What should never be done when using a crossbow in an elevated position?

When using a crossbow in an elevated position, it is crucial to never cock the crossbow while in that position. Cocking a crossbow involves pulling back the string to prepare it for firing, which can be dangerous when elevated. This action increases the risk of accidental discharge or injury due to the instability often associated with elevated locations.

For instance, if the crossbow slips or is improperly secured while being cocked, it could lead to a serious accident, either by the projectile being released unintentionally or by the user losing control. Therefore, safety protocols emphasize that cocking should be done securely and ideally in a controlled environment, not while in an elevated stance where balance and safety are harder to maintain.

Other actions, like bracing or checking the safety, can generally be performed in a more secure manner, and dry-firing may be discouraged for different reasons, such as damaging the equipment, but specific attention to the dangers of cocking the crossbow while elevated is critical for safety.