Dude you don't know how much I appreciate this knowledge!! These other youtube vids are filled with 1 sided info. Yours is straight up golden information. THANKS!
got some great knowledge from your video im headed out to buy more bolts and heads tomorrow and this will be very helpful!!!! bow hunted for many yrs but just recently was forced to go to a crossbow because of a shoulder injury thanks for the video!!!
i owe ya a big thank you my friend opening day here i took your advise and just swacked a biggun went thru a rib entrance and exit and he didnt make 40 yards !!!!
I would just for get about any compound style bow .You have all those working parts and pulleys that will eventually wear and get loose and loud. Not to mention a compound bow needs a bow press to change the string. I use an Excalibur cross bow and out of the box in less than ten shots I was hitting a quarter at twenty yards/.
Thank you. I appreciate it. Shortly after this comment, I did alot more homework. One thing I found is a Kodabow is of the hook...My vote goes for Kodabow, PSE Tac 10, and 15s, or Barrett Ghost 400s. Top 3 for sure... Thanks for ur advice, and awesome bows!!!!
Always check with your manufacturer but it is likely that yoiu need to use half moon nocks because of trigger design. When the string catch releases the bowstring on a Kodabow, the bowstring is traveling down towards the rail to get behind the arrow. Some other bows have the string catch configured so that at the shot ... the string is traveling away from the rail into space and needs to be "caught" by a nock....hence, two basic styles. We like Flat Nock design.
thank you very much for helping me set up my crossbow correctly. again, i found your video to be very informitive. keep up the good work, and i'll be looking for more of your videos.;-)
Actually the reverse is true in that crossbows designed to use flat nocks like Kodabow (where the bowstring is being released down to the rail) offer a very secure lockup. Bows that use half moon nocks typically have trigger groups that release the bowstring with the string is traveling away from the rail. Hence, the need to catch the arrow before the string hops over the arrow shaft.....furthermore, put one of those arrows on the rail the wrong way, BIG problems. We really like our flat nock design.
Also, i tend to only shoot field tips ( never went hunting with my crossbow, i have a 55lb pull back compound that shoots at around an average 234m/s (Chronographes)with the bolts/arrows i got(no idea what the weight is on them, my scale is busted) but im interested in using it for small game like Rabbits) and this was extremely interesting, especially because i am thinking about getting broadheads. So bolts/arrows being tip heavy is a good thing?
Vanes do not steer the arrow they keep the back or the arrow from flopping around, and follow the tip... Their function is similar to a tail on a kite... Your arrow is going to go where the tip is pointed because all the energy has been transfered to the tip and the tip pulls the arrow and the vanes just keep the back of the arrow from flopping around like a string hanging on the back would do... In other words the vanes have little to no effect on moving the tip from its direction and basically just straighten the arrow behind the direction that the tip is pulling it... and yes a little more weight forward is marginally better (there is no magic number but 7-15% weight forward is acceptable - it has more to do with spine of the arrow than a "% (percentage) of weight forward) and also the heavier the tip the better the flight (matched to spine of the arrow) and also the more penetration... Theoretically a well tuned bow and tuned arrow you would need no vanes (which leads us back to percentage of weight forward - more does not mean better or a better balance it only means an adjustment to the spine and flex to the arrow when shot)... Also, a well tuned bow with tuned arrows will shoot a fixed blade broadhead just as true as a mechanical or a field tip... I prefer a 1/2 moon knock because there is less chance that the string can slip under the arrow nock... (all arrows flex when being shot - when starting the center of the arrow flexes upward and when it comes down it will cause the tip and the nock to flex upward), this could cause the nock to lift off the rail, creating opportunity for the string to get under the arrow... a 1/2 moon nock will eliminate that... Many people think about reinventing the wheel but in all cases it is still round... Solid basic principles are of more valuable than frills and gimmicks... Crossbows are less tunable than compounds but there are some things that can be done, match tip weight to spine buy using either lighter or heavier tips, re- vane with longer heavier vanes or shorter lighter vanes, make sure the arrows are true and that the tip is perfectly centered with the shaft (so as not to get flyers)... you can add weight to the back or front of the arrow with metal inserts or washers (most common to be done on the front). all in an attempt to match the spine weight to the power stroke...
Jim Richard .. several good points. Thank you. Just a few comments. On nocks, we do not recommend choosing either flat nocks or half moon nocks. We do recommend using the type of nocks that the manufacturer of the crossbow recommends. In the case of Kodabow crossbows, use only flat nocks. Nothing to do with arrow spine and everything to do with how our bowstring travels downwards to the rail as it released from the string catch in the trigger. Other manufacturers have triggers that release the bowstring in an upwards direction away from the rail which mandates a half moon or capture nock. As far vanes steering an arrow or not, naval experience tells us a rudder steers the boat. In theory, boats would go straight in a perfect world but a rudder is darn helpful for steering. Shooting a bare shaft with a field point could yield perfect flight to the bullseye. Place a a broadhead on that same bare shaft and it might possibly miss the target all together...adding vanes counteracts many forces and the arrow will fly straight.
always best to use what the manufacturer says to use but typically, there is no hazard going to a longer arrow of the same design EXCEPT THAT a hunter needs to be mindful if the broadhead extends past the stirrup and is exposed. Good luck hunting!!!
I'm getting ready to buy my first crossbow and I was wondering does it matter the type of crossbow for the type of nock? Or can I use both flat and v-cut nocks on the same crossbow?
this is a great video, very informative. i have a question that i hope you can answer . i bought a crossbow that i had to partially assemble and the instructions on the box weren,t too clear. when i attached the bow to the stock i didn't know if the two square pieces of rubber both go behind the bow or does one piece of rubber go behind the bow and the other in front of the bow where the screw holds the bow to the stock. thank you.
