Crossbow frustrations in Bournemouth

[Element UK]

Hi there all

Stuart's my name - frustrations the game. I'm new to the world of 'anything that shoots', Just purchased a 'Barnett Panzer V' but can't find anywhere to use it in Bournemouth. I also require instruction. Anyone with information please reply here thanks. I don't think the council will take kindly to me wondering the woods in search of targets lol.

Appreciate any help - thanks.

[geoffretired]

Have you tried Bournemouth Archery Club?

[Element UK]

In the process of awaiting info but I'm fairly certain they don't have the box-shaped targets. I'll hear soon.

Also has anyone any experience with the various cocking devices - ie; string pull or ratchet. Is one preferred over the other? String pull seems quicker but harder.

[Kae]

String pull is more than enough for the vast majority of poundages, it makes loading the crossbow easier (not only reducing the force required to #### it, but also means your not bent over as far).
Ratchets tend to be noisy, cumbersome, and I can't honestly see the point on anything under 200# (I can #### a 180# without any device, but find that a string pull really helps, especially if your shooting more than one bolt! lol).

TBH you really, really, really need to find a club, whatever you do don't go wandering the streets at night! (Ok, being slightly over the top, but you get the gist).

Kae.

[geoffretired]

I know there are archers at BAC who shoot crossbow there. At least they did unless the club has changed its ruling on them.

[Element UK]

BAC do Xbow. However they do not have an introduction course until Feb 08.

Lytchet and Bracknell aren't any help, so it looks like I'll just have to let it gather dust.

[geoffretired]

I would sign up soon or all the places could be filled.

[Element UK]

I purchased the 'String Pull' cocking device.

I found it absolutely inadequate and incredibly poorly designed for its supposed task.

First off, the metal hooks that catch the string are at a totally wrong angle. They should twist so they naturally stay in line with the string and not try to bend anything to it's own alignment instead.

Secondly: The pressure placed upon the grouped fingers as you pull, is ridiculously stressfull upon your squeezed fingers.

Why can't they simply put a twist in the hooks so they are on the same angle/line as the string? and why can't they use a grip that does not squeeze your fingers to mush.

Probably going to try a mechanical cocking device after all. Although I found it fine to just pull the string as is. Far less painfull an experience lol.

[geoffretired]

I think I saw the device you are talking about. Surely there is something better than that around;or do we want to design one?

[Element UK]

Only the fixed mechanical 'lever cocking device' it seems.

First of all someone would have to twist 90 degrees the lower hook section from the above part that attaches to the string.

One tool I have used recently is the 'flexible wood saw'. Basically it's a thin chain-blade that can wrap around logs etc. Now those tools have good hand grips on each end so you can pull without stress to the fingers.

If anyone has the inclination, that would be my recommendation.