Horton makes a new cocking rope just like Excal's. They used to have one that wasa strap style that worked, never tried it, but it looked awkward. Then they came out with one just like Excal's version. But if you or your dad want to try it you should get the one by Horton, not Excal. The Excal's will work on a Horton, but can hit the Dial-A-Range or safety while cocking. Horton's new one has tabs on it and a spacer on the back that keeps the hooks from hitting the Safety and D-A-R as you use it. Wal-Mart sells it for 23 bucks I think and glad I got it for Dad. You would like it even if you don't really need it, keeps the string centered so you don't have to worry about cocking it straight.