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. He needed a crossbow, a crossbow sight, 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 when I was young about 50 years ago and really enjoyed it. So, I thought I could pick it up again, but this time I thought I could 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 gear that I’ve A. Never used before, B. I have no idea what the competition might be charging and C. I might be charging too 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, you understand? Haha. I checked all the equipment including crossbows, sights, bolts and spikes, targets and quivers.
On the way home from the store, I came to the conclusion that budget-wise, I should definitely own one. Crossbows ranged from $250 to $1,500. I’m sure you could spend more. If I’m going to do this, I’m going to do it right and that means a scope. Scopes can range from $99 to $2500 and more. Some of them let you 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 investment for your money. Then you need to practice arrowheads and broadheaded hunting arrows. 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 2K or 3K to get started. If you had a cheap bow and scope, arrows, arrowheads and targets, you could be out on the shooting range shooting for around $5 or $600. Not bad. Then when it gets better I can update. 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 prevent wear and tear on your feet, but also get reliable information about the products you’re buying. In the shop, unless you’re lucky and find an experienced crossbow hunter to take care of you, you’ll be on your own.