Crossbows are very accurate when fired from a rest. With that bulls-eye just sitting there, you can take as much time as you need to deliver bolt-touching accuracy.
However, when you’re deer hunting, especially for trophy whitetails, getting that big buck to stand still is the exception rather than the rule. For active hunting situations, you should practice shooting your bow off-hand, just like a compound, and you should be able to do so accurately to 30, maybe 40 yards.
A crisp, predictable trigger is critical to crossbow accuracy.
If your crossbow doesn’t group well, you should double check your cocking routine and make sure that the string sets exactly the same each time. Next, make sure your scope attachments are tight and that nothing is wiggling. Finally, consider replacing the trigger.
Over the past five years I’ve tested crossbows that cost up to $2,000 and my number-one complaint with each one is the trigger. They either have a very heavy breaking point (4–6 pounds), have considerable creep, or both. A deer, elk, or bear is going to give you one good second to make a shot, and if you’re squeezing away or incapable of timing the shot, you’ll either miss or have to pass.
Gearing up for a Wyoming elk hunt, I had the chance to try two types of custom triggers from TriggerTech.
Wow, what a difference! Now I can sight, aim, and shoot almost in one motion without jerking the trigger. Since hunting is my first concern, I opted for the “Hunter” model with a trigger pull of 2.5 pounds and zero creep. Here are the models offered by Triggertech; each should make a significant difference whether you are a hunter or target shooter.
The author tested both the hunter and single-stage triggers and found each to be just as amazing as advertised.
Hunter 2.5: A trigger break at 2.5lbs with a two-stage fine rifle feel. It can be installed in any Excalibur model including the M310 and M330. ($149.95)
Matrix Hunter 2.5: This trigger is tuned exactly to the Excalibur Matrix series M355, M380 and M405. It breaks crisp at 2.5lbs. ($179.95)
Single Stage 2.5: For single-stage enthusiasts. It uses our Frictionless Release Technology (FRT) for a crisp release at 2.5lbs. It can be installed on all Excalibur models, including the Matrix Series. ($129.95)
Target 1.5: Optimize your control, precision and accuracy with a 1.5lb crisp release. It can be installed on any Excalibur model. ($179.95
The folks at TriggerTech introduced their product at a trade show where lots of archers had the chance to try it for the first time. You’ll find their reactions in the video below both educational and entertaining. In my opinion, this is the most significant change you can make to enhance crossbow accuracy. Try it once and you’ll be convinced.
Tell us what you think in the comments section below.
