Excalibur Crossbow Cocking Devices
Excalibur offers two main approaches to cocking a recurve crossbow: a crank cocking aid that mechanically reduces draw effort, and a simpler rope cocking aid that reduces felt draw weight while keeping the string aligned. This page compares both and covers safe decocking.
If you searched "how to decock an Excalibur crossbow," the short answer is: always decock using a cocking device or by firing into a proper target, never by manually letting the string down uncontrolled - see the safety detail in our decocking guide.
Pros
- Charger EXT crank drops draw effort to as little as 12 pounds
- Rope cocking aid is lower cost and works across the model range
- Replacement crank handles and brackets are sold separately from the full unit
Cons
- Charger EXT crank fitment is limited to TwinStrike, Micro, and Bulldog Series (some retrofits possible)
- Cocked storage for extended periods is not recommended on any crossbow model
Charger EXT: the crank cocking aid
The Charger EXT is Excalibur's ambidextrous crank cocking aid, reducing draw effort to as little as 12 pounds while keeping consistent string alignment shot to shot. It uses a quick-detach system so it can be removed and carried separately in a pack rather than staying mounted on the stock, and it's built from high-strength aluminum alloy to keep weight down. It fits the TwinStrike, Micro, and Bulldog Series crossbows, with some earlier models retrofittable.
Rope cocking aids: the simpler option
Excalibur's rope cocking aid uses a double T-handle design to reduce felt draw weight by roughly half while keeping the string square during the draw. It's available assembled or unassembled and works across Excalibur's crossbow models, making it the lower-cost, lower-complexity alternative to a crank system.
Popular options on Amazon
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Replacement parts for crank systems
If a Charger EXT crank handle or mounting bracket wears out, Excalibur sells replacement crank handles and stock mounting brackets separately rather than requiring a full crank replacement, which keeps an existing cocking aid usable for years of service.
How long can you leave an Excalibur crossbow cocked?
Excalibur's own guidance and most experienced owners recommend not leaving a crossbow cocked for extended periods, since sustained tension on the limbs and string isn't ideal for long-term storage - cock before the hunt, decock safely at the end of the day using a cocking device or proper target, rather than storing the bow loaded overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decock an Excalibur crossbow?
Always decock using a cocking device (crank or rope aid) in reverse, or by safely firing into an appropriate target - never let the string down by hand. See our full decocking guide.
What crank fits an Excalibur crossbow?
The Charger EXT crank cocking aid fits the TwinStrike, Micro, and Bulldog Series crossbows, with some earlier models retrofittable.
How long can you leave an Excalibur crossbow cocked?
It's best not to leave any crossbow cocked for extended periods; cock before your hunt and decock safely afterward rather than storing it loaded.
Is a rope cocking aid or crank better for an Excalibur crossbow?
A crank like the Charger EXT reduces draw effort further (to as little as 12 pounds) and detaches for pack carry, while a rope cocking aid is simpler and lower cost - both keep string alignment consistent.
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