Hunting with a crossbow: choosing a model and tactics for hunting various game

Attention! Hunting with a crossbow on the territory of the Russian Federation is prohibited; this information is provided for informational purposes only. Follow the hunting rules and laws of your country.

It would seem that the crossbow has long since become a thing of the past, since no one has gone into battle with this weapon for several centuries. However, these days it has again become popular as a weapon suitable for sport and hunting. And if sports models are of little interest to a hunter, then the same cannot be said about hunting options. Today, crossbows are very powerful weapons that can kill quite large animals. Often, a crossbow for hunting can be superior to a smoothbore gun in terms of killing power. Thanks to the development of technology, this weapon has received a number of additional options, such as a sight, a flashlight, and the like. Many people prefer to hunt with a crossbow, and there are reasons for this.

Advantages and disadvantages

In fact, there are quite a lot of these pros and cons, and they are both objective and subjective, but, nevertheless, we can highlight the following advantages in crossbows for hunting:

• An exciting process in which both the hunter and his prey are balanced in their chances.
• Simplicity and reliability of the shooting device itself. Crossbows for hunting, produced in modern technological production, are made of high-quality materials and perform their function flawlessly in any weather.
• The speed of the arrow's flight is so high that it does not allow the victim to evade the shot, even animals with such qualities as speed and speed of movement.
• No noise when fired, which makes it possible not to scare away all the game in the area with shots.
• Relatively low cost and reusable arrows.

At the same time, crossbows for hunting have a number of limitations:

• Inability to conduct targeted shooting at flying targets.
• Limited shot power, which does not allow hunting any animal.
• Silence. Many consider this not an advantage, but a disadvantage of this type of weapon. In the minds of these people, hunting with a bow and crossbow is nothing more than poaching.

Weapons and ammunition for hare hunting

Attention. As of 01.07.21, amendments to the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (Articles 222 and 223) came into force regarding pneumatic weapons with muzzle energy over 7.5 J. If previously liability, and only administrative responsibility, was provided for carrying, transporting and shooting at borders of populated areas, then from now on criminal prosecution with quite serious sanctions is provided for the sale, as well as illegal production, alteration or repair of such samples (see No matter how tight the string is, or New “anti-pneumatic” laws).
So, when reading articles written in a completely different era :)), keep in mind the newly discovered circumstances... Air rifles with pre-pumping ( PCP) are beyond competition, and in calibers 5.5 and especially 6.35 mm they can even take a hare when shot in the body, there is enough energy. The situation is much more complicated with the classic spring-piston pneumatics (SPP) of 177 caliber (4.5 mm). In Russia and many other countries, the power of hunting air guns is limited to 25 joules. Most SPPs fall into this niche; only “supermagnums” are not much higher than the upper limit (see “Air rifles for hunting”).

Until recently, the question “is it possible to take a hare from a spring?” I would just shrug my shoulders. Since he is not a poacher by nature, he is also a supporter of beautiful classic rifle hunting. However, a couple of years ago a fantastic anecdotal incident occurred. I was resting on a bench, with a Gamo Socom Carbine Lux rifle and an open can of H&N Baracuda 10.65 gr bullets resting peacefully nearby. Suddenly the dog, which was resting under the bench, also rose sharply and rushed away like an arrow somewhere behind the trellis. The characteristic sounds and cry of a hare cannot be confused with anything, so within seconds I was on my feet with a loaded rifle.

The dog managed to jerk the uninvited guest and press him, who had taken a defensive position, to the only section covered with barbed wire against the background of the rest of the civilian fence. It was here that he “infiltrated” the territory for some reason. The situation is frankly bad: defending itself in this position, the hare is capable of inflicting serious injuries on the dog with blows from its clawed hind paws. Don’t be surprised, males are generally quite aggressive and their fights are especially brutal - they’re Tysons.

And it’s not just the opponent in the mating battles who may be in trouble. In addition, in a landfill, the dog could easily get seriously injured on a “thorn.” In this case, the scythe was no longer a tenant in any case. From a universal human point of view, it was necessary to interrupt the torment of the animal, and from a hunting point of view, it was necessary to get the wounded animal, which is basically the same thing.

In general, one bullet to the temple was enough. So, the initial data: an ordinary magnum class rifle, a non-expansive bullet weighing 0.69 grams (see “Bullets for pneumatics”), a distance of 24 meters (I didn’t get closer so as not to provoke a massacre). The weight of the carcass is 4.2 kg - a very decent size. If we proceed from the generally accepted, albeit unofficial, “10 joules per 1 kg of trophy weight,” then the picture does not add up. But these figures refer specifically to shots in the traditional killing zones of the body, for example, under the shoulder blade. An accurate headshot is much more loyal to the minimum required energy, speed and mass of the projectile.

