[RobW]

Unlike some of the other peculiar weapons, the boomerang isn't so distorting to gameplay. For many but not all characters, it represents a somewhat improved crossbow (similar damage but higher RoF).

It's just that everyone has to admit:
1. They would rather be hit by a "war" boomerang from 10 meters away than by a "light" crossbow.
2. They would rather be hit by a "war" boomerang from 10 meters away than by someone seriously wielding a shortsword, mace, or spear.
3. If you were watching someone throw a boomerang at you from 66' 6" away, you would probably either step aside to let it pass you, or possibly just catch it.