Know-How: Crossbow Hacks

by
posted on July 26, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
crossbow_hacks_johnston_f.jpg

Attach a Possibles Bag
Like muzzleloaders, crossbows require several items that can spell fiasco if you forget them. So add them to a possibles pouch, and attach the pouch directly to your crossbow so you’ll always have them. On crossbows without a raised comb, purchase a removable cheekpiece, like one from Blackhawk, that has a zippered pocket. The added comfort and accuracy it provides by aligning your eye with the scope consistently is more than a bonus. If your crossbow already has a raised comb, simply tape a small pouch to the side of the buttstock.

While most men can cock a crossbow with their bare hands while standing near the truck, it’s a different ballgame while perched in a tiny treestand and shivering. Therefore a rope cocker is a necessity, so into the possibles pouch it goes. Next, toss a field point in there. It’s handy for unloading your crossbow after the hunt so you don’t have to ruin a broadhead or waste a spot on your quiver for a field-tipped arrow. Just swap a broadhead for the field point, shoot the arrow into a target, and then return the field point to the pouch. ChapStik is handy because it doubles as string lube. Add a knife, flashlight and TP if you want to get crazy.

Make a Dope Chart
Because arrows drop much faster than bullets, it’s important to know your arrow drops out to your maximum range, and how they correspond to your scope’s reticle. So, slap a piece of duct tape on your crossbow’s stock then, with a Sharpie, draw your scope’s reticle on it and list the crosshairs’ corresponding ranges off to the side. In the heat of the moment when you’ve got 160-inch antlers on your brain, you’ll be glad you did.  

 

Latest

Robert Nosler LEDE
Robert Nosler LEDE

Nosler Announces the Passing of Robert “Bob” Nosler

Nosler has announced with deep sadness the passing of Robert “Bob” Nosler, the company's Chairman, on September 2, 2025, at the age of 79.

The FN 5.7 as a Survival Round

This company’s Sub2000 folding carbine and compact PR57 pistol can be ideal traveling companions in this caliber.

New for 2025: Savage Arms A22 and B Series Timber Tactical

Savage Arms has unveiled the A22 and B Series Timber Tactical, an addition to its lineup of precision-engineered rimfire rifles.

Review: Bansner & Company Custom Rifle Stocks

A simple modification can make a world of difference. Whether you want the full treatment for your rifle, or just a stock to give an old friend a facelift, Bansner and Company has something to fit the bill.

2025 Reintroduction: Fiocchi Texas White Wing in Bulk Pack

Fiocchi of America has announced the return of its iconic Texas White Wing shotshell—now available in a bulk four-box field carton designed with dove hunters in mind.

Grassland Conservation Funds Available in Ohio

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife has $9 million in funding available for landowners who want to create grassland habitat that can support native wildlife, like northern bobwhite quail and other grassland-nesting birds.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.