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Crossbow glossary

What Is Reverse-Draw?

Reverse-Draw: A crossbow layout with the limbs angled back toward the shooter rather than forward.

By Marisol Vega, Senior Outdoor Equipment Writer & Research Editor. Manufacturer figures vary; check your crossbow's manual.

In a reverse-draw crossbow the limbs point back toward the shooter and the riser sits closer to the rear of the crossbow, shifting balance rearward. This layout can allow a long power stroke in a compact overall length.

Designs differ by manufacturer, so compare overall length, weight and balance rather than assuming a layout is better in every respect.

Why Reverse-Draw matters

Reverse-draw is one of the biggest layout changes in modern crossbow design. By angling the limbs back toward the shooter, it lets designers fit a long power stroke into a compact crossbow.

The change also moves weight toward the rear, altering how the crossbow balances in the hand and how it carries afield.

How to read it on a spec sheet

  • Judge reverse-draw crossbows by overall length, weight and balance, not by the layout alone.
  • Compare against a traditional layout of similar speed and price to see what the layout actually changes.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming reverse-draw is better in every way. It is a design choice with trade-offs in balance, size and cost.

Frequently asked questions

What is the advantage of reverse-draw?

It allows a long power stroke in a shorter overall length, which many shooters find easier to manoeuvre.

Are reverse-draw crossbows harder to maintain?

Not inherently, but compound designs have more components. Follow the maintenance schedule in your manual.

See it in our reviews

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Definitions are general information. Always follow your crossbow manufacturer's manual, and verify local laws with the relevant authority.