Introduction
Is your Parker crossbow causing problems right in the middle of hunting season? That doesn’t seem like an ideal situation. It might shoot out erratic arrows, or worse, not fire at all!
No matter how much of a veteran you are, you’re bound to come across tuning problems. The Thunderhawk from Parker is one of the crossbows that are prone to these.
So how do you troubleshoot Parker Thunderhawk problems?
If you’re facing a no-fire situation, the anti-dry-fire mechanism might be enabled. Or, it could be the metal retention spring. In case of erratic shots, the front gear or arrows might need some tuning. If they’re not the root of the problem, it could be your scope.
Now, this can be a little vague for you. We’ve got the details in our article, so keep on reading!
2 Common Parker Thunderhawk Problems
People facing problems with the Thunderhawk are very common. There are even some asking if there’s anyone who has not faced some. Even speaking generally, crossbows like Parker’s and Ravin’s are good but problematic.
So, don’t be too anxious if your Parker or Ravin crossbow isn’t working properly.
Let’s get down to business. Here’s how to solve the most encountered problems with the Parker Thunderhawk.
No-fire Problem
This is one of the most common in Parker bows. Specifically due to their anti-dry-fire mechanism. Except for that, it might occur if the metal retention spring is bent too far.
In models previous to 2009, the retention spring in Parker bows is made of metal. With use, the retention spring tends to bend outwards. That results in a lack of pressure on the arrow. In that case, the bow will think there isn’t any arrow, so it won’t fire. In fact, if you pull the trigger in this situation, it will engage the anti-dry-fire mechanism.
To go around this situation, first bend the retention spring to the proper degree. Make sure it puts enough pressure on the arrow.
Now, you’ll have to disengage the anti-dry-fire mechanism. In fact, this can become enabled if you try to fire without an arrow. Or even when your bow mistakes into thinking you’re doing so.
This happens a lot in Parker bows. So, if you’re not up for the trouble, you should consider buying another bow. For example, you could choose between Bowtech or Hoyt bows.
To disengage the mechanism, you’ve to pull the string backward. We recommend using a rope cocker for this. On that note, here are some you can use-
Once you’ve got your hands on the rope cocker, attach it to both sides of the string. Position your bow facing down horizontally on the ground. Put your foot through the stirrup and step down.
Now, pull the cocker upwards. You’ll hear a soft click and it should be done. Make sure to have the safety lever down, the safe position, while doing this.
After you’re done, dock your arrow, push the safety lever up, and shoot!
Erratic Flight Problem
This happens when there are some tuning mistakes in your bow. It can also happen if your arrow is not properly tuned.
You should first check your arrow if the groove is in perfect position. The groove should not be in line with any of the feathers on the arrow. It should be perpendicular to the odd color feather. That is, the groove should be 90 degrees to the feather that faces down.
Which arrows you’re using also makes a difference. Not all arrows go with all crossbows. The Parker crossbows specifically prefer two brands of arrows. They are either their own Parker arrows or RedHot arrows.
If there are no problems regarding your arrows, it might be your crossbow. The front gear or scope might be the issue. Or maybe you’re mishandling some parts. Such as, if you don’t know how to use a quiver. In this case, you should search up any part of the bow you’re not sure about.
As for the gears, you should tighten the screws on them before every hunt. Don’t overtighten them, but don’t let them be loose. The jerking of the crossbow is enough to loosen them. So make sure to tighten them often. That should be enough to ensure straight and accurate shots.
So these were the common Parker Thunderhawk problems. We hope you found this guide helpful!
FAQs
Question: I am pulling the string but can’t disengage the Anti Dry-fire mechanism. What should I do?
Answer: It might be because you’re pulling it in the wrong direction. If you’re pulling toward your body or chest, it won’t work. Pull towards where your pants’ pockets would be. You should be able to hear the click soon.
Question: The safety lever is jammed. How do I get it right?
Answer: It might be because there are foreign objects inside the mechanism. Lightly tap the lever with a blunt hard object to move it to fire position. If you hear a scratchy noise, there’s dirt inside. Disassemble the entire trigger mechanism to clean. Or spray compressed air to get the dirt out of the whole mechanism.
Question: I can’t cock the crossbow. What’s wrong?
Answer: This is because your trigger latch is down. It has a very simple fix. You need something small to fit into and push the Anti Dry-fire inhibitor. For example, a pencil. Push it down and pull the safety lever up. Pull the trigger once and the trigger latch should be up again.
Question: My cables tend to tear up frequently. How do I prevent that?
Answer: You should make sure the cable slider is installed. Moreover, use cable wax on the cables regularly to lower the friction. This will extend your cable’s life by a lot.
EndNote
Hola! Hopefully, you’ve fixed your Parker Thunderhawk problems by now. Make sure to take proper care of your crossbow and its gears. That will save you from future problems.
Especially since Parker has decided to close their doors. You don’t want to land up with major problems.
Hope you have a good harvest in your hunting today!
