How powerful is a Crossbow?

[hyde234321]

More specifically, how much power does it take to down a whitetailed deer. The particular crossbow I'm looking at purchasing has a 180lb draw weight. It shoots a 15 inch bolt at or over 220fps. It is not a compound bow. There are no pulleys, only a recurved fiberglass bow. Thanks for any help.

[fiestysview]

You will do more than take down the deer! Could tear it apart...(if you're right about it), maybe a little on the over kill side don't you think?

[swamp angel]

Damm, good one,I hit deer with good power with my 70 pound compound,with rather heavy arrows,You cant use crossbows in my state,(MA) unless your considered disabled,but I want to try shooting one anyway.In any case,to answer your question,the 180 (are you sure thats right?)lb would be very sufficient to take a whitetail with your 18 in. bolts.just be sure to use the right heads.