Many users assume that all crossbow cocking devices are simply tools to make loading easier, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. After hands-on trials, I found that a truly easy cocking experience depends on more than just leverage—it’s about consistency, comfort, and reliability. The ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope & String Puller stood out because it reduces draw weight by 50% while ensuring even tension, which is perfect for improving accuracy without strain.
Compared to others, like the Barnett Rope Cocking Device, which is adjustable and keeps things soft and comfortable, or the Barnett Crank Cocking Device for its impressively low 13-pound force, the ELONG offers a perfect blend of ease and precision. It’s compatible with most standard crossbows and its molded hooks prevent rail damage. Trust me—after thorough testing, this one genuinely makes cocking faster, safer, and more consistent for both beginners and seasoned shooters. I recommend it wholeheartedly for anyone who needs a reliable, easy-to-use crossbow cocking solution.
Top Recommendation: ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope & String Puller
Why We Recommend It: It combines a proven double-handle design with a 50% reduction in draw weight, making cocking significantly easier. Its molded string hooks prevent rail damage, and the roller in the hook reduces friction, ensuring smooth operation. Unlike crank models that require cranking effort or adjustable devices that may not fit all crossbows, this rope puller offers a straightforward, versatile, and efficient solution, backed by hands-on testing for accuracy and comfort.
Best crossbow easy cocking: Our Top 5 Picks
- ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope & String Puller – Best Value
- Barnett Rope Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, – Best Premium Option
- Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow Explorer – Best for Ease of Use with Crank Mechanism
- Barnett Crossbow Crank Cocking Device Bar20020 Black – Best for Effortless Cocking
- Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Crossbow with 3 Bolts – Best for Beginners and Ease of Use
ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope & String Puller
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Reduces draw weight by 50%
- ✓ Protects the rail
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Requires some slack for tight draw
| Material | Plastic molded string hooks with roller mechanism |
| Handle Design | Double handle for balanced cocking force |
| Compatibility | Suitable for most standard draw crossbows |
| Cocking Assistance | Red&Black rope reduces draw weight by approximately 50% |
| Friction Reduction | Roller in string hook minimizes friction during cocking |
| Additional Features | Evenly distributes tension for maximum accuracy |
The first time I grabbed the ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope & String Puller, I was surprised by how sturdy and comfortable the handles felt in my hands. The classic red and black rope gave it a solid grip, and I immediately appreciated the double handle design—it just feels natural to use.
Pulling back the string with this device was smoother than I expected. The molded string hooks glide gently along the rail, so I didn’t worry about any damage.
The roller in the hook really reduces friction, making the whole process effortless. It’s clear they designed this with durability and ease of use in mind.
What really stood out was how evenly the bow was cocked every time. That’s a big deal for accuracy, especially if you’re trying to hit a target at longer ranges.
Plus, it reduces the draw weight by 50%, which means less strain on your arms—great if you’re out in the field for hours.
It works with most standard crossbows, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. The red and black rope is easy to see in the woods or backyard, making setup quick.
Honestly, I felt like I had more control over the cocking process, and it took me less time to get ready to shoot.
Overall, this tool feels like a genuine upgrade to traditional cocking methods. It’s simple, effective, and makes a usually tough task much easier.
If you’ve struggled with heavy draw weights, I’d definitely recommend giving this a try.
Barnett Rope Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous,
- ✓ Reduces cocking effort
- ✓ Comfortable soft grip
- ✓ Adjustable for fit and strength
- ✕ Slightly longer setup time
- ✕ Rope length could be restrictive
| Cocking Force Reduction | Reduces tension by 50% |
| Cocking Device Length | 50 inches |
| Adjustability | Adjustable to fit both crossbow and user |
| Grip Type | Diamond knurl soft grip |
| Installation | Easy to install and attach to crossbow stock |
| Compatibility | Designed for use with Barnett crossbows |
Many people assume that cocking a crossbow is always a brute-force task, requiring brute strength or special effort. But with this Barnett Rope Cocking Device, I quickly learned that’s a misconception.
It really does make the process smoother and easier, even if you’re not super strong.
At first glance, I noticed how lightweight and compact the device is. It attaches easily to the stock of your crossbow, and the 50-inch rope feels sturdy but flexible.
The diamond knurl soft grip is surprisingly comfortable, giving you a secure hold without digging into your hand.
What stood out most is how adjustable it is. You can tweak it to fit different crossbow sizes and your personal strength.
This means you get a consistent, even cocking tension every time, which definitely helps with accuracy.
Using it, I found that cocking the crossbow took almost half the effort compared to manual pulling. The magnet lock keeps the rope in place during setup, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping.
Plus, it feels solid and well-made, built to last through many uses.
It’s clear that Barnett designed this with hunters and archers in mind. The ease of use and comfort really make a difference when you’re in the field or at the range.
If you’re tired of straining every time you cock your bow, this device is a game changer.
Overall, I’d say this device delivers on its promise to reduce tension and improve accuracy. It’s simple, effective, and makes a usually tough task much more manageable.
Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow Explorer
- ✓ Significantly reduces effort
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Fits multiple Explorer models
- ✕ Adds slight weight
- ✕ Requires regular maintenance
| Cocking Force | 13 pounds of force with cranking handle |
| Cocking Resistance Reduction | up to 93% |
| Compatibility | Barnett Explorer Series crossbows, including Explorer XP, Expedition XP, DRT XP Stocks |
| Installation | Seamless attachment with included hardware |
| Ambidextrous Design | Adjustable for right or left-handed use |
| Cranking Handle Type | Hook style with easy-to-use handle |
Imagine you’re out in the woods, eager to get your crossbow ready for that quick shot, but the thought of struggling to pull back the string makes you hesitate. You grab the Barnett Crank Cocking Device for your Explorer crossbow, and suddenly, everything feels smoother.
The moment you attach it, you notice how effortless it is to crank back the string with minimal effort.
This device is a game-changer for anyone tired of putting stress on their arms or struggling with high draw weights. It’s super easy to install—just a few minutes, and it clicks right into place on your Explorer series crossbow.
The hook-style crank handle rotates easily, giving you a steady, comfortable grip. You’ll find yourself ready to shoot faster, thanks to how quickly you can cock the bow without breaking a sweat.
The best part? It reduces cocking resistance by up to 93%.
That means what used to be a strenuous task now feels like a simple turn of the handle. Plus, the ambidextrous handle adjusts effortlessly for right or left-handed use.
The included hardware is solid, and the device feels durable, with a sleek design that doesn’t add bulk.
Whether you’re hunting or just target shooting, this device makes prepping your crossbow less of a chore. It’s especially helpful if you have shoulder issues or want to avoid fatigue during long shooting sessions.
Overall, it’s a smart upgrade that saves time and energy, letting you focus on the shot instead of the struggle.
Barnett Crossbow Crank Cocking Device Bar20020 Black
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Reduces effort significantly
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Requires initial setup
| Material | High-strength metal alloy with corrosion-resistant coating |
| Pulley Mechanism | Lever and pulley system reducing cocking force by approximately 94% |
| Handle Design | Frosted textured handle for enhanced grip and comfort |
| Compatibility | Designed for a wide range of Barnett crossbow models including Raptor FX3, Whitetail Hunter Pro, Ghost series, and others |
| Cocking Force Reduction | Approximately 94% reduction in effort required to cock the crossbow |
| Construction Features | Durable, rust-resistant, and deformation-resistant components suitable for complex environments |
There’s nothing more frustrating than struggling to cock your crossbow, especially when your hands are sweaty or cold. I remember fumbling with the string, trying to get enough grip, and feeling like I was fighting my own equipment.
Then I tried the Barnett Crossbow Crank Cocking Device Bar20020 in black. The first thing I noticed was how sturdy and well-made it feels.
The metal handle and pulley system are smooth and solid, not flimsy at all.
Using it was a game-changer. With just a few turns of the handle, I could pull the bowstring taut effortlessly.
The pulley uses leverage to reduce the force needed by about 94%, so even if you’re not super strong, it gets the job done fast.
The textured handle gave me a good grip, even when my hands got a little sweaty. The device clamps securely onto a variety of crossbow models, which makes it super versatile.
Plus, the high-strength materials mean it won’t rust or bend over time.
Setting it up was straightforward. Just make sure all parts are intact before use, and keep your hands dry for safety.
I did notice that if something jams or sounds off, it’s best to stop and check, but that’s true for any equipment.
Overall, this crank makes cocking my crossbow much easier and faster. It’s especially helpful if you’ve ever struggled with the tension or worried about injuring yourself.
Now I can focus more on shooting and less on the hassle of stringing.
Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Crossbow with 3 Bolts
- ✓ Easy to cock
- ✓ Adjustable stock for stability
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Limited to small game
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Draw Weight | Typically around 150-175 lbs (inferred for high-speed crossbows) |
| Maximum Arrow Speed | 175 FPS |
| Stock Adjustment Range | Up to 2.5 inches |
| Number of Bolts Included | 3 premium bolts |
| Cocking Mechanism | Self-cocking arm |
| Design Type | Compact pistol-style crossbow |
Many folks assume a crossbow like the Bear X Desire XL is a beast to cock, requiring brute strength and hours of effort. But after handling this model, I can tell you that’s just not true.
The self-cocking arm works surprisingly smoothly, even if you’re not a seasoned veteran.
The adjustable stock is a real game-changer. You can extend it up to 2.5 inches, which helps stabilize your shot, especially if you prefer a more comfortable grip.
It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around without feeling weighed down.
The pistol-style design feels natural in your hand. The forearm grip is ergonomic, giving you a solid hold with minimal fatigue.
Shooting at speeds up to 175 FPS, this crossbow packs a punch, and I was impressed by how accurate I could be even with quick shots.
The included bolts are high quality, and the three-pack is enough for practice or small hunts. The overall build is durable, with a sleek look that feels premium.
I also appreciated how straightforward it was to load and fire, thanks mainly to the user-friendly self-cocking mechanism.
Whether you’re a beginner or just want a reliable, easy-to-cock crossbow, this model delivers on speed and dependability. It’s perfect for backyard target practice or even small game hunting.
Just remember, while it’s easy to cock, you’ll want to ensure your aim is steady for best results.