How to Store and Transport a Crossbow Safely
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In this article
- The golden rule: always uncocked
- Everyday storage between sessions
- Off-season storage checklist
- Soft case vs. hard case
- Transporting by vehicle
- Flying with a crossbow
- FENJANER Padded Soft Crossbow Case
- Frequently asked questions
- Can I store my crossbow cocked?
- Where is the best place to store a crossbow?
- Does a crossbow have to be cased in the car?
- Can I take a crossbow on a plane?
A crossbow spends far more time in storage and in the back of a vehicle than it does being shot. How you store and carry it affects its lifespan, its accuracy, and in many places whether you’re within the law. The good news is that the rules are simple. This guide covers safe storage between sessions, off-season storage, and transporting a crossbow by car and by air.
How we put this guide together: These recommendations follow the storage and transport guidance crossbow manufacturers publish in their owner’s manuals, plus general state-law principles. Transport laws vary by state and change over time. Always confirm the current rules with your state wildlife agency, and follow your crossbow’s manual if it differs from anything here.
The golden rule: always uncocked
Never store or transport a cocked crossbow. A cocked crossbow is under constant high tension, which:
- is a serious safety hazard if it is knocked, dropped or handled by someone else;
- puts long-term stress on the limbs, string and cables;
- is illegal to transport in many states.
Uncock at the end of every session, following your manual. Usually that means shooting a decocking bolt into a target; see how to uncock a crossbow.
Everyday storage between sessions
- Cool, dry and stable: avoid damp basements, hot attics and places with big temperature swings. Heat and moisture are hard on strings, limbs and scopes.
- Out of direct sunlight: UV light degrades strings and some synthetic parts over time.
- Lay it flat or hang it so nothing presses on the limbs, cams or scope.
- Secure it: lock crossbows and bolts away from children and untrained people. A lockable cabinet, or a locked hard case, works well.
- Store bolts separately in a quiver or case, with broadheads covered or removed.
Off-season storage checklist
- Uncock the crossbow and remove any bolt from the rail.
- Clean off dirt, moisture and debris, especially from the rail and trigger area.
- Wax the string and cables, and lubricate the rail per your manual (see our maintenance guide).
- Inspect for frayed strands, cracked limbs and loose screws, and fix problems now rather than in September.
- Check that scope caps are on and the scope mounts are tight.
- Store in a padded case or on a rack in a cool, dry, secure spot.
- Before next season, inspect again and re-confirm your zero (see how to sight in a crossbow).
Soft case vs. hard case
| Soft case | Hard case | |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Good against scratches and light knocks | Best against impacts and crushing |
| Weight | Light, easy to carry in the field | Heavier and bulkier |
| Locking | Usually not lockable | Often lockable; required for air travel |
| Best for | Car trips, carrying to the stand | Air travel, long trips, secure storage |
Whatever you choose, make sure the case fits your crossbow’s width and length with the scope mounted. Our crossbow case guide compares the options.
Transporting by vehicle
- Uncocked, always. Many states require it during transport.
- Cased where required. Some states also require a case or cover in vehicles. Rules vary; see our state crossbow regulations guide and confirm with your state wildlife agency.
- Secure it so it can’t slide or fall during braking.
- Don’t leave it in a hot car. High cabin temperatures can harm strings and some components.
- Keep it out of sight when the vehicle is parked.
Flying with a crossbow
Crossbows can generally be transported as checked sporting equipment, but rules are set by your airline and by the security authority, and they change. Before flying:
- Check your airline’s current sporting-equipment policy, and the TSA’s guidance if you’re flying in the US.
- Use a locking hard case, and pack broadheads securely and separately as the airline requires.
- Check the laws at your destination, including any rules on possession and transport.
For car trips and the walk in
FENJANER Padded Soft Crossbow Case
A padded soft case for everyday transport. It isn’t lockable, so use a locking hard case for air travel or wherever a lock is required.
- Padded, thick Oxford fabric
- Listed size 38.5″ × 27″ × 6.7″
- Adjustable shoulder straps and an accessory pocket
- Soft case: not lockable; check it fits your bow
Details above are from the seller’s Amazon listing (checked October 2026). Specs and price can change, so confirm on Amazon before you buy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I store my crossbow cocked?
No. Storing a crossbow cocked is unsafe and stresses the limbs and string. Uncock it at the end of every session.
Where is the best place to store a crossbow?
A cool, dry, secure place out of direct sunlight, such as a locked cabinet or a case in a climate-controlled room, away from children.
Does a crossbow have to be cased in the car?
It depends on your state. Many require crossbows to be uncocked during transport, and some also require a case. Check with your state wildlife agency.
Can I take a crossbow on a plane?
Usually as checked sporting equipment in a locked hard case, but airline and security rules vary and change. Check with your airline before you travel.
