A crossbow can be kept cocked for as long as necessary. There is no risk of the bowstring losing tension and the arrow not firing.

The importance of knowing how long you can keep a crossbow cocked
Using a crossbow takes practice to perfect the art. You need to know how long you can keep the bow cocked without tiring your arms out. If you cock the bow and hold it for too long, your arms will start to shake and you will lose accuracy. The ideal time to hold a crossbow cocked is around 30 seconds. This gives you enough time to take aim and fire without tiring your arms out.
How to determine how long you can keep a crossbow cocked
To determine how long you can keep a crossbow cocked, you will need to know the draw weight of it. Most crossbows have a draw weight of between 150 and 200 pounds. To find out the draw weight of your crossbow, look for the manufacturer’s specifications. Once you know the draw weight, divide it by 2.5. This will give you the number of seconds you can keep the crossbow cocked before the string will start to stretch and the draw weight will decrease.
The dangers of keeping a crossbow cocked for too long
If a crossbow is left cocked for too long, the string will slowly stretch and eventually snap. This can damage the bow and cause serious injury to the person operating it. It is important to always check the tension of the string before firing, and to never leave a crossbow cocked for more than a few minutes at a time.
How to avoid keeping a crossbow cocked for too long
It is important to avoid keeping a crossbow cocked for too long because doing so can put unnecessary strain on the bow’s limbs and potentially damage the bow. To avoid these risks, it is best to only cock the bow when you are ready to shoot and to properly secure the bow when it is not in use.
The benefits of knowing how long you can keep a crossbow cocked
When properly maintained, a crossbow can last for many years. The main benefit of knowing how long you can keep a crossbow cocked is safety. If you are unsure of how long your crossbow can stay cocked, it is best to err on the side of caution and release the tension after a set amount of time. This will help prevent your crossbow from being damaged or causing injury.

Frequently Asked Questions[FAQs]
What happens if you keep a crossbow cocked for too long?
If you keep a crossbow cocked for too long, the bowstring may become stretched and lose some of its elasticity. This will affect the accuracy and power of your crossbow, so it is best to avoid keeping it cocked for extended periods of time.
Can you cock a crossbow multiple times?
Yes, you can cock a crossbow multiple times. However, you should only do this if absolutely necessary, as each time you cock the crossbow, the bowstring becomes slightly less elastic.
What is the best way to store a crossbow?
The best way to store a crossbow is with the bowstring relaxed. This will prevent the bowstring from becoming stretched or damaged over time.
How often should you oil a crossbow?
You should oil your crossbow every few months to keep the moving parts in good condition.
What type of oil should you use on a crossbow?
You should use a light oil such as 3-in-1 oil or WD-40. Avoid using heavier oils as they can damage the crossbow.
Can you shoot a crossbow without cocking it?
No, you cannot shoot a crossbow without cocking it first. The crossbow needs to be cocked in order to tension the bowstring and prepare it for firing.
What happens if you try to shoot a crossbow without cocking it?
If you try to shoot a crossbow without cocking it, the bowstring will not be tensioned and the crossbow will not fire.
Conclusion
A crossbow can be cocked for as long as necessary as long as the string is not released. Once the string is released, the crossbow must be re-cocked before it can be fired again.

A. Wilcox Head is a lifelong shooter, hunter, and firearms enthusiast. Head grew up in a family where firearms were a way of life, and from an early age, he was taught the importance of firearm safety, accuracy, and proper hunting techniques.