What crossbow accessories do I really need Canada?

As a crossbow enthusiast in Canada, understanding which accessories you really need can make all the difference in your hunting success, target shooting accuracy, and overall enjoyment. Beyond the crossbow itself, the right gear enhances safety, performance, and longevity. At Crossbow Shop Canada, we’re dedicated to helping you equip your setup perfectly for the unique demands of the Canadian outdoors.

Here’s a breakdown of the essential crossbow accessories every Canadian owner should consider, from must-haves to highly recommended upgrades:

Absolutely Essential Accessories (Non-Negotiable)

These items are fundamental for safe operation, basic performance, and responsible ownership.

1. Cocking Device (Rope Cocker or Crank):
   • Why you need it: Modern crossbows have high draw weights, making hand-cocking difficult and inconsistent.¹ A rope cocker reduces draw weight by 50% and ensures even tension for consistent string alignment, crucial for accuracy.² An integrated crank cocking device (like TenPoint’s ACUdraw or Ravin’s VersaDraw) offers effortless cocking and unparalleled consistency, ideal for hunters with physical limitations or those who prioritize speed and quiet in the field.³
   • Canadian Context: Consistent cocking is key for accuracy, especially in variable weather conditions.⁴
2. Crossbow Bolts:
   • Why you need them: These are your ammunition! Crucially, use bolts specifically designed for your crossbow’s weight, speed, and nock type (half-moon, flat, capture). Using incorrect bolts can lead to poor accuracy, crossbow damage, or even serious injury.
   • Canadian Context: Ensure bolts meet minimum length and weight requirements if hunting big game in your province.
3. Broadheads (for Hunting):
   • Why you need them: For ethical hunting, you need sharp, durable broadheads that create a wide wound channel.
   • Types: Mechanical broadheads (e.g., Rage, Swhacker, Grim Reaper) typically fly like field points and deploy on impact for larger cutting diameters.⁵ Fixed-blade broadheads (e.g., G5 Montec, Excalibur Boltcutter) offer robust construction and maximum penetration.⁶
   • Canadian Context: Crucially, check your provincial hunting regulations for minimum cutting diameter requirements (e.g., 7/8 inch or 22mm in many provinces).
4. Field Points/Practice Tips:
   • Why you need them: Essential for target practice. They mimic the weight of broadheads without dulling your hunting blades, allowing you to fine-tune your accuracy and scope.
5. Crossbow-Specific Target:
   • Why you need it: Your crossbow shoots at much higher speeds and with more kinetic energy than compound or recurve bows. A standard archery target won’t cut it. You need a bag target or foam block target specifically rated to stop crossbow bolts without damaging them and allowing for easy removal.⁷
   • Canadian Context: Practice is paramount, especially in varying temperatures that affect materials.
6. Rail Lube & String Wax:
   • Why you need them: Regular maintenance extends the life of your string, cables, and rail.⁸ Rail lube reduces friction between the string and the rail, protecting the center serving.⁹ String wax conditions and protects the string and cables from wear and the elements.¹⁰
   • Canadian Context: Essential for protection against moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Highly Recommended Accessories (Significantly Enhance Your Experience)

These items aren’t strictly mandatory to shoot, but they greatly improve safety, convenience, and performance.

1. Crossbow Case (Soft or Hard):
   • Why you need it: Protects your investment from dust, dirt, scratches, and impacts during transport and storage. A soft case offers basic protection and easy carrying.¹¹ A hard case provides superior protection for rugged travel or long-term storage.¹²
   • Canadian Context: Protects against the elements and ensures safe transport in vehicles (often a legal requirement for unloaded crossbows outside of hunting).
2. Crossbow Sling:
   • Why you need it: Makes carrying your crossbow comfortable and hands-free, especially during long walks through Canadian forests or when still-hunting. Look for padded, adjustable slings.
3. Scope Level:
   • Why you need it: Prevents “canting” (tilting the crossbow), which causes significant left/right misses at longer ranges. A simple bubble level attached to your scope or rail ensures perfect vertical alignment for every shot.
4. Rangefinder:
   • Why you need it: Knowing the exact distance to your target is crucial for accurate shot placement with a crossbow, especially beyond 20-30 yards. A laser rangefinder provides precise measurements, essential for using multi-reticle scopes correctly.
   • Canadian Context: Hunting ethics demand precise shot placement, which relies on accurate range.
5. Bolt Puller:
   • Why you need it: High-speed crossbow bolts can get stuck tightly in targets. A bolt puller provides grip and leverage, saving your hands and preventing damage to your expensive bolts.¹³
6. Safety Harness (for Treestand Hunting):
   • Why you need it: If hunting from an elevated position, a full-body safety harness is a lifesaving device. Never hunt from a treestand without one.
   • Canadian Context: Treestand hunting is common and safety should always be paramount.
7. Hunting Backpack/Pack:
   • Why you need it: To comfortably carry all your essential accessories, calls, extra layers, water, and emergency gear into the field.

Useful Upgrades & Specialized Accessories (Enhance Specific Aspects)

Once you have the essentials, these can further refine your setup.

• Illuminated Nocks: Enhance bolt visibility in low light, helping you track your shot and locate your bolt after impact.¹⁴
• Vibration Dampeners/String Suppressors: Reduce noise and vibration from the shot, making the crossbow quieter and potentially more comfortable to shoot.¹⁵
• Shooting Sticks/Bipod: Provide a stable shooting rest in the field, crucial for accuracy in unsupported positions.
• Decocking Device/Bolt: Some crossbows allow for safe de-cocking without firing a bolt.¹⁶ If yours doesn’t, a specialized de-cocking bolt (a heavy bolt designed to absorb energy safely) allows you to de-cock without wasting a target bolt.

Equip Your Hunt at Crossbow Shop Canada

Building a complete and effective crossbow setup for Canadian hunting requires careful consideration. Don’t compromise on quality or overlook essential items that contribute to your safety and success.

At Crossbow Shop Canada, we offer a comprehensive selection of all the crossbow accessories mentioned above, from top brands like Ravin, TenPoint, Excalibur, Barnett, and more. Our knowledgeable team can help you select the right cocking device, the perfect bolts and broadheads for your crossbow and target game, and all the essential maintenance supplies to keep your equipment performing season after season.

Ready to gear up for your next hunting adventure in Canada? Explore our extensive collection of crossbow accessories today! Visit Crossbow Shop Canada online or contact our experts for personalized advice. We’ll ensure you have everything you really need to hunt safely and successfully!