The One Time Use Decocking Arrow Made a Bold First Impression
The One Time Use Decocking Arrow from ALLEN promised a safe and easy way to unload my crossbow, a task that always made me slightly uneasy. I’ve used various methods over the years, from dedicated discharge targets to carefully aimed shots into the ground. However, none felt quite as controlled or damage-free as the idea behind a dedicated decocking arrow.
My compound bow served me well for deer season, but the crossbow’s power and accuracy is unparalleled. Its string tension is no joke, though, and improper unloading can damage the bow or, worse, cause injury. The allure of a specialized arrow designed for this sole purpose was strong.
Unboxing the ALLEN CROSSBOW DECOCKING ARROW, my initial thought was its simplicity. It looks like a standard arrow, but with a clearly designed, blunt, impact-absorbing head. The build quality seemed decent, though undeniably basic considering its limited lifespan.
Compared to shooting the bolt into a worn-out target (my previous solution), this felt much more deliberate and safe. The alternatives felt haphazard and potentially damaging to the bow or the target. This product promised a specialized solution.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if this single-use arrow would live up to its promise of safe and controlled decocking, or if it would become another piece of forgotten gear in my hunting shed. At $15.49 a pop, it needed to deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting One Time Use Decocking Arrow to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the One Time Use Decocking Arrow at my backyard range, a familiar and controlled environment. I felt this was the best place for initial trials. The weather was dry and mild, ideal conditions for a straightforward test.
The arrow was incredibly easy to use. I simply loaded it into my crossbow, aimed at a soft patch of ground, and fired. The impact was significant. The arrow buried itself deeply, but more importantly, the crossbow was safely decocked.
My only concern after the first use was the arrow’s condition. While it served its purpose, the impact clearly took its toll. It was bent and the fletching was partially damaged.
Extended Use & Reliability
“Extended Use” is a bit of a misnomer for the One Time Use Decocking Arrow, since it’s designed for one shot only. That’s its primary appeal. I can, however, comment on the implications of needing multiple such arrows throughout a season.
Durability, in the traditional sense, isn’t relevant. Its single shot durability is sufficient to decock the crossbow, though it showed signs of significant impact. The key is responsible disposal after use.
Maintenance is non-existent. You use it once, retrieve it (if possible), and discard it. Given my first experience, I’d say its usefulness is more about convenience and peace of mind than long-term reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of One Time Use Decocking Arrow
Specifications
The ALLEN CROSSBOW DECOCKING ARROWS have simple specifications. It is a single crossbow bolt. It is meant to stop the draw on a crossbow.
These specifications matter because they define the arrow’s very purpose. It is not a target arrow, but a dedicated decocking tool, and its features must facilitate that function.
Performance & Functionality
The One Time Use Decocking Arrow performs its primary function adequately. It safely decocked my crossbow without damaging the string or limbs. The question is whether this level of functionality justifies the cost and waste.
Its strength lies in its simplicity. There is no learning curve. Its weakness is its limited, single-use nature.
The product meets its fundamental expectation of decocking a crossbow. The damage to the arrow after use does raise concerns about potential inconsistencies in performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The One Time Use Decocking Arrow’s build quality is functional but basic. The materials appear to be standard arrow components (shaft, fletching, nock) with a specialized blunt tip.
The weight feels similar to other crossbow arrows I’ve used. The design is straightforward and user-friendly. There’s no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The One Time Use Decocking Arrow’s lifespan is explicitly one shot. The design is not intended to be repaired or reused.
Maintenance is irrelevant. Discard the arrow responsibly after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The One Time Use Decocking Arrow does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available or intended.
It is not compatible with aftermarket accessories beyond perhaps replacing the nock, which is unlikely to be necessary. Its core function dictates a single-use design.
Pros and Cons of One Time Use Decocking Arrow
Pros
- Provides a safe and controlled way to decock a crossbow.
- Simple to use: No learning curve or special skills required.
- Offers peace of mind knowing you’re using a dedicated tool.
- Reduces the risk of damage to the crossbow compared to other methods.
- Offers an additional option to using a discharge target or worn block.
Cons
- Single-use design creates waste and ongoing expense.
- Arrow sustains damage upon impact, making reuse impossible.
- Potentially less economical than using a discharge target.
Who Should Buy One Time Use Decocking Arrow?
Perfect for: Crossbow hunters and target shooters who prioritize safety and convenience above all else, and who are willing to accept the cost and waste associated with a single-use product.
Who should skip this product? Hunters and shooters who are budget-conscious, environmentally aware, or prefer to use existing equipment for multiple purposes.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None. Its single-use nature eliminates the need for accessories.
Conclusion on One Time Use Decocking Arrow
The One Time Use Decocking Arrow delivers on its promise of providing a safe and controlled method for unloading a crossbow. The price of $15.49 per arrow feels steep considering its single-use nature and the damage sustained upon impact.
Whether the price is justified depends entirely on individual priorities. If safety and convenience are paramount, it may be a worthwhile investment.
I would cautiously recommend the One Time Use Decocking Arrow to those who value peace of mind and are willing to overlook its limitations. I would, however, also encourage exploring alternative decocking methods like a discharge target.