Thank you for your time to do this video. Is there a "magic" number for FOC. % wise. I calculated my FOC on my current set up and am at 13.5 % if I did my math correct (B/L-.5 *100) Again thank you for your time.
Kroogg Good. So the balance point is slightly forward of midpoint and always calculate with the hunting point installed. There is not a hard rule in our view. 10% would be the minimum. Slightly less in a vertical bow can work. We like around 16%-18% but as with all these types of things, the best guidance is to shoot the arrow configuration and see how the results work out.
@@Kodabow I'm a bow archer new to crossbows & wondered why feathers aren't used on crossbow bolts? The low FOC bolt you had could be given a better FOC if the plastic vanes were replaced with feathers as feathers are c1/7th the weight of plastic vanes, give rather than deform or deflect the arrow & impart spin even without helical fletching as every feather is a natural aerofoil.
@@2bingtim We shoot traditional bows with feathers ourselves at Kodabow. I think you see plastic vanes so often on crossbows because of their durability and price ---- they are much cheaper than feathers ....7 cents vs. 35 cents and tend to hold up better at higher fps ...my trad bow shoots 180 fps ...my crossbow shoots 340 fps....having said that, I have fletched crossbow arrows with feathers --- (they work great till it rains!)
@@ArcherySkillCenter Hi, thanks for the reply. I avoid shooting anything in the rain! So wet feathers haven't yet been an issue I've encountered over the years. They are nowdays quite expensive but I've kept my eyes out for occasional bargins & kept costs down thus. Having been more interested in medieval crossbows previously I'd assumed modern crossbows usually had only 2 fletches, which could mean some instability when the vanes got damaged, but only recently learnt that modern rifle crossbows are 3-fletched & the rails have a deep groove so the 3rd f/index vane fits down it, so a damaged vane wouldn't probably have such a potentially wild effect.
just use a heavier broad heads..or use fiberglass bolts there heavier but have good penetration like bad in the day with traditional recurve or longbow fiberglass arrows,no complaints
Great video, Thank you. Im new to the crossbow segment of weaponry, and in the market. I am not a hunter, and am looking for a bow to target with very often. Looking for something under 300 if you by chance have any recommends. This video was extremly helpful on arrows btw, and I learned alot. Thank you!
As a bow increases in weight and speed, many think a heavier arrow is better suited for the task....the heavier arrow moves more slowly but it can also be stiffer and for hunting larger animals, it can be desirable. We are building some 600 gr arrows for a customer who just likes heavier arrows vs. our standard 410 grain arrows. We do this by adding additional brass and a carbon sleeve at the arrow front which helps FOC . Forward of Center Percentage....having said that, we have still had great success with our standard weight arrows. Flat and Half Moon nocks can be changed out easily. You might also look at Gold Tip Laser IV arrows which are stiffer and heavier out of the box.
Kodabow can I use slightly heavier 22 bolts than my recommended total 380grain headhunter arrows. I have a whitetail hunter STR and it came with head hunters, but they are so expensive to keep purchasing. I found cheaper 22 bolts on eBay & and they are of the same inch, but the total weight is 465 grains with a 125 grain field point. When my manual states I should use a 280 grain bolt with a 100 grain arrowhead. Would it be Ok if I use the cheaper ones in my crossbow eventhough they are slightly heavier? Or could damage be caused by it
Lol. I use 16" bolts with plastic half-moon nocks and 165gn fixed tips from a 225lb recurve. The plastic is better to maintain low mass/good FOC balance. You always want to fire the lowest mass/highest velocity rated.
Different schools of thought .... we believe metal is better than plastic and prefer a trigger design that allows for flat nocks so we don't worry about arrow orientation on the rail. If you are screwing 165 gn into an aluminum insert, our 100 gn heads plus brass are heavier providing higher FOC.... thanks for the comments.
Good video. Didn't know there was such a thing as string wax. Guess, I need to pick this up soon. Gotta question. I'm somewhat new to using crossbows, but I just had to replace my string cause it "snapped and broke. Now I'm having problems cocking it. I can use a screwdriver which doesn't have any play in it to simulate cocking it, but I can't seem to get it to do it with the new string I just put on. I've watched other videos and think I am doing it correct, but so far no success. Appreciate any ideas. I thought maybe there is something causing it to stick and not allowing it to cock easier as it appears. Thanks!
If the trigger group is functioning correctly when you test it but does not operate correctly when cocking the bow, ensure you aren't doing something unusual when cocking the bow....such as lifting the bowstring off the bow as you use the cocking rope. Always best to talk to the manufacturer and exercise extreme caution with a crossbow trigger that gives any indication that it might not be 100%.
Also...odd that your bowstring snapped and broke. This can be caught earlier by inspecting the string and the cause of the failure should be determined.
@@Kodabow I'm wondering if there might be something "sticky" that is preventing it from working correctly within the "mechanism". Don't know what it would be like to open it up or if I am going to be opening pandora's box?
Pandora's Box. The forces on the trigger group are significant so nothing "sticky" should stop movement. Ensure you understand the Anti-Dry Fire system.on your brand of bow to eliminate the possibility that the ADF is contributory.
