Crossbow FAQ's

What's the difference between a compound and recurve crossbow?
The primary components of a compound and recurve crossbow are essentially the same. The main difference is in how the crossbow string attaches to the prod. With a traditional recurve crossbow the string attaches directly to the ends of the prod and is therefore directly responsible for pulling the prod back into a fully cocked or "spanned" position. A compound crossbow, on the other hand, utilizes "cams" - spherically shaped track-wheels - to reduce the amount of force required to span a crossbow. These cams are located at the end of the prods. The cables pass over them and the cams physically move during the span and release action. For a deeper analysis of recurve and compound crossbows, please see the related articles on this site.

How do I restring my recurve crossbow?
If you are the proud owner of a recurve crossbow, restringing is quite easy, and can be accomplished in the field in a matter of minutes. Assuming the bow is still strung and you are simply wanting to replace a worn string before it breaks, the procedure is as follows:
In an un-spanned position, press the left (or right) prod into the ground between your feet (to prevent slippage) until the string loosens. Remove the old string from the prod, and at the same time place the loop of the new string over the end of the prod. Now simply remove the old string from the opposite prod and repeat the procedure of bending the prod against the ground until you are able to loop the new string over the end. Slowly release tension...and you're done! It's recommend that you span the crossbow at this point and mark either side of dead-center with white or brighly-colored permanent marker. Also remember to apply string wax to prolong it's life.

How much draw weight do I need to hunt?
Typically you will want to hunt smaller animals (such as squirrels and rabbits) with a minimum of 150 lbs. of draw. This is necessitated by the "quick" nature of these animals moreso than a need for power. Antelope and deer can also be taken with a 150 lb. crossbow. For larger animals like elk and caribou, or the particularly tough wild boar, you'll need a 175 lb. crossbow. And for really big and potentially dangerous animals like grizzlies and cape buffalo, hold out for a 200 pounder. Remember too that some of the other factors to consider are the thickness, density, and bone structure of the animal you're hunting. The proper broadhead and bolt can make a world of difference as well. And of course, if you miss a kill zone completely, than it doesn't really matter how much power is behind your bolt. For a more in-depth discussion of this topic, please refer to this article.

When I put the string on the crossbow it seems like it's too short and that the frame is hard to bend - how do I resolve this?
I assume you're talking about a recurve and not a compound xbow? I further assume that you're referring to the prod or the "limbs" as being difficult to pull back? First thing to check is that the string you've purchased is the appropriate length for the crossbow. If you have the old string to compare it do, do that. Otherwise check the owners manual for the recommended material and length, or check for an online manual on the manufacturer's website. If you confirm that the string is the appropriate length and material (Eg. Dacron), and the limbs have not been modified in any way, than you're probably just experiencing the inherent difficulty of spanning a recurve crossbow. Anything above 150 pounds is mighty difficult to span. You can purchase a cocking device to help you with this process - they are found at Bass Pro Shops and other online stores. Many new crossbows also feature a foot claw which facilitates spanning by letting you immobilize the bow with your foot while cocking it with both arms.

I have been looking for plans on how to build a pistolgrip crossbow without any luck. If you could direct me it would be greatly appreciated.
Try this article

I have recently purchased an Excalibur Exocet 200. What bolt and broadhead do you suggest for this application?
I would recommend a 20" carbon for hunting. Personally I like Magnus Stinger broadheads as they are excellent quality and have a lifetime warranty. There's more details on the Excalibur website itself.

Do you have a contact number for service work on my Barnett crossbow?
1-800-237-4507

I have a Horton Legend SL crossbow. I've had it for 2 years, have only shot it about 20 times and never dry fired it. I noticed it has a cracked limb - does it have free replacement on the limbs?
Call 1-800-551-7468 for service requests. Most Horton limbs have a three-year warranty, but some have a limited lifetime warranty.

I have a Horton Crossbow. The model is a Legend XT 175. I am having trouble keeping a tight grouping. I was told that the proper weight bolt makes a difference. I have been shooting what came with the crossbow which are aluminum bolts. I think I am going to go with a carbon bolt this time. What weight does Horton recommend?
400 grain is recommended for aluminum arrows. You WILL get better performance from carbon, for sure.
Check your fletching for damage, too.

Need to know where to find bolts and broadheads and fieldpoints for a Barnett Revolution crossbow. What kind of bolts and length as it varies from site to site?
22" is standard for most Barnett crossbows. As long as the bolt tip/broadhead clears the end of the bow without obstruction, that's the main thing, along with the overall barrel thickness and weight.

Which is better - Tenpoint or Horton crossbows?
It's really an issue that comes down to personal opinion. Tenpoint warrants their quad-limb designs for the lifetime of the crossbow, and Horton offers only 3-year warranties. Quad-limb designs do tend to be less accurate due to uneven wear of the limbs. Personally I prefer Horton, but they're both good quality weapons.

What is the best brand of crossbow for hunting?
Again, this is a matter of personal experience and preference, but overall I prefer Excalibur crossbows.

Need more information on the Eagle 6 crossbow.
We used to sell Eagle crossbows but had so many customer returns we decided to drop them. They're just not a good quality bow. You're better off going with a Barnett RC-150 for just a little more money.

I purchased a PSE recurve crossbow that shoots a 17" bolt and am having trouble locating bolts in that length...all that I can find are 20" or 22". Any suggestions would be appreciated.
You could successfully use 18" or 20" if you get carbon arrows and observe the proper diameter and weight.

Would you be kind enough to tell me why the arrow used on a crossbow is called a "bolt?" Thanks so much for any enlightenment you could offer!
That's a good question. The technical name for a crossbow bolt is actually a "quarrel," so the term "bolt" probably refers to either the rapid ejection and flight of the projectile (to "bolt" quickly), or to it's general appearance and bolt-like shape. Nobody really says "quarrel" anymore (even when they're arguing with their spouse!), and calling it an "arrow" would just confuse people as to the weapon.

I have a Barnett RC-150 with the solid limb design. Do you know why Barnett would have changed the design for 2005? Did they have a problem with the solid limb or is it a marketing thing to mess with Horton?
Barnett has used quad-limb designs for years. It could be a marketing decision, as Tenpoint and others are gaining market share with their exclusively quad-limb designs.

When I compare the Horton and Barnett foot lbs of force there seems to be a big difference even for the same draw weights and power stroke. Why?
The dynamics that affect foot pounds of force include power stroke, draw weight, track length, friction, mass of the object being moved (in this case a bolt), and inertia. A recurve bow will apply steady torque, whereas a compound will have variable torque through release. Length of the bolt, weight and composition are also factors. Ambient weather conditions can even have an impact, depending on how dry or humid, warm or cool the air is. Last but not least, these "numbers" are not entirely accurate. They are derived under perfect testing conditions and are probably the best numbers posted from a series of tests, rather than the average or median.
Both Barnett and Horton are quality bows. You'll hear people from both camps stating unequivically why their chosen brand is better. It really comes down to personal choice. If you can borrow a friend's xbow to test out, you might just develop your own preference.

Good luck in your hunt for the best crossbows.

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