Crossbow Hunting: The Basics

The use of crossbows has really taken off! They are easy to handle and provide many hunters the opportunity to extend their hunting season with archery. In turn, making the appeal to them even greater. However, like every weapon there is certain things we need to know, the basics! Trust me, I've paid the dumb tax so you don't have to! 

 Let's talk parts! Most crossbows come mostly preassembled. Minus the scope mounting and accessory add-ons. Add-ons include, the quiver, the cocking device and optional a crank. 

 Once assembly is complete and all accessories put-on it's time to mount your scope. Similar to a rifle grip you want the butt sock firmly in the pocket of your shoulder. I recommend using some type of stand or tripod to ensure stability while adjusting the scope. This is also the time to become acquainted with your user's manual for both your crossbow and your scope. Learn how your cocking device works and where to locate the safety. 

 When mounting your scope you want the distance to feel natural when you weld your cheek against the stock. The fit is all personal preference and vision specific!  There should be no scope shadow when looking into the lens. Once in position secure the scope with the bolts provided. 

 Now let's move on to the "ammunition" most crossbows shoot 20-inch bolts. If your crossbow did not come with bolts you can find them at any sporting goods section just make sure they are labeled for crossbows. It's a good rule of thumb to inspect your fletchings which are the plastic feathered ends. Any bend can have an effect on your shot. Another thing to keep in mind is to choose three bolts that you will practice with and take to the field. You will also want to know the grain(weight) of tip you are using. Your practice tips and field tips should be the same grain. Let's say that again your practice tips and field tips should be the same grain! I use 100 grain tips. Most manufacturers sell practice tips that mimic or resemble the field tip; but are dull. 

 Now it's time to shoot! Again, I recommend using a tripod or a shooting stand to sight in your crossbow. Be sure to read your user's manual when learning how to cock and load your crossbow. For example, I shoot a Horton Vortec RDX by TenPoint Crossbows, it needs to be off safe to be cocked. It manually turns on the safety during the cocking process. If the safety is engaged prior, it will not fully engage the cable to the latch creating a hangfire.

Beginning at 20 yards which is normally the top dot on most scopes, shoot 3 consecutive bolts at the same bullseye on the target. This is called a Group. This allows you to judge whether or not you pulled on the shot or anticipated the trigger. If all three of your bolts are in the same general location; but, not on the bullseye you aimed for it's time to make adjustments. There are two dials located on the top and side of your scope. One adjust up and down and the other from left to right. You will have to read your Scopes manual to know how many clicks per distance you need to make. Once you have made your adjustment I always tap it for good measure. Shoot three more bolts at the same bullseye. You repeat these steps until your adjustments have your shots within a tight group on Target! At this point you want to make sure you're still having fun, getting to know your weapon not worrying about distance. There's plenty of time for that later!! 

Now that you have sighted in and became acquainted with your crossbow it's time to add distance and practice how you intend to pursue in the field. Again, when adding distance read the manual on your scope knowing which dots reflect which distance in your Scopes lens. If you're sighted in accurately at the 20 yard range the other distances should be accurate as well. 

Now, you can practice like you intend to shoot in the field. For example, for turkey hunting you're most likely going to be on the ground. I have a 18-in Primos shooting stick that I often shoot with from a ground seated position. If you're going to be hunting in a deer stand shoot from that height. When using a blind you want to choose your chair and shooting stick or tripod to fit that height. All shooting scenarios are different! I speak from experience when I say the more reps you put in during target practice, the more it will be like muscle memory in the moment when it needs to count!! 

Lastly, like any weapon it needs to be cleaned and serviced routinely. It is important to wax your cables and string. The serving is the thicker black string wrapped around the string and can be replaced after wear. Know that all your cables and strings should be available from your manufacturer if excessive wear or a break has occurred. 

Good luck with your crossbow! Be sure to tag ReelCamoGirl when you share your Target practice or Game trophy! 

 By Prostaff Member Bethany Beathard