Good content. Interesting that you assume that bad ethics or illegal hunting activity came into play. Enough to write it in yellow. (4:53 and 5:19) Hard to say or even assume if you were not present or have no real evidence stating otherwise. Its obvious the shooter was on the ground when the shot was made. Not illegal or unethical to hunt from the ground. Thats about all you have. Otherwise good content.
can I use slightly heavier 22 bolts than my recommended total 380grain headhunter arrows. I have a whitetail hunter STR and it came with head hunters, but they are so expensive to keep purchasing. I found cheaper 22 bolts on eBay & and they are of the same inch, but the total weight is 465 grains with a 125 grain field point. When my manual states I should use a 280 grain bolt with a 100 grain arrowhead. Would it be Ok if I use the cheaper ones in my crossbow eventhough they are slightly heavier? Or could damage be caused by it
Any of the above....will work. Some think that 2 bladed broadheads have better penetration and will do better on bone impacts. For example...Cape Buffalo.... definitely a 2 blade. For thin skinned game and a good blood trail, 2, 3 or 4 blade. That is one way of looking at it.
ok, but about bolt materials, wich one is the better, aluminium or carbon fiber? and i mean for hunt, because people who don't hunt says carbon, but just because aluminium bents
don't know if this applies to your recruit; but, my crossbow won't turn off safety unless bolt is loaded... In order to prevent dry fire. Feels sketchy; but, I load blunt bolt, turn off safety, remove bolt, apply pressure to string using cocking rope, pull trigger
Lot's of people saying stay with the stock Barnett Easton Headhunter's for my new Ghost 350???Any thought's with these for deer??There 20 inch arrows.I tried some Carbon express Maxima's weight forward.!!There flagship arrows real pricey!!They shot 4inches low,but im sighted in with the head Hunters.I was going to stick with the arrow they recommend.My dad said sight it in with the Carbon express???on utube a said the Headhunters held the best groups with the ghost 400.Even at 100yardsLOL!Help
"Front of Center" the arrow has more weight in the front half of the arrow than the back half of the arrow. Think of a badminton shuttlecock. The shuttlecock always goes over the net with the ping-pong-ball end going forward over the net and the feathers trailing. No matter how hard you hit it, or what spin or "English" you put on it with the racket, it crosses the net with the ping-pong ball in front. That is how you want your arrow to fly, with the front end leading the arrow and the feathers trailing. Check out the TH-cam videos featuring Dr. Ed Ashby. He is a great fan of high and Ultra high FOC.
A quarrel had a point that was forged square or four-sided, and pointed in order to better penetrate metal armor. The square point had four sides and thus the "quar--" derivative (or 4) part of the word. The quarrels had short and thick shafts with no vanes.
If a hungry person kills a wild animal {or catches a fish} for food ... I would absolutely "not" report this. Gathering food from wilderness was ordained by God in a book called Genesis.... "Ye shall take the fowl from the air and they shall be thy meat...." Later on, God [a.k.a. Jehovah] added more animals to the divinely approved foods list. God made the animals , The animals belong to God... He authorized us to take and eat them and I see no scriptural mention of when and how to take them. This implies that all people are allowed by God to take fowl [and later other wild beasts] , by any means and whenever you [or we] need them for food. This "may be a shock" to some people who have not "studied" the book of Genesis. This Scriptural law " ...take the fowl... " was given by "The Highest Authority" long before men [or people] even had a concept of "nations", or national boundries .... and certainly before we conceived of game rules, game wardens and such like.... God's law on this predates the laws of man by thousands of years. Your choices "are your own"... I will not be reporting any hungry person for taking God's wild creatures "for food" even if rules of man may forbid the time and way that "wild game" was taken. Livestock "owned by a person" is a completely separate matter.
J Martin "From Kodabow" - one of the good people we came across was a man who repeatedly said he was hunting FOR his daughter. We asked him to explain. He said his daughter had autism and her doctor said wild game (chemical free) would be helpful for her. He came to us to buy a Kodabow and for help to learn to hunt because he was not a hunter. While we always consume the game we kill for food, this man's intentions and objectives were uniquely pure. Just another perspective on hunting that we thought you would appreciate."
What the Experts Think: “If it’s under 16 inches, it’s a bolt,” says Phillip Bednar, director of marketing for TenPoint Crossbows. “Sixteen inches or more is considered an arrow. We shoot 20- and 22-inch arrows.” “Technically, either term is correct,” says Sam Coalson, Director of Marketing for Bowtech Archery. “Most people still call them bolts, but more and more crossbow enthusiasts seem to be calling them arrows.”
+Pika Pikka People who don't want crossbows in the woods during archery season want you do call them "bolts". They are arrows just like arrows shot by vertical bows. You don't realize, but a lot of people who call the crossbow's projectiles "arrows" full-well know that they are also referred to as "bolts". It's a political thing. Do a little research on it (I mean no offense by that). I prefer to call them arrows, because that is what they are, but also due to politics. A lot of people who hate crossbows, such as that Mike Misch fella, want you to refer to their arrows as "bolts" and they want you to call the weapon itself a "crossgun". This is because they want to fully separate the weapon from archery hunting seasons and they are actually successful in this endeavor in some states in the north east and out west. It's like pullin' teeth in NY to be able to hunt with a crossbow. SO.. long story short. Please stop calling them "bolts" unless you dislike crossbows. [=
+Tenshi B Thanks for the insights. As a newbie, I find it handy that they have different names because it makes the online ordering process more straight-forward since you can't use bow arrows in a crossbow.
