The history of the crossbow
A crossbow is a modernized type of bow and arrow. The invention of the crossbow dates back to the year 6 BC, where it was initially used as a war weapon. The crossbow has a bow affixed to a mount called a ‘stock’. This feature allows the bow to remain loaded even when it is not in use. The crossbow shoots projectiles called quarrels or bolts. These projectiles are much shorter than traditional arrows. The bolts often varied in weight depending on their intended use. Presently, bolts and quarrels are stamped to ensure a consistent weight, providing the most accurate and predictable action while firing the weapon.
Crossbows can be modified to hold special bullets or even rocks. The firing mechanism of the crossbow entails pulling a lever back at which point the bow is fixed and ready to fire. When the lever is released the projectile is fired. The crossbow is extremely accurate and has a much longer range than traditional bow and arrows, at approximately 360 meters. The invention of the crossbow weaponized a tool initially used for hunting and aided warriors on the battlefield.
Early examples of handheld crossbows have been found among the famed Terracotta Warriors guarding the burial tomb of Qin Shihuang. The crossbow was used in all areas of the ancient world and continues to be a popular weapon and hunting tool up to the present day. The Crossbow is an extremely popular choice for hunters looking to add a more challenging component to their arsenal.
What are crossbows used for nowadays?
Crossbows have traditionally been used for hunting and warfare. Today the crossbow is used for hunting, target shooting and other shooting sports and competitions. While crossbows are still used by some modern military personnel it is not used in a weapons capacity. It can be used to establish zip lines in difficult terrain. The fishing industry has used crossbow technology for a number of purposes including the tagging of sea creatures for monitoring purposes and tissue sampling. In china military personnel use the crossbow in place of a firearm to stop people suspected of carrying bombs or other explosive material.
Crossbows For Hunting
The crossbow has recently experienced a surge in popularity among hunters. The crossbow itself can be cost effective because its bolts can be reused. Modern hunters may also feel that hunting with a crossbow adds to the thrill of the hunt. While not the same as using a traditional bow and arrow, the crossbow provides a sense of getting back to the foundations of hunting practices, a feeling that may not be furnished by the use of a firearm. Big game hunters are using crossbows to take down predators such as elk and moose. Hunting these types of animals requires a bow with a draw weight of at least 50 pounds. You can always check our crossbow reviews to find the ideal crossbow for your use.
The crossbow has also seen a surge in popularity in popular culture. AMC’s wildly popular post zombie apocalypse drama “The Walking Dead” has one of its main characters using the crossbow as his main defense against the undead masses. Whatever the reasoning, the popularity of the crossbow is at its height once again and shows no signs of stopping.
What are the different types of crossbows?
Recurve vs. Compound
There are two main types of crossbows, although the categories can be further subdivided in to more specific groupings. The first type is the recurve crossbow. A modern recurve crossbow has tips that curve away from the archer. It has a longer draw length than a traditional bow. Because of the additional stresses placed on the bow, the recurve bow tends to make more noise when being fired. The shape of the recurved crossbow can make it unstable and requires a seasoned steady had to operate it properly. Modern recurve bow limbs are usually made from composite materials such as fiberglass over a core of wood or carbon foam.
The second type of crossbow is the compound bow. A compound crossbow has limbs that are much stiffer than a recurve crossbow. This factor makes the bow more efficient and less strength is needed to operate the firing mechanism. The limbs of a compound crossbow store energy as the bow is being loaded thus making it more energy efficient. The construction of a compound crossbow involves the string being attached to pulleys. When the string is drawn back it causes the pulleys to turn. This leverage causes the limbs to bend while storing a large amount of energy at the same time. The release is quick and powerful.
Either variation of the crossbow is good for activities like hunting or target shooting. It may be a good idea to head out to a local bow outfitting shop and try out the different types to see which one suits your needs.
What to think about when buying crossbow hunting supplies.
Ideally, your crossbow hunting gear must be strong, dependable, & most importantly: quiet. For more info on what crossbow to buy you can check our How to choose a crossbow guide. Luckily, there are thousands of various crossbows and crossbows to pick from. As the rules and regulations for crossbows fluctuate according to the state you reside in, additionally, it is vital that you study these issues completely before making any selections. Various brands of crossbows cross the whole gamut between compound crossbows, recurve crossbows and long bows. These change in form, size, and layout together with a great number of cords. You might want to change into a more sophisticated crossbow with time, as your arms develop more powerful.