Glossary

A

Arbalest: An arbalist is someone who operates a crossbow, also known as an arbalest. They are skilled in loading, aiming, and shooting a crossbow with accuracy and precision. The term is often used in historical contexts, referring to soldiers or hunters who wielded these weapons.

Arrow: An arrow is a projectile that is shot from a bow or crossbow. It typically consists of a shaft, fletching, and a tip (called a point or head) that is used to penetrate a target. Arrows come in different lengths and sizes, and may be made from various materials like wood, carbon, or aluminum.

Arrow Retention Spring: An Arrow Retention Spring is a device found on crossbows that holds the arrow in place until it is released by the trigger. The spring applies pressure to the arrow, ensuring that it stays in place during the cocking and firing process.

B

Back of a bow: The back of a bow is the side of the bow facing away from the archer when it is held upright. It is typically smooth and may be adorned with decorative elements.

Backstop: A backstop is a target that is placed behind or beside the intended target to prevent any stray arrows or bolts from causing damage to people or property. It acts as a safety measure and should be strong enough to stop the projectile without breaking or causing any rebound.

Barrel or Track: The barrel or track refers to the part of a crossbow that guides and directs the projectile (arrow or bolt) towards the target. It is typically a narrow channel or groove that runs along the underside of the crossbow’s stock or fore-end.

Bastard String: A bastard string is a temporary string used on a crossbow or traditional bow that is made from non-durable material, such as nylon or rope. It is used when a permanent string breaks or needs to be replaced, but should not be used for prolonged periods of time.

Belly of the Bow: The belly of the bow is the side of the bow facing the archer when the bow is held in shooting position. It is important to note that the tension of the bowstring pulls the limbs toward the archer, causing the belly to be under pressure during the draw and release.

Bolt: A bolt is a projectile used in crossbows, similar to an arrow in traditional archery. It typically has a shorter length and heavier weight compared to an arrow, which allows it to reach higher speeds and penetrate deeper into targets.

Bottom Cam: The bottom cam is a key component of a modern compound bow, located at the lower end of the bow limb. It works in conjunction with the top cam to control the movement of the bowstring, providing a smoother and more efficient draw cycle, as well as increased accuracy and power in crossbow hunting and archery.

Bowstring: A bowstring is the string that is used to draw the bow limbs together, providing the force needed to shoot an arrow in archery or crossbow hunting. It is typically made of materials such as synthetic fibers, natural fibers, or animal tendons and can be adjusted for length and tension to suit the user’s needs.

Brace Height: Brace height refers to the distance between the grip of a bow and the string when the bow is at rest. In general, a higher brace height will lead to a more forgiving and less powerful shot, while a lower brace height will result in a more powerful but less forgiving shot.

Broadheads & Points: Broadheads are specialized arrowheads that are used for hunting with a crossbow or bow. They have a wider cutting edge than typical target points and are designed to inflict maximum damage to the prey upon impact.

Butt: The butt refers to the target area or backstop used to stop the arrow or bolt in crossbow hunting and archery. It can be made from various materials such as straw, foam, or layered cloth to absorb the impact of the projectile.

C

Cams and pulleys: Cams and pulleys are mechanical components typically found on modern compound bows and crossbows. They work together to reduce the amount of force needed to draw the bowstring, making it easier for the archer to hold steady and release an accurate shot.

Center Shot: The Center Shot is the vertical alignment of the bowstring, arrow shelf, and riser. It ensures that the arrow is launched straight and true, reducing the risk of torque and deviation from the target.

Cock: The act of drawing back the string on a crossbow so that it is ready to shoot. This is

often accomplished by using a small device, called a cocking aid, to make it easier to pull the string back into position.

Cocking device: A cocking device is a tool or mechanism used to cock a crossbow or bow, which means to draw the string back into position for firing. This can include hand-held devices or built-in mechanisms on the crossbow or bow. Cocking devices can make it easier for hunters or archers to cock their weapon, particularly if they have limited strength or mobility.

