One other very important safety tip is to roll your bolts, every time along a smooth, flat surface and watching for a "belly" or bend. Loading bent bolts could very well lead to a wild shot, or worse, the bolt flies off the rail before passing your stir-up. Please be careful bow enthusiasts and safe shooting.
The 🔺️ of danger is never to be underestimated on crossbows. The string snaps forward with enough force to sever just about anything placed in its path.
Yeah ppl don't realise but even a pistol one if your finger end is in the way of that string your finger end is getting degloved and Probs shot off even with the lower power ones but say a rifle 150lb and your putting fingers anywere but the trigger and the hand rail there so underestimated even the Small ones are not toys and UK Law say u can't go buy a gun but u can get any bow or Xbow and asking as over 18 u can own it and personally I think the crossbow is way more dangerous if given the choice between a decent size bullet like a 7.62 or a broadhead bolt from a just as powerfull bow I'll take the bullet any day haha I'm sure most will agree
@@jasmine66666666 I disagree, Id rather get hit with the object that is not transfering over 1,000 foot pounds of energy into my body. Atleast if a broadhead misses a vital the wound can be plugged and you can begin bleeding control. A shot with either to vitals is not ideal, and Id choose the 7.62 because Id die faster than bleeding out. Bleeding out can take a long time. What gets me is the UK can have bows and crossbows but you arent allowed to use them for hunting if I remember right.
@@yobrodontshoot1130 "Because i'd die faster than bleeding out, bleeding out can take a long time." Wich... is a very good thing, you can get help in the very long time and not die.
@@alanwatts8239 Yeah, except if you read what I wrote, you still wouldn’t make it. A shot to the vitals with a broad head will more than likely have you bleed out in 5 minutes or less. Sorry, but no amount of wound packing and pressure on the wound will stop your heart from bleeding, and no amount of surgical intervention will save you. Most arrows with a broad head at hunting rated poundage will punch clean through a human being.
Glad I could help. You might like my whole x-bow playlist too, LINK - th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Thanks for watching, KPO.
Thanks for making this video. Ive been shooting guns and rifles for years and now getting into crossbows. I would've never thought about NOT putting my hand there when loading a bolt
From Illinois picked up a Barnett XP 400. I’m So excited and while some knuckle heads may think this is common knowledge or can just be read in the manual.. sometimes hearing it makes it click because being complacent can get you hurt.
Thanks for the advice. I am a rifle/shotgun hunter. considering buying my 1st xbow. I hadn't even thought of that triangle danger area. The advice provided in this video, you possibly saved me from some potentially severe injuries!
Head over to a sportsman store. They will help you get started. Cabelas is great! They have a range where you can try it out. I tested 2 one i liked the other one was not right for me. I got killer instinc boss 405 upgrading soon
Great video sir, very important information. Got my Barnett recurve 2 years ago. It's lethal, 2 last year just learning and getting the right broadheads finally, 2 already this year. One of my 1st time shots in the stand, got so nervous I didn't pay attention to how I was holding it and caught edge of my hand, threw off the shot and hurt like heck. I was lucky, could have been much worse. I'm very careful now at all times with it.
Thank you for making this video I've used a crossbow for years and you made a very good point I've been loading my crossbow the wrong way all this time thank you very much for all you do
Thanks for the great video! Also something that people need to remember is that when it fires that string will come forward of that triangle so we need to keep our fingers out in front of the limbs too. Thanks again!
Any time something is under tension, do not put anything you want to keep between the point of tension and the point of lowest energy. Always think about what will happen if something mechanical and important fails RIGHT NOW.
Yesterday after pulling back the string I slung the cocking rope over my shoulders so each of the handles were resting on my chest. Before I fired the crossbow, somehow one of the handles went inside the triangle and as I shot, the string pulled the cocking string handle and the cocking rope whipped around my head slashing the whole side of my cheek. Now I have a 1st or 2nd degree friction burn on my face, hopefully it doesn’t leave a scar. Don’t wear the cocking rope over your shoulders boys n girls.
I like those wings on the TenPoint stock making it nearly impossible to wrap your fingers up onto the deck to get hit by the string. I can’t imagine the damage you would get with the super fast crossbows.
Thank you...I’m new at this and needed that. I have a friend who had to have surgery from holding it with his fingers too high. It was before the wide lip or the hand hold below the rail. It was only the small narrow rail which inadvertently you’d put your fingers in harms way. It now has a handle attached to it that swings down that is one used on rails on AR rifles. It folds out of the way.
Well when I was a boy the old men told me never put you finger where you wouldn't put your pecker and that advice has kept me from losing a finger the past 50 + year's
Things have changed in the few years since this video, most crossbows now (2023) you need to have the crossbow safety in the fire position to pull the string back. Be sure to fully read your manuals people or even better yet take it to an archery shop and have them walk you through the correct cocking procedure for your particular crossbow.
I have a Ten Point CB that is 12 years old and you need to have the safety in the on position and when you cock the CB correctly the saftey switches from on to the off position.
I was helping renovate an old home. we had insulation to staple in the top of the second floor in one area. we had no floor on second floor in that area, so 12 ft ceilings to the top of 2nd floor was pretty high up on scaffolding. with a couple boards to stand on always looking above our heads and stapling. (I.m coming to the point!). Old timer (Carpenter) said to me, "Derek, you know the key to working above your head high on scaffolding?" Tell me, "Always know where your feet are." Very good video, thank you. I will always know where my hands are is what I learned today!
Been loading my bolts wrong for years. Thanks for the advice as I’m definitely loading them as you show on this video. My Pastor nearly lost his thumb last year by placing it in the path of the string when he shot. Thank God it was saved by his Dr.
I didn't realize my cocking rope still had a hook on the string. The cocking-rope handle bloodied my chin. Had bruises and rope burns on my hands. Thanks to everyone for sharing your stories. I feel so stupid! It makes me feel better that other people make mistakes, too.
