Hunting with Crossbows: Here are Some Essential Tips
There is a huge variety of cheap crossbows for sale available in the markets and online stores. Without a doubt, hunting with crossbow id real fun; however, there are certain rules, tips, and guidelines to follow if one wants to truly enjoy the thrill of hunting with his/her amazing set of crossbows. The following list of essential tips ensures that all safety concerns are taken care of with respect to hunting with crossbow. Before we jump into the list of crossbows safety measurements; I deem it necessary to indicate one important aspect with respect to the hunting tools which is that they need to be taken care of.
Simply put, the crossbow needs to be kept in their top conditions so that you can truly enjoy the hunting season. Not to mention the fact that crossbow must be checked with regards to their maintenance and functionality before and after each hunting season; this is the basic way to avoid hunting mishaps and minor/major accidents involving the hunting tools. Develop a routine for thoroughly checking out the cables; trigger; cams; strings; and the safety mechanism of the crossbow. Not to mention the fact that the crossbow needs to be regularly lubricated as well; if you don't know how to lubricate and care for your crossbows, you can always get professional help as well.
Where to Cock the Crossbow?
I cannot stress enough that the safest place to cock the crossbows is the ground and not a tree stand; let this sink in before I proceed to explain. Always refrain from cocking the crossbow while positioned on a stand; for the safer side, you can have them cocked at your home or even while they are in the truck. No matter how wide the stand is, a slight slip can cause serious consequences since you can fall on the ground. It would be best to get a cocking device to do the needful job.
i- The First Shot Counts as Well!
Making the first shot count will eliminate the need for cocking the crossbows from a tree stand. In order to achieve this, you are required to climb up the tree stand at first; aim at the potential target while taking your time; don't rush into firing the first shot. Simply wait for the best opportunity while letting the potential target enter the range of fire. Nonetheless, if you somehow miss the first shot, all you need to do is take a deep relaxing breath; get off the stand, get your feet back on the ground. Relax a little more; re-cock the crossbow while you are on the ground and then climb up the tree stand for the second time for the next shot.
ii- The Importance of Using a Draw Line
In order, guide to get your crossbow to an elevated tree stand, it is recommended to get a draw line for the elevating purpose. Meanwhile, during the whole elevating process, make sure that the safety of the crossbow stays in an engaged mode until and unless the hunting tool has been successfully positioned within the stand and you find yourself comfortably positioned within the stand as well. On an additional note, with respect to the "safety", make sure that the safety is ON even while you are cocking the crossbows on the ground. The reason for this is the fact that leaving the safety ON during the cocking of the crossbow will ensure that the arrow is directed away from the spot where you are standing.
The Importance of Resting
Hunting with crossbow can be a challenging task; especially, if you are new to the hunting game. After having spent a couple of hours in the stands, the crossbows are prone to leaving a heavy and unmanageable impact. In this regard, it is important to let the crossbow rest on the "inbuilt" shooting rail of the stands. These rails are specifically built for the purpose of providing the resting support to the hunting tools. Last but not least, always consider the crossbow as if these were real guns.