Surviving the cannibal-infested wilderness of Sons of the Forest requires players to constantly upgrade their defensive tools and ranged arsenal. Among the most effective silent options available on the island is the high-powered crossbow, which offers high stopping power without alerting nearby patrols. Securing this prized firearm alternative demands preparation, specific keycards, and a journey into the dangerous underground bunker networks.
Prerequisites for Finding the Crossbow
Before you can safely navigate to the weapon's resting place, you must obtain a few key items first. Specifically, players need to secure the Maintenance A Keycard, which is required to unlock the sealed doors deep within the cave network. Attempting to reach the location without this clearance will only result in a wasted journey and unnecessary encounters with dangerous mutants.
It is highly recommended to bring a reliable light source, such as a flashlight, and plenty of healing supplies before heading underground. The bunkers are notoriously dark and tightly packed with aggressive enemies that can quickly overwhelm unprepared survivors. Once your inventory is fully stocked and your gear is organized, you can confidently set off toward the northwestern quadrant of the map.
Exact Location of the Supply Bunker
The crossbow is tucked away inside an underground hydroponics facility situated in the northwestern area of the island. On your GPS tracker, this location appears as a green point of interest surrounded by dense vegetation and rock formations. Look for a small, inconspicuous cave opening that serves as the main point of entry down into the structure.
After entering the cave mouth, descend the narrow tunnels until you reach a ladder leading down into a modern maintenance corridor. Follow the hallway forward until you encounter a locked security door that requires the Maintenance Keycard to pass. Swiping your card grants access to the modern rooms where the valuable gear and various crafting components are stored.
Navigating the Hydroponics Rooms
Once inside the facility, you will pass through several rooms filled with flooded plantation shelves and growing equipment. Move cautiously through these zones, as multiple blind mutants frequently patrol the tight spaces between the shelves. Clearing these threats systematically allows for a much safer exploration process as you search the surrounding tables.
Continue moving straight past the second room until you reach a series of back storage spaces. The weapon is located in one of the rear chambers, neatly resting alongside a corpse leaning against a shelf. Be sure to carefully search the immediate vicinity, as you can also find a collection of specialized bolts scattered around the floor.
Crossbow Performance and Bolt Recovery
The crossbow serves as a significant upgrade over the standard crafted bow, providing a built-in aiming sight for more consistent headshots. Its high damage output makes it comparable to late-game firearms, allowing players to drop targets cleanly from a distance. The silent nature of the weapon ensures that you can thin out enemy camps without triggering an island-wide panic.
The main drawback is its relatively slow reload animation, which leaves you temporarily vulnerable during chaotic skirmishes. Additionally, the weapon utilizes dedicated bolts that cannot be crafted out of simple sticks and stones like regular arrows. Fortunately, these bolts can often be recovered directly from the bodies of fallen enemies after a successful combat encounter.
