My Crossbow Won’t Pull back: What To Do?
Hunting is an exciting adventure that requires patience, skill, and the right equipment. But what happens when your trusty crossbow suddenly refuses to pull back?
The thrill of the hunt is replaced with frustration and disappointment, leaving you questioning what went wrong.
In this article, we will dive into the reasons why crossbows sometimes refuse to pull back and provide practical solutions to get you back on track and ready to make your next successful shot.
Importance of proper maintenance and care of crossbows: Proper maintenance and care of crossbows is essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.
Regular cleaning and inspection of all parts, as well as proper storage, can help prevent common issues from arising.
Causes of Crossbows not Pulling Back
A. String is not properly threaded: If the string is not properly threaded, it may cause the crossbow to not pull back. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper assembly, damage to the string, or wear and tear over time.
Also, the strings must be pulled back even if the bow is not in the draw position.
If the string isn’t staying latched, it’s likely due to an issue with the claws not securely gripping the strings.
B. Cables are loose or damaged: Loose or damaged cables can also cause crossbows to not pull back. This may be due to improper tension, damage from use, or ageing.
C. Serving is worn or frayed: The serving is the protective layer that covers the bowstring and helps prevent wear and tear. If the serving is worn or frayed, it may cause the crossbow to not pull back.
D. Cam system is not functioning properly: The cam system is responsible for providing the power and energy to shoot the projectile. If the cam system is not functioning properly, it may cause the crossbow to not pull back.
E. Limbs are damaged or broken: Limbs are the arms of the crossbow that hold the string. If the limbs are damaged or broken, they may cause the crossbow to not pull back. This may be due to improper use, ageing, or impact damage.
Steps to Troubleshoot the Issue
A. Check for proper string threading: Before attempting any other repairs, it is important to make sure that the string is properly threaded. This can be done by examining the string and ensuring that it is properly seated in the limb pockets and that all cables are properly attached.
B. Check for loose or damaged cables: If the string is properly threaded, the next step is to check the cables for any signs of looseness or damage. This can be done by inspecting the cables for any frays or cuts, and by testing their tension.
C. Inspect the serving for wear or fraying: The serving can be inspected for signs of wear or fraying by closely examining the bowstring for any signs of wear or damage. If the serving is worn or frayed, it may need to be replaced.
D. Examine the cam system for any signs of malfunction: The cam system can be examined for any signs of malfunction by looking for any unusual sounds, vibrations, or movements when pulling back the crossbow. If there are any signs of a malfunction, the cam system may need to be repaired or replaced.
Also, check that the safety isn’t in the safe position it needs to be in the fire position when you cock the bow. This sometimes causes the crossbow not to pull back.
E. Look for damage or breakage in the limbs: The limbs can be examined for damage or breakage by looking for any cracks, dents, or deformities in the arms. If the limbs are damaged or broken, they may need to be repaired or replaced.
How Hard Is it to Pull Back a Crossbow?
The difficulty of pulling back a crossbow is dependent on two key elements: the draw weight of the bow and the physical strength of the person pulling the bow. Essentially, if you have the strength to lift 75 pounds, you should have no trouble pulling a bow with a 75-pound draw weight.
To make the process easier, some crossbows come equipped with cocking aids, such as levers or winches, particularly for those with heavier draw weights that would otherwise be challenging to cock without assistance. A reminder of the days of medieval crossbows, these tools provide an added boost in the cocking process
Methods to Pull back a Crossbow easily?
Using a rope cocking device:
This is a handy tool that makes it easier to draw back the crossbow strings. It uses a rope and pulley system to reduce the weight of the string and make it easier to pull.
Simply attach the device to the crossbow, hook the rope around the string, and pull on the handles.
Let me tell you Step by step;
Step 1: Attach the rope cocking device to the crossbow, making sure that it is securely in place.
Step 2: Place the hooks at the end of the rope around the crossbow strings, one on each side.
Step 3: Hold the handles of the rope cocking device and pull back on them to draw the strings towards the crossbow stock.
Step 4: Continue pulling until the strings are fully cocked and latched into place.
Step 5: Double-check that the strings are properly cocked before using the crossbow.
Using a crank cocking mechanism:
Some crossbows come equipped with a crank cocking mechanism that makes it easy to draw back the strings.
Simply attach the crank to the crossbow and turn the handle to draw back the strings. This is an especially useful tool for those with limited upper body strength.
Step By Step Method;
Step 1: Attach the crank cocking mechanism to the crossbow, making sure that it is securely in place.
Step 2: Turn the handle of the crank cocking mechanism to draw back the strings.
Step 3: Continue turning the handle until the strings are fully cocked and latched into place.
Step 4: Double-check that the strings are properly cocked before using the crossbow.
Manual Pulling:
This method involves manually pulling the strings back with your hands. While it requires more effort than the other two methods, it’s a simple and effective solution if you don’t have access to a rope cocking device or crank cocking mechanism. To make it easier, you can use a pull-up bar or sturdy tree branch to help with the pulling motion.
Step By Step;
Step 1: Place the crossbow on a sturdy surface or hold it securely in place.
Step 2: Reach down and grip the strings with both hands.
Step 3: Pull back on the strings to draw them towards the crossbow stock.
Step 4: Continue pulling until the strings are fully cocked and latched into place.
Step 5: Double-check that the strings are properly cocked before using the crossbow.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Crossbow Malfunctions
A. Regularly inspect and clean all parts of the crossbow: Regular inspections and cleaning of all parts of the crossbow can help prevent issues from arising. This includes inspecting the string, cables, serving, cam system, and limbs for any signs of wear or damage.
B. Replace worn or damaged strings, cables, and servings: If any parts are worn or damaged, it is important to replace them promptly to prevent further issues from arising. This includes strings, cables, and servings.
C. Store the crossbow in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture damage: Moisture can cause corrosion and other damage to the crossbow, so it is important to store it in a dry and cool place when not in use.
D. Take the crossbow to a professional for regular maintenance and repairs: Regular maintenance and repairs by a professional can help ensure that the crossbow is functioning properly and prevent issues from arising. This can include regular cleaning, inspections, and repairs of all parts of the crossbow.
Check: What causes Accidental Deaths In Bow Hunting and How To Avoid
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Conclusion
So, you might have got lots of insight into the problem “My Crossbow won’t pull back.
The article has covered the causes of crossbows not pulling back, the steps to troubleshoot the issue, and maintenance tips to prevent it from happening.
Regular maintenance and proper storage of crossbows are essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.
Crossbow users are encouraged to take these maintenance steps seriously to prevent issues from arising and to ensure that their crossbows are always ready for use.
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