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How to Sight With a Crossbow

Using a crossbow can be challenging. The weapon is held, aimed and fired in a fashion similar to a rifle, but a crossbow shoots a bolt (a projectile similar to an arrow) from a lath (a horizontally mounted bow located at the end of the weapon). Modern crossbows typically have open sights or scopes for aiming. Before trying to sight in (accurately aligning your point of aim with where the bolt hits the target) your crossbow, you must become proficient in hitting your target consistently. Proper shooting technique is vital for accurate crossbow use.

Instructions

- 1
  Mount the target on a surface with suitable stopping power, such as layered pads. Hay or styrofoam will not stop the bolt, particularly at close range. Stand about 10 yards from your target.
- 2
  Cock the crossbow and aim at the center of the target. Hold your aim and slowly squeeze the trigger until the bolt fires. Maintain your aim throughout the process. Do this three times and check your bolt group. If the bolts are relatively close, approximately within a inch of each other, then you're ready to start sighting in your crossbow. If not, continue to practice until your shooting improves.
- 3
  Estimate the correction necessary to align your scope with your bolt group. For instance, if your group is low and to the left, adjust your sight up and to the right. Continue shooting groups of three and correcting the sight as needed. The sighting process for a crossbow is largely trial and error.
- 4
  Move out to range of 20 yards, once you have your crossbow sighted in for 10 yards. Shoot a group of three bolts at your target and make any necessary corrections until you are satisfied.

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