Before you match your top performing crossbow with a new rest, you might want to do a little research on these. 

While crossbow rests are a great option for hunters, they are not for everyone. Additionally, you need to make sure you pick up the best one that matches your own hunting style.

The information listed below is going to be your one stop source for everything you need to know about crossbow shooting rests.

Purpose Of A Crossbow Shooting Rest

The main purpose of a crossbow shooting rest is help with stability and improve accuracy when shooting a crossbow.

Outside of this, and depending on the design, these rests and/or sticks allow hunters to keep their crossbow in a position that's quick and easy to access.

While many of today's crossbows are very light, there are a few models that remain somewhat heavy, and a good and sturdy rest might be a requirement to land that perfect shot.

Different Types Of Crossbow Shooting Rests & Sticks

Check out the different types of crossbow rests below:

1. Tripod Rest

Tripod crossbow rests contain three legs and are the most stable when it comes to mobile rest options. Some of the rests are built for those that hunt from a sitting position, while others are made strictly for those standing up. Of course, if possible you might want to search one that encompasses all height options. 

2. Monopod Rest

Monopod rests contain only one leg and do sacrifice some stability when it comes to shooting your crossbow. While you might sacrifice a little stability, you gain mobility with this choice. A monopod rest is great for anyone that prefers spot and stalk hunting, and even those that hunt from a blind or treestand.

3. Hip Rest

Similar to a monopod rest, there's a slightly varied option that hunters refer to as a hip rest. These are monopod style sticks that hold the crossbow steady with the anchor point being the hunter's hip. While these are the least stable, they do allow hunters to get off a quick shot with ease. 

4. Blind/Treestand Attachment Rest

Last but not least is a blind/treestand attached crossbow rest. If you're a hunter that routinely hunts from one of these locations, and you're looking for the ultimate support system, I would highly recommend these.

The main thing to keep in mind here is safety and how well the rest attaches to your blind or treestand. Many top treestand brands manufacture their own rests to fit perfectly to their most popular models. 

Types of Crossbow Rests

Who Should Avoid A Crossbow Rest

Crossbow rests are not for everyone and there's a good reason for that. 

If you're out in the woods for extended periods or if you're someone who refuses to practice with a crossbow rest I would recommend avoiding this piece of gear.

For one, crossbow rests can be a bit of pain to carry around for days and days. It's just another piece of hunting equipment you have to pack.

Additionally, if you're not going to practice with these before the season it might ultimately interrupt your shot. Crossbow rests aren't the most complicated thing to use but fumbling around with one of these for the first time in the woods might prove to be problematic.

Crossbow Shooting Rest FAQs

1. Who Makes Crossbow Shooting Rests?

One of the most popular crossbow shooting rest manufacturers is BOG; however, you'll find brands such as Primos, Allen, Ravin, and TenPoint have a few options too.

Final Thoughts On Crossbow Shooting Rests

While traditionalists might scoff, crossbow rests offer undeniable advantages for most shooters. Improved accuracy and stability, especially at longer ranges, are the clear benefits, leading to more ethical and humane harvests.

Rests also reduce fatigue, making longer hunts more manageable, and can accommodate physical limitations that might otherwise hinder crossbow use. However, rests add bulk and weight, potentially hindering mobility, and can introduce points of failure into your setup.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize accuracy and comfort, especially for long-distance shots or with physical limitations, a rest is a valuable addition. But if maneuverability and simplicity are paramount, you might be better off mastering freehand shooting. 

Also, check out our latest blog about the Best TenPoint Crossbows!