Limbs on the Crossbow

The forward movement and strength of the crossbow’s limbs, combined with the length of the power stroke, determine the ballistic performance of the arrow it launches. Ballistic tests show that there is very little, if any, difference in the impact of broadhead-tipped arrows shot from a crossbow and a compound bow.

Compound limbs on a crossbow are available in both solid and split-limb configurations. Some utilize a one-piece cable system with synthetic fiber strings. Others opt for steel cables. The compound limb and cable system enables manufacturers to deliver equal performance with a more compact stock and limbs than a recurve limbed crossbow.