Cocking Lugs or Stirrup: Cocking lugs or stirrup refer to the mechanism at the front of a crossbow that allows for easier cocking and drawing of the string. The stirrup is a U-shaped frame that the hunter places on the ground while they use the full weight of their body to pull the string back, while cocking lugs are two small protruding metal pieces at the front of the crossbow that serve the same purpose.

Cocking Peg: A cocking peg is a device used to assist in pulling back the string of a crossbow or bow by providing leverage for the user. This tool is often removable and can be carried easily in a pocket or pouch during a hunting or archery outing.

Cocking Ring: A cocking ring is a device used to assist in the cocking or drawing back of the string on a crossbow or bow. It is usually made of metal or plastic and is designed to fit tightly around the bowstring to provide leverage for pulling it back with less force.

Cockscombing: Cockscombing is the process of wrapping brightly colored thread or cord around the bowstring to make it more visible while aiming. This technique is particularly useful when hunting in low-light conditions or when using a camouflage bowstring.

Composite: A composite bow is a traditional bow made of multiple materials such as wood, horn, and sinew. It is known for its power, speed, and accuracy, and is commonly used in hunting and archery.

Compound: A type of bow that uses a system of pulleys or cams to reduce the amount of force needed to hold the bowstring back. This allows for increased accuracy and power in the shot. Compound bows are commonly used in both hunting and target archery.

Compound Crossbow Limbs: Compound crossbow limbs are the arms that flex and store energy when the string is drawn back. They are composed of two or more layers of material that work together to increase power and accuracy. Composed of a series of pulleys and cables, compound crossbow limbs allow the shooter to hold the string at full draw for extended periods of time, decreasing fatigue and improving accuracy.

Cords And Pulley: Cords and pulleys are mechanical components of some modern crossbows that significantly increase the force required to cock the bowstring by reducing the draw weight. The cords move over the pulleys, which decreases the effort required to pull the string back, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately.

Cross Dominance: Cross dominance refers to a condition where a shooter has a dominant eye and hand on opposite sides of their body. This can have an impact on accuracy and may require the use of specific techniques or equipment to compensate for the mismatch.

Crossbow: A crossbow is a weapon that uses a horizontal bow mounted on a frame to shoot arrows or bolts. It is used in hunting and archery and offers more power and accuracy than traditional bows due to its mechanical design.

Crossbow Case: A crossbow case is a protective carrying case designed specifically for crossbows. It helps to ensure that the crossbow remains safe and damage-free during transportation and storage, and often includes pockets for accessories such as bolts and scopes.

Crossbow Targets: Crossbow targets are specifically designed targets for practicing shooting with a crossbow. These targets are made of different materials and have high-density foam layers to reduce the impact and protect the arrows.

D

Decelerator: The decelerator is a device used to slow down or stop the arrow or bolt upon release from the bow or crossbow. This aids in accuracy and reduces noise, making it a popular addition to hunting equipment.

Draw Length: The draw length refers to the distance between the shooter’s grip and the bowstring while at full draw. It is an essential factor to consider when selecting an appropriate bow, as it affects accuracy, power, and comfort during shooting.

Dry Fire: Dry Fire is the act of shooting a bow or crossbow without an arrow loaded, or with a damaged or improperly fitted arrow. It can cause serious damage to the bow or crossbow and can result in injury to the shooter.

E

Elevation Adjustment: Elevation Adjustment refers to the process of adjusting the vertical or up and down axis of a bow or crossbow’s sighting system. This can be achieved by loosening or tightening screws or knobs within the sight, allowing the archer to aim more accurately at different distances.

End Loop: An End Loop is a small loop tied at the end of a bowstring or a crossbow string. Its purpose is to attach the string to the bow or the crossbow limbs for proper tension and alignment. This loop also helps decrease the wear and tear of the string and minimize the chances of the string slipping from the bow or crossbow limbs.

F

Finger Pinch: Finger pinch refers to the painful sensation caused by the bowstring striking the fingers during the release of an arrow. It can also refer to the injury caused by the bowstring cutting into the fingers, which can occur if proper hand protection is not used.

Fletching: Fletching refers to the feathers or vanes mounted on an arrow to stabilize its flight. This process involves attaching 3-4 feathers or vanes to the back end of an arrow, typically made of synthetic materials like plastic or natural materials like turkey feathers.

