[Fitz]

Hi, I am new here. My hubby suggested that some of you might be able to help me out so here goes:

I have been trying to find information regarding modern crossbows. So far not much except ads. I would like to own one, but have some specifics problems, the greatest being fibromyalgia. I know, therefore that I need to have a cranking device because I am not able to pull 150 lbs. I have seen one which has a permanently attached cranking device in the stock, but most seem to be ones that must be placed, removed, and then replaced. In this case I would be looking at hand strength as a problem. Are there more models out there that have permanently attached cranking devices?

It's not for home protection, I have my shotguns and a 9mm for personal protection. (In addition to aforementioned hubby.) To give you an idea though, I prefer to shoot .22's because they are not as hard on my hands. When practicing with the 9mm my hands become very sore after a very few rounds.

Any help on sources or advice would be appreciated.

[Leadbutt]

Try this site, they also have a chat group

www.excaliburcrossbow.com

[Jim K]

In the old days, heavy crossbows were spanned (cocked) by winding with a wrench (which is the origin of the British term "spanner" for a wrench); lighter crossbows were cocked with a hook fastened to the belt or to shoulder straps. They had a stirrup at the front that the shooter put his foot into. Then he squatted down, hooked the hook around the bowstring and stood up, letting his leg muscles cock the bow.

A note of caution on using the belt hook, though. A careless crossbowman sometimes stood up while his pants did not. Since that result in your case would definitely not be ladylike, I recommend a shoulder harness.

Jim

[SAWBONES]

If you're interested in period-correct historical crossbows, check here:

http://www.crossbows.net/bow_ndex.html..htm

[Fitz]

Ty

[Atticus]

http://www.tenpointcrossbows.com/


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