How do you load a crossbow

Cocking and loading a crossbow may seem simple and easy. But just like anything else that has to do with archery, not focusing on the fine details will just result in messy situations (both for you and your gear!).

Regardless of your chosen method, the entire cock and load process should be something like this:

Evenly pull your crossbow string back until it is engaged.
Load a bolt (preferably, one with a size that fits for your crossbow).
Get ready to shoot.

Again, it’s a simple process. But, break it down like we did earlier, then you can see just how one small step can mess everything up! Also, we really want to point out that “simplicity” works in this article. Why complicate processes when you can use the right tools to do the job? Or integrate hacks and preps for better shooting sessions? We hope you get to learn a lot from our guide - we hope you get to make the most out of your crossbow with these tips!

Basic Steps on How to Draw a Crossbow

Note this article is about cocking the crossbow. If you want to draw a picture of a crossbow then unfortunately this article is not for you.

As compared to conventional bows, a crossbow's "drawing" motion is essentially you preparing your gear for the actual shot. And this is done even without the arrow loaded!

It's a common misconception, really - which is why we'd like to break down the process of how to load a crossbow (the proper way, of course, which is cocking!). Check out the three crossbow cocking methods below:

Using a Foot Claw to Cock a Crossbow

Almost every crossbow has a foot claw. You can use the foot claw combined with your hands/cocking rope to cock the crossbow.

This method is actually considered the traditional way to cock a crossbow. And it mainly involves using a foot claw (also called a foot stirrup) and your physical prowess. Considering that it may be really taxing, this method should be left to those capable in pulling anywhere from 130 lbs. to 150 lbs. of draw weight (an average figure, considering the crossbow type). If you have any back problems, disabled, or a beginner, don’t use this method - you do not want to hurt yourself or damage your precious archery gear in the process!

Here's how the foot claw process of cocking a crossbow flows:

Turn the safety switch of the crossbow in the firing position. This is needed so that the crossbow string can be pulled back completely and will get locked in place.
Angle the crossbow in such a way that the foot stirrup touches the floor.
Once positioned properly, insert your foot in the foot claw.
Using both hands, carefully grab onto the crossbow string. You have to do this in such a way that the weight is distributed evenly – you do not want one hand pulling more weight than the other.
Start to pull the crossbow string back. Do this is a smooth manner. We're emphasizing on "smoothness." A quick yank or abrupt tug on the string may either injure you or damage your crossbow.
Once it's cocked properly, turn the crossbow's safety switch on. It does depend on the crossbow – some, when cocked right, will switch the safety on automatically. Still, checking this never hurt anyone.
You are now ready to load!

Sounds easy, but can be really hard if you don't have the strength to pull the string! If you can’t pull the string evenly, you may end up with inconsistent shots as well!

Using a Cocking Rope to Cock a Crossbow

Using a cocking rope with a crossbow is a safe and easy way to cock your crossbow.

Simple in design and execution, using this tool can speed up and make the entire process an easy-breezy affair! Here are the basic steps to use this nice archery tool (in fact, this cocking assistance device should actually be a crossbow essential!):

Turn the safety switch of the crossbow in the firing position. This will assure you that the crossbow string can be pulled back completely.
Angle the crossbow in such a way that the foot stirrup touches the floor.
Once positioned properly, insert your foot in the foot claw.
With the cocking rope in your hands, hook the clamps onto the crossbow string. Similar to the first method, make sure that the clamps are placed in such a way that you have even tension when pulling.
Once you have positioned the clamps, take hold of the cocking rope's handles and start to pull back. Stop when the crossbow is engaged (normally, you'll hear a click when this happens).
Once it's cocked properly, turn the crossbow's safety switch on.
You are now ready to load!

Now, isn't that easier? Do make sure that the cocking rope pulls evenly (and that the actual rope is cut evenly). Otherwise, this simple application may turn out to be a chore for you to use!

Using a Crank to Cock a Crossbow

Using a crank takes longer time, but you will need to exert a smaller force.

Another tool that you can use to cock your crossbow is a crank. This cocking device makes your life a lot easier - while you'll need more time to cock your crossbow this way, you'll also need to exert way less force. So it's a plus for handicapped archers or those with a back injury. This cocking device is attached to the crossbow's stock. Here's how it works:

Install the crank into the stock of your crossbow (the back portion).

Holding the two hooks of the crank, clamp those onto the crossbow string (again, evenly position this so that the crank can pull the string in a balanced fashion).

Start turning the crank to pull the crossbow string. Stop when the crossbow is engaged.

Really simple and works just like a fishing rod! Out in the wild, though, a crank may spell disaster since they’re usually noisy (which will just scare your prey away). Although, newer crank models do come with a feature that makes the entire device silent - you may want to look out for these types if you plan to use this tool.

Basic Steps on How to Load a Crossbow

Now for the actual loading part! After you’ve done any of the three crossbow cocking methods mentioned above, you can now get a bolt into your crossbow barrel. Breaking it down, it comprises of these simple steps:

Grab a crossbow bolt from your quiver.
Arm your chosen bolt on the crossbow rail.
Place one of your bolt's vanes down so that it can slide smoothly through the crossbow's groove.
Slide the bolt further until it is seated against the crossbow string.
You are now ready to shoot!

