Word Count: 709 Date: Mon, 2 Mar 2009 6:55 PM
How To Choose a Target Practice or Hunting Crossbow
It can be a daunting task to buy a crossbows for the first time so at the online archery store we have put together some guidelines to help. Crossbows have become increasingly popular for target practice and for hunting as they are much easier to master to than a conventional bow. Some people find that drawing a bow becomes difficult as they get older so they are increasingly turning to the use of crossbows instead. As more and more people who like to hunt reach retirement the use of crossbows is increasing.
Before you buy a crossbow is a good idea to handle it and see how he feels before you buy it. If possible shoot it to. If you cannot do this at the shop or if you purchase online you can try out different models as a local archery club or even rent one before you buy.
Crossbow Weights
The weight of a crossbow can vary quite a lot and and you need to buy a crossbow with the weight that you feel comfortable with. A light crossbow may be harder to handle and to shoot accurately. On the other hand a heavy crossbow may not be ideal if you are trekking through woods or on a long hike so compromise may be necessary.
Crossbow Designs
Traditional designs of crossbows have recurve limbs but nowadays many have cams or wheels. Crossbows with cams can be harder to draw but are usually faster than the other types, crossbows with wheels have more power so a suitable for bigger game may not be so fast. simpler crossbones with recurve limbs can also be very fast.
Keeping Quiet
Crossbows need to be quiet in use and when trekking through the bush if you accidentally knock them against the trees. Different designs and materials are used to cushion the noise. Soft materials on the limbs and constructing a crossbow with parallel limbs helps to decrease the noise. Some models also have noise dampening devices which can be purchased separately and fixed onto the limbs. These devices can decrease the noise and vibration.
Cocking Devices
Many crossbows nowadays have built-in cocking devices and it is well worth paying extra for this as you will not have to lug around a separate device. They are also very easy to cock.
Crossbow Scopes
There are quite a few different types of scope that work on cross bows. Always pick the one with the best optics that you can afford. With scopes, as in many things, you get what you pay for and a cheap scope will have a big effect on your accuracy and hence your enjoyment. Red dots scopes are becoming more popular and are reliable and accurate for shots up to about 40 yards. Scopes with crosshairs or multiple lines are also available that can be used at different distances.
Crossbow Safety
Before you use any crossbow always make sure you know about the safety system by reading the manufacturers instructions.
1. Always know where your arrow is aimed before you pull the trigger
2. Do not climb a tree or walk with your crossbow cocked and loaded
3. Always use arrow weights recommended by the manufacturer of your crossbow
4. Do not place your fingers and thumb in the line of travel of the string all cables
5. Identify your target before you shoot and make sure there is no one behind the target
6. Do not shoot an animal if it is alert and excited
7. Do not dry fire your crossbow (fire without a bolt in place)
8. Make sure that safety is always engaged when cocking and only release when you are ready to shoot
9. Remove the bolt if you manually de-cock your crossbow
10. Inspect your crossbow regularly to make sure it is in good condition
Conclusion
We hope that the information here will help you decide on the crossbow and accessories that will be suitable for your needs. Make sure you always use your new crossbows safely and enjoy this increasingly popular sport.
About the Author
For more information and some good deals on new and used Barnett and Horton Crossbows visit the Online Archery Store or see our range of Barnett Crossbows
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