Crossbow Parts

Crossbow archery remains a popular sport. Although modern crossbows are more complicated than their medieval counterparts, the basic design has remained the same for centuries. The parts of a crossbow include the components of the crossbow itself along with the arrow or bolt it shoots. Crossbow replacement parts can be found at hunting and sporting goods stores as well as online.

  1. Parts of the Crossbow

    • The long portion of the crossbow the shooter raises and holds is the tiller or stock. At the front end, the bowed portion is the lath (also spelled lathe) or prod. At the very front is a grip called a stirrup, which looks much like a saddle's stirrup. The string connects across the ends of the lath/prod and is drawn back by the nut (or catch) which is cranked by the crannequin. To fire the crossbow, you use the lever or trigger. Modern crossbows might also have scopes and sights.

    Parts of the Crossbow Arrow

    • The long part of the arrow is the shaft. Although originally made of wood, shafts are now often of aluminum or carbon construction. At the front end is the arrowhead. Depending on the arrow's purpose, an arrowhead can be blunt or sharp. At the back end of the shaft is the fletching, used to stabilize an arrow's flight. While traditional fletchings were made of feathers, modern ones are typically plastic. At the very back end, behind the fletchings, is the nock, which holds the arrow in place while the crossbow is being drawn back.

    Replacement Parts

    • Crossbow enthusiasts can find crossbow accessories and parts at www.crossbow.com. Find replacement strings and cables along with cocking devices. For accessories, you can add scopes and sights. At www.alcheminc.com you can find replacement parts, including new prods (or laths) along with strings, release levers, roller nuts and bow irons.