Table of Contents
Best Tactical Crossbows
Comparison Table: Best Tactical Crossbow of 2021
Award | Crossbow | Specs |
|---|---|---|
|  |
Weight = 8 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 7.5 lbs |
|  | FPS = 450Weight = 6.75 lbsLength = 29" Draw Weight = 12 lbs |
Best for the Money |  |
Weight = 6.4 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 7.2 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 8 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 4.8 lbs |
|  |
|
About Tactical Crossbows
What Is A Tactical Crossbow
A tactical crossbow is a crossbow made for being easy to carry and accurate to shoot. Shooters with a variety of needs have a number of options in the crossbow world. Read this page to understand what you need to know to buy the best tactical crossbow for you.
Why Buy A Tactical Crossbow
Having a tactical crossbow can serve a number of different needs. Common uses of tactical crossbows include the following:
Hunting medium to large game: deer, boar, elk, bear
Hunting small game: squirrel, rabbit, other critters
Target practice
Home defense
Recreation
What Makes A Good Tactical Crossbow
Good tactical crossbows have the eight following characteristics:
Powerful
Accurate
Good mobility
Useful scope
Easy to handle
Durable
Reliable
Fair price
Quick Links: Best Tactical Crossbow
- Best tactical crossbow: TenPoint Vapor RS470
- Best runner-up: Scorpyd Aculeus 460FPS
- Best compound bow: Ravin R29X
- Best for the money: Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
- Best budget compound: Killer Instinct Lethal 405
- Best recurve: Excalibur Assassin 420 TD
- Best budget recurve: Barnett Wildcat
- Best handheld: KingsArchery Pistol Crossbow
1. Best Tactical Crossbow of 2021
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
TenPoint Vapor Rs470 |
470 |
8 lbs |
31" |
6.5" |
12" |
17" |
225 lbs |
Pros
- Provides silent cocking and safe de-cocking ability
- Fully multi-coated optics with unmatched brightness in low-light situations
- Elongated power stroke
- Micro-track barrel for longer string life
- S1 trigger for high performance
- Includes case and all accessories
Cons
- Cheaply made quiver
Package includes:
- EVO-X Marksman Scope
- Bubble Level
- ACUslide Cocking and De-Cocking System
- 6-Arrow Tech Quiver
- 6 Lighted Evo-X CenterPunch premium carbon arrows
- 3 EVO-X CenterPunch Broadheads
- TenPoint STAG hard crossbow case
- Integrated String Stop System
- TenPoint Neoprene Sling
The absolute best tactical crossbow in the industry- the TenPoint Vapor Rs470.
A compact, sleek, accurate and extremely fast-shooting weapon. This badboy includes the features you need and accessories you want to unleash your best shooting ability.
What makes this tactical crossbow amazing
Let’s start with speed. The Vapor Rs470 produces speeds of up to 470 feet per second.
This reverse-draw crossbow has an increased power stroke that creates more speed with a smoother and quieter shot. This elongated power stroke produces an additional 4 inches of length for knock-down power. What does all of this mean? More power, more accuracy.
Let’s move to the riser. The design of the Rs470 creates superior balance for the shooter to eliminate the front-heavy feeling that most crossbows let off.
Next, let’s check out this down-range accuracy shot. Nothing gets better than the Rs470 rotating cams. Separating it from the competition, this bow allows the shooter to cock and decock at any time. Simply back wind the handle. Also, stop at any time without the fear of damage or loss of control.
Now, how about the trigger? This is an advanced system that comes standard on the Rs470, and it’s called the S1 trigger. This is the leading trigger in the entire crossbow industry.
Combining the S1 trigger and reverse-draw compact design makes this the absolutely best tactical crossbow in the market.
This bow is ideal for the experienced shooter looking to up their game to pro level.
Want more TenPoint in your life?
Read our in-depth review on all TenPoint crossbows.
