CrossBow Question

375H&H

I have my paperwork for a permit to use a crossbow during archery deer season so I'm looking for a suitable crossbow. I'd like to have something not too heavy shooting a decent bolt length/weight better than 300fps with a $500 upper limit for a total go to the woods package.
Initial research points me toward a Barnett Quad 400. Any suggestions?

375H&H

So I'm thinking about diving into the life of crossbow, though I'm completely unfamiliar with brand, types or anything crossbow. If anyone could help me with what a good brand and well basically all the average info to make a relatively informed purchase decision I would be greatly appreciated.

375H&H

I have a Barnett x-bow with compound limbs and struggle with "unloading" it. A real PITA to have to haul a target around or use one of the "de-cocking" bolts (which still break if they hit something hard).
While visiting a friend who has an Excalibur recurve x-bow, we were discussing this and he says "that's no problem, just use the cocking rope and let it down". We go to his garage and he proceeds to show me how he does this. After watching him, I realize there's no way I can do this due to my shoulder problems but it does work for him.
So, my question is: does anyone else have a trick by which to de-cock a compound x-bow w/o actually firing it? I have a spare rope cocking devise that could be modified if I sort of know where to start.

375H&H

Was wondering , how long can you leave a crossbow cocked ?

Without an arrow in it . If your hunting for 3 or 4 days in a row is it OK to just take the arrow off , or should it be shot off after each hunt , and then recocked for the next hunt ?

375H&H

Can I use any broadhead with a crossbow? OR do I need to use crossbow specific broadheads? Thanks

375H&H

Hey guys, i need some help. I am thinking about getting a crossbow for the next deer season. Im not sure why, I just thought it would be fun to take a deer with something different I guess.. So I need help on what makes and models are a good buy. If I end up getting one I want a good brand/model that will last, any of you shooting crossbows.??? Ive been shooting my mathews for years and love it- Never lets me down, but when it comes to crossbows Im clueless on what to look for.. Any help/input would be greatly appreciated.

DIRTYRAT

I dont use a crossbow but I wouldnt think its good on/for the limbs to leave them stressed for that long!?...I wouldnt do it!

375H&H

Thanks for the input fellas , will set an arrow aside just for unloading , I'll keep one of those "Blocks" in the truck just for this reason.

Chief Shaway

I don't know a thing about it but would think that unloading it would be wise. Also don't know the legality of keeping one cocked.

bang250

My friend keeps one arrow with him just to shoot in the ground every time he is done hunting. I would think trying to decock as someone said would hurt like all get out if its a 150 -175 lbs draw

EhlerDave

Here in Oklahoma it is illegal to transport the bow cocked. I kept and old arrow just to shoot the bow before putting it in the truck. Letting off a 150-175 lb bow can hurt ya.