+Tenshi B At Kodabow, we never fully appreciated the political arguments that you raised regarding calling the projectiles "bolts" vs. "arrows". Thank you for enlightening us.. Technically speaking, the projectiles used on MODERN CROSSBOWS are arrows so that is the term we use. (see additional comments we have posted) Additionally, we will leave archery seasons and approved hunting tools to the various states---- still a democracy in the US so we fully accept what the outdoor sports folks do through the various state game commissions and agencies -- it is important for our hunting community to remain united and deal with facts -- hunting participation is an issue and getting more folks involved is a good thing versus turning on one another. We have always avoided looking negatively towards one hunting group vs another. ...so when it came time for us to head to Colorado last year to hunt Elk, fine --- we left our crossbows and compound bows behind and took our traditional recurve bow equipment. When we headed out in PA last year, we used everything from flintlocks and crossbows to modern firearms. We don't dislike anything ....but find it amusing that many of the most vocal opponents of crossbows use very modern vertical bow technology with fiber optic sights etc. that approximate crossbow capabilities. Our home state of Pennsylvania still has a flintlock season when modern muzzeloaders can't be used. That is fine! We absolutely enjoy traditional archery equipment. That's one of our choices as hunters. None of these elements have diminished our enthusiasm for the opportunities that exist to hunt --- and if you dislike a particular tool, we support the freedom for you to to use whatever is legally approved....and if you personally don't like what is legally approved, make your voice heard with logical viewpoints.
Hey Mike, I've been bowhunting, starting with a Bear 76'er when I was 14, my elbows and shoulders are now ruined from years of hard work,. I can't shoot my longbow, or even my Hoyt ProTech, am I not mature enough for you because I need a crossbow to participate in bow season? Your tolerance for other archery enthusiasts is very refreshing, grow up.
Mike Misch Mike --- you are welcome to visit Kodabow if you ever have the opportunity in West Chester PA. Shoot with us on our indoor range and we will both shoot traditional bows - no sights! Winner gets a free lunch (from the Loser) and can then be referred to as a REAL bowhunter! * Warning/Disclaimer - Kodabow teaches traditional archery every weekend at our facility.
Guys, or "children" which ever you prefer, an instrument of death is just as such. Doesn't really matter what it is as long as it gets the kill shot, yes. Use your brains and stop fighting over stupid shit. Rifle, pistol. bow, compound, crossbow, spear, slingshot, knives - all weapons suitable. Too much conversation over "I use a REAL mans weapons and yours sucks, blah blah BLAH ..! or "my pepe is bigger than yours is" You know how dumb that shit sounds. Everyone should get together and just be thankful that people are hunting and turn your effort away from each other and towards the real enemy: PETA, and big government. They are the ones wanting to limit your weapon choices and the ability to hunt Grow up guys ..! -xBURNx
xBURNxFOREVERx AMEN! I laugh when I see grown men acting like grade school girls while pretending to be "real men" and great big hunters LOL! The old "my wiener is bigger than yours" syndrome!
+Taylor Canty Actually --- "bolts" are a bit different historically speaking. Bolts are generally defined as shorter metal "arrow-like" projectiles used for piercing armor where today's modern crossbows use projectiles that are arrows in all aspects. The standardized diameter is 11/32" inch and they use the same vanes, inserts and points that we use on our modern compound bows, traditional recurves and longbows. So --- calling your modern crossbow projectile an arrow is absolutely correct.
Dude you don't know how much I appreciate this knowledge!! These other youtube vids are filled with 1 sided info. Yours is straight up golden information. THANKS!
Thank you ---- Chuck @ Kodabow
Beautiful presentation........clear, concise, informative. Thank you.
got some great knowledge from your video im headed out to buy more bolts and heads tomorrow and this will be very helpful!!!! bow hunted for many yrs but just recently was forced to go to a crossbow because of a shoulder injury thanks for the video!!!
i owe ya a big thank you my friend opening day here i took your advise and just swacked a biggun went thru a rib entrance and exit and he didnt make 40 yards !!!!
I would just for get about any compound style bow .You have all those working parts and pulleys that will eventually wear and get loose and loud. Not to mention a compound bow needs a bow press to change the string. I use an Excalibur cross bow and out of the box in less than ten shots I was hitting a quarter at twenty yards/.
Thank you. I appreciate it. Shortly after this comment, I did alot more homework. One thing I found is a Kodabow is of the hook...My vote goes for Kodabow, PSE Tac 10, and 15s, or Barrett Ghost 400s. Top 3 for sure... Thanks for ur advice, and awesome bows!!!!
very helpful information. I am just getting into crossbow hunting and I need all the knowledge I can get.
Thank you for your comment! chuck@kodabow
Thanks for the tips, they were razor sharp 👍🏻
Great info and why you want your FOC forward and Fixed Broadhead over Manual
Great Video
Always check with your manufacturer but it is likely that yoiu need to use half moon nocks because of trigger design. When the string catch releases the bowstring on a Kodabow, the bowstring is traveling down towards the rail to get behind the arrow. Some other bows have the string catch configured so that at the shot ... the string is traveling away from the rail into space and needs to be "caught" by a nock....hence, two basic styles. We like Flat Nock design.
I AGREE with Yeral,great video.Ill be watching it several times there great info here
Thanks for the "Rocket Science" COG, COP, FOC & Max Q!
thank you very much for helping me set up my crossbow correctly. again, i found your video to be very informitive. keep up the good work, and i'll be looking for more of your videos.;-)
Actually the reverse is true in that crossbows designed to use flat nocks like Kodabow (where the bowstring is being released down to the rail) offer a very secure lockup. Bows that use half moon nocks typically have trigger groups that release the bowstring with the string is traveling away from the rail. Hence, the need to catch the arrow before the string hops over the arrow shaft.....furthermore, put one of those arrows on the rail the wrong way, BIG problems. We really like our flat nock design.