To make the loading process even smoother, always check that your bolt's vane is aligned in your crossbow's barrel channel. This assures you of accurate shots.

Other Important Crossbow Loading and Drawing Information You Need to Know

It’s a simple process, but we’d like to add more crossbow tidbits for you to make the most out of the loading step of your crossbow.

What Happens if the Diameter of a Crossbow Arrow is Too Large for the Grooved Track in the Barrel?

When getting bolts double check the will match your crossbow. Pictured is a crossbow with the bolt and groove visible.

Remember the step above in the loading process emphasizing the groove? There’s a reason we did that! You can actually still shoot with a larger crossbow bolt or arrow.

However, distance plays a big part in this scenario. Hitting farther targets can spell a big difference if you're using bolts that are larger than what's meant for your crossbow.

You wouldn't be able to hit straight with this funky configuration. Instead of going straight, you're bound to notice a downward-angled shot instead. This is because the bolt get pushed upwards in it's groove, as it does not fit. The string in turn will try to push it a bit downwards, and the bolt will end up on a downward pointing flight-curve.

Even worse, an accident could happen. As such, always make sure you get gear that are specified for your gear. This is archery - everything has to be taken into account for!

Benefits of Using a Cocking Rope

Given that we're big fans of the cocking rope, we'd like to share more reasons why you really need to get one!

Managing Heavier Draw Weights

Depending on the crossbow type, some models do go above 200 lbs. Even at the mentioned 130 lbs. to 150 lbs. range, pulling can be such a hassle. Using a cocking rope essentially takes the burden off you - exactly what you need since you need to maintain your stamina for more efficient shots!

Prevents Injuries

Why show off your strength when you're putting yourself at risk to injury? Even if you are confident with your strength, a slight mistake may result in an injury.

Because You Care for Your Crossbow

Your crossbow is an extension of yourself. Same scenario of placing yourself to a risky position that will lead to injury, why should you take the chance to damage your prized equipment?

Really, a cocking rope should really be an essential when you're shooting a crossbow!

Archery Hacks When Cocking Your Crossbow

We also want to share these really easy (but effective) hacks to properly cock your crossbow.

Mark Your Way to Success

Have you noticed that we'd always remind you to make sure that you need to pull on crossbow string in an evenly manner? This helps you avoid inconsistent shots! And one way to assure you that you're doing it evenly is by simply marking the string so you always grip it at the right spot. A trusty marker is all there is to find the best and right spot of your bow string (that part where the trigger and the bolt meets) and cocking rope (to get the right distance and pull when clamping the rope onto the bow string). It's simple but rewarding - you may just get more accurate shots doing this hack!

Adjust Your Rope

We also pointed out earlier that your cocking rope needs to be cut right. Chances are, your cocking rope is a bit too long. And since you need gear that will adjust to your build and style, double check the size of your cocking rope, and shorten it as needed.

Again, these are really simple tips. But they may spell the difference between a great or frustrating archery sessions!

Better Cock and Load Crossbow Sessions Begins with an Inspection!

Inspecting your crossbow can catch damages like this slightly worn string.

Prep up! Here's a nice checklist to refer to. This helps you stay safe, and get most out of your crossbow.

Check your crossbow limbs. These parts have the most tension – if they're damaged, replace them immediately!
Check your bolts. We've touched upon the topic of size. Getting bolts larger (or smaller) than what's set for your crossbow may lead to disastrous results.
Check the stock. As the main frame of your crossbow, you want this part to be clean and in full working order.
Check your cables and strings. Any physical defect means that you need to replace them – you do not want to risk a misfire!

Additionally, take some time to prepare yourself mentally and physically!

A clear head means better shots. Aside from the physical part, archery is a mind game. So, stay focused to get better results!
A warm-up matters. Simple stretching will help you get into the zone! Additionally, it'll prevent you from having injuries.

If it Needs to be Done: How do You Uncock a Crossbow?

You can uncock your crossbow with one hand holding the rope cocking device firmly, and the other firing the crossbow without a bolt.

Now that you know how to cock and load a crossbow, you'd also need to know how to uncock it. Chances are, you may need to do this if you need to get out of the range with your crossbow still engaged.

The simplest way to do uncock a crossbow is to shoot a bolt in a safe area. Consider the target as well - preferably, soil would be good to prevent any collateral damage. Never dry fire your crossbow! This will only damage your gear or result in painful injury!

There is another method that involves specialized bolts. Defined as discharge bolts, you simply load it into the barrel, shoot (again, in a safe area, please), and crank the crossbow to a prone position.

Another safe way to disengage a crossbow is to use the crank cocking device. Simply install the crank in your crossbow's stock. Then reverse the cocking process - make sure the crank's ropes are tight, and they are pulling on the crossbow's string. Next you can fire your crossbow - nothing will happen as the crank holds the string tightly. However after "firing" you can release the string by cranking backwards (compared to how you'd crank to cock your crossbow).

And finally, the fourth method for uncocking your crossbow is to use the cocking rope with one hand only: you attach the device to the string almost as if you'd want to draw it even further, however use only one hand (thus the rope will be too long, but still this is doable). While pulling on the cocking rope strongly with one hand only, you use the other hand to fire the crossbow. Once fired you can slowly lower the rope, and let the string slide back to the uncocked position in a controlled manner. Do not try this with a high draw weight crossbow!

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