Crossbows have been around for centuries and were initially used for hunting and warfare. Today, crossbows are popular among hunters, archery enthusiasts, and even those who enjoy recreational shooting. Crossbows come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs, making it challenging to find the best one for your needs.
When looking for the best crossbow, there are a few essential factors to consider. The first thing to consider is the purpose of the crossbow. Are you using it for hunting or target shooting? The second factor to consider is the draw weight, which is the amount of force required to pull the bowstring back. The higher the draw weight, the more powerful the crossbow will be. The third factor is the size and weight of the crossbow, which can affect accuracy, ease of use, and portability.
We spent countless hours researching and testing ten crossbows to identify the ones that provide the best performance, accuracy, and value. In this article, we will introduce you to the top-rated crossbows that we tested and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Best Crossbows
We have researched and tested various crossbows to bring you the best options available in the market. Whether you are a professional hunter or an amateur enthusiast, crossbows are an excellent choice for hunting, sports, and recreational activities. In this roundup, we have included crossbows that are durable, accurate, and easy to use. We have also considered different price points to provide options for every budget. Here are our top picks for the best crossbows.
BARNETT CROSSBOWS Whitetail Hunter STR with Crank Cocking Device STR with Crank Device
We highly recommend the BARNETT CROSSBOWS Whitetail Hunter STR with Crank Cocking Device STR with Crank Device for anyone looking to purchase a crossbow. This ultra-compact compound crossbow is equipped with a complete hunting accessory package, including an integrated crank cocking device and a Step-Through Riser (STR) technology that reduces the length of the crossbow and makes it easily controllable for hunters of all sizes.
Pros
- The crossbow is efficient and lightweight, with an overall weight of just 6.6 lbs.
- The safety features, including the Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer and Anti-Dry Fire Trigger System, make this crossbow easy and safe to use.
- The package includes a 4.32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, Two 22″ Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, an Integrated Crank Cocking Device, and Lubrication Wax.
Cons
- Attaching limbs to the stock can be difficult.
- The eye relief on the scope is subpar.
- The crank string loading device may not be preferred by all users.
We were impressed with the BARNETT CROSSBOWS Whitetail Hunter STR with Crank Cocking Device STR with Crank Device. It was easy to assemble and use, and we appreciated the safety features and the included accessory package. The crossbow was accurate and efficient, and we were able to shoot through even the toughest targets. However, attaching the limbs to the stock was a bit difficult, and the eye relief on the scope could be better. Overall, we highly recommend this crossbow to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient hunting crossbow.
BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow STR without Crank Device
If you’re looking for a reliable crossbow that’s perfect for hunting, then the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow STR without Crank Device is an excellent option.
Pros
- The crossbow is ultra-compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and shoot.
- It’s equipped with Step-Through Riser (STR) technology, which reduces the length of the crossbow and creates an easily controllable profile that hunters of all skills and sizes can manage.
- The crossbow comes with several safety features, including Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, Finger Safety reminders, and TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology.
Cons
- The scope can be difficult to zero in.
- The screws that hold everything together may feel cheap and easy to strip.
- The plastic thing that goes for mounting on the front is not included.
We were impressed with how easy it was to handle and shoot the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow STR without Crank Device. The crossbow is ultra-compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and shoot for extended periods. The Step-Through Riser (STR) technology reduces the length of the crossbow, making it easy to handle and shoot, even for beginners.
One of the most significant advantages of this crossbow is the safety features that it comes with. The Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, Finger Safety reminders, and TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology all work together to ensure that you can shoot safely and accurately.
However, we did find that the scope can be challenging to zero in, which may be frustrating for some users. Additionally, the screws that hold everything together may feel cheap and easy to strip, which could be a concern for some users. Finally, the plastic thing that goes for mounting on the front is not included.
Overall, we think that the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow STR without Crank Device is an excellent option for hunters looking for a reliable and easy-to-use crossbow.
Axe Crossbows AX405
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient crossbow, the Axe Crossbows AX405 is worth considering.
Pros
- The compact and maneuverable design allows for easy handling and shooting.
- The proprietary cam system and shoot-through riser enhance accuracy and reduce torque.
- The free-floating arrow system mitigates contact and friction for enhanced speed and accuracy.
Cons
- The weight of the crossbow may be a bit heavy for some users.
- The included bolts’ vanes may be prone to damage.
- The crank may not be as durable as expected.
We recently had the chance to test out the Axe Crossbows AX405 and were impressed by its performance. The balanced shoot-through stock and riser design, coupled with the reverse limb system, made the crossbow feel stable and easy to handle. We appreciated the proprietary cam system, which helped eliminate cam-lean and limb torque, resulting in more accurate shots.
