How to De-Cock a TenPoint Crossbow
Knowing how to de-cock a TenPoint crossbow safely is one of the most common questions owners have, especially on models with ACUdraw and ACUslide. The short answer: if your bow has a de-cock function, you let the string down under control with the cocking system - no bolt fired. If it does not, you unload by shooting a bolt into a target. Here is how each works.
De-cocking with ACUslide or ACUdraw De-Cock
Models with ACUslide or an ACUdraw De-Cock system are designed to be let down safely. The principle is the same across them: engage the crank, take up the tension, and wind in the de-cock direction so the mechanism releases the string gradually rather than all at once. Follow the handle direction and speed limits in your model's manual - the system is engineered to control the let-down, but only if you do not fight it. This is the method for the current Turbo X, Venom X, Titan X De-Cock and similar bows.
Unloading a model without a de-cock function
Older or simpler TenPoint bows have no de-cock mechanism. The only safe way to unload them is to fire a bolt - a dedicated discharge or practice bolt - into a target at the end of your session. Do not try to release the string by hand or improvise a let-down; a crossbow stores far more energy than it looks, and a slip can injure you and damage the bow.
How long can you leave it cocked?
A common follow-up: it is fine to leave a crossbow cocked for a full day's hunt, but not for days or weeks. Leaving it cocked long-term stresses the string, cables and limbs. De-cock at the end of each day using the method above, and store the bow discharged. For the loading side of the process see the cocking, loading and shooting guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you de-cock a TenPoint crossbow with ACUdraw?
If it is an ACUdraw De-Cock or ACUslide system, yes - you wind the crank in the de-cock direction to let the string down under control. A plain ACUdraw without the de-cock function does not let down; you unload by firing a bolt.
How do you decock a TenPoint crossbow without a de-cock system?
Fire a bolt into a target. There is no safe manual let-down on a bow without a built-in de-cock function.
Do you need a special decocking bolt?
Use a sound arrow of the correct spec - many owners keep a dedicated discharge or practice bolt for this. Never fire a damaged arrow.
How long can I leave my TenPoint crossbow cocked?
A day's hunt is fine; days or weeks is not. De-cock at the end of each day and store the bow discharged.