Foregrip: The foregrip on a crossbow is the section of the stock located at the front end of the bow, which is typically designed to provide additional leverage and stability for the user’s firing hand. This equipment component is crucial for maintaining accuracy and ensuring a steady, controlled shot.

Foregrip Hand: A foregrip hand refers to the hand that is positioned on the front of the crossbow or bow to provide support and stability while aiming and shooting. This hand typically holds onto a foregrip or grip attachment that is designed to improve accuracy and control.

G

Glassing: Glassing refers to the process of using binoculars or a spotting scope to scan the surrounding area in search of game animals. This technique is commonly used by hunters to locate animals from a distance before making a stalk or shot.

Goat’s Foot: Goat’s Foot is a type of crossbow accessory that helps to hold the crossbow steady when it is being fired. It is a small device that attaches to the front of the crossbow and resembles the hoof of a goat, hence the name.

Grain: Grain refers to the weight of an arrow or crossbow bolt. It is measured in grains, which is a unit of mass equal to 1/7000th of a pound. The higher the grain of an arrow, the heavier and more powerful it is likely to be.

Grip: The grip is the part of the crossbow or bow that the shooter holds onto while aiming and firing. It is designed for comfort and control, and comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials to suit each archer’s preferences.

Grouping: Grouping refers to the pattern or consistency of arrows or bolts hitting the same spot or area on a target. In crossbow hunting and archery, good grouping is important as it indicates the accuracy and precision of the shooter’s aim and technique.

H

Handbow: A handbow is a short bow that can be handheld and shot without any additional support, such as an arrow rest or a bow stand. It is often used for medieval reenactments and historical archery purposes, as well as in modern crossbow hunting with a recurve or longbow.

Harness: A harness is a piece of equipment used in crossbow hunting and archery that straps onto the body to secure the shooter and hold their gear. It helps distribute the weight of the crossbow and arrows, making it easier to carry and shoot with more accuracy.

I

IBO speed: IBO speed refers to the speed at which an arrow is propelled from a bow or crossbow, measured in feet per second (fps). It is a standard measurement used in the archery industry to compare and evaluate the speed of different bows and crossbows.

Index Feather: The index feather on an arrow is the colored vane, usually located at the back of the arrow, that is used to indicate the proper orientation of the arrow when nocked on the bowstring. It helps ensure consistent arrow flight and accuracy.

J

Judo Point: A Judo Point is an arrowhead consisting of springed wire or tines which are angled towards the tip to create a hook or grappling point. It is designed for small game hunting to catch and hold the animal instead of penetrating it deeply.

K

Kinetic energy: Kinetic energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its motion. In the context of crossbow hunting and archery, kinetic energy is important as it measures the projectile’s ability to penetrate the target and effectively take it down.

L

Latch: A latch is a mechanism used to hold the string of a crossbow in place until the trigger is pulled, releasing the string and propelling the arrow forward. It is an important component of a crossbow and must be properly engaged before shooting.

Lath Or Prod: A lath, or prod, is the main limb of a crossbow that stores the energy needed to propel a bolt forward. It is typically made of flexible materials like wood, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, and can be secured to the stock of the crossbow with pins and screws.

Let Off: Let off refers to the reduction in force required to hold a bow or crossbow at full draw. This reduction is achieved through the use of a cam system or other mechanical device, which allows the archer or hunter to hold the bow in position for a longer period of time without fatigue or muscle strain.

Limb: The limb of a crossbow or bow is the flexible part that bends and stores energy when the string is drawn back. It is typically made of composite materials such as carbon or fiberglass, and its stiffness and length determine the power and speed of the arrow.

Limb Bolt: A limb bolt is a threaded rod that connects the limb (the flexible part of the bow) to the riser (the handle) of a crossbow or bow. It is used to attach and adjust the tension of the bow limbs, which affects the draw weight and performance of the weapon.

Longbow: A longbow is a traditional bow that is taller than the archer and has limbs that are more narrow and longer than those of a standard bow. It is often used in historical and traditional archery, but can also be used in hunting.

