Checking Your Equipment

Always inspect your crossbow and arrows before you go target shooting or hunting.

• Make sure the safety and trigger are functioning properly.
• Check the string and cables to make sure they are not fraying or broken.
• Check the string serving for wear.
• Make sure all bolts are tight, including those connecting the bow to the stock and those on the cocking stirrup.
• Check the sight.
  • Be sure that it is mounted correctly and that all screws are tight.
  • Replace the battery, if necessary.
• If your crossbow has a sling, check the sling and the sling swivel bases.
• Make sure the arrow retention spring or brush will hold the arrow in the proper position.
• Examine each arrow to make sure that there are no cracks or breaks in the shaft, that the fletching is not damaged, and that the nock is in good condition.
  • Replace any nock that is cracked or broken.
  • Discard any arrow that has a cracked or broken shaft. Never use a damaged arrow. Some common types of damage to look for are:
    • Creases, dents, or cracks in aluminum or carbon arrows
    • Carbon arrows that do not pass flexing and twisting tests
• Check the quiver for damage, and make sure it is securely attached to the crossbow.

Visual Crossbow Inspection Checklist

The International Crossbow Education Program has developed a checklist for visually checking the condition of crossbow equipment. Click here to view a PDF of the "Visual Crossbow Inspection Checklist."