The AX405’s speed was also impressive, with bolt speeds exceeding 400 feet-per-second. The shoot-through riser and roller rest helped create a free-floating arrow system that reduced contact and friction along the arrow’s path, further enhancing speed and accuracy.
While we found the AX405 to be a great crossbow overall, there were a few drawbacks. The weight of the crossbow may be a bit heavy for some users, and the included bolts’ vanes seemed prone to damage. Additionally, the crank may not be as durable as expected.
Overall, we would recommend the Axe Crossbows AX405 for those looking for a powerful and efficient crossbow. Its compact and maneuverable design, proprietary cam system, and free-floating arrow system make it a great option for hunting or target shooting.
TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow
If you are in the market for a high-performance crossbow, we highly recommend the TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow. With its premium construction and advanced features, this crossbow is perfect for big game hunting.
Pros
- The T5 trigger delivers a clean, crisp, and consistent break shot after shot.
- The VX-5 inverted cams elongate the power-stroke and increase rotation, delivering devastating speeds and lethal accuracy shot-after-shot.
- The custom Alpha-Nock increases string-to-nock engagement by 28% for excellent downrange accuracy.
Cons
- The rope sled can be cumbersome for re-cocking.
- The price point is on the higher end.
- The crossbow is not very beginner-friendly.
We were impressed with the TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow’s performance and accuracy. It shoots arrows at an impressive speed of 370 FPS, making it perfect for hunting. The T5 trigger is one of the most critical components in making the smoothest shooting ever, and we found it to be very effective. The VX-5 inverted cams are also a great feature, delivering devastating speeds and lethal accuracy shot-after-shot. The custom Alpha-Nock increases string-to-nock engagement by 28% for excellent downrange accuracy, which we found to be very helpful.
However, the rope sled can be cumbersome for re-cocking, which can be a bit of a hassle. Additionally, the price point is on the higher end for crossbows, which may not be suitable for everyone. Finally, the crossbow is not very beginner-friendly, and it may take some time to get used to.
Overall, we highly recommend the TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow for experienced hunters looking for a high-performance crossbow.
Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Pro Package
If you’re looking for a crossbow that’s powerful, easy to use, and reliable, then the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Pro Package is a great choice.
Pros
- The crossbow is incredibly powerful, with a speed of 405 feet per second and 134 foot-pounds of kinetic energy.
- It’s also very quiet, thanks to the custom rubber shock absorbers that reduce noise and vibration.
- The lightweight frame is comfortable and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for hunters of all skill levels.
Cons
- The crossbow is quite heavy, weighing in at 12.25 pounds.
- The scope that comes with the package is not illuminated, which can make it difficult to use in low-light conditions.
- The crossbow can be difficult to assemble, especially if you’re not familiar with crossbows.
We were impressed with the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Pro Package. The crossbow is incredibly powerful, with a speed of 405 feet per second and 134 foot-pounds of kinetic energy. This makes it perfect for taking down even the largest game animals.
In addition to its power, the crossbow is also very quiet, thanks to the custom rubber shock absorbers that reduce noise and vibration. This makes it ideal for hunters who want to remain stealthy and avoid spooking their prey.
Despite its power, the crossbow is surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver. This makes it perfect for hunters of all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner.
However, there are a few downsides to the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Pro Package. For one, it’s quite heavy, weighing in at 12.25 pounds. This can make it difficult to carry for long periods of time, especially if you’re hiking through rugged terrain.
Additionally, the scope that comes with the package is not illuminated, which can make it difficult to use in low-light conditions. You may want to consider purchasing an illuminated scope separately if you plan on hunting in the early morning or late evening.
Finally, the crossbow can be difficult to assemble, especially if you’re not familiar with crossbows. We recommend taking your time and following the instructions carefully to avoid any frustration.
Overall, we think the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Pro Package is a great choice for hunters who want a powerful, reliable crossbow that’s easy to use.
Barnett CROSSBOWS Hyper Whitetail 410 Crossbow Package with Illuminated Scope, Quiver, Two 22″ Hyperflite Arrows with Crank Device
If you’re looking for a crossbow that delivers incredible precision and penetration, the Barnett CROSSBOWS Hyper Whitetail 410 Crossbow Package with Illuminated Scope, Quiver, Two 22″ Hyperflite Arrows with Crank Device is a solid choice.
Pros
- The HyperFlite technology and small diameter arrows deliver incredible precision and penetration, shooting 410 feet per second.
