Do you use a rest for your crossbow? Do your fellow archers or friends say you’re weak? Are they right? Does it depend on the situation or the equipment? The terrain? The archer? I would say the answer to most of those questions is YES! As to which ones in particular, by the time you read this it should be evident. If not take a nap and read it again.
Situation or Equipment?
If you want to test the quality and accuracy of the crossbow, the goal would be to take out as much human error as possible, in order to do so, you would need to rest the forearm on something other than your human hand.
If the crossbow has considerable weight to it like the Ravin R500 Crossbow, weighing over eight pounds, you may want a rest, especially if you have to keep your position for a lengthy period of time.
Terrain, the Excalibur Cross-Stix Shooting Rest may assist in an accurate shot when stalking game through terrain with tall grass, a standing shot may be the only option and you might not feel so steady after a long walk or hike.
The Archer, well everyone is different. Some are strong with immaculate stamina, while others lack in the strength and the stamina department. The Excalibur Cross-Stix Shooting Rest can act as a walking stick for a tired hunter, followed by an assistant for a steady shot. Everybody needs assistance sometimes, you’re included in the “Everybody” I speak of.
An additional and equally important use for the crossbow rest is when adjusted to its shortest position, depending on the size of your head, it may make a great rest for those moments when the heavy eyelids win the battle.
Not to Rest
The restless situations; when you’re in a stand with a rest already provided by the window seal, or your camouflage backside is planted like a tree in the dirt, your knee is the perfect resting place for the Ten Point Titan M1 Crossbow’s forearm.
With a lightweight crossbow like the PSE Archery Viper SS Handheld that weighs less than two pounds, do you really need a rest? If so, maybe other archers and your friends are right because even if you have next to no strength or stamina you should be able to offhand this guy, no problem.
What kind of terrain is best for a restless hunt? No, I’m not talking about a hunt full of tumult and anxiousness, we’re talking about crossbow rests. Back on the subject…If you’re able to see your intended target from a kneeling position there is no need for extra equipment because like I said previously, your knee provides a most natural perfect rest.
This is all about you, is your strength and stamina impeccable and you’ve no need for a walking stick or chin rest? No matter the weight of the crossbow or the requirements of the terrain, are you strong enough to overcome it all? Isn’t it nice to be you?
Don’t let that guy discourage you because there’s equipment to assist you to accomplish the same goal that guy or girl can. To rest or not to rest, that’s up to each individual. Whether you do or don’t, it doesn’t make you more or less of an archer. Make a choice and rest in it.
