10Best.Guide

Crossbow

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Clear optics and flip-up scope caps included.
  • Excellent customer service.
  • Easy to use and handle.
  • Fast, accurate, and top-notch customer service.
  • User-friendly and most accurate crossbow.
Cons
  • Front arrow rest is cheap plastic.
  • Quality control issues.
Bottom Line
The Ravin R10 crossbow is an excellent tool for hunting, with clear optics, flip-up scope caps, and a user-friendly design. However, some units may have quality control issues, and the front arrow rest is made of cheap plastic. The customer service is top-notch, though, and they are willing to help with any issues that may arise.
Pros
  • Accurate out to 55 yards
  • Fantastic middle of the road bow
  • Shoots reliably and performs as expected
  • Solidly made and attractive
  • Shoots hard and not too bad to cock
Cons
  • Limb separation issue
  • Short rope to draw the string back
Bottom Line
The Barnett Whitetail STR crossbow is a solidly made and attractive middle of the road bow that shoots hard and accurately. However, there have been some issues with limb separation, short rope, defective assembly parts, scope going out of focus, and trigger linkage.
Pros
  • Shoots accurately at long distances.
  • Lightweight and easy to assemble.
  • Good value for the money.
  • Adjustable stock helps with awkward shots.
  • Quality and professional finish.
Cons
  • Scope may need upgrading.
  • Some components may arrive broken or defective.
Bottom Line
The Barnett TS380 crossbow is a good value for the money, with accurate shooting and a lightweight design. However, buyers should be aware of potential defects and may need to upgrade the scope for optimal performance.
Pros
  • Good quality
  • Shoots well and accurately
  • Easy to assemble
  • Powerful
  • Great price
Cons
  • Strings break easily
  • Scope is cheap and doesn't stay set
Bottom Line
The crossbow is a powerful and accurate weapon that is easy to assemble and comes at a great price. However, buyers should be aware of the potential for string and limb breakage and may want to consider upgrading the scope.
Pros
  • Accurate
  • Budget-friendly
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Good trigger
  • Powerful
Cons
  • Poor customer service
  • Scope may need upgrading
Bottom Line
The Whitetail Hunter II crossbow is a great option for budget-conscious hunters looking for accuracy and power. However, be prepared to potentially deal with poor customer service and consider upgrading the scope.

The Ultimate Crossbow Buying Guide: Reviews, Types, Features, Prices, and Tips

Overview

Crossbows have become increasingly popular among hunters and target shooters in recent years. With their accuracy, power, and ease of use, crossbows are a great choice for anyone looking to improve their archery skills or take their hunting game to the next level. However, with so many different types, features, and prices to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the right crossbow for your needs. That's why we've put together this ultimate crossbow buying guide, which covers everything you need to know to make an informed purchase.

Types

There are several different types of crossbows to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are the most common types of crossbows:

1. Recurve Crossbows: These are the most traditional type of crossbow, with a simple design that uses a bow with limbs that curve away from the shooter. Recurve crossbows are known for their reliability and ease of maintenance, but they tend to be less powerful than other types.

2. Compound Crossbows: These crossbows use a system of pulleys and cables to increase the power of the bow. Compound crossbows are known for their speed and accuracy, but they can be more complicated to maintain.

3. Pistol Crossbows: These are smaller, handheld crossbows that are often used for target shooting or small game hunting. Pistol crossbows are easy to use and lightweight, but they are not as powerful as larger crossbows.

Key Considerations

When choosing a crossbow, there are several key factors to consider. Here are the most important things to keep in mind:

1. Purpose: What do you plan to use your crossbow for? Hunting or target shooting? Different crossbows are designed for different purposes, so it's important to choose one that fits your needs.

2. Draw Weight: This is the amount of force required to pull the bowstring back. A higher draw weight means more power, but it can also make the crossbow harder to use.

3. Power Stroke: This is the distance the bowstring travels when fired. A longer power stroke means more power and speed.

