Crossbows have been in use for centuries and are extremely effective weapons. Using a crossbow is easier than using a long bow because the crossbow mechanism allows for aiming the weapon in the same way as a modern rifle. Learning to shoot a crossbow takes some preparation and knowledge of safety precautions – ‘simpler’ does not equate to simple. Homemade crossbows are often harder to use, due to the improvised nature with differing string tensions and trigger mechanisms.

You should start using your crossbow by pulling the string up until it is held in place. Larger weapons use a stirrup for this as the string takes a great deal more force to draw back. It is much easier to prepare a one-handed or pistol-style bow.

Check the locking mechanism to be sure that it is working next, holding its pressure tightly. A huge amount of potential power is stored when a weapon is cocked. Instead of Weapons using traditional arrows, they utilize bolts – and this is where the phrase “Bolt from the Blue” comes from, referring to the shock of bolts from crossbows falling from the sky. For it to fly accurately, the bolt has to be positioned properly.

Then the user must judge the distance between their position and the target by looking down the sight of the crossbow. While a crossbow can fire a bolt over distances up to one hundred yards, most shots are made within twenty yards.

Next, having assessed the user should softly ease the trigger. Do not ‘pull’ on the trigger hard, simply squeeze the shot until practice makes perfect. A bolt can leave the bow at very high speeds and with tremendous force, so it pays to be certain of the shot before taking it. When using Improvised Crossbows be even more careful when releasing that the device is aimed away as the likelihood for wayward bolts increases.

Finally, it’s a neat idea to use a straight tip bolt for target practice. The more dangerous pointed tips used in hunting enter the soft practice targets too deeply and with enough force to ruin them.

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