Crossbow hunting with Steve
I decided to go crossbow hunting, or as some would say shopping, the other day. I needed, well, whatever, the full nine yards. I needed a crossbow, a crossbow scope, bolts (or arrows), targets, broadheads for bowhunting, a quiver, and everything else a beginning archer might need. I say beginning because I am essentially a beginner. I used a longbow as a young man about 50 years ago and really enjoyed it. So, I thought I might pick it up again, but this time I thought I might pick up a crossbow. Local sporting goods store here I come.
On the way to the store I realized that it would be wise to set a budget for my new hobby. I mean I don’t want to walk into this store and spend $2 or $3 on some equipment that I’ve A. I’ve never used before, B. I have no idea what the competition might be charging and C. I might as well be charging old for this kind of things. (63, just saying) I solved the budget problem with my favorite tactic, procrastination. I wouldn’t buy anything tonight. He only hunts with a crossbow, understand? Haha. I went through all the gear, including crossbows, scopes, bolts and spikes, targets, and quivers.
On my way home from the store, I came to the conclusion that budget-wise you should definitely have one. Crossbows ranged from $250 to $1,500. I’m sure you could spend more. If I’m going to do this, I’ll do it right and that means a reach. Scopes can range from $99 to $2500 and up. Some of them allow you to see in the dark and everything. How cool is that. Then there are the arrows or bolts in the case of crossbows. Aluminum is the best bang for your buck. Then you need to practice arrowheads and hunting arrows with broadhead tips. These can be $100 for a few of each. So you have targets to practice with, another $50. This new hobby is not cheap. But it doesn’t have to cost 2 or 3K to get started. If you had an inexpensive bow and scope, arrows, points, and targets, you could be at the range shooting for anywhere from $5 to $600. Nothing bad. Then when it gets better I can upgrade. Yes, that’s the ticket.
Next stop, more shopping, but this time on the Web. My feet hurt. On the Web you can not only save the wear and tear on your feet, but you can also get reliable information about the products you are buying. In the shop, unless you get lucky and find an experienced crossbow hunter to attend to you, you’ll be on your own.