Its worthwhile mentioning its very important to not have any object or body part in the area surrounding where the crossbow limbs will swing out to. Also inspect the Bolts, Limbs and Strings for damage/wear/etc before every shot of a crossbow since the kinetic energy is much higher than a bow, the chances of catastrophic failure to each of those parts is also higher.
Awesome video. I have a PSE Fang they did a good job making the bow safe. It’s almost impossible to shoot it accidentally I do wish they had made it easer to uncork but once you learn how it pretty simple with a pull string. Mine has a hand protecter that keeps you fingers under the rail too.
Thanks for this. I'm looking at buying a crossbow soon, I probably wouldn't have known that point about loading it unless I learned from bad experience.
I started with compound and switched about 12 years ago. I love crossbows. If you want, check out my entire crossbow playlist - th-cam.com/video/kv6ZxCokC08/w-d-xo.html Let me know how it goes this fall.
I have a crossbow and have shot it a few times. I knew well enough to keep my fingers out of the way of the strings and the arrow. It's a good thing that you have made this video to warn people of the dangers when somebody uses a crossbow. I hunted with mine only one time. I am going to hunt with it sometime this year yet.
My incident yesterday brought me here. I got my thumb above the rail and paid the price. I’m experienced with the xbow, know the dangers, but decided to switch my grip for some unknown reason. Fired, The blood splatter was instantaneous. Pain as well. Fortunately it caught my thumb nail so I haven’t lost any part of my body. I’m going to lose my thumb nail. Hopefully enough of the blood vessels in my thumb weren’t crushed to the extent where circulation issues and possible gangrene could set in and medical amputation necessary. I feel stupid and blessed at the same time. My accident led me to this video and I wished I had been looking for this information 2 days ago. Sir, your video will save fingers and possibly lives. It’s accurate , real life, and timely with archery seasons current. If you have a xbow or considering buying one, don’t let this stop you. They are great and I’ve killed deer, bobcats, coyotes with it. Like anything, from the kitchen fork to the automobile there is a right way and a wrong way to use it. The crossbow is powerful and accurate. Be careful!!!! Well done.
Thanks for sharing. I'm always surprised at how many comments think this video is stupid and isn't worth mentioning. Hope you are feeling better soon, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors in a few years they will be missing a thumb and they will look to see if everybody is as stupid as they were and will find consolation that they weren’t the only ones that are missing thumbs. In Oklahoma the thumbless are either steer ropers or crossbow hunters. 😉🤷♂️. Loading the bolt is critical info as well. Great video!!
I was cocking mine yesterday and the pieces that attach to the string got stuck when fully back but didn't engage the trigger fully. Pushed them out with my fingers and it went off. 3 stitches in one finger and mashed 2 fingers on the other hand. Worst pain ever, but could have beenuch worse. Getting a crank mechanism now for it.
@@ronniephipps7526 Sorry that happened. i managed to keep my thumb. The nail grows out kind of funky snd i still have some slight loss of feeling in that thumb. Im looking for a ladder safety video next. belly flopped from 10 feet up as the legs slid out from under me about 6 weeks ago. nothing broken but still walking funny. Dear God,I could get hurt watching TV. 😂🤷♂️
Good pointers man! In new to crossbows and a bot nervous about them and and my brother who also just got 1. This is great info I hope everyone that watches it pays attention and learns something! Thanks
My friend, check out my crossbow playlist. LINK - th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Lots of good info here. Thanks for the feedback, KPO.
I know two people who lost tops of their thumbs with their crossbow. 🥺 The models from just a few years ago had poor hand guards. I upgraded to a newer model last year that has a much better hand hold safety guard. I still check hand position before shooting. Great tip on arrow loading too!
I run table saws and other woodworking equipment; safety is paramount. Don't shoot your crossbow when you're tired or don't feel well. If I do I take a day off.
Creat video thanks for the tips did nor know adout loading the arrow just got mine and son 150&175 pounds age not used them yet looking to brillent big thanks
For the most part it's common sense, To keep your figures down... How does it go off while loading ???? 🤔 my crossbow and every one I've researched has anti dry fire... I don't believe that.. I can't even turn safety off if bolt isn't set in proper.. I would never suggest encouraging people to grab the arrow up by the broadhead either..
I do personally have a friend that had his go off while loading. He thought for a moment it took his fingers off. Yes, most xbows have an anti dry fire mechanism, but at some point during the loading you do satisfy the anti dry fire while your hand could still be in the way. Also, safeties and anti dry fire mechanisms are all things that can fail. I don't put my hand (or any body part) in front of the barrel of a loaded gun even if the safety is on. As far as grabbing the bolt up BY the broadhead, I don't think that's a real risky thing to do. I did stress in the video to grab behind the field tip and not over the field tip. The same applies to broadheads. Grabbing near the broadhead also gives more control of the sharp end of the bolt. As I have hear of shooters accidentally cutting the string with the broadhead while loading. I guess if you're concerned that you might accidentally grab the broadhead, you could wear a leather glove. Now, maybe for some, hand placement while shooting is common sense, but not for all. Just read some of the other comments on this video. Some shooters are new to crossbows or new to bows in general. You may believe all shooters should just know this, but it's just not the case. Every season shooters clip their fingers. So, sometimes one man's common sense is another man's learning experience. My hope with this video was to save some xbow shooters a hard lesson. Thanks for the interest, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors there's no room for those errors though. "One man's common sense is another man's learning experience". Firearms are not the place for "learning experiences". Fact is, many, many people simply have no business around dangerous weapons. Many are incapable of learning. And cutting their string with their broadhead?? That's being absolutely careless and stupid. What on earth might they do with a firearm?
@@zzz7zzz9 Well, ideally the learning experience would come from a knowledgeable mentor, not from shooting yourself. I was only acknowledging that accidents do happen even if we think they shouldn't. If a person doesn't have a mentor in their life for a particular activity maybe a video could help them out. That's the message of this video, to help lower the amount of crossbow accidents from happening. I don't understand why making a video about crossbow hand placement safety would be viewed as a negative thing. I agree that some people have no business being around dangerous weapons, but I also believe that many people can be taught safety and go on to be safe responsible users of bows and guns. I don't get to choose who can use a crossbow, but maybe I can help them use it safer. I do appreciate the feedback. Thanks KPO.
