Crossbows, explained

A crossbow stores energy in limbs and releases it through a short, heavy bolt. Everything that makes one crossbow different from another comes down to how that energy is stored and how far it acts on the bolt.

Two numbers that matter most

Draw weight is the force needed to cock the bow. Power stroke is the distance the string travels while pushing the bolt. Speed comes from both, and a long power stroke at moderate draw weight often beats a short stroke at high draw weight.

Manufacturer speed ratings are measured with a specific bolt weight. A heavier bolt will always fly slower than the number on the box, and will usually hit harder.

Why crossbows are not just short bows

The bolt leaves the rail in a fraction of the time an arrow spends on a bowstring, so tuning is far less forgiving. Small differences in bolt weight, nock fit or rail lubrication show up as scattered groups.

• TypesRecurve, compound and reverse-draw crossbows compared: width, string life, maintenance and where each design makes sense.
• ChoosingWhat to check before buying a crossbow: cocking method, trigger, weight, scope and the total cost beyond the bow itself.
• Bolts & broadheadsBolt length, spine and weight, nock types, and how field points and broadheads differ in flight.
• SafetyHandling rules, string and rail maintenance, and where to check Canadian and provincial regulations on crossbow ownership and hunting.
• AboutAn independent reference on crossbows and crossbow equipment.