Crossbows have surpassed vertical bows in popularity for hunting deer in Wisconsin and other states. Crossbows are easier to shoot accurately, offer a bit more range (up to 100 yards, vs. a maximum of about 50 yards with a vertical bow) and are ideal for young and older hunters who may not have the strength to pull a vertical bowstring (the minimum draw weight for deer hunting in Wisconsin is 30 pounds). In addition, a crossbow has virtually no recoil, unlike a centerfire rifle.
Crossbows have special safety concerns that new users may not realize. While the string from a compound or recurve bow can leave a nasty strawberry mark on your arm, a crossbow string can slice off your finger. Wings, typically plastic barriers below the rail of the crossbow (where the bolt slides) keep the shooter’s fingers safely below the string’s path.
The tremendous stored energy of a crossbow (which may shoot faster than 500 feet per second, compared to a compound bow’s 340 fps) means that the manual safety must stay on until you are ready to shoot, just as on a rifle or shotgun.
Most crossbows now use a crank or other mechanical device to cock the crossbow, which may have a draw weight of 150-200 pounds. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual on how to cock and uncock your crossbow (newer models have an uncocking feature). It is best to buy from a dealer who can explain the safe way to use your crossbow in person.
The National Bowhunter Education Foundation in Rapid City, South Dakota, offers a comprehensive online crossbow safety course. Go to www.crossbow-ed.com/national/studyGuide/Crossbow-Safety-Rules/901099_15178 for details.
Hunters should also remember TAB-K:
• Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
• Always point your muzzle in a safe direction.
• Be sure of your target and what’s in front of and beyond it.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
