Choosing Arrows, Optics and Accessories

Choosing the right equipment for a crossbow is about more than simply buying the most expensive accessories. Bolts, optics and other equipment need to be suitable for the particular crossbow and the type of shooting involved.

Standard Crossbow Safety Checklist

Crossbows should always be treated as potentially dangerous weapons. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and any applicable laws or range rules.

1. General & Handling Fundamentals

• Manufacturer Compliance: Always read, understand and follow the manufacturer's manual and safety guidance.
• Safe Direction: Keep the crossbow pointed in a safe direction at all times. Never point it at a person.
• Trigger Discipline: Keep your finger off the trigger until your target has been identified and you are fully ready to shoot.
• Hand & Finger Safety: Keep hands, thumbs and fingers clear of the flight deck and string path. Follow the manufacturer's guidance on safe hand positioning.

2. Equipment Inspection & Specifications

• Pre-Use Inspection: Inspect the limbs, stock, trigger mechanism, cables, string and cocking mechanism before use. Look for signs of damage or excessive wear.
• Bolt & Component Specifications: Use only bolts, points and nocks that meet the manufacturer's specifications for the particular crossbow.
• Inspect Bolts: Check bolt shafts for cracks or other damage and make sure fletchings and nocks are in good condition before loading.

3. Preparation & Loading

• Cocking: Use the manufacturer's recommended cocking method or approved cocking device.
• Prevent Dry Firing: Never fire a crossbow without a correctly seated, manufacturer-approved bolt.
• Proper Seating: Make sure the bolt is fully seated according to the manufacturer's instructions before firing.

4. Target Acquisition & Shooting

• Target & Backstop: Use a suitable target and an adequate backstop capable of safely stopping the bolts being used.
• Background Check: Positively identify your target and make sure the area beyond it is clear.
• Clearance: Make sure the limbs, cams and other moving parts have sufficient clearance from nearby objects before firing.
• Eye Protection: Wear appropriate eye protection and follow any additional safety recommendations from the manufacturer or shooting facility.

5. Unloading & Storage

• Safe Decocking: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safely decocking or unloading the crossbow. Never attempt a method that is not approved for the particular model.
• Safe Transit: Keep the crossbow unloaded when moving it or placing it in a vehicle, following the manufacturer's instructions and applicable laws.
• Secure Storage: Store the crossbow securely and unloaded when not in use, away from children and unauthorised users.

1. Choosing the Right Bolts

Crossbow bolts are not all the same, and using the correct type is important for safe and reliable operation.

When choosing bolts, check the crossbow manufacturer's recommendations for:

• Length and weight: The correct specifications vary between crossbow models.
• Nock type: Make sure the nock is compatible with the crossbow and recommended by the manufacturer.
• Construction: Bolt construction and materials can vary considerably.
• Point type: Use points appropriate for the intended type of shooting and compatible with the bolt and crossbow.

It is important not to assume that a bolt is suitable simply because it fits the rail. The manufacturer's specifications should always take priority.

2. Optics and Sights

The right sighting system depends on the crossbow, the distances involved and the type of shooting.

Some crossbows are supplied with basic sights, while others may be used with a suitable scope or red-dot sight.

When considering an optic, think about:

• The magnification you actually need.
• The sight's intended distance range.
• The reticle or aiming system.
• The mounting system and rail compatibility.
• The manufacturer's recommendations for use with the particular crossbow.

A specialised crossbow scope may also incorporate aiming points intended for different distances. These should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions rather than assuming that the marked distances will be identical for every crossbow and bolt combination.

3. Other Useful Equipment

There are plenty of accessories available for crossbows, but not all of them are necessary.

Depending on the setup, useful equipment can include:

• Suitable targets: Use targets designed to safely stop the type of bolts being used.
• A suitable case or bag: Useful for protecting the crossbow during storage and transport.
• Maintenance equipment: Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for lubrication, inspection and general care.
• Replacement strings and cables: These should be the correct specification for the particular crossbow.

4. Matching the Equipment to the Crossbow

One of the easiest mistakes is buying accessories first and checking compatibility afterwards.

Before buying anything, check:

• The exact crossbow model.
• The manufacturer's recommended bolt specifications.
• Rail and mounting compatibility.
• Recommended scope or sight specifications.
• Whether the accessory is intended for the particular crossbow.

This is particularly important with bolts, strings, cables and other components where using an unsuitable item can affect the operation of the crossbow.

The Bottom Line

The best equipment setup is not necessarily the one with the most accessories. It is the one where the individual components are suitable for the crossbow and the way it is being used.

Start with the manufacturer's specifications, then consider which accessories will actually be useful to you.