subject: Understanding How To Hunt With Crossbows [print this page] Hunting with crossbows has become a lot more popular over the last couple of years as the laws and permits relating to this activity have become more relaxed. This has created a burgeoning market for high quality crossbows.
The problem is that many individuals have no experience of using a crossbow before. To be a successful crossbow hunter and make clean kills takes some practice. But there is some basic knowledge that can improve your skills.
To improve the accuracy of your shots you need to understand the following advice -
How to cock correctly: For you to have repeated accuracy the string on the bow needs to latched at the same spot each time. This has to be in a central position. There are cocking aids available to assist you with this task. If this is not done correctly then the bolt may fly off at an angle that may be extremely dangerous. Many owners of crossbows choose to mark the central latch point with permanent ink.
Using a Rest: It may not be seen as authentic to some people, but by using a tripod or stand you are going to seriously enhance the accuracy of your shots. Keep in mind that a crossbow is not as powerful as a rifle, the speed of a bolt is only 10 per cent of that of a bullet. This means that any shot may deviate by ten times when compared to that from a rifle. Stands are easy to get hold of and do not weigh so much. They are a great investment and are a wonderful way to get a feel for hunting with crossbows.
Distance: Many first time crossbow hunters believe that their weapon is powerful enough to bring down a large animal at more than fifty yards. If you are a crack shot then it may be possible but for most people it will be very difficult. The bolt loses trajectory for every yard it travels. For example if it flies sixty yards it will drop by around forty eight inches, if travelling at 350 feet per second. Therefore it is important to get as close to the animal as possible. Usually thirty yards is the best distance as the shot will be more effective and you are still far enough away to not disturb the animal.
When you buy a crossbow it can be very useful to discuss the various factors with somebody that has prior experience. This will bring better results in the long run.