Lower Limb: The lower limb refers to the bottom section of a bow or crossbow. It is typically made of sturdy materials such as fiberglass or carbon, and it is responsible for providing the power and force necessary to propel arrows or bolts towards their target.

M

Mechanical Broadhead: A mechanical broadhead is a type of arrowhead designed for hunting that deploys its blades upon impact, causing more devastating wounds than traditional fixed-blade broadheads. They are often favored by hunters who are looking for higher accuracy and deeper penetration.

Momentum: Momentum refers to the amount of force an object has while it is in motion. In archery and crossbow hunting, momentum is important because it influences how deeply an arrow or bolt penetrates the target and how much kinetic energy it transfers upon impact.

Mounting Bracket: A mounting bracket is a device used to attach accessories onto a crossbow or bow. It is often made of durable materials like metal and attaches to the fore-end of the bow or crossbow, providing a secure platform to mount additional accessories such as sights, quivers, or stabilizers.

N

Nock: The nock refers to the groove at the rear of an arrow that holds it in place on the bowstring. It is an important component of the arrow as it helps maintain accurate flight.

Nocking Point: The nocking point is the point on the bowstring where the arrow is placed and held in place before being released. It is important to have a consistent nocking point to ensure accuracy and consistency in shooting.

Nose: The nose is the front end of an arrow or bolt that is inserted into the bowstring. It is also sometimes referred to as the point or tip of the arrow.

Nut: Nut refers to the mechanism used to attach the arrow or bolt to the string of the crossbow. It can be made of metal or plastic and consists of two parts: the female portion, which is attached to the bowstring, and the male portion, which holds the arrow securely in place.

O

Overbow: An overbow is a crossbow or a bow that has a draw weight that exceeds the recommended weight for the user. This can result in reduced accuracy, decreased range, and potential injury to the user.

Overdraw: An overdraw in archery and crossbow hunting refers to the length by which the arrow or bolt extends beyond the arrow rest. It provides a longer power stroke, which increases the arrow’s speed but also requires precision in shooting to avoid damaging the bow or injuring the shooter.

P

Peep Sight: A peep sight is a small device attached to a bowstring that helps archers aim by looking through a small hole or “peep” at the back end of the bowstring. This allows for more precise aiming and accuracy, particularly at longer distances. In crossbow hunting, a peep sight may also be used to achieve a more accurate shot.

Pile: A pile refers to the sharpened tip of an arrow or bolt used for hunting or target shooting with a crossbow. The type of pile used depends on the desired hunting application, ranging from broadheads for big game to field points for practice.

Power Stroke: Power stroke refers to the distance between the string and the bow at its resting position, and when the string is drawn back to the maximum extent before releasing. It is an important factor in determining the velocity and energy of the arrow as it is released from the crossbow or bow.

Pressure Button: A pressure button is a device installed on a bow or crossbow that controls the release of an arrow. It is designed to apply a predetermined amount of pressure on the arrow, which ensures consistent arrow flight.

Q

Quarrel: Quarrel refers to the arrow used in a crossbow. It is typically shorter and fatter than a traditional arrow used in archery, and it may have a flat or blunt tip for better performance when striking the target.

Quill: A quill is a part of a feather, specifically the shaft that holds the individual barbs together. In crossbow hunting and archery, quills are sometimes used as fletching for arrows to stabilize their flight and improve accuracy.

Quiver: A quiver is a container or holder designed to carry arrows or bolts. It is typically fastened or strapped to the back or hip of the hunter or archer for quick access to ammunition while in the field.

Quiver Belt: A quiver belt is a specialized belt worn by hunters or archers to hold their arrows or bolts in a quiver, which is attached to the belt for easy access. It allows the hunter to quickly and smoothly withdraw the arrow or bolt when necessary, without having to reach behind themselves to retrieve it from a backpack or other storage area.

R

Range Finder: A range finder is a device used to determine the distance between the shooter and the target. It is an essential tool in archery and crossbow hunting because it helps to increase accuracy and reduce guesswork.

