I have to use the crank aid and it takes all the work out of it once you get used to the contraption you can reload fairly quickly it also makes servicing the bow a breeze the best place to get the crank is from Dan Miller the price is right don't overlook the Equinox the only problem I have with mine is stopping the arrows I use a Morrel bag and if you happen to hit close to the same hole 3 shots you will get some serious penetration you should try to find and at least hold the bow youwant to buy my first one didn't fit and had to slide my face way back on the stock the Equinox just comes up and you are on the target