Thanks for the information Kodabow, that will help me out a lot in the type of weight on want on the tip of my bolts. PRECIATE IT
Will the flat knock work on any crossbow are have to use what's recommend i would like to try the flat knock but the half moon is recommend.
I like my half moon nocks...they give me a bit more confidence, i tend to put my odd colored fletching atvthe bottom
Also, i tend to only shoot field tips ( never went hunting with my crossbow, i have a 55lb pull back compound that shoots at around an average 234m/s (Chronographes)with the bolts/arrows i got(no idea what the weight is on them, my scale is busted) but im interested in using it for small game like Rabbits) and this was extremely interesting, especially because i am thinking about getting broadheads. So bolts/arrows being tip heavy is a good thing?
Use flat nocks on a Kodabow only.
@@Kodabow unfortunately, its not a Koda
Just learning crossbows tks very informative.
those are cool i got the walmart brand field tip it opes offers a inch and quater cut works for me it was cheep
For my S.A FEVER SPORTS cross bow i use 16 and 18 inch bolts. With Rage broadheads or Grizzly broad heads.
Good vid and informative, thanx for the upload.
Great information on this video. Thanks!
very informative, thank you.
cyrax10010 Thank you for your interest in our videos. We try to stay direct and to the point!
Vanes do not steer the arrow they keep the back or the arrow from flopping around, and follow the tip... Their function is similar to a tail on a kite... Your arrow is going to go where the tip is pointed because all the energy has been transfered to the tip and the tip pulls the arrow and the vanes just keep the back of the arrow from flopping around like a string hanging on the back would do... In other words the vanes have little to no effect on moving the tip from its direction and basically just straighten the arrow behind the direction that the tip is pulling it... and yes a little more weight forward is marginally better (there is no magic number but 7-15% weight forward is acceptable - it has more to do with spine of the arrow than a "% (percentage) of weight forward) and also the heavier the tip the better the flight (matched to spine of the arrow) and also the more penetration... Theoretically a well tuned bow and tuned arrow you would need no vanes (which leads us back to percentage of weight forward - more does not mean better or a better balance it only means an adjustment to the spine and flex to the arrow when shot)... Also, a well tuned bow with tuned arrows will shoot a fixed blade broadhead just as true as a mechanical or a field tip... I prefer a 1/2 moon knock because there is less chance that the string can slip under the arrow nock... (all arrows flex when being shot - when starting the center of the arrow flexes upward and when it comes down it will cause the tip and the nock to flex upward), this could cause the nock to lift off the rail, creating opportunity for the string to get under the arrow... a 1/2 moon nock will eliminate that... Many people think about reinventing the wheel but in all cases it is still round... Solid basic principles are of more valuable than frills and gimmicks... Crossbows are less tunable than compounds but there are some things that can be done, match tip weight to spine buy using either lighter or heavier tips, re- vane with longer heavier vanes or shorter lighter vanes, make sure the arrows are true and that the tip is perfectly centered with the shaft (so as not to get flyers)... you can add weight to the back or front of the arrow with metal inserts or washers (most common to be done on the front). all in an attempt to match the spine weight to the power stroke...
Jim Richard .. several good points. Thank you. Just a few comments. On nocks, we do not recommend choosing either flat nocks or half moon nocks. We do recommend using the type of nocks that the manufacturer of the crossbow recommends. In the case of Kodabow crossbows, use only flat nocks. Nothing to do with arrow spine and everything to do with how our bowstring travels downwards to the rail as it released from the string catch in the trigger. Other manufacturers have triggers that release the bowstring in an upwards direction away from the rail which mandates a half moon or capture nock. As far vanes steering an arrow or not, naval experience tells us a rudder steers the boat. In theory, boats would go straight in a perfect world but a rudder is darn helpful for steering. Shooting a bare shaft with a field point could yield perfect flight to the bullseye. Place a a broadhead on that same bare shaft and it might possibly miss the target all together...adding vanes counteracts many forces and the arrow will fly straight.
always best to use what the manufacturer says to use but typically, there is no hazard going to a longer arrow of the same design EXCEPT THAT a hunter needs to be mindful if the broadhead extends past the stirrup and is exposed. Good luck hunting!!!
I'm getting ready to buy my first crossbow and I was wondering does it matter the type of crossbow for the type of nock? Or can I use both flat and v-cut nocks on the same crossbow?
this is a great video, very informative. i have a question that i hope you can answer . i bought a crossbow that i had to partially assemble and the instructions on the box weren,t too clear. when i attached the bow to the stock i didn't know if the two square pieces of rubber both go behind the bow or does one piece of rubber go behind the bow and the other in front of the bow where the screw holds the bow to the stock. thank you.
my crossbow came with 16 inch arrows, 150lb, can I use 20 inch arrows?
rick turner No lol... that's a weak fucking crossbow that's why it came with such small bolts.
Thank you for your time to do this video. Is there a "magic" number for FOC. % wise. I calculated my FOC on my current set up and am at 13.5 % if I did my math correct (B/L-.5 *100) Again thank you for your time.
Kroogg Good. So the balance point is slightly forward of midpoint and always calculate with the hunting point installed. There is not a hard rule in our view. 10% would be the minimum. Slightly less in a vertical bow can work. We like around 16%-18% but as with all these types of things, the best guidance is to shoot the arrow configuration and see how the results work out.
@@Kodabow I'm a bow archer new to crossbows & wondered why feathers aren't used on crossbow bolts? The low FOC bolt you had could be given a better FOC if the plastic vanes were replaced with feathers as feathers are c1/7th the weight of plastic vanes, give rather than deform or deflect the arrow & impart spin even without helical fletching as every feather is a natural aerofoil.