Got my new crossbow Friday and watched your video before shooting it Saturday. I was very aware of hand placement, the first time I cocked it with the string I didn't have it in fire and pulled up not realizing it. The hooks on the string got wedged under the scope mount, I thought it was locked in. I carefully tried to free the clip and rookie mistake it released on both my hands! Painful lesson to learn, bloodied fingers and both my hands are bruised. Be careful and know what you are doing before you do it! I forced myself to go right back out, hands bleeding and shaking and shoot it properly. No issues since then!!
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors it wasn't the best start to the day but I guarantee I'll never make that mistake again! After reading some of the other comments I was definitely lucky!
I just got a Bear Legion 370 and i really appreciate videos like this. Im a guitarist and i NEED those fingers! Ive only had pistol style crossbows until now so im taking this all VERY seriously. Im reading up and watching lots of demonstration videos before i even fire it. Biggest one i had before this is my 80lb draw mini crossbow, it was made for the small bolts but it actually can fire the full size bolts. Despite lots of experience with that, i know its not even close to the same thing. Great video
Had all kinds of crossbows over the years and so far been blessed not catching my fingers in the stuff. More dangerous one for that in my opinion is the pistol version crossbows... really easy to accidentally do that on the smaller crossbows... bigger versions I never have issues but smaller bows... t'm sure an 80 pound mini pistol bow can take a finger for a good ER visit if not careful... if you ever get a chance review one of those... for safety. This is a good video and thank you.
Yes, I did a video on the Ballista Bat Reverse crossbow pistol. amzn.to/3PJhRe6 It has a pistol grip on the front forearm so that helps. But yes, safety first all the time.
Great video just got a crossbow for Christmas and learning about the safety first before I even unbox it and then I will rip into it thanks again for the great safety tips
Something should be mentioned... I made a mistake. When early moring I needed to use another arrow to unload later. So I swooped out my field tip with a broadhead arrow. Well when I went to unload that evening . I didnt realize. That my nock wasnt inline properly with the string. Even though I had the odd vane down So I basically dry fired it . Blew apart the string. Warped both cams at the part that holds the cable and broke the end of the arrow retainer. So lessons learned. Take your time . Look over everything after u load the bow ..everyone be safe out there . Good luck
Knetters Practical Outdoors great advice! Question? how is your Parker holding up? we have two thunderhawks, and we broke the strings on them both last season, and with parker out if business, no parts.
Just like with a revolver, you never want your hands anywhere near the area between the forcing cone and charge holes. I've saw an example by a range instructor where he wrapped a paper target around the cylinder and it was shredded upon being fired.
Great video and thanks for reviewing crossbow safety! I nearly lost my left thumb with my BARNETT JACKAL, three years ago, and I do an annual crossbow safety video. I was lucky a nice surgeon from Yale New Haven Hospital was able to stitch the tip of my thumb back on!
I made the mistake of having my thumb above the path of my crossbow string while target shooting, the result was a nice slice of meat hanging from my thumb and a few stitches, never made that mistake again. Forgot to remove my bolt when decocking the crossbow, nearly drove the bolt into my big toe, minor cuts that time and a shoe with a hole in it.....made for some cool looking pictures. Long story short, I am extremely careful with my crossbow now and haven't been injured again.
Great info, just as with a revolver and the flash from the front of the cylinder, keep the fingers away. Better told than felt to learn! God bless Happy thanks Giving!
I can say from experience that a crossbow the factory hand gaurd on the Killer Instinct crossbows will allow you to put your fingers in harms way if your not careful. I switched my front handle out for a rail mounted vertical grip on the front. Now there is no way I can have my non - trigger hand in danger if I properly have a hold of the crossbow while shooting it.
Good tips and very good video on saving your fingers and how not put finger in the triangle spot also I learn to load arrow by tip are right before the blades..you can never be to careful....thanks BJ Beagles
I shoot from a rest in my tree stand, and I always put my hand between the bow and the rest just like I normally would when I am shooting so i don't have to worry about my fingers. It also keeps everything quiet having a hand and glove under the bow.
I appreciate the advice. One thing though…. I was worried about the lady outside…..that hair “blowing in the wind” made me worried about it getting into the action area!
Watch out for the cable that crisscrosses and follows the limbs running thru the center of the rail too. Newer crossbows have a guard towards the top of the rail to help keep fingers out of the way, but nothing is completely foolproof.
The only time I got bit by a crossbow was loading it as shown and the trigger failed letting the string fly forward. Got cut by the flecthings, you'd be surprised how well they cut.
Yes bad things could sill happen from the vanes, but the damage would likely be less than getting clipped by the vanes and the string at the same time. But to be extra safe, you could load with a glove or pliers or something. Also, I understand that fast moving plastic vanes could easily cut your fingers. But the reality is no one is making broadhead blades out of the same material as soft plastic vanes for hunting, right? The results wouldn't be the same.
Here's a weird one that happened to me a few weeks ago... I had just gotten my xbow back from restringing at Cabelas. I needed to sight it back in. The very first time that I used the rope cocker, I pulled it up and heard the familiar click. Then, just as I started to ease off the rope cocker, the xbow fired! The rope cocker flew about 30 ft up and came down 20 yards away. Thankfully neither the xbow or cocker was damaged but I almost had to change my drawers. Make sure you give the rope cocker an extra upward tug when you think its all the way home!
That is scary. I would probably turn white as a ghost if it happened to me. A lot of people don’t realize the amount of tension and pure power that is stored when the string is cocked back. I get nervous every time I load a bolt lol
Excellent video. I'm new to this and researching all safety/danger aspects. I haven't purchased a crossbow yep. Still researching for a good but budget of 300. to 400..
