Looking for the best crossbow for money? Well then, this review will help you to find the right one. This review will quickly guide you to make an informed decision about which one to choose for your needs. These weapons come in a plethora of sizes and shapes and most essentially, they have various shooting speeds and calibers.
Draw weight and velocity are the two aspects that affect the precision of crossbows. The velocity is the speed of the arrow which travels to hit the target. Hunting needs a velocity of no less than 300 fps if you want to hit the prey.
Otherwise, the prey will run before it reaches the location. The draw weight tells you the power that an arrow can offer. Animals such as deer need bows that pack a punch to take them down.
Overview of 6 Best Crossbows For Hunting
1. Ace Martial Arts Crossbow
Best Overall
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 165
- Net Weight:- 80 LBS
- Strings:- 2
- Arrows Included:- 15
2. Barnett Whitetail Crossbow
Reliable
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 375
- Axle To Axle:- 18.10 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 118 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 2 (22 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 130 LBS
3. Killer Instinct Crossbow
Best Budget
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Microlite Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 405
- Axle To Axle:- 15 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 134 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 220 LBS
4. PSE Archery Crossbow
Premium One
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Fiberglass And Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 380
- Axle To Axle:- 21.5 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 127 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 185 LBS
5. Barnett Crossbow
Smooth Operation
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Lightweight Carbon
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 350
- Axle To Axle:- 16 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 104 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 165 LBS
6. TenPoint Titan Crossbow
Premium One
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Lightweight Carbon
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 370
- Axle To Axle:- 9 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 116 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 180 LBS
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1. Ace Martial Arts Crossbow
Best Overall
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 165
- Net Weight:- 80 LBS
- Strings:- 2
- Arrows Included:- 15
★Why You Read This Crossbow
- Self-Cocking:- The pistol comes with fully equipped self cocking features that are suitable both for archery and practice skills. You can shoot with just one hand.
- Body:- The fiberglass body adds durability to the lightweight design and the extra backup strings and bows of variable sight are also offered.
- Crossbow Pistol:- The pistol-shaped full-sized crossbow includes a groove, bolt, and arrows. You can make use of the pull and the trigger.
- Durable:- It weighs light and is durable, as the product is made from aluminum with metal tops.
- Other Features:- The product includes 15 aluminum arrows and comes with five different combinations. The first with 2 large bows with 80 lb strings. The second one with 3 arrows, the third one with 39 arrows, and the fourth one with 30 arrows and 2 spare strings.
✔ Pros
- Small but powerful
- Pretty powerful pistol
- Powerful between about 15 to 20 feet away
❌ Cons
- Safety was not reliable
- Do not leave the wire for a long time
A crossbow pistol is similar to a full-sized crossbow if you are new to the concept. It comes with a groove where the bolt or arrow is placed, a trigger to pull, and a string to pull back. But the real difficulty lies in the ease of use. This crossbow has a pistol grip enabling it to be fired single-handedly. I liked this as it comes with the novelty, functionality, and excitement of shooting it with just one hand.
The arrow weighs light and is durable, it is made from aluminum with metal tips. It is also nice to have a bow or an extra string if a package that includes those is ordered. The Ace self cocking pistol crossbow is fully equipped to help you practice your archery skills well. It includes a self cocking mechanism and allows you to aim and shoot with one hand free. You just need to pull down the pivoting lever to cock the cable.
It will automatically engage the safety and can shorten the time it takes to reload every time. This enables you to respond quickly and stay agile during hunting. The bow itself comes with an 80 lbs draw weight and it is available in 5 different product combinations. The first one comes with an extra fiberglass bow and 2 large 80 lb strings. It also includes 15 arrows for using it with a crossbow. The second option has three arrows and this is great for pistol bows.
The third option comes with 39 aluminum arrows and a couple of spares with 80 lbs strings. The fourth option is the most inclusive and includes a red dot scope. This can enormously enhance your accuracy and precision when shooting with a pistol cross. This comes with 39 arrows and two spare strings with a draw eight of 80 bs and speeds up to 165 fps.
This weapon feels durable and over time you will feel it. The fiberglass body adds extra durability to an otherwise lightweight design. Also, the brand knows that no crossbow is indestructible. Comes with extra backup strings and bows so that you can be relaxed from natural wear and tear. While pistol crossbows are not for all, they can be a great addition to any expert archer’s collection. It also offers you the freedom of single-handed shooting during hunting or target practice.
