They go together like bread and butter, mum
and dad, day and night, a crossbow is
virtually useless without a bolt to shoot
from it. The crossbow and pistol bolts used today are
generally made from aluminum with plastic
fletchings because of they are light yet
durable. Aluminum bolts are not
indestructible, however they will bend when
they strike something hard like a rock and
if bent too sharply will break when an
attempt to restore its shape is made. A
slightly bent bolt if not noticed will
seriously effect the flight of the bolt from
any crossbow so should be checked after
every flight for damage. Crossbow arrows or
bolts come in various different sizes
from 14" inches to 20" inches. Pistols
crossbow bolts are generally smaller, 6" but
can be 7" and can be used with all pistol
and self cocking crossbows. After every shot
it is good practice to examine each one from
head to tail, starting with the head. The
first thing to expect from all bolts
including pistol bolts are loose heads as
they are simply threaded into the arrow
shaft insert and are subject to becoming
unscrewed on impact.
Crossbows
Crossbow Bolts & Targets
Crossbow Overview
1) Channel Groove - A Grooved section of the crossbow
down the length of the barrel, allowing the crossbow bolts
fletching to ride the crossbows length when shot.
2) Rear Sight
3) Crossbow Stock
4) Prod - This is the actual crossbow section that
stores all of the crossbows power and releases thus firing
the crossbow bolt.
5) Crossbow Nock - A Crossbow nock is a plastic cap
that sits on the end of the prod and provides a smooth
protective sleeve for the string and prevents fraying.
6) Stirrup - This is cocking aid and allows the
bowman to hold the crossbow in a stationary position while
using both hands to cock the bow string.