Shooting a compact Steambow AR-Series crossbow, assuming no limb upgrades, means you’re either shooting a 35-lb Compact, a 55-lb Tactical or Survival, or you’ve got the 75-lb M10 Tactical. In the context of long-range, we’re going to talk in terms of distances between 30-60 meters. Rather than repeating that list of models each time, let’s assume all this is done with the AR-6 Tactical unless stated otherwise. Its standard 55-lb draw weight is adequate for the task, and the Tactical Lower’s shoulder stock adds the stability that you’d lack with the Compact’s pistol configuration.
60 meters might not sound like much but when your target is out at that distance, it can look intimidatingly small and hard to hit—there are specific factors that any crossbow enthusiast should keep in mind to ensure safety, accuracy, and efficiency. This blog will walk you through the main considerations of long-range crossbow shooting, essential skills to master, and the best aiming systems for these goals. This also works on the premise that anyone thinking of applying what they read here has access to a suitable place to shoot that will be safe for them and others.
Know your skill level and work accordingly
One of the primary challenges of using an AR-6 Tactical crossbow at distances beyond 40 meters is power drop-off. Due to the relatively low draw weight (compared to some of the full-size 400-lb draw behemoths out there), the arrows lose speed and energy rapidly, resulting in a noticeable drop, starting to be felt beyond 30 meters. This drop requires you to aim higher at longer distances, and misjudgments can lead to large misses. You might be off your point of aim by two centimeters at 15 meters. But follow that deviation out to 60 and it’s quite a bit more. And that is assuming you escape the influence of the wind.
As mentioned above, always shoot in a controlled environment with a reliable backstop, as arrows may miss the target or even bounce back if the target material is too hard. This should not be a problem for Steambow’s targets, though. Regular crossbow maintenance is also critical; check your string, limbs, and arrows, especially before longer shots, since anything misaligned in the bow, or any damage to an arrow could lead to inaccuracy that magnifies with every additional meter traveled. Choose arrows that are well-suited to your crossbow’s power level: heavier bolts offer stability over long distances but may experience more drop, while lighter bolts may be less stable in windy conditions. It’s a game of compromise, as with most pursuits.
Essential Skills for Crossbow Accuracy
Achieving accuracy at 40 to 60 meters requires mastering a few fundamental skills. First, it’s crucial to understand your bolt’s trajectory and drop-off. The bolt’s arc will be more pronounced at longer distances, so spend time learning how high to aim based on distance. A good way to do this is by marking known distances and practicing shots, noting how much you need to adjust your aim.
Equally important is learning to read and adjust for wind. Crossbow bolts, especially at lower speeds, are more affected by wind, which can easily push them off course. Practicing in various weather conditions will help you develop this skill. Consistency in your stance, grip, and trigger technique is also essential—any variation can lead to large inaccuracies at these ranges. Finally, range markers or using a rangefinder is critical, as misjudging even by a few meters can throw off your shot considerably. Once you get experienced you will be able to judge distances by eye but, until then, why add that extra hurdle?
Choosing the Right Aiming System
When it comes to choosing an aiming system for long-range shooting, crossbow-specific scopes with multi-reticle options are among the best choices. These scopes often have multiple aiming points or drop-compensation marks, which allow you to adjust for bolt drop at longer distances, once it has been zeroed at a given distance. Steambow’s own 4x32 scope does exactly this. However, to mount a scope, you should really consider getting a scope rail adaptor.
One is a rail that bolts down in the place of the AR-6 magazine, effectively turning the Tactical into a Survival. Otherwise, there is a picatinny magazine lid that you can put on the AR-6 upper. The only thing to bear in mind is that the lid is a hinged, moving part. That means a degree of play, even when closed: not a big concern at close ranges, but a way bigger one when shooting far!
While red dot sights are popular for short-range crossbow shooting, they are generally less effective for shots over 40 meters, as they lack magnification and distance calibration. Indeed, unless you buy a redo-dot with a very fine illumination point, the dot can actually obliterate the target from view if it is very far away. The smart message here is that if you want to shoot out to those longer distances (50 meters and beyond, you should consider one of the two scope mounting options and a suitable crossbow scope such as Steambow’s own.
Final Thoughts
Shooting a compact 55-lb AR-6 Tactical crossbow at long range is all about understanding your crossbow’s unique trajectory, practicing in varied conditions, and having the right aiming equipment. Start close, get familiar, and work your way further back. Going for 50 meters right from the start will almost certainly result in lost arrows and, as has already been said in Steambow's blogs: whatever you end up hitting, an arrow shot from your crossbow is your responsibility.
With the right combination of skill, preparation, and scope, you’ll be able to improve your long-range accuracy and make the most of your crossbow shooting experience. Stay safe, practice consistently, and enjoy the rewarding challenge of long-range crossbow shooting.