2. Barnett Whitetail Crossbow
Reliable
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 375
- Axle To Axle:- 18.10 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 118 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 2 (22 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 130 LBS
★Why You Read This Crossbow
- Lightweight: A fiberglass composite step-thru riser with just a bolt and anti-dry fire trigger for safety purposes is included.
- Speed & Performance:- Specifically made for whitetail and it doesn’t go overboard in terms of velocity. At 375 fps offers satisfying performance.
- Kinetic Energy:- This bow is also compatible with Barnett 17455 crank cocking device. The kinetic energy of feet pounds is 118.6.
- Design:- Mossy Oak Bottomland with a camouflage pattern makes the product a preferred choice for woods. It remains concealed when you approach the prey without being seen.
- Safety:- The anti-dry mechanism makes sure that no accident is caused. When the crossbow, bolt, and cock are placed they get to their place without a glitch.
✔ Pros
- Easy operation
- Hunts light and fast
- Lightweight
- STR reduces the length
❌ Cons
- Only used for hunters
The brand has always been offering hunters the most reliable gear for shooting prey. While this one is a usual choice, it never disappoints you and offers an excellent example of what It can do. It is compact at less than 35 inches in length and 20 inches in width when uncocked. It is lightweight and weighs just 6.6 pounds. If you are a beginner, then this can be an excellent choice.
Various accessories and features make it a reasonable buy. As you are getting a quiver, cocking device, and arrows to be shooting. You will for sure have to consider this if you are an avid whitetail hunter. The Barnett is super durable and you can count on their line. The model is a great investment and reasonably priced. The step-through rise is built with fiberglass and it keeps its weight to a minimum, at 6.6 pounds.
The mossy oak bottomland camouflage pattern makes this model a top choice. When the crossbow is fully cocked, it might look pretty slim. And the camo design remains concealed when you wish to approach the prey without being seen. It is essential to remember that this model is made for whitetail which is why it doesn’t go up in terms of velocity.
This product is perfect for hunting whitetail, at 375 fps and will be able to close the prey when armed with it. This means that from a distance of around 50 yards, you can easily kill hassle-free. The scope offered with It helps some, but never expect it to work wonders. Also, if you want to hunt bigger games, you may want to look closer at other models that are quick and offer better performance.
This specific model comes with various features that make sure you will not fire it accidentally for safety concerns. One of them is the anti-dry fire mechanism that assures you no accident by mistake. It will slide into its designated place when you place the cock and the bolt. Without a glitch, it will slide into its designated place. If you are looking for a heavy-duty option from the same brand then the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II crossbow is highly recommended.
As the model is relatively cost-effective, you cannot expect more like a noise dampener on its construction. The bow can be loud when you release the bolt, so you need to practice a bit and develop your shooting skills before taking it to the woods. It will be delivered to you assembled in most cases, which means you don’t have to put it together. It also takes just 15 minutes to have to be ready to use. Also, the operation is smooth and perfect for beginners and it weighs light.
3. Killer Instinct Crossbow
Best Budget
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Microlite Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 405
- Axle To Axle:- 15 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 134 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 220 LBS
★Why You Read This Crossbow
- Design:- It features a Micro-Lite aluminum barrel that removes excess weight. The half-barrel is aluminum and the bottom is composite.
- Adjustable:- The crossbow is fully adjustable to fit hunters of any size. It also comes with an adjustable 6-position AR-style buttstock. You can increase it between 1/5 inch to 3 inches.
- X-Lok:- There Is also an X-Lok foregrip that can also be adjusted. It provides various holding points. The foregrip also includes a rubber over-mold coating that makes it easy to hold.
- Quiet Shooting:- The crossbow is installed with the dead silent kit that makes the bow very quiet while shooting. Includes string dampeners and limb suppressors that can lessen vibration and noise during the shot.
- Speed:- This has enough power to hunt the biggest game whether it’s elk or whitetail. With a power stroke of 13.25 and a draw weight of 220, the arrow can shoot arrows at a high speed of 405 fps.
✔ Pros
- Hit small & tougher animals
- Comfortably fits
- Incredible POWER & SPEED
❌ Cons
- Not carrying loaded
Another affordable crossbow is completely adjustable for a custom fit. The Killer Instinct can shoot 405 feet per second it Is also enhanced with a microlite aluminum barrel and with a heavy trigger. The brand also released Lethal 405. The pack includes a crossbow, rope cocker, LUMIX 4 X 32 IR – W, 3–bolt quiver, string suppressors, field trips, and hyper lite bolts with a stick of rail lube.
