great list for everyone to follow. Of course there are folks that do it different and so be it. And then there might be safeties build in by some manufacturers and others may have a cocking device that allows its use for de-cocking. However: Basics are basic and if anyone will ask a x-bow hunter / user ever to handle an unfamiliar bow it will serve well to remember the basics listed! That bow may not have the "stuff" ones own bow has ... Great tips and always "on the money"!