Mike, you might be interested in my crossbow playlist -th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Plenty of safety stuff and also a few videos on a $200 crossbow I bought last year. Check it out and thanks for the comment, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors Thank you. I'm getting into this at a later age. Your video's are the best I've found. I respect your skills and you are a family man. I have a friend who is guiding me on this path. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Dave you got yourself another Michigander sub now. Way to teach and way to preach it (joy). Grand Rapids area here, and the best time of the year ....... Fish On...... hamburger!!
When loading Bolt/arrow if nock is not engaged with string and bow fires=same as dry fire and bolt/arrow can splinter and hand will be injured even if hand is in front of riser.Always make certain safety is on and functions correctly...
Very good advice. I was holding my breath when the young lady with long hair was demonstrating the shot. If the strong wind changed directions at the time of shot??? There are many things that can go wrong. Please wear a hair band. I make mistakes also. Put a nice dent in side of van with crossbow limb pulley when I was practicing too close to it.
most are a soft plastic that wouldn't harm your finger, at worst it would leave a minor cut on one of your fingers and id take that over loosing my thumb or any other finger anyway of the week
You may be confusing fletchings with broadheads. The broadheads are sharp and would cut you but they are mounted on the front end of the arrow or bolt. Fletchings are soft, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors nono, sure i know the parts. I guess I was thinking of times when I was a kid with a bow and arrow and the fletchings would make a cut between the thumb and forefinger upon firing. In your case I was thinking of an accidental firing in which the fletchings would also cut anything in their path. When i was a kid, I dont remember the fletchings as being soft, they were pretty much rigid plastic. I have never fired a crossbow and havent had a bow and arrow in my hands for maybe 60 years.
1:59 not sure how people manage that, probably not paying attention. Maybe its just because i work on machines but keeping body parts out of the mechanism seems to be pretty obvious.
I've seen a few pictures of peoples fingers after being hit by that string and to say the least, it will peel the skin and meat off in a hurry. I dont currently own a cross bow but I've been thinking about one and this is a good video to watch.
You are welcome. If interested I have a whole playlist on crossbows, LINK - th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Thanks for watching, KPO.
To purchase CROSSBOW LUBE, COCKING ROPE, ARROWS, TARGETS - amzn.to/4aowxau
One other very important safety tip is to roll your bolts, every time along a smooth, flat surface and watching for a "belly" or bend. Loading bent bolts could very well lead to a wild shot, or worse, the bolt flies off the rail before passing your stir-up. Please be careful bow enthusiasts and safe shooting.
Great point, thanks, KPO.
Thank you 🙏🏽
It would be a descent video by itself," how to retrieve your practice bolts"
Same way us percussionists checked for warps in sticks, works great 👍
I very much appreciated this, ty for mentioning 🙏
The 🔺️ of danger is never to be underestimated on crossbows. The string snaps forward with enough force to sever just about anything placed in its path.
Yes sir! KPO.
Yeah ppl don't realise but even a pistol one if your finger end is in the way of that string your finger end is getting degloved and Probs shot off even with the lower power ones but say a rifle 150lb and your putting fingers anywere but the trigger and the hand rail there so underestimated even the Small ones are not toys and UK Law say u can't go buy a gun but u can get any bow or Xbow and asking as over 18 u can own it and personally I think the crossbow is way more dangerous if given the choice between a decent size bullet like a 7.62 or a broadhead bolt from a just as powerfull bow I'll take the bullet any day haha I'm sure most will agree
@@jasmine66666666 I disagree, Id rather get hit with the object that is not transfering over 1,000 foot pounds of energy into my body. Atleast if a broadhead misses a vital the wound can be plugged and you can begin bleeding control.
A shot with either to vitals is not ideal, and Id choose the 7.62 because Id die faster than bleeding out. Bleeding out can take a long time.
What gets me is the UK can have bows and crossbows but you arent allowed to use them for hunting if I remember right.
@@yobrodontshoot1130 "Because i'd die faster than bleeding out, bleeding out can take a long time."
Wich... is a very good thing, you can get help in the very long time and not die.
@@alanwatts8239 Yeah, except if you read what I wrote, you still wouldn’t make it. A shot to the vitals with a broad head will more than likely have you bleed out in 5 minutes or less.
Sorry, but no amount of wound packing and pressure on the wound will stop your heart from bleeding, and no amount of surgical intervention will save you.
Most arrows with a broad head at hunting rated poundage will punch clean through a human being.
just picked up my first crossbow and i'm glad i watched this, thanks man.
Glad I could help. You might like my whole x-bow playlist too, LINK - th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Thanks for watching, KPO.
Great point, it's common sense but to a new hunter or first time crossbow user, it's important to emphasize.
Thanks for the advice. Just ordered my first crossbow and I will keep this in mind.
And now I know I've been loading my arrows wrong.. thanks for informing me how to be safer when I'm simply just having fun shooting!
Glad to help Nathan, KPO.
Thanks for making this video. Ive been shooting guns and rifles for years and now getting into crossbows. I would've never thought about NOT putting my hand there when loading a bolt
Welcome!
From Illinois picked up a Barnett XP 400. I’m So excited and while some knuckle heads may think this is common knowledge or can just be read in the manual.. sometimes hearing it makes it click because being complacent can get you hurt.
The safer the better
Thanks for the advice. I am a rifle/shotgun hunter. considering buying my 1st xbow. I hadn't even thought of that triangle danger area. The advice provided in this video, you possibly saved me from some potentially severe injuries!
Thanks for the feedback. If you do get a xbow these other vids might help out too th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html
Head over to a sportsman store. They will help you get started. Cabelas is great! They have a range where you can try it out. I tested 2 one i liked the other one was not right for me. I got killer instinc boss 405 upgrading soon
Just bought my first crossbow today a Wildcat C6. Thank you 🙏 so much for those safety tips! Keep up the good work!
Thanks, will do!
Great video sir, very important information. Got my Barnett recurve 2 years ago. It's lethal, 2 last year just learning and getting the right broadheads finally, 2 already this year. One of my 1st time shots in the stand, got so nervous I didn't pay attention to how I was holding it and caught edge of my hand, threw off the shot and hurt like heck. I was lucky, could have been much worse. I'm very careful now at all times with it.