By the way, in the vast majority of videos published on YouTube, the objects are so-called. "Hare" hunting with pneumatics is rabbits. The animals are considerably inferior to hares in terms of weight and size characteristics, and are also tougher on wounds. Moreover, they are quite stupid.

How to choose the right one

In order to make the right choice of crossbow for hunting, you should understand for what purposes one or another type can be used.

First you need to know that crossbows are basically of three types:

• classic (have s-shaped shoulders);
• compound crossbows for hunting;
• pistol

Classic

Classic crossbows are very popular because they are very easy to use and light in weight (about 2 kg). They practically do not break. All that can fail is the bowstring, which can be replaced very easily and quickly.

Many crossbow hunters prefer classic models because of their high accuracy. Set up such a crossbow once, and its shooting accuracy will never change on its own. This model has proven itself to be excellent for hunting small animals (hare, fox, marmot), as well as medium-sized animals (roe deer, gilts).

Block

Hunting with a block-type crossbow is carried out mainly for large game. Thanks to the system of eccentric blocks, the force of the shot can easily knock down a billcutter or an elk dead. It is better not to use them on small and medium-sized animals.

The disadvantages include, first of all, the heavy weight (about 3.5-4 kg), which is very sensitive when hunting with a crossbow, especially towards the end of the day. As for pistol-type models, they are very compact, but their destructive power does not decrease because of this, sometimes it is comparable even to block crossbow models.

The downside is the relative difficulty of aiming, which requires constant practice in shooting from this weapon.

Having decided on the type of crossbow for hunting, you can begin to take into account other characteristics:

1. Power. It is calculated by the tension of the bowstring. For sports models, this value is 47 kg/s. This kind of power is enough to kill small game, but such a crossbow on a wild boar is useless. For roe deer or deer, to hit a target from 50 meters you need a power of 50-60 kg/s. A crossbow for wild boar hunting must have a string tension of at least 70 kg/s.
2. The presence of a safety lock (there is a choice of models for the right and left hands).
3. The presence of a rail (Weaver or Picatinny rail) for mounting a sight (in many modern models the sight is included in the basic package).
4. The presence of a bar for additional reinforcement of the shoulder to the guide.
5. Availability of protection against idle shot .

Varieties

The action of the crossbow is based on the use of the stored energy of the elastic element (these are the shoulders, the arc), which the bowstring transfers to the thrown projectile.

Design features of the implementation of the operating principle divide crossbows into:

1. Recursive.
2. Block.

According to the layout diagram we can distinguish:

1. Pistol type.
2. Rifle type.

Domestic standards classify crossbows by arc strength (kgf):

1. Universal sports and hunting - over 43 kgf.
2. Match sports - no more than 80 kgf.
3. Sports - up to 43 kgf.
4. For recreation and entertainment - up to 43 kgf.

The first two categories relate to weapons with the corresponding regime of legal regulation of their circulation.

Recursive

This is the closest design to a classic crossbow. A distinctive feature of such a weapon is the tips of the shoulders, directed forward. They perform the function of additional levers, which allows increasing efficiency while reducing the weight and dimensions of the crossbow.

Recurve crossbows are powerful, simple and reliable. However, they also have disadvantages:

1. Increased loads on the trigger mechanism.
2. Low reload speed.
3. Dependence of power on the length of arcs. This leads to an increase in the size of the weapon and its weight.
4. Large dimensions impose restrictions on the conditions of use. The owner will experience difficulties when hunting in wooded areas.

Coyote recurve crossbow.

Block

The effectiveness of crossbows of this type is increased by using a system of blocks (pulley blocks) and eccentrics. Compared to the recursive option, this option has a number of advantages:

1. Light weight and dimensions are suitable for most types of hunting.
2. A small load on the trigger increases its service life.
3. High boom speed and power.
4. Increased rate of fire.

At the same time, block crossbows are characterized by general complexity, a labor-intensive setup procedure and low maintainability in the field.

Compound crossbow.

Pistol crossbows

Pistol form factor combined with a crossbow mechanism. Such samples are suitable for both small game hunting and fishing. Not only arrows, but also harpoons or metal balls can act as projectiles.

However, the downside of their miniature size is their relatively low power, which is why they are most often used as crossbows for recreational shooting rather than for hunting.

Pistol crossbow.