2. Best Runner-Up
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Scorpyd Aculeus 460 |
460 |
7.5 lbs |
34.5" |
12.875" |
24.5" |
18.5" |
180 lbs |
Pros
- Kempf Tech integrated trigger
- ACUdraw Pro cocking mechanism
- Non-folding stock
- Limbsaver butt pad
- Anti-dry fire device
Cons
- Not compact – very wide
Package includes:
- Hawke 1.5X5 X32 IR Illuminated Scope standard
- 3 Pack of broadheads
- 4 Arrow Quiver
- 12 Arrows (Scorpyd SPEC Black Eagle Arrows .001)
- String Stops
- Scope rail
- Limbsaver Sling and Butt Pad
- Scorpion Venom Lube Kit
Like a reverse-draw designed tactical crossbow? The Scorpyd Aculeus 460 is the Runner-Up best tactical crossbow on the market right now.
The Aculeus 460 is also the second fastest reverse-draw crossbow in the world, and it’s definitely Scorpyd’s highest-quality product.
What Makes This Tactical Crossbow Amazing
A big, tactical cam system helps operate this bow to provide heightened shot power, faster speed, and more down-range accuracy.
The scope is a perfect fit for the bow, and it’s manufactured by Hawk, and this is the SR model. The optics quality is superb, and allows shooters a 100+ yard perfect shot. That’s a serious tactical superpower.
Next, the bow itself is comprised with a rough texture on areas such as the handle for additional grip. Whether the weather is warm and you’re holding it barehanded or it’s cold and you’re wearing a glove, the texture Scorpyd designed the bow helps your handle to feel more secure.
Scorpyd created a hollow rail for ultimate lightweight sensation and supreme mobility. The entire bow is under 8 pounds in total weight, which offers a powerful, yet easy-to-carry bow for a variety of sized hunters.
Upon checking the design of the bow out, what you’ll notice is that the features are center-placed. This helps store energy in the limbs, keeps the shooter on par for a better aim, and allows the release of the energy at the most crucial point- at the time of the shot.
This bow is designed and manufactured in the U.S. from start to finish, and they definitely earn points for keeping everything in-house.
Speaking of the design, this reverse-draw style tactical crossbow is among the most narrow of its kind. The limbs are nearly parallel, and this enhanced mobility gives the shooter options for better shooting in both a tree stand or ground blind.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
The Aculeus 460 is best for the advanced shooter, looking for a pro-class, reverse-draw tactical crossbow for all-around hunting capabilities.
Want more on the Scorpyd Aculeus?
Did you know there are the 8 different packages you can choose from? Click here to find the best for you.
3. Best Compact Tactical Bow
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ravin R29X |
450 |
6.75 lbs |
29" |
6" |
10.5" |
12.5" |
12 lbs |
Pros
- Extremely compact design
- Silent hand crank mechanism
- Fast shot – 450 FPS
- Tactical scope and quiver
- Comes fully assembled
- Frictionless flight system
- HeliCoil cam system
Cons
- String is under cheek piece when cocked
Package includes:
- 6 – Ravin .003 Arrows & Field Tips
- 1 – Removable Draw Handle
- 1 – Quiver/Mounting Bracket
- 100 Yard Illuminated Scope
- Built-In Cocking Mechanism
- Anti-Dry Fire/Auto Safety
- Built-in Sling Mounts
Coming in as the most compact tactical crossbow on this list, the Ravin R29X is the sure-fire way to land yourself a 10-point buck while making your friends drool at the same time.
What Makes This Tactical Crossbow Amazing
Let’s start with specs: Ravin-made means high quality. I know this brand takes what they themselves want in a crossbow and carries that over into their design.
When you’re out in the field or in the woods, you need to use the crank cocking mechanism because you see game coming your way, but you’re paralyzed because doing so either takes a lot of strenuous effort on your part without a device, or your device has that windup noise that sounds like a toy gun and you’re stuck with the noise factor. That doesn’t happen with the Ravin R29X because it has a completely silent crank cocking mechanism. Little details like that and more I’ll present below will show you that this is among the best when it comes to tactical crossbows.
