The first crossbows were designed nearly 3,000 years ago. Since then, craftsmen have steadily improved crossbow technology to increase bolt speed and stopping power while improving safety.
Modern crossbows are a marvel of modern technology. Not only are they powerful and accurate, but they are also very durable. And, with a bit of practice, they can be a practical tool for the avid hunter.
Here are some of the many benefits of modern crossbows.
They are Lightweight
Until recently, carrying around a crossbow all day could be considered a workout.
Crossbows were traditionally built out of wood and metal. As a result, they could weigh up to 15 pounds. The size of these older models of crossbows made them particularly difficult for older adults and kids to lug around throughout a hunt. In some cases, the weight of the crossbow could even affect the accuracy of a hunter’s shot if they lacked a secondary source of support.
Modern crossbows, on the other hand, are built using carbon fiber and carbon stock. Most weigh between 5.4 to 9 pounds. And, you aren’t forced to sacrifice power if you want a lighter crossbow. There are 6-pound crossbows, for instance, that can fire at 400 FPS.
Now anyone, regardless of their age, can experience the thrill of crossbow hunting.
They’re Quiet
If you’ve never fired an older crossbow before, there’s something you should know: they can be loud.
In fact, older model crossbows can produce between 80 and 90 decibels of sound every time they are fired, with the noise coming from the vibration of the strings after they are released. That’s as loud as a window air conditioner or a traffic jam. They aren’t exactly the ideal tool if you’re trying to remain discreet while out on a hunt, since bolts do not travel as fast as a bullet. Even a slight reaction to the sound by whatever animal you’re hunting can result in a missed shot.
Newer crossbow models are designed to absorb the sound. For example, some crossbows have rail mounted string stops that promote a quieter shot by slowing down the vibration of a string after a shot has been fired. For an even quieter shot, you can add sound dampeners to the crossbow’s limbs, spring, and barrel.
They Offer a Consistent Firing Experience
An issue new archers face is how the experience of firing an bolt can differ every time they pull back.
On one occasion, it might be more difficult to pull. On the next try, it could be a smooth pull. This inconsistency in experience can have a negative effect on the accuracy of your shot. If you don’t know what to expect the next time you take a shot, you won’t be able to account for other factors such as wind speed and distance of your shot.
Modern crossbows offer a smooth and consistent pull through improved trigger mechanism technology. Every time a hunter reaches back, they can expect a smooth pull that feels similar to their previous one. Not only does this improve the accuracy, but it also allows for a cleaner release of the arrow from the bow.
You Don’t Need to Sacrifice Power and Speed for Usability
Historically, crossbow hunters faced a tradeoff when choosing a new bow. They either purchased a crossbow with a heavy draw weight but exceptional speed and power. Or, they could choose one with a lighter draw weight but less power.
These days, however, hunters can get both.
Advanced crossbows are built with powerful, yet lightweight cranking devices. Cranking devices reduce draw weight by lessening the force required to to full cock a crossbow. Many of them are even built with large handles with ambidextrous designs that allow both right-handed and left-handed hunters to comfortably pull back. In fact, the most advanced cranking devices can reduce draw weight by up to 90 percent. Hunters of all ages and strength levels are now able to use powerful crossbows and hunt bigger game.
Fewer Crossbows are Damaged by Dry Firing
Dry firing is a simple concept to understand: You fire your crossbow without first mounting a bolt. On the surface, it sounds harmless. But in reality, it’s far from it.
When you pull back the limbs of a crossbow, you’re creating potential energy. Later, when the limbs are released, they create kinetic energy. This energy is transferred into a crossbow bolt, which causes it to fly toward its target.
But, when a bolt isn’t mounted, all of the stored up potential energy has nowhere to go. Instead, all of the kinetic energy is sent back into the limbs, which causes them to rapidly vibrate. All of this stress on the limbs can cause them to crack. It can also damage the crossbow’s cams, which can in turn cause strings to fray and snap.
Newer crossbow models are built with anti-dry fire mechanisms that prevent dry firings from occurring. If the hunter pulls back and attempts to fire without a bolt loaded, the mechanism will catch the spring. While you should still inspect the bow after a near-dry fire, it will dramatically reduce the stress on the bow limbs.
They are Safer than Ever Before
Imagine you’re suited up in your hunting camo and out in the woods. You may be perched in a treestand or concealed under a ground cover. You’re ready for a bear or deer to approach. The last thing you want to worry about is safety.
Fortunately, modern crossbows are designed with user safety in mind. Many come with finger guards to prevent injuries caused by misfires. And, similar to the dry fire mechanism mentioned earlier, a number of models have safety devices included that prevent accidental discharges.
If it’s your first time heading out on a hunt, all of these safety features should offer you some peace of mind.
Find Out For Yourself
All of these new technological advances make it the perfect time to try crossbow hunting. Research any laws your city or state has about crossbow hunting, pick up a new bow, and give i a try!
