What does Crossbow offer

The information listed here is intended to help Leaders who would like to arrange Crossbow for their section. It also has information for Leaders/Adults who would like to get involved with this activity.

Crossbow shooting combines skills from archery and rifle shooting. You shoot bolts, which are like shorter versions of the arrows used in archery. Crossbows use a trigger to shoot the bolts, a bit like in rifle or pistol shooting. Targets are usually 8 to 20 metres, however for competition this may be extended.

Crossbow shooting can be provided for most Scouting sections. See full list of sections and any restrictions for this activity, at the end of this page. Crossbow shooting is a fully inclusive activity and it can be enjoyed by everyone with no need for prior experience. It is very helpful for the instructors to know in advance, if anyone in the group has any additional needs. This really helps the instructors and ensures they are better prepared to deliver your activity session.

Practical session contains the following elements:
• Safety briefing
• Demonstration of how to shoot
• Practical shooting
Throughout the session, coaching and advice will be offered to improve participants enjoyment.

We can also offer pure theory sessions as part of the Master at Arms badge.

Leader Information

	Scout HQ has provided this information relating to Crossbow. It also lists some badges that Crossbow can count towards. Click here to view this information.
	Anyone under the age of 18 will need a signed consent form from their parents/carers before they can undertake this activity. Scouting is an outdoor organisation. Make sure you are dressed appropriately for the time of year. If the activity is taking place outdoors, wear boots or strong shoes and ensure you have waterproofs, just in case! Long hair must be tied back whilst on the range. Footwear must fully cover the foot, no opened toed shoes (Crocs, sandals, etc.), and no wellies. When booking, please confirm any specific items you will need to bring with you for this activity.
	Click Crossbow Team to contact the Crossbow SASU.
	Contact Crossbow SASU to confirm size of group that can be accommodate.
	Contact Crossbow SASU to confirm duration of their activities.
	Just like Archery and Air Rifle shooting, we require a dedicated range for Crossbow. We can setup a mobile range but the location and venue must first be checked and risk assessment carried out. Alteratively, we can use one of the county campsites where they have dedicated ranges.
	Contact Crossbow SASU to discuss costs for this activity.

Additional Information

	Click Crossbow Team to contact the County Crossbow advisor.
	Click here to view POR relating to this activity
	Click here to view current Factsheets
	National Smallbore Rifle Association is the National Governing body for this sport. Click here to visit their website.

Events Crossbow Team supports

We are a very recently formed SASU and have not yet supported any events. We are looking forward to being able to support events in the future.

Sections supported

Section	Eligible	Notes
		Crossbow shooting is not suitable for Squirrels due to the size/weight of the crossbows.
		Crossbow shooting is not suitable for Beavers due to the weight of the crossbows.
		The pack must provide a suitable leader to look after at least two lanes each. In addition, the pack must provide enough leaders to control the Cubs who are not shooting. Suggested maximum group size is 16 Cubs and the session should run for maximum of one hour, unless agreed beforehand.
		The troop must provide a suitable leader(s) to control the Scouts who are not shooting. Suggested maximum group size is 24 Scouts and the session should run for maximum of two hours, unless agreed beforehand.
		The group must provide enough leaders to control the Explorers who are not shooting. Suggested maximum group size is 24 Explorers and the session should not last more than two hours, unless agreed beforehand.
Adults / Leaders