@@2bingtim We shoot traditional bows with feathers ourselves at Kodabow. I think you see plastic vanes so often on crossbows because of their durability and price ---- they are much cheaper than feathers ....7 cents vs. 35 cents and tend to hold up better at higher fps ...my trad bow shoots 180 fps ...my crossbow shoots 340 fps....having said that, I have fletched crossbow arrows with feathers --- (they work great till it rains!)
@@ArcherySkillCenter Hi, thanks for the reply. I avoid shooting anything in the rain! So wet feathers haven't yet been an issue I've encountered over the years. They are nowdays quite expensive but I've kept my eyes out for occasional bargins & kept costs down thus. Having been more interested in medieval crossbows previously I'd assumed modern crossbows usually had only 2 fletches, which could mean some instability when the vanes got damaged, but only recently learnt that modern rifle crossbows are 3-fletched & the rails have a deep groove so the 3rd f/index vane fits down it, so a damaged vane wouldn't probably have such a potentially wild effect.
I would think a string could slip off a flat nock way easier than a half moon. I'm new to crossbows but that's the way I would see it.
can i use flat nocks in every crossbow? i have barnett wildcat c5
Thanks for all the info.
Do you think having a 3 head or 4 head Brodhead cuts better then the other
Thank you
Quite welcome!
FOC is a advertising deal,wasnt no such thing back in the day use heavier broad heads,best is the single bevel broadhead
just use a heavier broad heads..or use fiberglass bolts there heavier but have good penetration
like bad in the day with traditional recurve or longbow fiberglass arrows,no complaints
Great video, Thank you. Im new to the crossbow segment of weaponry, and in the market. I am not a hunter, and am looking for a bow to target with very often. Looking for something under 300 if you by chance have any recommends. This video was extremly helpful on arrows btw, and I learned alot. Thank you!
and what about the correct FOC ?
i just started hunting with a crossbow and i was wondering what is the standard length of an arrow .
+Mike Liberty
Don't.
Get bolts instead because
Crossbow=/=arrow
Crossbow=Bolt
Bows=Arrow
Bows=/=Bolts.
20in so 'Gavin Kazimierski' says. 20inch BOLT
Great video! Do you have a recommendation for broadhead/bolt combo for a bow that shoots 385fps and uses a half moon nock?
As a bow increases in weight and speed, many think a heavier arrow is better suited for the task....the heavier arrow moves more slowly but it can also be stiffer and for hunting larger animals, it can be desirable. We are building some 600 gr arrows for a customer who just likes heavier arrows vs. our standard 410 grain arrows. We do this by adding additional brass and a carbon sleeve at the arrow front which helps FOC . Forward of Center Percentage....having said that, we have still had great success with our standard weight arrows. Flat and Half Moon nocks can be changed out easily. You might also look at Gold Tip Laser IV arrows which are stiffer and heavier out of the box.
Kodabow do you guys add the half moon nocks when I order?
Kodabow can I use slightly heavier 22 bolts than my recommended total 380grain headhunter arrows.
I have a whitetail hunter STR and it came with head hunters, but they are so expensive to keep purchasing. I found cheaper 22 bolts on eBay & and they are of the same inch, but the total weight is 465 grains with a 125 grain field point. When my manual states I should use a 280 grain bolt with a 100 grain arrowhead. Would it be Ok if I use the cheaper ones in my crossbow eventhough they are slightly heavier?
Or could damage be caused by it
Lol. I use 16" bolts with plastic half-moon nocks and 165gn fixed tips from a 225lb recurve. The plastic is better to maintain low mass/good FOC balance. You always want to fire the lowest mass/highest velocity rated.
Different schools of thought .... we believe metal is better than plastic and prefer a trigger design that allows for flat nocks so we don't worry about arrow orientation on the rail. If you are screwing 165 gn into an aluminum insert, our 100 gn heads plus brass are heavier providing higher FOC.... thanks for the comments.
Kodabow
Good video. Didn't know there was such a thing as string wax. Guess, I need to pick this up soon.
Gotta question. I'm somewhat new to using crossbows, but I just had to replace my string cause it "snapped and broke. Now I'm having problems cocking it. I can use a screwdriver which doesn't have any play in it to simulate cocking it, but I can't seem to get it to do it with the new string I just put on. I've watched other videos and think I am doing it correct, but so far no success. Appreciate any ideas. I thought maybe there is something causing it to stick and not allowing it to cock easier as it appears. Thanks!
If the trigger group is functioning correctly when you test it but does not operate correctly when cocking the bow, ensure you aren't doing something unusual when cocking the bow....such as lifting the bowstring off the bow as you use the cocking rope. Always best to talk to the manufacturer and exercise extreme caution with a crossbow trigger that gives any indication that it might not be 100%.
Also...odd that your bowstring snapped and broke. This can be caught earlier by inspecting the string and the cause of the failure should be determined.
@@Kodabow I'm wondering if there might be something "sticky" that is preventing it from working correctly within the "mechanism". Don't know what it would be like to open it up or if I am going to be opening pandora's box?
Pandora's Box. The forces on the trigger group are significant so nothing "sticky" should stop movement. Ensure you understand the Anti-Dry Fire system.on your brand of bow to eliminate the possibility that the ADF is contributory.
Is there one that uses a 12 ga shotgun shell?
Are heads universal? Or do crossbow bolts require special crossbow heads?
thanks a lot Sr for your video really good
Thank you ...good shooting.
