Crossbows

[penfold]

Since my question of crossbows is in no reference to hunting but target shooting here in the UK thought best post here.

Past experience is an old Barnett Wildcat from the early 80’s. Modern ones seem to advanced a long way since then. I’ve a safe place to use one but somewhat overwhelmed with what’s available, poundage and budget (especially if it’s just a fad).

Welcome any advice from owners and appreciate recommendations on models and retailers.

Thanks

 

[vmaxphil]

If you're neer wiltshire I've got a 1m sq archery backstop going for £40 assuming you go down the crossbow route

 

[Franchi Matt]

I bought one last year, scoped, 175lb draw Weight, only fired it about six times surprisingly accurate. I bought a load of different bolt heads for it. Ive had a 80ft pistol for years which is a fun little thing. Maybe start small?

 

[Dunwaters]

The modern compound models are very accurate but high maintenance, they blow strings at a surprising rate. They’re so accurate that one of the staff field testers at an American magazine will only fire one bolt repeatable to group them. Firing 3 to 5 bolts at the target resulted in the bolts in the target being regularly broken by the next shot.
If you’re just looking for something to play around with why not try a standard recurve longbow? Cheap, cheerful, nearly indestructible and usable in a big garden?

 

[ChrisWorley]

Years ago when I was a lad, I made one out of a Austin 7 front leaf spring!. Bloody lethal , father made me take it to bits ,to many holes in the chicken house( both sides!!!!).

 

[penfold]

Thanks to all for replies so far. Unfortunately Wiltshire is too far away but thanks for the offer of the backstop. Think the complexity of a compound bow is probably not the best choice for a novice like me. The modern recurve bows appear to be accurate and pack a whallop. Franchi Matt, may I ask which model you bought?

As mentioned, the archery route is a possibility with a bow but as a rifle shooter, am intrigued with shooting a crossbow.

 

[Dunwaters]

Why not contact your local archery club and have a go? We classify the crossbow as a restricted weapon but theres no restriction on long bows, a compound bow will knock 7 bells out of your target, a recurve sub 40Lb draw makes for a handy back yard toy.

 

[tozzybum]

Ashby show regularly has the local archery club set up for a have a go session. Longbow as well as compound whatamacallits.
Worth a go ,bound to be 1 your way on ,after all true English longbowmen were normally Welsh.

 

[Franchi Matt]

This is the one I have.