Most crossbows are incredibly accurate when launched under perfect conditions. However, a hunter squinting in low light from an elevated stand swaying in a 20 mph wind at a deer that won’t stand still complicates the process. “Hunting” with a crossbow, compound, or recurve is very similar; it’s the “shooting” consistency of a crossbow that gives horizontal hunters the edge. Here are several tips for maintaining accuracy and shooting skill with your crossbow.
Don’t Stop Practicing!
I field test half a dozen crossbows each year and try to hunt realistically with each of them. Because a practice session from a bench rest had nocks touching doesn’t mean the shooter is ready for the hunt. As I test various bows, I find that trigger pull is the most critical variable for accuracy, and consistent practice will teach you how to maximize the “squeeze.” When shooting from a bench or clasping rest, trigger pull isn’t as critical because the bow is held in place. However, if you shoot off-hand or even from a rested hand, knowing what to expect from your trigger will allow you to take an accurate shot at exactly the right time.
Last Shot
Several of the bows I test have a crank that allows de-cocking, however, I prefer to shoot an arrow to relax the bow, especially after a hunt. I have a motion-sensor security light behind my house, and after a hunt, I walk out back wearing my hunting jacket and, in realistic weather, shoot an arrow off-hand. That always reminds me of the trigger and is a post-mortem of my shooting skill. If the arrow is on target, my confidence is boosted, and I know that I’m ready for the next day afield.
Cock in the Light
Cocking your bow the same every time is critical to accuracy. On afternoon hunts, I usually cock my bow in the field and nock an arrow if I’m sneaking into my stand. On morning hunts, I cock the bow in my garage, where I have plenty of light to make sure it’s done consistently and safely. I use a pull-up rope to raise my bow into a stand with the line attached to the stock. Loading an arrow in the dark takes great care. Make sure that the cock feather is configured correctly. I hate to use a white light in a stand, but it may be necessary to ensure an arrow is loaded correctly. Red or green colored lights can confuse when identifying the cock feather.
Tight Makes Right
Crossbows cause tremendous vibration, and even one practice session can loosen screws, affecting accuracy, especially if they are part of the scope mount. In addition to inconsistent accuracy, loose screws cause items to vibrate and make a much louder sound on launch. Target points and broadheads can vibrate loose as well. Turning one or more times to the left can make a target point a nightmare to remove from today’s high-speed bag targets. Deer and Deer Hunting is a great magazine and hunting organization. Here are a few more video tips from them.