With an overall length of 33.5 inches and an axle-to-axle of 18.75 inches uncocked and 14.75 inches cocked. The bow is super-lighted and comes with a compact narrow frame. It also features a microlite aluminum barrel that removes extra weight, instead of being full aluminum, the bottom is composite and the barrel is all aluminum. The crossbow can also be adjusted completely so it can fit all.
The adjustable 6 positions AR-style butt stock makes the product highly adjustable with 6 positions with 1/5-inch increments. You can also extend it up to three inches. The X-Lok foregrip is also adjustable and it can offer various holding points. It also features a rubber mold coating that makes it easier to hold.
The arrows weigh 220 pounds have a power stroke of 13.25 inches and can shoot with a top speed of 405 fps which delivers 134 lbs KE knockdown power. With this power you can take down a whitetail or elk, also bears with this hard-hitting precision weapon. The arrows are made of dense lightweight carbon with a shaft length of 20 inches and a diameter of 0.348 inches. This crossbow scope has a 4 x 32 illuminated wire reticle scope and you can switch between color illumination.
The scope has various brightness settings and multi-reticles for shooing various yardages up to about 50 yards. To cock the crossbow, pull the 220 pounds. You can also make use of the rope cocker that comes with the package. This device will reduce the pull weight by 50%, so you just have to pull 110 pounds. The bow is also compatible with KI’s SDC dead silent crank which is not included in the package.
The product features a 3.5-pound killer tech trigger that costs more on its own. The trigger comes with a safety switch and integrated Anti-dry fire, which prevents accidental dry firing when unloaded. There is also a finger safety reminder below the flight deck. The bow is also easy to set up. It just took ten minutes and sighting in the scope is also easy. It just took 5 minutes and a couple of shots.
4. PSE Archery Crossbow
Premium One
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Fiberglass And Aluminum
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 380
- Axle To Axle:- 21.5 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 127 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 185 LBS
★Why You Read This Crossbow
- Durability:- The crossbow is made of fiberglass and aluminum and its lightweight design is suitable for small users as well.
- Design:- The camouflage design makes the unit suitable for hunting from ground blinds. The bow is also used for practical purposes.
- Speed and Performance:- It can shoot at 380 fps and deliver 127 feet per kinetic energy.
- Accuracy:- This depends on the skill of the shooter and the range varies up to 60 yards.
- Safety:- Includes an anti-dry fire mechanism that reduces accidental firing.
- Noise & Vibration:- Comes with two green limb dampeners.
✔ Pros
- Easy operation
- Low energy consumption
- Lightweight construction
- Has an additional place to hold the remote
❌ Cons
- Doesn’t allow the addition of extra sounds
- Cannot connect external power
The PSE is so powerful that can shoot bolts at a speed of up to 380 fps and can also deliver 127 feet per Kinetic energy. The crossbow can be used for hunting various types and it works well for target shooting. The performance of the product is based on how you use it. This one will catch your eye first of the design and model. As the model is an entry-level crossbow, it’s super light and adaptable. It is also suitable for both seasoned and amateur hunters.
This specific model is made of fiberglass and aluminum and the built quality is superior. Even small users can use it comfortably, so it is reasonably durable and can handle heavy use in some intense woods. The bowstring is super sturdy and can deliver excellent results when waxed well. There is also a stick of rail lube that can maximize the accuracy and velocity and prevent the string from wearing out.
The camouflage design allows you to stay in the woods unnoticed by the game. Also, this particular model is suitable for people who wish to hunt from ground blinds. Apart from this, the design also makes the unit classy and look sleek. The length of the crossbow is 35 inches and weighs 7.5 pounds and it is not the lightest one available. But it is compact enough to make it suitable for beginners too.
The speed offered by the unit is impressive, it can shoot at 380 fps and delivers up to 127 FP KE. The accuracy of this one is up to about sixty yards. The product is safe to use and comes with an anti-dry fire mechanism. It reduces the probability of the bow firing accidentally when it is not cocked. If you are looking for a reverse cam system crossbow, then the PSE Thrive 400 comes with a longer power stroke.
5. Barnett Crossbow
Smooth Operation
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Lightweight Carbon
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 350
- Axle To Axle:- 16 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 104 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 165 LBS
★Why You Read This Crossbow
- Design:- The patented lightweight carbon riser lessens the weight, making it easier to hold on target than any other model.
