Compound crossbows

Conventional wisdom would seem to indicate that the latest technology - in this case compound crossbows - would be the best in any arena. But the best at what? Let's examine some of the misconceptions people have regarding compound crossbows that lead them to believe they are superior to recurve crossbows.

Many people assume that compound bows are faster at launching bolts. This isn't necessarily the case. Due to the mechanical complexity of a compound system, the force applied to the bolt is at it's maximum only halfway through release. After the midway point power diminishes rapidly. Therefore a compound crossbow delivers uneven levels of force during the launch process.

Compound crossbows are typically heavier than recurve crossbows as well. This is the natural result of having more components incorporated into the lath - the flexing metal piece (sometimes also called a prod or limb). So if weight is a factor in your ability to hold the crossbow steady for a shot, compounds have a disadvantage.

Compound crossbows are by their nature noisier than recurve crossbows. The cams (wheels located at the tips of the limbs) make noise upon release. They are also less reliable by virtue of the fact that they have more moving parts. Compound crossbows can also be more dangerous than recurves due to the steel cables incorporated into their design. If a cable breaks while you are in the field, you're hunting day if probably over, as cables are difficult to replace in the field even with the proper tools. Conversely, a recurve cocking string can easily be changed anywhere at anytime.

One advantage compound crossbows can have over the traditional recurve is that there is typically less stress acting on the trigger when spanned (cocked). Some recurve manufacturers have designed crossbow triggers that overcome this problem.

If you still have your heart set on a compound crossbow after reading the above-mentioned disadvantages, then make sure you get a good one. Excalibur, Horton, and Barnett are some of the best in the industry.

Good luck in your hunt for the best compound crossbows.

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