Good content. Interesting that you assume that bad ethics or illegal hunting activity came into play. Enough to write it in yellow. (4:53 and 5:19) Hard to say or even assume if you were not present or have no real evidence stating otherwise. Its obvious the shooter was on the ground when the shot was made. Not illegal or unethical to hunt from the ground. Thats about all you have. Otherwise good content.
can I use slightly heavier 22 bolts than my recommended total 380grain headhunter arrows.
I have a whitetail hunter STR and it came with head hunters, but they are so expensive to keep purchasing. I found cheaper 22 bolts on eBay & and they are of the same inch, but the total weight is 465 grains with a 125 grain field point. When my manual states I should use a 280 grain bolt with a 100 grain arrowhead. Would it be Ok if I use the cheaper ones in my crossbow eventhough they are slightly heavier?
Or could damage be caused by it
Do the fixed blade broadheads need to be 3 blade heads or can you use 2 blade single bevel or 4 blade broadheads?
Any of the above....will work. Some think that 2 bladed broadheads have better penetration and will do better on bone impacts. For example...Cape Buffalo.... definitely a 2 blade. For thin skinned game and a good blood trail, 2, 3 or 4 blade. That is one way of looking at it.
Swackers are the most reliable mechanical broadheads
Thanks very informative
ok, but about bolt materials, wich one is the better, aluminium or carbon fiber? and i mean for hunt, because people who don't hunt says carbon, but just because aluminium bents
I like carbon fiber because it is generally lighter than aluminium which makes it easier to achieve a high FOC % arrow with a heavy hunting head.
And are aluminum arrows the best to use ?.
+Mike Liberty
no, Bolts are best to use.
carbon
Can you help me my recruit wont come off of safety after it is cocked it just started this how can I fix this thank you for your time
don't know if this applies to your recruit; but, my crossbow won't turn off safety unless bolt is loaded... In order to prevent dry fire. Feels sketchy; but, I load blunt bolt, turn off safety, remove bolt, apply pressure to string using cocking rope, pull trigger
Lot's of people saying stay with the stock Barnett Easton Headhunter's for my new Ghost 350???Any thought's with these for deer??There 20 inch arrows.I tried some Carbon express Maxima's weight forward.!!There flagship arrows real pricey!!They shot 4inches low,but im sighted in with the head Hunters.I was going to stick with the arrow they recommend.My dad said sight it in with the Carbon express???on utube a said the Headhunters held the best groups with the ghost 400.Even at 100yardsLOL!Help
Is a TAC15 right there behind you?
Nope.....that's a Kodabow! Just looks pretty tactical!
Thanks champ
ok, I put a 20" arrow in my crossbow. you must know it is a bolt. so what?
you can buy reasonable crossbows for 150 -200 dollars
FOC stands for what?
"Front of Center" the arrow has more weight in the front half of the arrow than the back half of the arrow. Think of a badminton shuttlecock. The shuttlecock always goes over the net with the ping-pong-ball end going forward over the net and the feathers trailing. No matter how hard you hit it, or what spin or "English" you put on it with the racket, it crosses the net with the ping-pong ball in front. That is how you want your arrow to fly, with the front end leading the arrow and the feathers trailing. Check out the TH-cam videos featuring Dr. Ed Ashby. He is a great fan of high and Ultra high FOC.
Good video though god bless
hi. wild man.
Bolts not arrows
That face shot pisses me off
It is not an arrow or a bolt it is a quarrel. Anyone who thinks differently is wrong and should be beaten
A quarrel had a point that was forged square or four-sided, and pointed in order to better penetrate metal armor. The square point had four sides and thus the "quar--" derivative (or 4) part of the word. The quarrels had short and thick shafts with no vanes.
If a hungry person kills a wild animal {or catches a fish} for food ... I would absolutely "not" report this. Gathering food from wilderness was ordained by God in a book called Genesis.... "Ye shall take the fowl from the air and they shall be thy meat...." Later on, God [a.k.a. Jehovah] added more animals to the divinely approved foods list. God made the animals , The animals belong to God... He authorized us to take and eat them and I see no scriptural mention of when and how to take them. This implies that all people are allowed by God to take fowl [and later other wild beasts] , by any means and whenever you [or we] need them for food. This "may be a shock" to some people who have not "studied" the book of Genesis. This Scriptural law " ...take the fowl... " was given by "The Highest Authority" long before men [or people] even had a concept of "nations", or national boundries .... and certainly before we conceived of game rules, game wardens and such like.... God's law on this predates the laws of man by thousands of years. Your choices "are your own"... I will not be reporting any hungry person for taking God's wild creatures "for food" even if rules of man may forbid the time and way that "wild game" was taken. Livestock "owned by a person" is a completely separate matter.
J Martin "From Kodabow" - one of the good people we came across was a man who repeatedly said he was hunting FOR his daughter. We asked him to explain. He said his daughter had autism and her doctor said wild game (chemical free) would be helpful for her. He came to us to buy a Kodabow and for help to learn to hunt because he was not a hunter. While we always consume the game we kill for food, this man's intentions and objectives were uniquely pure. Just another perspective on hunting that we thought you would appreciate."
They are called crossbow bolts not arrows 😂
Do more historical research on what a crossbow bolt is....nothing like today's carbon fiber arrows used in crossbows. Just saying!
@@Kodabow you mean carbon fiber bolts arrows are thinner longer.!
What the Experts Think:
“If it’s under 16 inches, it’s a bolt,” says Phillip Bednar, director of marketing for TenPoint Crossbows. “Sixteen inches or more is considered an arrow. We shoot 20- and 22-inch arrows.”
“Technically, either term is correct,” says Sam Coalson, Director of Marketing for Bowtech Archery. “Most people still call them bolts, but more and more crossbow enthusiasts seem to be calling them arrows.”
