A crossbow is a mechanical weapon that uses the principle of operation of a bow, which is mounted on a body similar to that of a pistol or rifle. The body of a crossbow can be made primarily of wood, hard plastic, fiberglass, or metal. The crossbow generally uses shorter bolts than the bow. Crossbows, unlike bows, can have a draw weight of over 200 lbs. Of course, such strong crossbows can no longer be cocked with bare hands, but with the help of cocking ropes or crank cocking devices.