While many people think of a rifle when they need a survival weapon, it turns out that a crossbow would make an ideal weapon for both self-defense and hunting, at least in certain conditions. A pistol crossbow can be bought for under $100 and will provide you with with some essential tools for your survival kit. These bows are designed to be fired from the shoulder like a pistol. The trigger is like a normal bow string trigger; it has no special safety features like a laser sight or silencer. However, since these devices are only loaded with rubber balls or plastic pellets, the risk of injury when firing them into something is very low. This type of bow is best used for hunting small game animals or training pets. Since they are not intended for long-range shooting, they do not require a permit to purchase or carry. Pistol crossbows are easy to use and maintain and can be customized with different colors and designs. They also stand up well against moisture and dust since they are made of plastic and metal, instead of wood. People who want a reliable weapon for home defense may want to consider buying a pistol crossbow. They are not as common as other weapons, but they are available where regular bows can be purchased.