Recurve Bow: A recurve bow is a type of bow that features a curved shape at the tips, which helps to generate more power and speed than a traditional straight-limbed bow. This type of bow is commonly used in archery and hunting, as it is lightweight, portable, and suitable for a variety of shooting styles.

Recurve Crossbows Limbs: Recurve crossbow limbs are the main components that bend and store energy when the bowstring is drawn back in a recurve crossbow. These limbs are designed with a curved shape that provides greater power and accuracy than a straight-limbed crossbow. They are typically made of fiberglass or carbon fiber and can be easily detached for maintenance or replacement.

Release Aid: A release aid is a device used to aid in releasing the bowstring from the fingers of an archer or crossbow hunter. This device is designed to provide a smooth and consistent release, resulting in improved accuracy and precision.

Reverse Compound Crossbow Limbs: Reverse Compound Crossbow Limbs refer to a type of limb configuration in a crossbow that is opposite to the traditional configuration. Instead of the limbs bending forward towards the front of the crossbow, they bend back towards the shooter, thereby reducing the length of the overall crossbow.

Riser: The riser is the central portion of the bow that supports the limbs and acts as a grip for the archer’s hand. It’s often made of aluminum or carbon fiber and can have added weights to improve balance and stability.

Riser Height: Riser height refers to the distance between the bow’s grip and the highest point of the bow’s riser. Choosing the appropriate riser height helps archers and crossbow hunters to achieve better accuracy and aim. A taller riser height often provides greater stability and balance, while a shorter riser height offers more maneuverability and faster shooting.

S

Safety: Safety refers to the precautions taken to prevent accidents or injury while engaging in crossbow hunting or archery. This includes properly handling and storing equipment, wearing appropriate protective gear, and following all applicable laws and regulations.

Serving: A serving in crossbow hunting and archery refers to the thread or loop that is wrapped around the bowstring to protect it from wear and tear caused by contact with the arrow. It is typically made of a high-strength material such as nylon or Dacron and is applied using a serving tool or jig.

Serving Tool: A serving tool is a device that is used to wrap string material around the bowstring to improve durability, prevent fraying and unraveling, and provide a better grip for the archer. It can be manual or electric and is an essential tool for maintaining the quality of the bowstring.

Set Trigger: A set trigger is a mechanism that allows the archer or hunter to reduce the amount of force needed to release the bowstring by half or more. By “setting” the trigger beforehand, the archer only needs to apply a small amount of pressure to the trigger to fire the arrow, resulting in a more accurate shot.

Sight Bridge: A sight bridge is a structure that holds the sighting mechanism on a crossbow or bow. It attaches to the riser and provides a stable platform for the sight to rest on, ensuring consistent aim and accuracy.

Silencer: A silencer is a device used to reduce the noise made by firing a crossbow or a bow. It typically wraps around the bowstring or the limbs to muffle the sound and make the shot less detectable to game animals or other hunters in the area.

Sled: A sled is a device used in crossbow hunting that helps to hold the crossbow steady while aiming. It is designed to minimize the movement of the crossbow and ensure a more accurate shot. It is typically made of durable materials like plastic or metal.

Spanner: A spanner is a tool used to adjust the tension of the crossbow limbs. It is usually a small, wrench-like tool that fits onto the limb bolts and allows the user to tighten or loosen them to adjust the draw weight of the crossbow.

Spanning: Spanning is the process of cocking a crossbow or bow by using a mechanism that pulls the string back into position. This is essential for preparing the weapon for firing, as it puts the necessary amount of tension on the bowstring to launch the arrow or bolt with accuracy and power.

Spine: Spine refers to the stiffness of the arrow shaft and its ability to resist bending when launched from a bow or crossbow. It is an important factor to consider when selecting the appropriate arrow for a particular setup, as a poorly matched spine can result in inaccurate shots or even dangerous equipment failure.

Stalking: Stalking refers to the practice of quietly and stealthily approaching game animals during a hunting expedition. It involves staying low or hidden and moving slowly, making minimal noise to avoid being detected by the animals. Stalking is a popular technique used by hunters who prefer to get close to their prey for an effective shot.