Next, let’s get into speed and accuracy. The R29X does a fine job at shooting at speeds up to 430 feet per second- which is plenty, maybe even a little excessive, and that’s just the way I like it. Accuracy time- The R29X comes stock with a 100-yard illuminated scope to help you shoot this rifle-like crossbow not only into the game you aimed at, but to get perfect placement every time. We’re not stopping there, because there’s more. Ravin’s famous Frictionless Flight System places the arrow at the center of the rail, not on it or inside the groove of it. The arrow rests at the back of the bow until shot, when at that time flies through with extreme power.
Worried about not being able to cock a bow with such power? No problem here, because the draw weight is a mere 12 pounds. Even my grandmother could handle cocking this weapon.
Thinking about safety? It’s a good thought to have, but the R29X has got you covered. With the built-in dry-fire mechanism there won’t be any accidental shots to be in danger of or dry fires to damage this investment bow.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
To the hunter who wants a pro-class, light-weight hunting bow, who’s sick of lugging around a big, overly-heavy crossbow- this bow’s for you.
Ready to experience ravin's Best?
Check out the latest of what Ravin and their HeliCoil technology have in stock for 2021! Click here.
4. Best for the Money
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II |
350 |
6.4 lbs |
34.25" |
16.125" |
18.25" |
12.5" |
150 lbs |
Pros
- Multi-Reticle scope
- Crank cocking device
- Heavy duty, dual stage lockable latches
- Anti-vibration foot stirrup
- TriggerTech technology
- Kinetic energy: 103 feet pounds
Cons
- Not able to uncock the bow without firing it
Package includes:
- 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope
- Rope Cocking Device and lubrication Wax
- Lightweight Quiver
- Two 20” Headhunter Arrows
What Makes This Target Great
- TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology™
- Single Bolt Assembly
- Magnesium Riser
- Soft-Lok™ Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer
- Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System
- Metal Injection Molded (MIM) Trigger
- Custom Composite Laminated Limbs
- 7/8” Picatinny Rails
- Crank Cocking Device Compatible
- Finger Safety Reminders
- Pass-Through Foregrip
- Anti-Vibration Foot Stirrup
Who’s This Target Best For?
Grab the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II as our best tactical crossbow for the money on this list and maneuver in the field like a sniper, in the field, ground blind, tree stand or while running and gunning- you and your wallet will never have been so happy.
Classic Barnett Crossbows
We reviewed the 2021 crossbow product line of the working man’s crossbow brand, Barnett. Read that here.
5. Best Budget compound
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Killer Instinct Lethal 405 |
405 |
7.2 lbs |
34.5" |
14.75" |
18.75" |
14.5" |
210 lbs |
Pros
- Excellent value-to-price ratio
- Over 400 FPS
- Pro package offers all needed accessories
- Lightweight frame
- Hyperlite Killer Instinct bolts included
- Silent cranking device
- Rubber sound dampeners
Cons
- Scope not illuminated
Package includes:
- 4 x 32 Scope
- Rope Cocker
- String Suppressors
- 3-Bolt Quiver
- 3 HYPR Lite Bolts and Field Tips
- Stick of Rail Lube
The Killer Instinct Lethal crossbow is the best budget tactical compound crossbow.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
The Lethal bow is easy to hand, shoulder, and aim, and then shoots at an amazing 405 feet per second shot! This includes a pro scope to help extend your distance when shooting. The package comes with precision-tested Hyperflite carbon arrows. These arrows give you those tight groupings.
The value-to-price ratio is amazing with this crossbow, and it is the perfect bow for a beginner or for the hunter on a budget.
The Lethal clocks in at an impressive 400+ FPS speed. Although this model’s frame is lightweight, it shoots with power and accuracy.
The lightweight frame makes for a great crossbow for the hobbyist shooter with shoulder issues.
When you purchase the Lethal crossbow, it comes with the pro package. This package comes with the necessary accessories to shoot, which include Hyprlite cross bolts, a scope, 3-bolt quiver, and a stick of rail lube.