Rifle crossbows

This arrangement, externally similar to the shapes of firearms, is the main one. Wood, composites, metals and light alloys are used for manufacturing. The most powerful mechanisms are implemented on the basis of rifle crossbows.

An ergonomic stock and butt, the ability to adjust to anatomical features, and the availability of seats for various types of sights make them the most common and popular.

Rifle-type crossbow.

Ammo selection

The crossbow can be loaded with two types of ammunition: arrows and special bolts. Experienced hunters recommend using arrows with carbon or fiberglass tips for small animals, but bolts are suitable for larger targets.

The advantage of arrows is their balance, thanks to the fletching. They use arrows from 30 to 40 centimeters long and weighing 30 or 35 grams. For hunting birds, a shorter arrow is recommended (30 centimeters, maximum weight 30 grams).

Aluminum arrows can be used for hunting small animals. It is better to buy arrowheads with a bright color, this will allow you to quickly find the arrow in the grass (an arrow is not a cheap thing, in some arrows the tip alone costs about 5,000 rubles). Some arrows are threaded, which allows you to change the tips on them.

Crossbow sighting mechanism

As you know, shooting weapons, including hunting, almost always must have a sighting mechanism. The crossbow itself is no exception, especially since modern crossbows are equipped with a dovetail socket for installing a sighting mechanism. If you look closely at a modern crossbow, you can say that it does not need a heavy-duty sight; the optimal optics are 4*24 and 4*32. Many people prefer to install a collimator sight, which facilitates convenient observation day and night, and, if necessary, aim with two eyes. The advantages of a collimator are that it allows you to fire quickly at a moving target. Such sights are suitable for recurve and compound crossbows, as in the photo:

It is also worth saying that it is best to shoot from a crossbow from the optimal distance, that is, a distance of 50-60 meters from the target.

Hunting arrowheads for crossbows - choosing arrows and arrowheads for a crossbow

In order to hunt, you need to buy or make a set of arrows for a crossbow in advance. If you want to hunt large animals, you will need professional arrows made of fiberglass or carbon. Such bolts are light in weight and durable, have ideal geometry and correct weight distribution. If you come across good aluminum arrows, it is better to save them for training, since they are unlikely to be suitable for hunting.

If you want to use a crossbow for hunting and bought arrows no longer than 30 cm and weighing about 25 g, then you should know that such arrows are used to hunt only small animals and birds. Such arrows can be made of fiberglass and aluminum. The photo shows a shooter with a powerful crossbow and arrows:

Often, some arrows for such small arms have a threaded insert on the front cut of the shaft. This will allow you to change the tips.

You should also know that hunting points have multiple steel blades. There are collapsible tips in which you can replace some blades separately.

In hunting arrows the fletching should be slightly longer than in sporting arrows. This is necessary in order to stabilize the flight of the arrow in the air. The length of the arrow should be the same as the length of the guide of the crossbow for hunting. The optimal size of hunting arrows is a length of about 40-50 cm and a weight of up to 30-35 grams.

It is worth mentioning harpoon arrows intended for fishing. For example, in America this type of hunting is as popular as crossbow hunting in our country. The shape of a harpoon arrow is similar to a long needle, the tip has a tooth in the form of a spear, such an arrow can easily move under water. There is a special hook on the arrow; a nylon thread is tied to it, which is first wound onto an inertia-free reel and attached to the crossbow for hunting.

photo. Hunting tips for crossbow arrows and bow arrows

Crossbow arrow target

If you want crossbow hunting to be successful, you must know where to aim. Such knowledge will allow you to make an accurate shot, without having to reload the crossbow and fire again. So, the killing places for a crossbow arrow are considered to be the neck and chest area; you can hit the animal the first time by shooting in the stomach, as in the photo:

Where to shoot a wild boar

For example, if you are hunting a wild boar, and when you take aim, you hit it not in the neck, but in the stomach, the animal will sit on the ground and begin to make loud screams. With the help of a re-released arrow, you can deliver a fatal shot. Why exactly do you need to hit the thoracic region? It's simple, a crossbow arrow flying at great speed is capable of spreading the ribs and passing into the vital internal organs of the beast, thereby causing a fatal wound. If you secure the tip in the arrow with a “death grip”, you will no longer be able to pull it out; you will have to cut it from the body of the killed animal with a sharp knife. If you want to practice before hunting, you can print out a target on A4 from our other article.

Hunting specifics

By and large, the features of hunting with a crossbow are the same as with firearms. First of all, it is worth knowing the vulnerabilities of animals. It is best to target the heart, liver, lungs. It is very bad if the arrow hits the shoulder blade area or above the front leg.

