I actually didn't get the crank. I am going to experiment with manually cocking it against the tree. I think it may not be so difficult..sort of like doing a seated row. I will let you know how it works out. I am still waiting for my first saddle to come in the mail so my learning curve into this upcoming season is going to be steep..fortunately I will now have an additional 9 weeks to add to my hunting season due to my archery tag. Admittedly, I have been a real "dub" for the past couple of seasons but this coming season I am putting a lot of effort into learning, scouting, prepping..it's gonna be a good year, I can feel it.