Glad you didn't get it worse. Thanks for adding in, KPO.
Thank you for making this safety video and explaining how to properly load the bolt!
You are welcome Andrew, KPO.
Thank you for making this video I've used a crossbow for years and you made a very good point I've been loading my crossbow the wrong way all this time thank you very much for all you do
Thanks for the great video! Also something that people need to remember is that when it fires that string will come forward of that triangle so we need to keep our fingers out in front of the limbs too. Thanks again!
Great point!
Any time something is under tension, do not put anything you want to keep between the point of tension and the point of lowest energy.
Always think about what will happen if something mechanical and important fails RIGHT NOW.
Great advice.
Yesterday after pulling back the string I slung the cocking rope over my shoulders so each of the handles were resting on my chest. Before I fired the crossbow, somehow one of the handles went inside the triangle and as I shot, the string pulled the cocking string handle and the cocking rope whipped around my head slashing the whole side of my cheek. Now I have a 1st or 2nd degree friction burn on my face, hopefully it doesn’t leave a scar. Don’t wear the cocking rope over your shoulders boys n girls.
Great advice, thanks for adding that in.
I like those wings on the TenPoint stock making it nearly impossible to wrap your fingers up onto the deck to get hit by the string.
I can’t imagine the damage you would get with the super fast crossbows.
It would hurt to say the least.
Thank you...I’m new at this and needed that. I have a friend who had to have surgery from holding it with his fingers too high. It was before the wide lip or the hand hold below the rail. It was only the small narrow rail which inadvertently you’d put your fingers in harms way. It now has a handle attached to it that swings down that is one used on rails on AR rifles. It folds out of the way.
You are welcome, KPO.
Hey I'm a Funk too! Funk ya!🤙 Hope you still have all your fingers. Have fun with that XBow!
Well when I was a boy the old men told me never put you finger where you wouldn't put your pecker and that advice has kept me from losing a finger the past 50 + year's
Yes!
Things have changed in the few years since this video, most crossbows now (2023) you need to have the crossbow safety in the fire position to pull the string back.
Be sure to fully read your manuals people or even better yet take it to an archery shop and have them walk you through the correct cocking procedure for your particular crossbow.
Great advice!
I have a Ten Point CB that is 12 years old and you need to have the safety in the on position and when you cock the CB correctly the saftey switches from on to the off position.
I was helping renovate an old home. we had insulation to staple in the top of the second floor in one area. we had no floor on second floor in that area, so 12 ft ceilings to the top of 2nd floor was pretty high up on scaffolding. with a couple boards to stand on always looking above our heads and stapling. (I.m coming to the point!). Old timer (Carpenter) said to me, "Derek, you know the key to working above your head high on scaffolding?" Tell me,
"Always know where your feet are."
Very good video, thank you. I will always know where my hands are is what I learned today!
Well put! Thanks for the comment.
Came to this video thinking i knew it all but you got me with that bolt placing technique. Thank you.
Glad to help
Been loading my bolts wrong for years. Thanks for the advice as I’m definitely loading them as you show on this video. My Pastor nearly lost his thumb last year by placing it in the path of the string when he shot. Thank God it was saved by his Dr.
Glad your Pastor was able to keep the thumb. Safety first, you just never know.
I like that he has so much pride, even the K is too bold to be silent. Great vid btw
I'm loving that comment Kyle, KPO.
I didn't realize my cocking rope still had a hook on the string. The cocking-rope handle bloodied my chin. Had bruises and rope burns on my hands.
Thanks to everyone for sharing your stories. I feel so stupid! It makes me feel better that other people make mistakes, too.
Yes, why not save the next guy or gal some trouble by sharing, KPO.
i just busted the corner of my eye, yall be careful
I always put my cocking rope in my pocket before I load my arrow.
I literally just did the same thing the handle whipped around and smashed my right hand also have a pretty good burn
Its worthwhile mentioning its very important to not have any object or body part in the area surrounding where the crossbow limbs will swing out to. Also inspect the Bolts, Limbs and Strings for damage/wear/etc before every shot of a crossbow since the kinetic energy is much higher than a bow, the chances of catastrophic failure to each of those parts is also higher.
Yes! I actually filmed some stuff on this subject. May be doing a vid shortly, KPO.
Awesome video. I have a PSE Fang they did a good job making the bow safe. It’s almost impossible to shoot it accidentally I do wish they had made it easer to uncork but once you learn how it pretty simple with a pull string. Mine has a hand protecter that keeps you fingers under the rail too.
Thanks for adding in, KPO.
Excellent safety tutorial... especially, about proper placement...Every time ! Thankyou
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for this. I'm looking at buying a crossbow soon, I probably wouldn't have known that point about loading it unless I learned from bad experience.
Glad I could help. Also check this playlist out - th-cam.com/video/hJ_EhHL96YI/w-d-xo.html
As a soon to be new owner of an entry level Centerpoint 385 I very much appreciated this video. Thank you for this.
Glad it was helpful! You might be interested in my crossbow playlist th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors Thank you, I just ordered some string wax and have some rail lube. After watching another one of your videos.
Brand new to this after 20 yrs. of bow hunting with a compound... thank you for your great advice!
I started with compound and switched about 12 years ago. I love crossbows. If you want, check out my entire crossbow playlist - th-cam.com/video/kv6ZxCokC08/w-d-xo.html Let me know how it goes this fall.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors Awesome, thanks!
Sometimes the no-brainer precautions are forgotten...thanks for the info and reminder!
You bet!
I have a crossbow and have shot it a few times. I knew well enough to keep my fingers out of the way of the strings and the arrow. It's a good thing that you have made this video to warn people of the dangers when somebody uses a crossbow. I hunted with mine only one time. I am going to hunt with it sometime this year yet.
Stay in touch and let me know how it goes, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors okay sure thing.