It should be remembered that very often there is a second chance to shoot due to the lack of noise when shooting. It is very important to follow safety precautions while hunting. One of the main requirements is to watch the fingers of your left hand. If you get caught on the string during a shot, you can lose your fingers completely. In addition, when firing, you should watch the shoulders of the crossbow so that they do not come into contact with the branches.

It is also important to monitor the integrity of the bowstring so that it does not have nicks or tears, otherwise it may fail at the most crucial moment.

What to pay attention to when hunting

Hunting with a crossbow requires the determination of the owner. It is very important that the hunter is confident in the shot. It is necessary to choose the right place and target. If you decide to go after a bear with a classic crossbow, it won't end well. Conventional, not particularly powerful, guns are designed for ducks, beavers and other small animals. Based on reviews from experienced hunters, we can say that the ability to shoot is not always decisive. It is necessary to move silently, be able to wait time and disguise yourself so as not to spook the game.

You also need to choose the right hunting location. In Russia, each animal has its own habitat. For example, ducks are located in coastal areas, wild boars are more often found in mountainous areas, and beavers are found in reservoirs with large vegetation. However, there are many nature reserves where hunting is prohibited by law. And in any hunting area, according to the same law, you are required to obtain permission.

If the crossbow jams while shooting, fix the problem, but under no circumstances fire a blank shot. This will damage the gun and end your hunt. Be sure to clean and lubricate every part of your crossbow before going out. When shooting, do not keep your fingers near the bowstring. In addition, do not fire in the direction of living people, houses, cars, etc. The safety should be removed immediately before firing. By following these rules, the hunt will be as efficient and safe as possible.

Various hunting tactics

In general, there are two types of hunting with a crossbow. This is with an approach and an ambush.

From the approach

For this type, you should choose a light crossbow. Fishing in this way should be done at the moment when the animal comes out to feed. You should approach from the leeward side, otherwise the animal may smell the scent ahead of time. It is recommended to shoot from 5-20 meters, and aim at vital organs.

Ambush

Hunting with a crossbow can also be done from an ambush. You can use bait for success. Thus, hunting beaver with a crossbow may be accompanied by the use of a beaver stream. The hunter should be positioned downwind of the likely location of the animal's appearance. You should behave very quietly, since even the slightest rustle can scare the animal. It is recommended to shoot from a distance of 5-20 meters.

Hunting with a crossbow in Russia

In our country, there is a lot of controversy that crossbow hunting entails. On the one hand, a device with a tension force of less than 43 kgf is not considered a small arms weapon. On the other hand, any type of hunting with throwing weapons is prohibited. This law was introduced in Russia because of humanity towards animals.

The question arises: does a hunter who has a crossbow with a tension force of less than 43 kg violate? No. The law in Russia allows you to store weapons if you have a certificate. However, the use of block-type crossbows is consistent with the article of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. Such devices are very popular among poachers.

To avoid violations, you must contact the Ministry of Internal Affairs to obtain permission to use hunting weapons

. Hunting with a crossbow and methods of catching game with throwing devices are not prescribed in the laws of Russia, which means that difficulties arise in obtaining a permit. Therefore, the best option is to travel abroad, to a country where such hunting is allowed.

Features of hunting

You can hunt any game with a crossbow, but there are a few things to keep in mind when hunting each of them.

On the boar

The wild boar is a dangerous animal, and even with a gun you should be careful when approaching it, and hunting a wild boar with a crossbow is a risky undertaking by definition. You should take your ammunition very seriously. A long arrow (up to 50 centimeters) with a weight of about 40 grams is best suited. You shouldn’t go at a wild boar with an aluminum arrow, it will only wound it, and dealing with a ruined cleaver is not the most exciting thing. You can hunt a wild boar in any way, but you should remember that approach hunting is the most dangerous option.

On the moose

Hunting this noble and large animal with a bow or crossbow is the most spectacular and at the same time very dangerous activity. When hunting elk with a crossbow, you should have patience and endurance, since there must be only one shot and for sure.

For a duck

For this type, a crossbow with a power of up to 50 kg/s is suitable. Duck hunting with a crossbow requires a classic model, but when hunting from an ambush it is better to use a block crossbow. The best arrows are light ones with cutting-type tips.

For the hare

The task is not very simple. It’s not easy to get within shooting distance of the long-eared hare; the hare is too shy. When hunting a hare with a crossbow, it is very difficult to shoot on the move: a successful shot is more likely luck than regularity.