- The HyperFlite arrows provide a 22% penetration increase over standard crossbow arrows, making them ideal for hunting.
- The crossbow comes with a variety of safety features, including a Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, and TriggerTech 3lb zero creep Frictionless Release Technology.
Cons
- The package is quite heavy, weighing in at 7.48 kilograms, which may make it difficult to carry around for extended periods of time.
- The scope that comes with the package is not of the highest quality and may need to be replaced.
- Some users have reported quality control issues with the product, such as reversed cam wheels that make it difficult to draw the bow.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Barnett CROSSBOWS Hyper Whitetail 410 Crossbow Package, and we were impressed with its precision and power. The HyperFlite technology and small diameter arrows make it easy to hit your target, even at longer distances, and the safety features provide added peace of mind. However, the weight of the package and the quality of the included scope may be a concern for some users. Overall, we would recommend this crossbow for hunting and target shooting.
Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow
If you’re looking for a reliable crossbow for hunting, the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow is a great option.
Pros
- The crossbow is ultra-compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle for hunters of all sizes.
- It shoots at 400 feet per second, making it powerful enough to take down big game.
- The package includes a complete hunting accessory package, so you have everything you need to get started.
Cons
- The draw weight is 187 pounds, which may be difficult for some hunters to manage.
- You need to wax the strings every 10 shots to keep the crossbow in good condition.
- The crossbow ships mostly assembled, but you still need to put some parts together.
We were impressed with the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow’s compact size and lightweight design. It’s easy to handle and maneuver, even in tight hunting spaces. The crossbow is also powerful, shooting at 400 feet per second, which is more than enough to take down big game.
The package includes everything you need to get started, including a multi-reticle scope, two arrows, a lightweight quiver, a rope cocking device, and lubrication wax. The crossbow also has safety features like a nock sensor and anti-dry fire trigger system to prevent dry fires.
However, the draw weight of 187 pounds may be difficult for some hunters to manage. You also need to wax the strings every 10 shots to keep the crossbow in good condition. While the crossbow ships mostly assembled, you still need to put some parts together.
Overall, we would recommend the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow for hunters who want a reliable and powerful crossbow that’s easy to handle.
PSE Archery Coalition Frontier Crossbow
If you’re looking for a fast, powerful, and ergonomic crossbow, the PSE Archery Coalition Frontier is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The adjustable stock and pass-through foregrip make it comfortable to hold and shoot.
- With a powerful draw weight of 185 pounds, it can shoot up to 380 feet-per-second for high-speed and precise shooting.
- The included 4 x 32 illuminated reticle scope provides better accuracy for your shots.
Cons
- The assembly instructions are not accurate and can be difficult to follow.
- The scope may not be very durable and can fall apart easily.
- It may not come with instructions for yardage, making it difficult to adjust for distance.
In our experience, the PSE Archery Coalition Frontier is a great crossbow for hunting and recreational shooting. The adjustable stock and pass-through foregrip make it comfortable to hold and shoot, even for extended periods of time. With a powerful draw weight of 185 pounds, it can shoot up to 380 feet-per-second, which is great for high-speed and precise shooting. The included 4 x 32 illuminated reticle scope also provides better accuracy for your shots.
However, the assembly instructions can be difficult to follow and may not be accurate. This can make the assembly process frustrating and time-consuming. Additionally, the scope may not be very durable and can fall apart easily, which can be frustrating during use. Lastly, it may not come with instructions for yardage, which can make it difficult to adjust for distance.
Overall, if you’re looking for a crossbow that is fast, powerful, and comfortable to shoot, the PSE Archery Coalition Frontier is a great option to consider. Just be aware of the assembly instructions and potential issues with the scope.
Barnett TS380 High-Speed Crossbow
If you’re looking for a high-speed crossbow with complete hunting accessory package, the Barnett TS380 is a great option.
Pros
- The crossbow is designed to accommodate to any shooter’s stature and features an adjustable length-of-pull butt stock and pass-through foregrip which makes it comfortable for any shooter to shoulder.
- With a sleek digital grey wrap, the TS380 shoots 380 feet per second, making it a powerful and effective hunting tool.
- The crossbow comes with a ready to hunt package that includes 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, Lightweight Side-Mount Quiver, Two 20″ Headhunter Arrows, a Rope Cocking Device, and Lubrication Wax.
Cons
- The CCD Crank is not included in the package, and you need to buy it separately.
- The crossbow is a bit heavy, weighing 6.9 lbs, which may not be ideal for some hunters.
- The crossbow is a bit loud, which may scare off prey.
