It is very difficult to disable a geared target without first killing them. Along with the crossbow, introduce Tranquilliser tipped arrows that will allow for the temporary disabling of a target, while maintaining the integrity of the items on his person. These rounds should have to be shot at a distance that would put the user at some sort of risk (200~250) meters, and should only last 25-30 seconds.
After being shot a player should be immune to tranquilizing agents from the duration of an hour as to prevent abuse.