4. Accuracy: Look for a crossbow with a high level of accuracy, as this will help you hit your target more consistently.

Features

There are several features to look for when choosing a crossbow. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. Anti-Dry Fire: This feature prevents the crossbow from firing if there is no arrow in place, which can help prevent damage to the bow.

2. Adjustable Stock: A stock that can be adjusted to fit your body can help improve accuracy and comfort.

3. Scope: A good scope can help you aim more accurately and hit your target more consistently.

4. Noise Level: Look for a crossbow that is relatively quiet, as this can help prevent spooking game.

Prices

Crossbows can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Generally, the more expensive crossbows are more powerful and accurate, but there are also some great options available at lower price points. It's important to choose a crossbow that fits your budget, but also meets your needs in terms of power, accuracy, and features.

Tips

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when buying a crossbow:

1. Try before you buy: If possible, try out different crossbows before making a purchase to see which one feels most comfortable and accurate.

2. Consider your physical abilities: If you have limited upper body strength or mobility, look for a crossbow with a lower draw weight and a shorter power stroke.

3. Research regulations: Make sure to research any hunting regulations in your area to ensure that you are using a crossbow that is legal and appropriate for your needs.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a license to use a crossbow for hunting?

A: Regulations vary by state and country, so it's important to research the rules in your area.

Q: What is the best type of crossbow for hunting?

A: This depends on your personal preferences and needs, but generally, compound crossbows are a good choice for hunting due to their power and accuracy.

Q: How do I maintain my crossbow?

A: Regular maintenance, such as waxing the string and limbs, checking the bolts and screws, and keeping the bow clean, can help prolong the life of your crossbow.

Q: Can I use a crossbow for target shooting?

A: Yes, crossbows are a great choice for target shooting and can be a fun way to improve your archery skills.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right crossbow can make all the difference in your hunting or target shooting experience. By considering the types, key considerations, features, prices, and tips outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect crossbow for your needs.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Easy assembly
  • Accurate
  • Powerful
  • Good for hunting and target practice
  • Sturdy design
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Quiver placement
Bottom Line
The Killer Instinct Lethal 405 crossbow is a powerful and accurate option for hunting and target practice. It has a sturdy design and is easy to assemble, but is on the heavier side and has some issues with scope adjustment and limb cracking.
Pros
  • Great value for the price.
  • Lighter, quieter and smoother trigger pull than more expensive bows.
  • Accurate and easy to sight in.
  • Comes with a nice scope.
  • Solidly built and feels good when shouldered.
Cons
  • Terrible instructions.
  • Scope may have factory issues.
Bottom Line
The PSE Coalition Crossbow is a great value for the price, with a nice scope and solid build. However, the instructions are terrible and there may be some quality control issues.
Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to cock
  • Fast and accurate
  • Reliable and durable
  • Good customer service
  • Easy to assemble and sight-in
Cons
  • Safety sometimes doesn't set all the way to safe
  • Red dot sight may not work
Bottom Line
The Barnett Explorer XP370 is a reliable and durable crossbow that is fast and accurate. It is lightweight and easy to cock, making it a good choice for hunters with shoulder issues. However, buyers should be aware of some quality control issues with the accessories and packaging.
Pros
  • Very accurate and consistent on the target.
  • Good quality entry-level recurve crossbow.
  • Easy to assemble and use.
  • Performs well for the price point.
  • Mean looking and well-built.
Cons
  • Arrows included are too short.
  • Quiver is poorly designed and an impediment to handling the crossbow comfortably/safely.
Bottom Line
The Barnett Wildcat is a good quality entry-level recurve crossbow that performs well for the price point. It is accurate and consistent on the target, mean looking, and well-built. However, it has some design flaws such as a poorly designed quiver and short arrows, and some assembly issues.
Pros
  • Easy to assemble
  • Powerful for its size
  • Can be customized with Picatinny rails
  • Accurate
  • Comes with red dot laser and red/green dot scope
Cons
  • Poor instructions
  • Plastic molding feels cheap
Bottom Line
This crossbow is a fun and inexpensive option for those looking for a powerful and customizable toy. However, it has some quality control issues and can be difficult to string.
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