Fattyfat 说:
Bows are better, period, because the POTENTIAL for outstanding results exists where the same potential does not for X-bows.
Some people are of the mind that under certain battle (not character build) circumstances, x-bows are better. I disagree.
As you say, assume a character with PD of 8+ and a bow proficiency of 350. Assume this character also has a crossbow proficiency of 350 and that said character has access to the bow of their choice and the crossbow of their choice, along with the best ammo for each.
Under what circumstance would said character choose to bring the crossbow versus the bow into battle? I say none, if they are informed, reasonable, and logically.
Others believe that sieges or prolonged battles favor the x-bow. I think that belief is founded on flawed reasoning.