US Patent 7997258 Crossbow stock having lower floating rail

A crossbow has a riser, flexible limbs, a bowstring extending between the tips of the limbs for propelling an arrow, and an elongated frame extending from the riser. A bowstring release proximate the rear end of the elongated frame includes a trigger for releasing the bowstring, and firing an arrow. A first grip is disposed proximate to the trigger for being grasped by the user's first hand. A “Picatinny” type support rail extends along and below the elongated frame, secured at its rearmost end to the elongated frame, but otherwise spaced therefrom. The support rail can receive fore-grips, a bi-pod, or can be rested against a support surface to help steady the crossbow during firing.