We took the Barnett TS380 out for a test run and were impressed with its power and accuracy. The adjustable length-of-pull butt stock and pass-through foregrip make it comfortable to use for any shooter, and the included ready to hunt package makes it easy to get started right away. However, we did notice that the CCD Crank is not included in the package, and the crossbow is a bit heavy and loud. Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and effective crossbow for hunting, the Barnett TS380 is a great option.
BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
If you’re looking for a high-performance crossbow with a complete hunting accessory package, the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow is a great option.
Pros
- The crossbow is ultra-compact and lightweight, making it easily controllable for hunters of all skills and sizes.
- The Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, and TriggerTech 3lb zero creep Frictionless Release Technology provide excellent safety features.
- The package includes two Headhunter 20″ Arrows, Multi-Reticle Scope 4X32mm, Rope Cocking Device, Lightweight Side Mount Quiver, and Lubrication Wax, making it a ready-to-hunt package.
Cons
- The scope isn’t the greatest, but it will do.
- The safety makes a loud click whenever it’s put on or taken off.
- It takes a while to sight it in at 20 yards.
We had a great experience with this crossbow. It was relatively easy to assemble, and we were hitting close to the bullseye after a few shots. The crossbow is lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is great for hunters of all sizes. The safety features are top-notch, and we felt safe and secure while using it. The package includes everything you need to get started, so you don’t have to worry about buying additional accessories.
Overall, we highly recommend the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow for hunters of all levels.
BARNETT Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow
If you are a first-time crossbow user, BARNETT Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow is an excellent introductory bow. It is lightweight, easy to use, and comes with a complete hunting accessory package.
Pros
- The recurve bow is versatile, making it easily maneuverable by beginners.
- The bow is lightweight, making it easy to carry.
- It comes with a complete hunting accessory package, including a 4x32mm multi-reticle scope.
Cons
- The front grip handle may not tighten up properly and move around a little bit.
- The crossbow string may tear up the right side.
- The foot stirrup part may keep coming loose after every 10-20 shots.
We recently used the BARNETT Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow and found it to be an excellent introductory bow for beginners. The bow is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a perfect fit for hunting. The recurve bow is versatile, making it easily maneuverable by beginners. The bow comes with a complete hunting accessory package, including a 4x32mm multi-reticle scope, lightweight side-mount quiver, two 20″ aluminum arrows, and lubrication wax. The bow shoots 260 feet per second, which is perfect for small to medium-sized game.
However, we did notice a few cons with the BARNETT Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow. The front grip handle may not tighten up properly and move around a little bit. The crossbow string may tear up the right side, and the foot stirrup part may keep coming loose after every 10-20 shots.
Overall, if you are a first-time crossbow user looking for an introductory bow, we highly recommend the BARNETT Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow. It is versatile, lightweight, and comes with a complete hunting accessory package, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Snake Eye Tactical Cobra-System Self-Cocking-Pistol Crossbow 80 lbs 225 FPS 8026PL-AM
If you’re looking for a crossbow that’s easy to use, customizable, and great for small game hunting, the Snake Eye Tactical Cobra-System Self-Cocking-Pistol Crossbow may be the right choice for you.
Pros
- Easy to cock and use
- Adjustable stock and sight for unparalleled customization
- Fires bolts up to 225 fps
Cons
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
- Some parts are fragile and may break if not assembled correctly
- Not suitable for large game hunting
We recently had the chance to try out the Snake Eye Tactical Cobra-System Self-Cocking-Pistol Crossbow, and we were impressed with its ease of use. The self-cocking system made it simple to load and fire, and the automatic safety mechanism provided peace of mind.
One of the standout features of this crossbow is the level of customization it offers. The adjustable stock and sight allow you to get the perfect fit and aim, while the weaver rails provide additional options for accessories.
While we found the assembly instructions to be a bit unclear, we were able to put the crossbow together with a little trial and error. However, we did note that some parts are fragile and could break if not assembled correctly.
Overall, we think the Snake Eye Tactical Cobra-System Self-Cocking-Pistol Crossbow is a great option for those looking for a versatile and easy-to-use crossbow for small game hunting. Just be sure to take the time to assemble it correctly and follow all safety guidelines.
EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow
If you’re looking for a crossbow that offers quick and easy follow-up shots, the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow is a great choice.
Pros
- The top-loading magazine allows for quick and easy follow-up shots.
- The adjustable AR-style stock ensures easy shouldering and a comfortable shooting position.
- The crossbow can be used as a pistol by removing the AR stock.
Cons
- The accuracy can be a bit off.