Still hunting: Still hunting refers to the act of moving quietly and slowly through the woods or other hunting areas in search of game without the aid of bait, decoys, or other hunting equipment. The goal is to get as close as possible to the game, allowing for a clear shot and a successful kill.

Stirrup: A stirrup is a lightweight metal or plastic fork-shaped rest on the front of a crossbow that holds the foot while cocking the bow. It is used to provide stability and leverage while pulling the string to the safety catch.

Stock: A stock is the part of a crossbow or other weapon that is held against the shoulder while firing. It is typically made of wood or composite materials and is designed to provide stability and comfort for the shooter. The stock may also feature additional components such as a grip, trigger mechanism, and adjustable buttplate to further enhance accuracy and ease of use.

String Loop: A string loop is a small loop of string tied into the bowstring of a bow or crossbow. This loop is used to attach various types of release aids, such as a D-loop or a rope release, which help archers and hunters shoot their arrows or bolts with greater accuracy and consistency.

T

Tackle: In crossbow hunting and archery, tackle refers to the equipment or gear used in the sport. This includes items such as bows, arrows, quivers, stands, scopes, and other accessories necessary for the proper use and maintenance of the equipment.

Tension: Tension refers to the amount of force or pressure that is applied to the bowstring or crossbow string when it is drawn back. The amount of tension required will vary based on the strength of the archer and the power of the bow or crossbow being used.

Thumb Ring: A thumb ring is a type of ring worn on the thumb that is commonly used to protect the digit from the bowstring when using a traditional bow or crossbow. It is often made of leather, metal, or other durable materials and can be customized for individual comfort and fit.

Tiller Measurement: A tiller measurement refers to the length difference between the upper and lower limbs of a bow or crossbow. It is important to measure the tiller of a bow to ensure that it is properly balanced and shooting arrows accurately.

Top Cam: The top cam is the uppermost component of a compound bow’s cam system, which is responsible for providing the majority of the bow’s draw weight. It works in conjunction with the bottom cam to create the smooth draw cycle and release of energy that modern compound bows are known for.

Trackless: Trackless refers to a hunting technique that involves pursuing game without leaving any visible tracks or evidence of movement. This requires the hunter to move carefully and quietly, paying close attention to their surroundings and avoiding obstacles.

Trigger: A trigger is a mechanism that is designed to release the string on a crossbow or bow when pulled. It is an important part of archery equipment as it allows the shooter to accurately and consistently release the arrow or bolt.

Tuning: Tuning in crossbow hunting and archery refers to adjusting the equipment to achieve optimum accuracy and consistency. This may include adjusting the bowstring, arrow rest, bow sight, and bow limbs to ensure that the shot hits the intended target with maximum precision.

U

Uncocked: Uncocked refers to the state of a crossbow or compound bow when the string has not been drawn back or released from its fully loaded position. This is an important safety precaution when handling a bow and should be observed when not actively aiming or shooting.

Under Bow: Under bow refers to the position of an archer’s bow hand when the bowstring is drawn back to full draw. The bow hand is positioned below the arrow rest and the bow arm is fully extended.

Underdraw: Underdraw is a shooting motion in which the string of a crossbow or bow is pulled back towards the shooter’s chin rather than their cheek, resulting in a decreased draw length. This can impact accuracy and power and should be avoided by properly aligning the bow or crossbow with the shooter’s face.

Unlatch: To unlatch refers to the action of releasing the latch or lock mechanism that holds a crossbow or bowstring in place, allowing for a shot to be taken. This is a crucial step in preparing for a shot and must be done carefully to ensure the safety of the user and those around them.

Upper Limb: The upper limb of a crossbow or bow generally refers to the part of the bow that is held by the archer when shooting. This portion of the bow is typically located above the grip and can vary in length and shape depending on the type of bow or crossbow being used.

V

Vane: A vane is a small strip or fin of plastic or feather that is attached to the back of an arrow, crossbow bolt, or dart to stabilize its flight in the air. It helps the projectile maintain a straight and accurate trajectory towards its target, especially when shooting at longer distances or in windy conditions.

