On Thu, 14 Oct 2004 18:32:17 GMT, Jim Richardson
wrote:

A crossbow, especially a modern design, makes a fine defensive weapon
within it's limits, which are similar in many ways to a muzzle loading
firearm. Except that the crossbow is silent in operation, usually less
restricted by law, and is also usable for tasks such as throwing a line.

That why I've considered adding it to my manifest of "extended
cruising supplies". It's compact and can be used in a limited sense
for safety and rescue and even "spearfishing from the deck". It can
certainly be brought up from below easier than a longbow, and it is
ideal for pitching messenger lines for tows, docking in a current,
etc. when a line is shot overhead the "catcher".

Oh, and the ammo, if retrievable, is reusable.