How to String a Crossbow? Some Precautions in the process!

Used in the field of hunting and intensive shooting, a crossbow is a simple instrument that consists of a bolt and an arrow. Nowadays, only the bolt is present in the modernized version of the crossbow. The mechanism of the crossbow is slightly different, as it encompasses greater strength and stability. One important step that players have to care about, is to string the crossbow. Before your final shoot, you have to string the crossbow and prepare it. But is stringing easy? What does the method comprise of?

Let’s analyze the full steps on how to string a crossbow!

Stringing the crossbow can be quite dangerous. It is also difficult as well simply because of its sharpness. You need to have confidence and a keen sense of accuracy to string the crossbow. There are two main ways of stringing the crossbow. It includes by hand and also using the stringer. Both the processes of stringing are in-depth discussed below:

The guide to stringing a crossbow the right way:

String a crossbow by using the hand-

This is the most common method of stringing the crossbow. Now, it all starts with straightening the arm and using the other to transfer the weight of the crossbow equally on both the strings. The weight of the instrument must be determined beforehand so that it is easier to pull the string and adjust it accordingly.

• When compounding or even unloading the bolt from the crossbow, this method must be accurately adopted always.
• To string a crossbow by using the hand, all you have to do is to use the hook at one end of the crossbow. You must keep the other side of the instrument loose so that it is easy to operate. The loop of the string should carefully set inside the nock of the crossbow. Do not exert too much pressure here, as you may damage the string.
• Once done, you must place the crossbow on a proper hard surface. Angle it and secure its alignment. Avoid canting of the instrument here. The crossbow shouldn’t be too much on the right side and too much on the left side. This altogether hampers the process of exerting pressure while shooting.
• Take note of the surface and keep it in an upward position. Slightly tilt the crossbow forward and let it rest. You can now insert the bolt in the crossbow string.
• A lot of shooting can go wrong if the surface isn’t hard for resting the crossbow. Therefore, keep the crossbow in a place that secures its stability.
• For a better experience, keep a wooden log by the side of the crossbow. This log will help if the crossbow is slipping.
• For inserting the bolt on the string, you must apply pressure with the help of your feet. Position the crossbow perfectly and use your hands to secure the prod of the instrument. This dominating method helps to apply equal pressure on the crossbow and the stringing it becomes much easier.
• Now, all you have to do is to apply your strength to pull up the barrel. You can do so by exerting pressure and using your hands to bring it into position. Once done, you have to put the hook on the other side of the nock by releasing all pressure on the barrel.
• You must know check the whole crossbow and understand how it all went. You can now insert the bolt and start shooting. This same method must be followed when unloading the crossbow as well. If you miss the hook or apply less pressure, chances are that you might get hurt. Take all kinds of safety precautions before you start handling the instrument.

String a crossbow by using the stringer-

Individuals can also use a stringer to string the crossbow. If you want to escape difficulties, using the stringer is the safest way to kick-start your crossbow stringing experience. For that, follow the steps below:

• A stringer essentially distributes the weight of the crossbow equally on both sides. Like you used your feet to exert pressure and balance out the weight, the stringer does it for you. You must, however, check the loop of the crossbow and place it inside the stringer. Analyze the surface tension and whether it is suitable or not.
• When you are using the stringer, avoid tilting the crossbow. Instead, keep it flat and you can work on it accordingly.
• You must now keep the stringer at an angle that helps with hooking. Tie it on both the ends of the crossbow. The Bowstring must be a little shorter in length when you are using the stringer. Since you are using this tool instead, you have to avoid exerting too much pressure. Check the length of the string and work on it accordingly.
• Individuals should also cock the equipment with the stringer. Try to pull the tool near to the center and latch it. Keep the movement upwards. While loading, the cock can help you to do so.
• You must also follow the same pattern for hooking the other side of the string. Take note of the steps by applying the stringer directly. Be steady in your approach and loop the crossbow accordingly.
• Finally, you can now release the arrow from the crossbow to your direction.

The loading must be done properly in case you are looking for perfection. While unloading the crossbow, use the same method.

The final conclusion:

You do not have to be a pro when you string a crossbow. You can apply any method that seems preferable to you. If you are using the hand method, you just have to be extra cautious. On the other hand, the stringer lends flexibility and perfection to string the crossbow. Before you even start, check the terms of using the crossbow. This will probably help in calculating the effectiveness of the work done. You can always ask for some professional help in case you aren’t confident.