- The draw weight of around 130lbs can be challenging for some users.
- The magazine only works with official 7.5″ Adder bolts.
We were impressed with the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow. The top-loading magazine made follow-up shots quick and easy, and the adjustable AR-style stock ensured a comfortable shooting position. We also appreciated the fact that the crossbow can be used as a pistol by removing the AR stock.
However, we did notice that the accuracy can be a bit off, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, the draw weight of around 130lbs can be challenging for some users. It’s also important to note that the magazine only works with official 7.5″ Adder bolts.
Overall, if you’re looking for a crossbow that offers quick and easy follow-up shots, the EK Archery RX Adder Automatic SELF Loading Repeating Crossbow is a great choice.
Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Bundle
If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable crossbow for hunting, the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Bundle is a great choice.
Pros
- With a fast shooting 405 feet per second power, this crossbow is hard-hitting and delivers serious firepower.
- Custom rubber shock absorbers reduce noise and vibration, making it a quiet performer that won’t spook your prey.
- The ultra-light composite stock is easy to maneuver, making it comfortable to hold and aim.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the included scope, which is non-illuminated and may not stay set.
- Assembly can be a bit confusing, but not too difficult.
- The strings are not covered under warranty and may break after extended use.
We recently had the chance to try out the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Bundle, and we were impressed with its performance. The crossbow is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a great choice for hunters who need to move quickly and quietly through the woods.
One of the standout features of this crossbow is its speed. With a shooting power of 405 feet per second, it’s one of the fastest crossbows on the market. We found that it delivered a lot of force and was able to take down game with ease.
Another great feature is the custom rubber shock absorbers, which reduce noise and vibration. This makes the crossbow much quieter than other models, which is important when you’re trying to stay stealthy in the field.
Overall, we think the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow Bundle is a great choice for hunters who want a powerful and reliable crossbow that won’t break the bank. While there are some minor issues with the included scope and assembly, we found that these were easy to overcome and didn’t detract from the overall performance of the crossbow.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a crossbow, there are a few important factors to consider. We want to make sure you choose the best product for your needs, so let’s dive into what to look for.
Draw Weight
One of the most important factors to consider is the draw weight of the crossbow. This refers to the amount of force required to pull the string back and cock the bow. The higher the draw weight, the more powerful the crossbow will be. However, a higher draw weight also means it will be more difficult to cock the bow. We recommend choosing a draw weight that you can comfortably handle, as this will ensure accuracy and safety.
Velocity
Another important factor is the velocity of the crossbow. This refers to how fast the arrow travels once it is released from the bow. A higher velocity means the arrow will travel further and hit the target with more force. However, a higher velocity also means a louder shot and more recoil. We recommend choosing a velocity that is appropriate for your intended use, as well as considering noise and recoil levels.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the crossbow are also important factors to consider. A smaller and lighter crossbow will be easier to maneuver and carry, making it ideal for hunting and other outdoor activities. However, a larger and heavier crossbow may be more stable and accurate, making it better for target shooting. We recommend choosing a size and weight that is appropriate for your intended use.
Accessories
Finally, consider what accessories come with the crossbow or what can be added on. Some common accessories include scopes, quivers, and cocking devices. These accessories can improve accuracy and make using the crossbow easier and more enjoyable. We recommend choosing a crossbow that comes with the accessories you need or that can easily be customized with the accessories you want.
In summary, when choosing a crossbow, consider the draw weight, velocity, size and weight, and accessories. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best crossbow for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which crossbows have built-in cocking devices?
When it comes to crossbows, cocking devices can make the process of loading and firing much easier. Some crossbows come with built-in cocking devices, while others require separate accessories to be purchased. Here are some of the best crossbows that come with built-in cocking devices:
- TenPoint Nitro XRT: This crossbow features ACUdraw PRO, a built-in cocking device that reduces the effort required to cock the bow by 50%. It also has a reverse draw design that improves accuracy and balance.
- Ravin R29X: The Ravin R29X has a built-in Versa-Draw cocking system that reduces the draw weight to just 12 pounds. It also has a compact design that makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Barnett HyperGhost 425: This crossbow has a built-in crank cocking device that reduces the draw weight to just 10 pounds. It also features a step-through riser design that improves accuracy and balance.
- Excalibur Micro Suppressor: The Excalibur Micro Suppressor has a built-in Charger EXT crank cocking device that reduces the draw weight to just 12 pounds. It also has a compact design that makes it easy to handle in tight spaces.
We hope this information helps you choose the best crossbow with a built-in cocking device that meets your needs.