Archery term
Crossbow
What does Crossbow mean?
A crossbow holds its bowstring drawn by a latch until a trigger releases it. Its limbs may be arranged horizontally across a stock, and it launches a short, purpose-made bolt. Crossbows use their own safety, cocking, sighting, and ammunition requirements.
Primary source for this term: World Archery Coaching Manual: Archery Glossary (Updated 2015)
Why it matters
Use only bolts and accessories approved for the exact crossbow model. Follow its manual for cocking, loading, decocking, and safe direction; never put a hand in the path of the string or limbs. Crossbows are regulated differently from recurve and compound bows in competition and by local law.
What to check
- Compare package weight, cocking method, scope, and what the exact model includes.
- Read the model manual and follow its cocking, loading, and decocking steps.
- Use only bolts, nocks, and minimum finished-bolt mass approved by that crossbow maker.