The trigger mechanism on your crossbow can be re-cocked to free the crossbow string from the DFI (Dry-Fire-Inhibitor) and reset the string onto the string latch.  The exact method for freeing the string depends on the type of cocking mechanism you are using and the crossbow model that you have.  Please see the specific cocking mechanism and/or bow model type below for instructions. 

NOTE:  After re-cocking your crossbow and taking a shot, inspect the condition of the center serving on the bowstring.  If you see any strands broken in the bowstring or in the center serving, have the string and cables replaced on the crossbow prior to shooting again. 

If you cock your crossbow manually, please see video “STUCK ON DFI – Manual Remedy”.

If you cock your crossbow with an ACUdraw 50 or ACU52, please see video “STUCK ON DFI – ACUdraw 50/ACU52 Remedy”.

If you cock your crossbow with an ACUdraw and you have a reverse-draw crossbow, please see video “STUCK ON DFI – ACUdraw Remedy for RDX Crossbows”.

If you cock your crossbow with an ACUdraw and you have a forward-draw crossbow, please see video “STUCK ON DFI – ACUdraw Remedy for Forward Draw Crossbows”. 

If you cock your crossbow with a Dedd Sled 50 and you have a reverse-draw crossbow, please see video “STUCK ON DFI – Dedd Sled 50 Remedy for RDX Crossbows”. 

If you cock your crossbow with an ACUslide:

When the trigger box securely latches to the bowstring, the safety knob will move from “F” (FIRE) to “S” (SAFE).  You should see this movement and hear a “click” when you push down on the charging handle to secure the trigger box to the bowstring.  If you skipped this step in the cocking process, the bowstring is likely not engaged with the string latch and is being held by the DFI.

To correct this condition, point the crossbow downward, resting the front of the crossbow on the ground, and hold the buttstock with your left hand.

Remove the crank handle from the stock, push in on the handle’s release button with your index finger, and insert it into the cocking device’s square recess hole. 

Once the crank handle is attached, pull back on the crank handle knob to extend the handle to its full length.

Next, turn the crank handle forward (clockwise) approximately 2-3 full turns – just enough to remove the tension on the trigger lock-latch.

Use your left index finger or thumb to press down on the trigger lock-latch.  As soon as the trigger lock-latch releases, start to backwind (counterclockwise) to lower the trigger box down the barrel.  Once the trigger box is released, place your left hand back on the rear of the buttstock to securely hold the crossbow while you continue to lower the trigger.  NOTE:  Do not continue to push down on the trigger lock-latch button while de-cocking. 

Once the tension is removed from the strap, firmly push down on the charging handle located on the left side of the trigger box to attach it securely to the string.  You should see the safety knob move from the “F” (FIRE) position to the “S” (SAFE) position and hear a “click”.  The bowstring is now engaged by the string latch.  From here, follow the additional steps to complete the cocking process.