Cocking Devices

What is a Crossbow Cocking Device?

A cocking device is a mechanical aid designed to help draw the string of a crossbow into the cocked (ready-to-shoot) position. These devices reduce the effort needed to pull back the string, ensure even limb tension, and promote consistent arrow flight.

There are several types:

• Rope cocking devices -- Lightweight and portable, they cut draw weight by about 50%.
• Crank cocking devices -- Mount directly to the crossbow and allow the user to draw the string using a handle or crank system.
• Integrated crossbow crank cocking devices -- Built into the crossbow or available as an add-on from the manufacturer for a seamless fit.

Using a crossbow cocking device helps reduce fatigue, prevent injury, and improve shooting accuracy.

How Cocking Devices Work

Cocking devices are meant to make something as simple as drawing a crossbow easier, safer, and more consistent. Using it reduces the physical exertion when cocking the string and helps to align the safety of a crossbow, reducing strain and keeping shooting consistent. Here's how they work:

Rope Cocking Device

To cock the crossbow with a rope cocking device:

1. Put your foot in the stirrup of the crossbow to help stabilize it.
2. Bring the rope up and over the string from each side.
3. Hold the handles on either side and pull evenly until the string locks into the trigger.

Crank Cocking Device

A crank cocking device mounts to the stock or rear of the crossbow and uses a mechanical (crank) device to cock the string.

1. Install the crank device on your crossbow (if not already mounted).
2. Hook up the string using either the V-hooks or sled attachment (this should be easy with a crank).
3. Crank the handle smoothly and steadily until the string clicks into place.

Integrated Cocking Device

Many modern crossbows come with an integrated cocking device and are easy to use.

1. Open or extend the crank handle out from the stock.
2. Using the internal hook or sled, identify and attach it to the string.
3. Crank the handle in a steady manner until the string locks in position, then retract and store the crank handle.

Integrated systems are smooth, quiet, and seamless when in the field; there is nothing else to pack or carry.

Regardless of the style you use, cocking devices help ensure that the string is drawn smoothly and consistently, resulting in better accuracy downrange, reduced fatigue when shooting, and an overall safer shooting experience.

Choosing the Right Crossbow Cocking Device

Keep the following in mind when looking for a crossbow cocking device; your crossbow model, draw weight, and comfort level.

• For portability -- A rope-style device can easily fit into a pocket and is useful with most crossbows.
• For convenience and precision -- A crank cocking device designed to mount to your specific bow or a crank cocking device integrated into the crossbow itself offer the best options.
• For ease of access -- An integrated crossbow crank cocking device has the most effortless draw with the least amount of physical exertion.

Be sure that the device you purchase is compatible with your crossbow and is easy to operate in the field or range.