FAQ'S

Q. Do I need a licence to own a crossbow or archery bow in the UK?

A. No it is legal to own any kind of bow but you must be over 18 years of age.

Q. How quickly will I receive my order?

A. We aim to dispatch your items within 48 hours of recieving your order (usually same day).

Q. Is my payment secure?

A. We use Protx & Lloyds TSB which is 100% safe (we do not use Paypal).

Q. Who are www.outdoorhobbies.co.uk?

A. They are our parent company and take all customer payments.

Q: What is the difference between compound and recurve?

A: The difference between a compound and a recurve (or any archery bow) is that the compound bow incorporates a set of cams or wheels into the limb assembly. On the recurve bow the string attaches directly to the limbs. The benefit of a compound is that it allows the user the benefit of "let-off." (Let-off is a term used to describe the reduction in draw weight by percentage when the wheels roll over from the action of drawing the string.) A compound crossbow will "let-off" 50% from a 150-lb draw weight to 75 lbs. when the wheels roll over. Not only is it easier for the user to cock a compound, but it is also less mechanical stress on the trigger mechanism.

Q: What are the strings made of?

A: The actual main string is made of B-50 dacron and the centre servings are made of 150-pound tensile-strength braided fast-flite. The fast-flite centre serving provides high durability at friction points.

Q: What type of bolts should I use?

A: When using compound, a 20"+ bolt is recommended. When using a recurve a 16" bolt is recommended but you should check with your supplier first.

Q: How long should strings last?

A: With proper maintenance of the string it should last a minimum of 100 shots, with several hundred shots not uncommon. Proper maintenance includes applying lube wax to the area where the string touches the flight track, keeping the flight track surface area free of nicks, gouges, burrs, dirt, debris, etc.

Q: How do I replace a string on a recurve bow?

A: Using the old string follow the same procedure that you would use when using the cable stringer. Insert the new bowstring loops through the loops of the old string and seat over the nock-ends. Check loops, bowstring and new string for proper seating on nock-ends. Grasp new string very tightly while pulling upwards with one hand. Release safety and pull trigger with other hand. You then lower string very slowly. Take off the old string and you are done.

Q: Can I get something to help me cock the crossbow?

A: For 150lbs and over it is advisable to use either a rope cocking device or, if the crossbow supports one, a crank cocking device. Repeated drawing of this strength is very energy zapping!

Q: What is so special about your Venom range?

A: The new Venom compound range have been designed to fire smaller bolts acurately over long distances. They are very easy to cock but deliver awesome power and acuracy and they are the only range to offer compound pistols.

Q. How do I find out which is the best crossbow for me you offer so many?

A. Simply ring us on 0800 1950253 and we can determine which is the best model for you.

Q. Can I get parts for my old crossbow.

A. It is possible but it depends on the model and the manufacturer.

Q. Does the draw weight of a crossbow tell me how powerful it is?

A. No it just tells you how much energy is required to cock it, you need to check the velocity in fps.