Velocity: Velocity is the speed at which a projectile, such as an arrow or bolt, travels after being released from a crossbow or bow. It is measured in feet per second (fps) and is dependent on the draw weight of the bow or crossbow, the type of arrow or bolt used, and the length of the draw.

Vertex: The vertex is the point at which the crossbow’s limbs or the bow’s limbs intersect the riser. It is an important reference point for determining the draw length and brace height of the weapon, as well as ensuring proper alignment during shooting.

Vibration: Vibration refers to the oscillating movement of the bow or crossbow after it is fired. It can affect accuracy and consistency of shots, so dampening systems are often used to minimize vibration.

Vibration Dampeners: Vibration dampeners are accessories designed to reduce the amount of vibration felt in the bow after firing an arrow. They are often made of rubber or other soft materials and can be installed in various locations on the bow to cushion the shock of the shot and improve accuracy.

W

Wall: The side of the bow facing towards the shooter when the bow is strung. This part of the bow is also called the belly of the bow.

Wax: Wax is a type of material used for lubricating and maintaining the string and cables of a crossbow or bow. It is used to reduce friction and provide protection from wear and tear, prolonging the life of the equipment and ensuring consistent performance.

Waxing: Waxing refers to the process of applying wax to the bowstring to reduce friction and protect it from wear and tear. The wax also helps to maintain the integrity of the bowstring, prolonging its lifespan and ensuring a smooth and consistent release.

Weaver Stance: The Weaver Stance is a shooting position where the shooter’s torso is turned slightly to the side so that the shooting arm

X

X-bow: X-bow is a shortened term used to refer to a crossbow, which is a type of weapon that uses a horizontal bow mounted on a stock to shoot bolts or arrows. The X refers to the shape of the bow, which is typically crossed or shaped like the letter X.

X-spot: The X-spot, also known as bullseye or center point, is the exact center of a target used in archery and crossbow hunting. It is the ideal spot to aim for in order to achieve the highest score or the most accurate shot.

Y

Yard: Yard refers to a unit of measurement commonly used in archery and crossbow hunting to determine the distance between the shooter and the target. It is equivalent to three feet or 36 inches, and accurate yardage estimation is crucial in ensuring a successful shot.

Yardage: Yardage is the distance from the archer or hunter to their target. It is important to know your yardage when aiming to ensure accurate shots and ethical hunting.

Yew Bow: A yew bow is a traditional bow made from the wood of the yew tree. It is known for its speed, power, and accuracy in archery, and has a long history as a popular type of bow used for hunting and warfare.

Yoke: A crossbow yoke is a type of bowstring that is used in place of traditional bowstrings to attach the limbs of a crossbow to the body. It is typically made of strong materials like nylon or Kevlar, and its design ensures that the limbs are securely attached to the crossbow body for accurate and consistent shooting.

Yoke System: The yoke system in crossbow hunting is the mechanism that holds the limbs in place and provides tension for the bowstring. It allows for adjustable draw weight and length, which in turn can affect the velocity and accuracy of the shot.

Youth Bow: A youth bow is a type of bow designed specifically for younger or smaller archers, typically those under the age of 16. These bows are often lighter and shorter in length, making them easier for children and teenagers to handle and shoot accurately.

Z

Zebra Strings: Zebra strings are high-quality bowstrings specifically designed for crossbows and archery. They are made of synthetic materials that offer durability, strength, and accuracy, and they are available in a range of colors to match the bow and personal preference.

Zero: Zero refers to the process of setting the sights on a crossbow or bow to ensure accurate shooting. This process involves aligning the front and rear sights to make sure that the arrow or bolt will hit the target at the intended distance.

Zeroing: Zeroing refers to the process of adjusting the sights on a crossbow or bow to ensure that the arrow or bolt hits the intended target at a specific distance. It involves making precise adjustments to the sight or scope to ensure the arrow or bolt hits the same point every time at a particular range.

Zone of Upset: Zone of Upset refers to the area around a target where the arrow or bolt’s flight path may cause damage or disturbance to the surrounding area. It is important for hunters to understand the Zone of Upset and be mindful of their surroundings to ensure safe and responsible hunting.

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