Rubber dampeners are built into the body of the bow, and these help reduce the sound and vibration caused by shooting the bow. Also, the Lethal has an adjustable grip to help fit for a variety of people, as well as caters to different carrying preferences.
A silent crank is included with the package, so as not to allow the prey any chance at hearing that you’re around.
Although the price is extremely low, don’t get it wrong, this is a hunting machine. With the shoot over 400 FPS, a silent crank, and Hyprlite bolts, this has everything needed to take down the next buck you see.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
Calling all budget buyers! The Lethal 405 by Killer Instinct that will shoot at over 400 feet per second, include everything you need to get out shooting fast, but won’t break the bank. This is an all around great deal.
6. Best Tactical Recurve
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Excalibur Assassin 420 Td |
420 |
8 lbs |
33-36" |
23.25" |
30" |
18.875" |
290 lbs |
Pros
- Tru-Fit stock (adjustable)
- Completely silent shot
- Pro trigger
- Ability to cock and decock
Cons
- Steep price tag
Package includes:
- TACT-100 Illuminated Scope
- Pro-Shot Trigger
- 4 Arrow quiver
- 4 PROFLIGHT premium arrows
- 4 100gr Field points
- 30mm scope rings
- Anti Dry-Fire System
- Fail safe strap
- R.E.D.S. Suppressors
- Ambidextrous Cheekpiece
What Makes This Crossbow Great
- Completely silent shot- excellent for hunters in the fields, on a tree stand, and in a ground blind
- 420 feet-per-second shot- fastest recurve on the market
- Recurve technology gives the ability to fix and maintain a broken string easily, even when you’re out hunting
- Quick-loc technology makes putting this bow together and taking it apart as easy as a snap (literally)
Who’s This Bow Best For?
For the experienced shooters looking for a superior recurve crossbow, this Excalibur Assassin 420Td is your bow.
Excalibur Crossbow Guide
Looking for the best recurve crossbow brand in the industry? Read this in-depth review into their newest crossbows.
7. Best Budget recurve
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Barnett Wildcat Camo Recurve |
260 |
4.8 lbs |
32" |
22" |
28" |
12" |
195 lbs |
Pros
- Little assembly needed to start shooting
- Good quality for the price
- Soft-lok floating bristle arrow retainer
- Metal injection molded trigger
- Anti-dry fire trigger system
Cons
- Difficult to cock- hightly recommend purchasing the rope cocking device with this package
- Speed is under 300 FPS
Package includes:
- 4x32 millimeters multi-reticle scope
- Two 20" Aluminum Arrows
- Lightweight side mount quiver
- Lube Wax
Easy to assemble and great to shoot, the Barnett Wildcat is the best budget recurve crossbow on the market
.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
Safety is key, especially for first-time bow owners. The Wildcat includes Barnett’s Soft Lok floating bristle arrow retainer to keep from dry-firing, which they call their Anti-Dry Fire Trigger System. It works well, and we’re happy there’s a safety mechanism.
Who This Crossbow Is Best For
The Barnett Wildcat will unleash the tactical mobility that you’re looking for and provide the simplicity of a recurve at a fraction of the price to other high-priced models. Respected, reliable, and really badass- this Wildcat might need you to tame it!
8. Best Handheld
| Model | Draw Weight | Self-Cocking |
|---|---|---|
|
KingsArchery |
80 |
Yes |
Pros
- Self-cocking design
- Adjustable sight
- Aluminum arrow bolts
- Safety feature
- Easy to use
Cons
- 80-pound draw weight can be difficult to draw
- Package doesn't include lube wax
- Adjustable sight isn't great
Package includes:
- 15 aluminum arrow bolts
- 15 plastic arrow bolts
KingsArchery is the ultimate tactical handheld pistol crossbow on the market. At the time this review was written, this handheld crossbows runs for less than $75!
Get out and get shooting, quickly and easily with this KingsArchery. Don’t be mistaken by the price, however, read the recent customer reviews – people are raving about this little, yet powerful crossbow.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
- Constructed from durable fiberglass
- Extremely powerful for the size
- Easy to use right out of the box
- This model can fit any sized person
Who’s This Crossbow Best For?