My incident yesterday brought me here. I got my thumb above the rail and paid the price. I’m experienced with the xbow, know the dangers, but decided to switch my grip for some unknown reason. Fired, The blood splatter was instantaneous. Pain as well. Fortunately it caught my thumb nail so I haven’t lost any part of my body. I’m going to lose my thumb nail. Hopefully enough of the blood vessels in my thumb weren’t crushed to the extent where circulation issues and possible gangrene could set in and medical amputation necessary. I feel stupid and blessed at the same time. My accident led me to this video and I wished I had been looking for this information 2 days ago. Sir, your video will save fingers and possibly lives. It’s accurate , real life, and timely with archery seasons current. If you have a xbow or considering buying one, don’t let this stop you. They are great and I’ve killed deer, bobcats, coyotes with it. Like anything, from the kitchen fork to the automobile there is a right way and a wrong way to use it. The crossbow is powerful and accurate. Be careful!!!! Well done.
Thanks for sharing. I'm always surprised at how many comments think this video is stupid and isn't worth mentioning. Hope you are feeling better soon, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors in a few years they will be missing a thumb and they will look to see if everybody is as stupid as they were and will find consolation that they weren’t the only ones that are missing thumbs.
In Oklahoma the thumbless are either steer ropers or crossbow hunters. 😉🤷♂️.
Loading the bolt is critical info as well. Great video!!
I was cocking mine yesterday and the pieces that attach to the string got stuck when fully back but didn't engage the trigger fully. Pushed them out with my fingers and it went off. 3 stitches in one finger and mashed 2 fingers on the other hand. Worst pain ever, but could have beenuch worse. Getting a crank mechanism now for it.
@@ronniephipps7526 Sorry that happened. i managed to keep my thumb. The nail grows out kind of funky snd i still have some slight loss of feeling in that thumb. Im looking for a ladder safety video next. belly flopped from 10 feet up as the legs slid out from under me about 6 weeks ago. nothing broken but still walking funny. Dear God,I could get hurt watching TV. 😂🤷♂️
Good pointers man! In new to crossbows and a bot nervous about them and and my brother who also just got 1. This is great info I hope everyone that watches it pays attention and learns something! Thanks
My friend, check out my crossbow playlist.
LINK - th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Lots of good info here. Thanks for the feedback, KPO.
I know two people who lost tops of their thumbs with their crossbow. 🥺 The models from just a few years ago had poor hand guards. I upgraded to a newer model last year that has a much better hand hold safety guard. I still check hand position before shooting.
Great tip on arrow loading too!
Thanks for adding in, KPO.
Thanks. Looking to get into archery hunting here in TN. Very knowledgeable tips here. God bless you too.
You are welcome!
I'm new to crossbows and method of loading the bolt near the tip was very insightful to me - thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
I run table saws and other woodworking equipment; safety is paramount. Don't shoot your crossbow when you're tired or don't feel well. If I do I take a day off.
Yes, agreed.
I just picked up a crossbow I'm looking forward to trying out. Your videos are very appreciated and helpful
Awesome! Please feel free to ask if you have any questions and let me know how it goes.
Or.......Read the manual that came with your Xbow. This info is always in there.
You bet, KPO.
What?!?! read instructions?!?! that’s commie talk...😁
Roy must be nice being perfect
@@fonzmendez6917 it is
Very clear instructions and informative video like you said for beginners and even veteran hunters or target practice
Thanks for that comment, KPO.
Just bought my first, 175lb, crossbow. Great tutorial. Thanks.
welcome
Thank you !!! Great video !!! I am new owner of a crossbow and haven't shot it yet and had no idea of any of this. Thank you for posting this.
You are welcome, KPO.
Very good points, Just got my first crossbow a Barnett Wildcat getting ready to assemble it.
Hope this helps Eric.
Creat video thanks for the tips did nor know adout loading the arrow just got mine and son 150&175 pounds age not used them yet looking to brillent big thanks
Glad it helped! I do have a whole playlist of crossbow stuff - th-cam.com/video/kv6ZxCokC08/w-d-xo.html Might be something of interest here too.
For the most part it's common sense, To keep your figures down... How does it go off while loading ???? 🤔 my crossbow and every one I've researched has anti dry fire... I don't believe that.. I can't even turn safety off if bolt isn't set in proper.. I would never suggest encouraging people to grab the arrow up by the broadhead either..
I do personally have a friend that had his go off while loading. He thought for a moment it took his fingers off. Yes, most xbows have an anti dry fire mechanism, but at some point during the loading you do satisfy the anti dry fire while your hand could still be in the way. Also, safeties and anti dry fire mechanisms are all things that can fail. I don't put my hand (or any body part) in front of the barrel of a loaded gun even if the safety is on. As far as grabbing the bolt up BY the broadhead, I don't think that's a real risky thing to do. I did stress in the video to grab behind the field tip and not over the field tip. The same applies to broadheads. Grabbing near the broadhead also gives more control of the sharp end of the bolt. As I have hear of shooters accidentally cutting the string with the broadhead while loading. I guess if you're concerned that you might accidentally grab the broadhead, you could wear a leather glove. Now, maybe for some, hand placement while shooting is common sense, but not for all. Just read some of the other comments on this video. Some shooters are new to crossbows or new to bows in general. You may believe all shooters should just know this, but it's just not the case. Every season shooters clip their fingers. So, sometimes one man's common sense is another man's learning experience. My hope with this video was to save some xbow shooters a hard lesson. Thanks for the interest, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors there's no room for those errors though. "One man's common sense is another man's learning experience".
Firearms are not the place for "learning experiences". Fact is, many, many people simply have no business around dangerous weapons. Many are incapable of learning.
And cutting their string with their broadhead?? That's being absolutely careless and stupid. What on earth might they do with a firearm?
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors many have failures ravin and tenpoint are two companies that have had failures.
@@zzz7zzz9 Well, ideally the learning experience would come from a knowledgeable mentor, not from shooting yourself. I was only acknowledging that accidents do happen even if we think they shouldn't. If a person doesn't have a mentor in their life for a particular activity maybe a video could help them out. That's the message of this video, to help lower the amount of crossbow accidents from happening. I don't understand why making a video about crossbow hand placement safety would be viewed as a negative thing. I agree that some people have no business being around dangerous weapons, but I also believe that many people can be taught safety and go on to be safe responsible users of bows and guns. I don't get to choose who can use a crossbow, but maybe I can help them use it safer. I do appreciate the feedback. Thanks KPO.
