What Is a Self-Cocking Crossbow?

Crossbows were first developed by the Chinese and in time they made their way west to various Middle Eastern and European empires and kingdoms such as Arabia, Greece, Rome and England. This weapon was primarily used by professional armies and mercenaries, but in time the crossbow was only used for hunting and sporting purposes. Crossbows generally work by having the arbalestier pull back the bow and load a bolt to fire at a target. Self-cocking crossbows uses a special button that automatically cocks the bow for firing.

  1. Parker Concorde Crossbow

    • The Parker Concorde Crossbow is the official name of the self-cocking crossbow, and it is patented. It was released in 2011 by Parker Compound Bows, Inc. and it is the first self-cocking bow in the history of the weapon. It features a Quick Draw System, which features a cocking mechanism that allows for automatic cocking within two seconds. It uses the same technology that is used to power paint ball guns.

    C02 Cocking System

    • The Parker Concorde Crossbow is powered by a CO2 (carbon) tank, which is attached to the front end of the bow under the rail/stock and is used to power the cocking mechanism through the release of carbon gas. This CO2 tank allows the bow to be automatically cocked 20 to 50 times, depending on outside temperature. The tank is a 9 oz. refillable bottle. The Parker Concorde Crossbow not only automatically cocks, it also has the ability to automatically uncock itself with the push of a button.

    Specs

    • The Parker Concorde Crossbow has a pistol grip and trigger control with an advanced auto engage safety. When the bow cocks back it doesn't release until the safety is turned off. This bow weighs 80 lbs. and it can fire bolts at a rate of 300 feet per second. The Parker Concorde Crossbow has a draw weight of 175 pounds, a stock length of 34 ½ inches and a machine aluminum barrel and riser, plus a factory installed dual string suppressor.

    Other Features

    • Other features for this weapon include an illuminated scope, crossbow sling and a three-arrow quiver. This particular bow cannot use flat nock end arrows, because they could possibly damage the bow; owners should use the recommended bolt type. Parker's Bow offers a perfect storm package, which includes a sling, roller rope cocker, crossbow case, wax and lube kit and six high velocity arrows.