The KingsArchery pistol crossbow is perfect for the hobbyist shooter looking to hunt small game or have a good time practice shooting in the backyard for UNDER $100!
People Also Asked:
What Is A Tactical Crossbow
A tactical crossbow is a crossbow made for being easy to carry and accurate to shoot. Shooters with a variety of needs have a number of options in the crossbow world. Read this page to understand what you need to know to buy the best tactical crossbow for you.
Why Buy A Tactical Crossbow
Having a tactical crossbow can serve a number of different needs. Common uses of tactical crossbows include the following:
Hunting medium to large game: deer, boar, elk, bear
Hunting small game: squirrel, rabbit, other critters
Target practice
Home defense
Recreation
What Makes A Good Tactical Crossbow
Good tactical crossbows have the eight following characteristics:
Powerful
Accurate
Good mobility
Useful scope
Easy to handle
Durable
Reliable
Fair price
Pros and Cons of Tactical Crossbows
Pros
- Easy to load and handle
- Fun to shoot
- Wide variety of price ranges
- Accurate and on point
- Lightweight and often have great mobility
Cons
- Cheaply made tactical crossbows are often very low-quality: go with quality
- Tactical crossbows often come from non-crossbow brands: I recommend sticking with an original crossbow brand
Aspects To Consider Before Purchase
Certain factors will help you make a great decision when looking for the right tactical crossbow for you. Below you will find a list of unique aspects regarding each individual crossbow that I recommend looking at the charts from above before clicking the buy now button.
Price: Order the best crossbow that you can afford.
- Purpose: Get the tactical crossbow that will serve your needs. If you want a small, easy to use crossbow for shooting in the back yard, that will be different than pulling in game from the woods. Understand the outcome you’re looking to have when considering which bow is best for you.
- Speed: More speed is nice to have, but it often comes at a higher price tag. However, in the reviews above you can find the best crossbow for the money. I suggest going with the most speed that is in your budget.
- Draw weight: Will you be able to cock a crossbow with a 180 pound draw weight? If not, the solution is to also order a crank cocking device or rope cocking device, or grab a bow with one that’s already built in.
- Crossbow weight: Likewise to the above mentioned purpose, knowing what you’re going to be able to handle, weight wise, is going to make a difference. Again, if you’re looking to take something out in the backyard for 15 minutes, the weight is less of an issue. However, if you’re looking to strap a bow to your back, walk through the woods, have it in your hands for hours as you wait for game, the weight aspect will be very significant.
- Safety: Most of these crossbows listed above have an anti-dry fire mechanism attached with the bow. However, safety is an important factor when considering purchasing the best tactical crossbow for you.
- Accessories: You pay for what you get. Personally, I like to pay a bit more up front, and know that there are going to be plenty of bolts, lube wax, and all the necessities I’m going to need to start shooting, and also to maintain my crossbow. Take lube for example, if a crossbow doesn’t come with lube for the string, and I forget to purchase extra because I didn’t realize the crossbow package doesn’t come with string lube, than the chances of my buying a little purchase like string lube just for that is low. Suddenly, my bow’s not being maintained and it’s because the package wasn’t complete. I’d rather buy a complete package up front. Many of the tactical crossbows listed in this review come with everything needed, but some are lacking the extras that are nice to have, so make sure you have a quick check about what’s included with each package. That’s why I added the “Package Includes” section in each review.
What are the different types of tactical crossbows?
- Regular-style compound crossbow
- Reverse-draw compound crossbow
- Recurve crossbow
Recap
Choosing the best tactical crossbow can be a difficult decision. Luckily, the information above will direct you to the right places. It will be beneficial for you to think about what you’re aiming at getting with your tactical crossbow to make a final decision about which is best for you.
Best Tactical Crossbows
Thanks for stopping by! For more information on the best bow-related gear, check out our homepage.