@@chrisruzsa2798 Thanks for adding that in. Some don't believe that mechanical devices can fail.
Just bought my first crossbow
Watching videos on how to safely use it..best video I've found
Let me know how the hunting goes, KPO.
Got my new crossbow Friday and watched your video before shooting it Saturday. I was very aware of hand placement, the first time I cocked it with the string I didn't have it in fire and pulled up not realizing it. The hooks on the string got wedged under the scope mount, I thought it was locked in. I carefully tried to free the clip and rookie mistake it released on both my hands! Painful lesson to learn, bloodied fingers and both my hands are bruised. Be careful and know what you are doing before you do it! I forced myself to go right back out, hands bleeding and shaking and shoot it properly. No issues since then!!
That sounds horrible!
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors it wasn't the best start to the day but I guarantee I'll never make that mistake again! After reading some of the other comments I was definitely lucky!
I just got a Bear Legion 370 and i really appreciate videos like this. Im a guitarist and i NEED those fingers! Ive only had pistol style crossbows until now so im taking this all VERY seriously. Im reading up and watching lots of demonstration videos before i even fire it. Biggest one i had before this is my 80lb draw mini crossbow, it was made for the small bolts but it actually can fire the full size bolts. Despite lots of experience with that, i know its not even close to the same thing. Great video
Thanks so much. You may want to check this out - th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html
Newbie here so thank you kindly for this video it has been incredible education in this style weapon safety!!
You are welcome!
Had all kinds of crossbows over the years and so far been blessed not catching my fingers in the stuff. More dangerous one for that in my opinion is the pistol version crossbows... really easy to accidentally do that on the smaller crossbows... bigger versions I never have issues but smaller bows... t'm sure an 80 pound mini pistol bow can take a finger for a good ER visit if not careful... if you ever get a chance review one of those... for safety. This is a good video and thank you.
Yes, I did a video on the Ballista Bat Reverse crossbow pistol. amzn.to/3PJhRe6 It has a pistol grip on the front forearm so that helps. But yes, safety first all the time.
Good video. Just bought a fierce 405 killer instinct. Hope it works out for me. Thanks.
Best of hunting to you, KPO.
Great video just got a crossbow for Christmas and learning about the safety first before I even unbox it and then I will rip into it thanks again for the great safety tips
welcome
Very simple and makes perfect sense. I'm a novice and found it very helpful.
Great to hear, KPO.
Something should be mentioned... I made a mistake. When early moring I needed to use another arrow to unload later. So I swooped out my field tip with a broadhead arrow. Well when I went to unload that evening . I didnt realize. That my nock wasnt inline properly with the string. Even though I had the odd vane down So I basically dry fired it . Blew apart the string. Warped both cams at the part that holds the cable and broke the end of the arrow retainer. So lessons learned. Take your time . Look over everything after u load the bow ..everyone be safe out there . Good luck
Thanks for adding in, KPO.
Good and detailed information
Thanks
Good instructions for not just beginners!!!
Glad you think so!
Knetters Practical Outdoors great advice!
Question? how is your Parker holding up?
we have two thunderhawks, and we broke the strings on them both last season, and with parker out if business, no parts.
Mine is still going. I don't like to hear that the parts might be hard to get. Boo
Thanks! I’m a newbie and this is very important info to me!
Glad it was helpful!
Just like with a revolver, you never want your hands anywhere near the area between the forcing cone and charge holes. I've saw an example by a range instructor where he wrapped a paper target around the cylinder and it was shredded upon being fired.
Good info.
Great video and thanks for reviewing crossbow safety! I nearly lost my left thumb with my BARNETT JACKAL, three years ago, and I do an annual crossbow safety video. I was lucky a nice surgeon from Yale New Haven Hospital was able to stitch the tip of my thumb back on!
It happens too often, KPO.
This information is worth its weight in gold. Ty.
thanks
I made the mistake of having my thumb above the path of my crossbow string while target shooting, the result was a nice slice of meat hanging from my thumb and a few stitches, never made that mistake again. Forgot to remove my bolt when decocking the crossbow, nearly drove the bolt into my big toe, minor cuts that time and a shoe with a hole in it.....made for some cool looking pictures. Long story short, I am extremely careful with my crossbow now and haven't been injured again.
Yes, safety first, KPO.
You are an idiot if you still shooting crossbow after that incident
Great info, just as with a revolver and the flash from the front of the cylinder, keep the fingers away. Better told than felt to learn! God bless Happy thanks Giving!
Yes sir!
Thank you sir. Your video is very informative.
You are welcome
I can say from experience that a crossbow the factory hand gaurd on the Killer Instinct crossbows will allow you to put your fingers in harms way if your not careful. I switched my front handle out for a rail mounted vertical grip on the front. Now there is no way I can have my non - trigger hand in danger if I properly have a hold of the crossbow while shooting it.
good stuff
Good tips and very good video on saving your fingers and how not put finger in the triangle spot also I learn to load arrow by tip are right before the blades..you can never be to careful....thanks BJ Beagles
You are welcome BJ
I shoot from a rest in my tree stand, and I always put my hand between the bow and the rest just like I normally would when I am shooting so i don't have to worry about my fingers. It also keeps everything quiet having a hand and glove under the bow.
Yes!
Thank you I just bought my first crossbow and I'm watching many videos before I even use it so my fingers and hand thanks you
Glad to help
I appreciate the advice. One thing though…. I was worried about the lady outside…..that hair “blowing in the wind” made me worried about it getting into the action area!
You are right, we need to be more careful.
Watch out for the cable that crisscrosses and follows the limbs running thru the center of the rail too. Newer crossbows have a guard towards the top of the rail to help keep fingers out of the way, but nothing is completely foolproof.
