These can be very good for a hunter.  In groups where I'm healing, and there are no other ranged fighters--for whatever reason--the hunter stays back around the healer, and deals ranged damage.  But when the tank lets a mob slip, the hunter can get them off me quick so I can keep healing.  So I agree.  Depends on what you are using your hunter for.  When you are grouped your strategy is different depending on who you're grouped with.  You can't always get the classes you want : )