Different types of Crossbow

Different types of crossbow

Compound Crossbows

• Basically, a compound crossbow uses cams or pulleys to help draw the string to the latch which is the mechanism for holding the bowstring in the cocked position. Compound crossbows offer Let-off technology to reduce the draw weight when you draw back in cocked position. The energy is then stored into the limbs more effortlessly. Moreover, compound crossbows are built with shorter limbs which can clearly give you a better maneuverability in different situations.
• A disadvantage of the compound crossbows is, if the string gets damaged, your day is done. A bow press is necessary to make any repairs on compound technology.
• A compound crossbow is relatively noisy compared to a recurve crossbow but there are many items that can help you reduce the sound made by the string.
• Compound Parts: 

Barnett Ghost 415 Revenant CRT Crossbow

 

Recurve Crossbows

• Based on its ancestors, modern recurve crossbows have tips that are curving away from the shooter.  The recurve limbs have a longer draw length which is directly related to bolts speed.  Recurve style is lighter than compound style and therefore easier to carry. Manufacturers have included more modern features such as stabilization, scopes, cocks and sights to make them more efficient.
• To draw the string in a cocked position, more strength is needed than with a compound crossbow. In other words, you pull all the weight up to the latch. The person length might be an issue, you may not be able to reach the cocking position if your personal length is too short. String cocker or mechanical aids are available in those cases.
• However, recurves are quieter since they don’t have cams and cables in motion. As they have fewer parts they are easier to maintain and there are also fewer chances to go wrong when shooting.
• Recurve parts: 

Excalibur Matrix 380 Crossbow

 

Reverse Draw Limbs Crossbows

• Reverse draw technology is relatively recent for crossbows. It creates a unique design which is undeniable and this without altering performances. By reversing the limbs, the center of gravity is more toward the shooter and then closer to the trigger. This disposition reduces front end weight which is a disadvantage of compound crossbows. The technology also helps to reduce noise and vibration when shooting. They may be even narrower than the conventional compound crossbows.
• The main advantage of the reverse draw technology is increasing speed per pound of draw weight by increasing the time where the string stays in contact with the bolt on the length of the barrel. In other words, it increases the strike power of the crossbow.
• Reverse limbs parts: 

 

Barnett Vengeance 2 CRT Crossbow

Now that you have a better knowledge of the different types of crossbows on the market, you may want to know what you are actually looking for. It is basically based on what type of game you will hunt or what use of the crossbow you will do. But more importantly, after choosing what you will use the crossbow for, you will have to understand how to choose a crossbow.