Hell with all this crap ,use what works for you and go get the blood pumping!!!!
LMAO... **Bolts, Crossbows don't use arrows, they use BOLTS.
+Pika Pikka People who don't want crossbows in the woods during archery season want you do call them "bolts". They are arrows just like arrows shot by vertical bows. You don't realize, but a lot of people who call the crossbow's projectiles "arrows" full-well know that they are also referred to as "bolts". It's a political thing. Do a little research on it (I mean no offense by that).
I prefer to call them arrows, because that is what they are, but also due to politics. A lot of people who hate crossbows, such as that Mike Misch fella, want you to refer to their arrows as "bolts" and they want you to call the weapon itself a "crossgun". This is because they want to fully separate the weapon from archery hunting seasons and they are actually successful in this endeavor in some states in the north east and out west. It's like pullin' teeth in NY to be able to hunt with a crossbow.
SO.. long story short. Please stop calling them "bolts" unless you dislike crossbows. [=
+Tenshi B Thanks for the insights. As a newbie, I find it handy that they have different names because it makes the online ordering process more straight-forward since you can't use bow arrows in a crossbow.
+Tenshi B At Kodabow, we never fully appreciated the political arguments that you raised regarding calling the projectiles "bolts" vs. "arrows". Thank you for enlightening us.. Technically speaking, the projectiles used on MODERN CROSSBOWS are arrows so that is the term we use. (see additional comments we have posted) Additionally, we will leave archery seasons and approved hunting tools to the various states---- still a democracy in the US so we fully accept what the outdoor sports folks do through the various state game commissions and agencies -- it is important for our hunting community to remain united and deal with facts -- hunting participation is an issue and getting more folks involved is a good thing versus turning on one another.
We have always avoided looking negatively towards one hunting group vs another. ...so when it came time for us to head to Colorado last year to hunt Elk, fine --- we left our crossbows and compound bows behind and took our traditional recurve bow equipment. When we headed out in PA last year, we used everything from flintlocks and crossbows to modern firearms. We don't dislike anything ....but find it amusing that many of the most vocal opponents of crossbows use very modern vertical bow technology with fiber optic sights etc. that approximate crossbow capabilities. Our home state of Pennsylvania still has a flintlock season when modern muzzeloaders can't be used. That is fine! We absolutely enjoy traditional archery equipment. That's one of our choices as hunters. None of these elements have diminished our enthusiasm for the opportunities that exist to hunt --- and if you dislike a particular tool, we support the freedom for you to to use whatever is legally approved....and if you personally don't like what is legally approved, make your voice heard with logical viewpoints.
A bolt is still a arrow any way you look at it !!!
Someday when you mature and want to be a REAL bowhunter you might consider getting a real bow.
Hey Mike, I've been bowhunting, starting with a Bear 76'er when I was 14, my elbows and shoulders are now ruined from years of hard work,. I can't shoot my longbow, or even my Hoyt ProTech, am I not mature enough for you because I need a crossbow to participate in bow season? Your tolerance for other archery enthusiasts is very refreshing, grow up.
Mike Misch Mike --- you are welcome to visit Kodabow if you ever have the opportunity in West Chester PA. Shoot with us on our indoor range and we will both shoot traditional bows - no sights! Winner gets a free lunch (from the Loser) and can then be referred to as a REAL bowhunter! * Warning/Disclaimer - Kodabow teaches traditional archery every weekend at our facility.
Guys, or "children" which ever you prefer, an instrument of death is just as such. Doesn't really matter what it is as long as it gets the kill shot, yes.
Use your brains and stop fighting over stupid shit. Rifle, pistol. bow, compound, crossbow, spear, slingshot, knives - all weapons suitable.
Too much conversation over "I use a REAL mans weapons and yours sucks, blah blah BLAH ..! or "my pepe is bigger than yours is" You know how dumb that shit sounds.
Everyone should get together and just be thankful that people are hunting and turn your effort away from each other and towards the real enemy: PETA, and big government.
They are the ones wanting to limit your weapon choices and the ability to hunt Grow up guys ..! -xBURNx
xBURNxFOREVERx
AMEN! I laugh when I see grown men acting like grade school girls while pretending to be "real men" and great big hunters LOL! The old "my wiener is bigger than yours" syndrome!
+Mike Misch And someday maybe you'll just mature. Probably not though by the look of it.
Crossbow "arrow"?!?! They are called "bolts", "crossbow bolts". Get it it right please :)
+Taylor Canty Actually --- "bolts" are a bit different historically speaking. Bolts are generally defined as shorter metal "arrow-like" projectiles used for piercing armor where today's modern crossbows use projectiles that are arrows in all aspects. The standardized diameter is 11/32" inch and they use the same vanes, inserts and points that we use on our modern compound bows, traditional recurves and longbows. So --- calling your modern crossbow projectile an arrow is absolutely correct.
Taylor Canty Bullet=ammo,cap, cartridge, projectile, round, shot. Any questions smart ass?
if it has vanes or feathers, it is an "arrow", if it does not have vanes or feathers it is a "bolt."
Crossbow "arrow"?!?! They are called "bolts", "crossbow bolts". Get it it right please :)
Taylor Canty who cares...we know what he means...technicalities dont matter in this video.
Barnett’s crossbow manuals refer to them as arrows so there’s that
Crossbow bolts do not have vanes (feathers) on the back end of the shaft, while crossbow arrows do have vanes or feathers.
No need to Quarrel....
Ahem.
The guy is trying to help people out take a chill pill relax quit drinking so much coffee .