Tips for crossbow success as popularity skyrockets

Met with opposition from many traditional archery hunters several years ago, the concept of crossbows becoming a regular part of the fall season seems to be here to stay.
“There definitely is more acceptance of crossbows now,” said Judy Weaver of Weaver’s Archery in Kreamer. “Some people are still very anti-crossbow, but resistance seems to come every time there is change. We saw it when it went recurve to compound bow hunting and again when sights were allowed.”
One reason crossbows are becoming more mainstream in Pennsylvania hunting circles is because it extends the opportunity for both younger and older people to hunt archery.
“I hear it from time to time in the shop. People that once came in saying they’d never shoot a crossbow are now reconsidering as they get older and struggle to be able to pull a bow back,” Weaver said. “We still sell a lot more compound bows than crossbows, but the interest is increasing, especially among those younger or older who can’t handle the poundage necessary to ethically hunt with a compound bow.”
For those considering crossbows this archery season, Weaver has some points to ponder.
“Crossbows are a short-yardage weapon. It is basically a bow mounted horizontally on a gun stock. It feels like a gun and it looks like a gun, but it is still a short-yardage weapon,” she said.
Still, there are marked differences between compound bows and crossbows.
“Crossbows greatly reduce the element of human error. There isn’t as much of a need for practice which appeals to those who don’t have as much time to devote to hunting preparation,” Weaver said.
However, one of the keys to crossbow hunting success revolves around practice time.
“You definitely want to take the time to become familiar with your crossbow. Practice with it. Zero it in for accuracy,” she said. “Don’t just practice on the close shots, but also far away, like around 50 yards. You wouldn’t want to take an animal at 50 yards with a crossbow, but if you are hunting and one comes in at 20 yards, it will be a lot easier if you are comfortable with longer distance shots.”
Stealth is another key for crossbow success.
“It is always a good idea to make sure your equipment is in pristine shape and as quiet as possible,” she said. “Also, for the hunter, scent elimination is such a huge deal. Archery is a close-range activity and a deer’s sense of smell is really good. Good scent elimination is essential.”
Because of the popularity of crossbows, new accessories and better bows are becoming more available.
“There’s always new equipment coming out. Crossbows are lighter in weight and easier to carry. They’re making them smaller so they aren’t as bulky. They’re quieter,” Weaver said. “As the crossbow market explodes, we are seeing so many more accessories and options. For example, there are better broadheads designed specifically for crossbows.”