- Accuracy:- The trigger pull is super smooth and east, which helps you to pull down the bow while pulling the trigger.
- Quiet:- As the cross features TriggerTech frictionless release technology enables a smooth and accurate shoot.
- Safety:- Safety is paramount, it features an anti-dry fire trigger that prevents shooting without an arrow and also includes above-grip finger guards.
- Scope:- Comes with a 3x32mm scope and offers illuminated reticles with markings up to fifty yards in ten-yard increments.
✔ Pros
- Easy operation
- Low energy consumption
- Lightweight construction
- Has an additional place to hold the remote
❌ Cons
- Doesn’t allow the addition of extra sounds
- Cannot connect external power
As mentioned, Barnett is tops in the bow industry. And is this particular one the best of the bunch? The 350 crossbows have impressed most users with their unique features at an unbeatable price. It’s anti-dry fire and smooth operation turn the shot into a successful one. You can take it wherever you go without feeling tired, as it weighs just 165 lbs draw weight.
If you want to upgrade the bow without spending too much, then this is exactly what you get with it. It comes with a durable body that can endure anything you throw at it. The body makes it a true amalgam of traditional and modern craftsmanship. It also adds an extra style game with its flawless body.
The frictionless release technology ensures smooth and calm shooting with a maximum success rate. It is ready to use and needs or little assembling. Due to the stability, you can easily shoot it at a target of 350 feet. The lightweight body suits hunters of all sizes. So, the bottom line is this is suitable for those who don’t wish to spend a fortune on a crossbow, then this is the right choice for you.
You need not compromise on the features and quality as the Barnett is one of the best crossbows for beginners.
6. TenPoint Titan Crossbow
Premium One
⚙ Main Specifications
- Material:- Lightweight Carbon
- FPS (Feet Per Second):- 370
- Axle To Axle:- 9 Inches
- Kinetic Energy:- 116 (ft-lbs)
- Arrows Included:- 3 (20 Inches)
- Scope Include:- 4x32mm scope
- Net Weight:- 180 LBS
★Why You Read This Crossbow
- Accuracy:- Powered with VX-5 inverted cams that increase rotation, elongate power stroke, and offer lethal accuracy.
- Ultra-Maneuverable:- This crossbow is engineered with a narrow 9-inch wide bow that enables maneuvering through hunting conditions.
- Trigger:- The auto-engaging safety trigger features a crisp and consistent break. The string latch design lessens friction and includes an auto-engaging safety dry fire inhibitor.
✔ Pros
- Easy operation
- Low energy consumption
- Lightweight construction
- Has an additional place to hold the remote
❌ Cons
- Doesn’t allow the addition of extra sounds
- Cannot connect external power
An incredible and fastest crossbow that is quite famous for its VX-5 inverted cams that increase rotation and elongate power stroke. It offers a lethal accuracy shot. It comes narrower with 30 fps than its predecessor. This bow is one of the jacks of all trades and assures a fast and accurate shot. Just like the other models from the same brand, this one also comes with a high safety standard.
Safety wings, trigger safety, dry-fire inhibitors and more enable hunters to confidently use it in all conditions.
It also includes a 3x pro view 3 scopes, arrow quiver, and ACU draw cocking device. The unit is also engineered with a narrow nine-inch-wide bow that enables you to control through tough hunting conditions. This makes sure you never miss a shot. An integrated cocking device lessens the draw weight to a mere five-pound force.
The T5 engages safety trigger features with a string latch design, and auto–engaging safety/Dry fire inhibitor. The unit includes three Pro Elite 400 carbon arrows that are fitted with a 61-grain aluminum insert. As it weighs just 4. 75 ounces, the arrows come with a detached quiver. The arrows feature a unique flexible rubber loop, and a durable spine and enable you to hang the quiver while in your treestand.
Frequently Ask Questions:-
1. How powerful is a crossbow?
Crossbows are more powerful than compounds. Most of these shoot at 350 feet per second. Many can easily break 400 feet per second.
2. How far will it shoot accurately?
At a distance of 40 yards, most hunters can fire a crossbow perfectly enough to be lethal.
3. Are crossbows great for hunting?
One of the many benefits of using a crossbow for hunting when compared to a regular bow is that it is cocked. Keeping it at full draw doesn’t need any effort or energy from the hunter.
