Crossbow cocking can be a strenuous task, especially for longer sessions or for shooters with limited strength. Crank cocking devices reduce draw resistance, improve accuracy by promoting consistent string alignment, and help keep shooters in the field longer. This guide reviews five top crank cocking devices from trusted brands, spanning Barnett, CenterPoint, TenPoint, and Excalibur. Each option is designed to attach to the stock, lower physical strain, and deliver reliable draw performance so you can focus on shooting accuracy.
| Product | Brand | Draw Reduction | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barnett Crank Cocking Device Standard | BARNETT | Up to 93% reduction | Raptor FX3 MO Brush, Raptor Pro STR, Whitetail Hunter Pro FX, and more |
| Barnett Crank Cocking Device Explorer XP | BARNETT | Up to 93% reduction | Explorer Series: Explorer XP, Expedition XP Stocks, and related models |
| CenterPoint AXCCRANK Power Draw | CenterPoint | Reduces draw weight up to 70% | Ambidextrous mounting for versatile use |
| TenPoint ACUdraw Cocking Device | TenPoint | 5 pounds of draw force | Built into stock; compatible with Wicked Ridge adapters |
| Excalibur Charger EXT Crank Cocking Aid | Excalibur | As low as 12 pounds draw with crank assist | Ambidextrous, quick-detach system for Excalibur crossbows |
Barnett Crank Cocking Device Standard
The Barnett Crank Cocking Device Standard offers ambidextrous operation and a simple installation that attaches to the crossbow stock. It is designed to reduce cocking resistance by up to 93%, with the cranking handle enabling the string to draw back using about 13 pounds of force. This model is compatible with multiple Barnett lines, including popular Raptor, Whitetail, and Razr families, making it a versatile option for many Barnett crossbows. The hook-style mechanism and sturdy construction emphasize reliable performance in field conditions.
Barnett Crank Cocking Device Explorer XP
The Explorer XP version is designed for Barnett’s Explorer series, with an easy-install approach that reduces cocking resistance by up to 93%. The hook-style cranking device uses a user-friendly handle to draw the string back with about 13 pounds of force. It’s built to fit Explorer XP, Expedition XP Stocks, and related Barnett crossbows, delivering enhanced maneuverability and quicker readiness for follow-up shots in dense hunting environments.
CenterPoint AXCCRANK Power Draw
CenterPoint’s AXCCRANK Power Draw features a unique mounting system that makes it easy to install and remove in the field. It is ambidextrous, supporting both left- and right-handed users, and it reduces draw weight by up to 70% with a crank mechanism that simplifies the action of drawing. This model is designed to simplify field use for CenterPoint crossbows, and its compact construction helps maintain balance during hunting scenarios.
Upgraded Crossbow Crank Cocking Device (Barnett Compatible)
This upgraded crank cocking device claims a 94% reduction in cocking resistance, using a metal crank arm, high-strength rope, and a durable fixing device to firmly attach to Barnett crossbows. The design emphasizes corrosion resistance and robust construction, with a frosted handle surface that improves grip and reduces slippage. The device leverages a pulley system to translate force from the handle into smooth, controlled string drawing, improving cocking speed and accessibility for a wider range of users.
TenPoint ACUdraw Cocking Device
The TenPoint ACUdraw Cocking Device is built into the stock, offering a built-in, lightweight solution that avoids the bulk of external clamps. It dramatically lowers cocking force to 5 pounds, enabling hunters of all ages and abilities to cock quickly and safely. The integrated design reduces the risk of cocking errors and ensures consistent string alignment for accurate shots, with a focus on ease of use and reliability in the field.
Excalibur Charger EXT Crank Cocking Aid
Excalibur’s Charger EXT is designed for ambidextrous use with a quick-detach system that lets hunters mount or remove the cocking aid rapidly. It delivers quiet, smooth cocking with a draw force as low as 12 pounds, helping maintain string alignment and reducing the effort needed to draw the bow. The compact, durable construction suits Excalibur crossbows well and supports reliable performance in varied hunting conditions.
Excalibur Charger Lite Crank
Excalibur’s Charger Lite offers a versatile, ambidextrous crank cocking approach designed for quick and quiet cocking across Excalibur crossbows. While the product description emphasizes reduced effort and consistent string alignment, it does not always publish a fixed draw-weight figure, focusing instead on reliable performance and portability for rapid field use and simple maintenance during hunts.
Buying Guide
- Compatibility and model coverage: Verify that the crank cocking device supports your crossbow’s make and model. Some devices are designed for specific series (for example, Barnett Explorer or Excalibur lines) and may not fit all crossbows without adapters.
- Draw reduction and force requirements: Compare the available draw reductions and measured forces. Devices offering single-digit-pound draws (such as 5 pounds) can dramatically improve accessibility for all ages, while higher percentages (70–93%) indicate substantial relief for heavier draw weights.
- Installation and ambidexterity: Consider whether the device is ambidextrous and how easy it is to install. Integrated stock solutions like TenPoint ACUdraw minimize extra hardware, while hook-style or pulley-based systems may require more setup but offer broad compatibility.
- Attachment method and ease of removal: Quick-detach or easy-on/easy-off designs are advantageous if you switch targets, transport, or store your crossbow frequently. Quick release systems reduce downtime between shots or outings.
- Build quality and materials: Look for corrosion-resistant metal components, frosted or textured handles for grip, and robust fixing devices. Durability matters for field use and exposure to humidity, dust, and temperature changes.
- Portability and weight: Some crank devices add noticeable weight; others are compact and integrated. If you hike into blinds or move through thick brush, a lighter option may improve overall handling and balance.
- Maintenance and reliability: A device should perform consistently under varying temperatures and conditions. Check for simple maintenance steps, ease of cleaning, and availability of replacement parts or spare ropes and pulleys.
- Price and value: Weigh the cost against the draw-reduction benefit, compatibility, and build quality. A higher upfront price may be warranted by better durability and longer service life, especially for frequent users.
- Use case and skill level: For beginners, built-in or easy-install crank devices can help accelerate learning and ensure safe, repeatable cocking. More advanced users might prioritize range of models and compatibility with multiple crossbows.
In selecting a crank cocking device, prioritize model compatibility with your crossbow, the amount of draw reduction, and how the device integrates with your shooting workflow. Built-in models reduce clutter and setup time, while externally mounted devices may offer broader compatibility across brands. Ambidextrous designs ensure accessibility for all shooters, and reliable materials support longevity in field conditions. By balancing these factors, you can choose a crank cocking device that improves safety, efficiency, and accuracy during hunting or target practice.