth of the matter is that crossbows are very similar to bows both in design and performance. Crossbows have a very short power stroke as compared to compound bows which limit the speed and performance of the crossbow. Therefore, we encourage hunters to shoot a maximum distance of 40 yards. But keeping in mind that crossbows are much noisier, and you are shooting at a moveable target, not a piece of foam, the 40 yard maximum range will prove to be the most effective. The state of Vermont does not currently require the Bowhunter Education course.