Good stuff
I am a gun nut but really want to buy a crossbow, this was truly informative, big thanks mate..
You are welcome. Check out all my crossbow vids here th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html
The only time I got bit by a crossbow was loading it as shown and the trigger failed letting the string fly forward. Got cut by the flecthings, you'd be surprised how well they cut.
Scary!
Thanks man! No one really talks about loading these correctly
thanks
Thank you for the information
Welcome!
if that bolt was to fire while loading like that, the vanes will still sever your fingers like blades coming off that rail.
Yes bad things could sill happen from the vanes, but the damage would likely be less than getting clipped by the vanes and the string at the same time. But to be extra safe, you could load with a glove or pliers or something. Also, I understand that fast moving plastic vanes could easily cut your fingers. But the reality is no one is making broadhead blades out of the same material as soft plastic vanes for hunting, right? The results wouldn't be the same.
Great tips, thank you
You are welcome.
Here's a weird one that happened to me a few weeks ago... I had just gotten my xbow back from restringing at Cabelas. I needed to sight it back in. The very first time that I used the rope cocker, I pulled it up and heard the familiar click. Then, just as I started to ease off the rope cocker, the xbow fired! The rope cocker flew about 30 ft up and came down 20 yards away. Thankfully neither the xbow or cocker was damaged but I almost had to change my drawers. Make sure you give the rope cocker an extra upward tug when you think its all the way home!
Thanks for adding that in. Might save someone some trouble.
That is scary. I would probably turn white as a ghost if it happened to me. A lot of people don’t realize the amount of tension and pure power that is stored when the string is cocked back. I get nervous every time I load a bolt lol
Excellent video. I'm new to this and researching all safety/danger aspects. I haven't purchased a crossbow yep. Still researching for a good but budget of 300. to 400..
Mike, you might be interested in my crossbow playlist -th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Plenty of safety stuff and also a few videos on a $200 crossbow I bought last year. Check it out and thanks for the comment, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors Thank you. I'm getting into this at a later age. Your video's are the best I've found. I respect your skills and you are a family man. I have a friend who is guiding me on this path. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Dave you got yourself another Michigander sub now. Way to teach and way to preach it (joy). Grand Rapids area here, and the best time of the year ....... Fish On...... hamburger!!
Welcome! I have relatives in G.R. Hope you enjoy the videos, KPO.
Great Tips! Thank You!
cool
Thanks. I just got my first crossbow. This all makes perfect sense. Easy to make a mistake with potentially grave consequences.
Glad it helped
When loading Bolt/arrow if nock is not engaged with string and bow fires=same as dry fire and bolt/arrow can splinter and hand will be injured
even if hand is in front of riser.Always make certain safety is on and functions correctly...
Good advice
Thanks, I am new to cross bow.Your information is such a big help.Keep up the good work.
You're welcome. You might want to check out my x bow playlist th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html KPO.
Very good advice. I was holding my breath when the young lady with long hair was demonstrating the shot. If the strong wind changed directions at the time of shot??? There are many things that can go wrong. Please wear a hair band. I make mistakes also. Put a nice dent in side of van with crossbow limb pulley when I was practicing too close to it.
I know we will have to watch the hair in the future. Thanks for adding in, KPO.
If you load it correctly and the crossbow accidentally fires, wont the fletching slice your fingers off? Do users wear gloves?
No, fletching is soft plastic usually, would not harm your fingers.
most are a soft plastic that wouldn't harm your finger, at worst it would leave a minor cut on one of your fingers and id take that over loosing my thumb or any other finger anyway of the week
@@halyefn2403 Thank you both. I'm learning about these while I also shop for my first one so all info is very appreciated.
You may be confusing fletchings with broadheads. The broadheads are sharp and would cut you but they are mounted on the front end of the arrow or bolt. Fletchings are soft, KPO.
@@KnettersPracticalOutdoors nono, sure i know the parts. I guess I was thinking of times when I was a kid with a bow and arrow and the fletchings would make a cut between the thumb and forefinger upon firing. In your case I was thinking of an accidental firing in which the fletchings would also cut anything in their path. When i was a kid, I dont remember the fletchings as being soft, they were pretty much rigid plastic. I have never fired a crossbow and havent had a bow and arrow in my hands for maybe 60 years.
Always appreciate a safety review
You bet
Thank you. Great video.
Glad you liked it!
Thank you for that,very informative.
welcome
Good information, thanks.
Your welcome!
Thanks a lot for the tutorial. I was curious of how to avoid clipping your fingers while loading the arrow if the bow shoots.
Great question. Check out this other video I did on the subject LINK - th-cam.com/video/1P07wYWN0bM/w-d-xo.html Thanks KPO
Chop sticks!
Thank you for the video, I am new this year to using a crossbow. It helped a lot!!
You are welcome!
If you have to be told to keep your fingers away from the flight rail you shouldn't be shooting any weapons of any kind
Safety first
Excellent words. Congratulations from Brazil.
Thank you very much!
1:59 not sure how people manage that, probably not paying attention. Maybe its just because i work on machines but keeping body parts out of the mechanism seems to be pretty obvious.
Yes, safety first.
I've seen a few pictures of peoples fingers after being hit by that string and to say the least, it will peel the skin and meat off in a hurry. I dont currently own a cross bow but I've been thinking about one and this is a good video to watch.
Thanks, KPO.
Thanks bud. Good tip on loading the bolt.
You bet, thanks for watching, KPO.
thank you for you movie, I recently got a crossbow for shooting target, big thanks
You are welcome. If interested I have a whole playlist on crossbows, LINK - th-cam.com/play/PLksX0m4wrQHwtboy75o64oBtUhOOtChud.html Thanks for watching, KPO.
Great tip on safely placing a bolt. Thanks Dave...good stuff. Always enjoy your videos
Thanks for watching Tim, KPO.
Are those whoopy cushions hanging from the ceiling?
No, no, but I did an entire video on these devices if you're interested LINK - th-cam.com/video/gvIa1OaG4wI/w-d-xo.html KPO