Table of Contents
Crossbows have existed since the seventh century BC. The model was short, simple, and used for protection and hunting.
Today, we use the crossbow for the same purposes, but luckily for us, we get to enjoy modern technology!
Below you will find the best hunting crossbows on the market- enjoy!
BowScanner
Best Hunting Crossbows
Best Compound Bow
Best for the Money
Best Under $1,000
We may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through our links. At no additional cost to you by the way! Read our Affiliate Disclosure policy to learn more.
Award | Specs |
|---|---|
Best Compound Hunting Crossbow |
Weight = 8 lbs |
Best Lightweight Hunting Crossbow | FPS = 450Weight = 6.75 lbsLength = 29" Draw Weight = 12 lbs |
Best Runner-Up |
Weight = 7.5 lbs |
Most Compact |
Weight = 7.5 lbs |
Best for the Money |
Weight = 7.5 lbs |
Best Recurve |
Weight = 7.75 lbs |
Best Barnett |
Weight = 8.9 lbs |
Best Under $1,000 |
Weight = 7.2 lbs |
Best Cheap Hunting Crossbow |
Weight = 6.4 lbs |
Best Handheld Hunting Crossbow | Draw Weight = 80 lbs |
Buying Guide
Information to know before buying
What crossbow is best for hunting?
When selecting a hunting crossbow, think about the kind of game you plan to hunt.
If you want to hunt medium to large-sized game, such as deer or elk, all the crossbows on this page except the handheld KingsArchery bow will work.
If you want to hunt for small game, look further into our Best Pistol Crossbows page.
What are the most important aspects to consider before buying?
Knowing the following aspects will help you narrow your search and find the best hunting crossbow for you!
- Price: Buy the best crossbow that’s within your budget. Did you know that a crossbow can last longer than 10 years with proper bow maintenance? Purchase for the long term, take care of your item and enjoy a quality bow for years to come. That is the best strategy.
- Type of game you plan to hunt: Hunters with different shooting plans will require different types of bows. Depending on the game you’re hunting, you might want to focus your attention on the weight of the bow, the speed of the bow, or the types of accessories that come with the bow.
- Weight of bow: Weight matters a lot! Not necessarily for the accuracy of the shot, but whether or not you will be carrying around your bow for long period of time. Do you hike to reach your hunting destination? Are you a run-and-gunner? In that case, you’ll definitely want a lightweight crossbow. Think about how much you’re comfortable holding for long periods of time.
- Draw weight of bow: The draw weight is the amount of weight you need to cock the bow. Most modern crossbows these days come with a crank-cocking device, which does the heavy pulling for you however, before purchasing it’s always best to double check.
- Speed of shot: Speed isn’t everything, but ethical hunters who hunt medium to large-sized game, such as deer and larger, say that it’s best to hunt with a bow that shoots at the 300 feet per second (FPS) range or higher.
- Style of bow: There are different kinds of bows, such as the traditional compound crossbow, the reverse-draw crossbow, and the recurve crossbow. Have a look below for direct links to guide you with more information about each type of bow:
- Brand: As with most aspects of purchasing products, we gravitate towards certain brands. Crossbow hunting is no different. Each brand has positioned themselves to be unique among the rest. For our purposes of finding the best hunting bow, look at the specs and the picture, click the image of the bow or the button underneath and read more to discover your favorite crossbow brand.
best Hunting Crossbows Review
Best on the Market
| 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
Ready to get your socks blown off? If so, let me introduce you to the best reverse limb crossbow by TenPoint called the Vapor Rs470.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
This crossbow is the top-of-the-line bow in the market right now. It is the fastest crossbow in the world, and it shoots with same-hole, down-range accuracy every time.
It comes equipped with every feature and accessory that a hunter could dream of for supreme knock-down power. The reverse limb design eliminates nose-heavy weight often felt by bow handlers. The specialized cam system on the Vapor Rs470 creates the speed at which the shot is fired, and through the TenPoint system, the string is drawn through the riser, which increases the power stroke. This 17 inch power stroke generates a smoother, quieter shot.
One of my favorite aspects of the Rs470 is the ability to cock and decock the bow by a simple windup or wind-down system. This is completely controlled by you, and you can start and stop the process as you want, which makes the process not only safer for you, but also helps protect your bow.
The icing on the cake here is the S1 trigger, which is a pro feature and delivers a super crisp shot that breaks like glass. How about the scope? That, too, is at the top of its class.
The Vapor is among the safest crossbows on the market with its built-in dry-fire inhibitor.
Lastly, did I mention that it shoots up to 470 feet per second? This bow is lightweight, sleek, and deadly.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
Getting the Vapor means you’re getting the best. This bow is best for the hunter who needs to have the best, and wants to shoot at their best. Whether you’re in a ground blind or a tree stand, with a mere 5-pound draw weight, you’ll be able to ready your bow in any spot.
I really wish it came with a magic gene to bring your 10-point buck back to your truck, but unfortunately, that’s about the only thing it doesn’t come with.
Best Lightweight Hunting Crossbow
| 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
- Compact bow at only 6" when cocked
- Hand crank is silent
- High-powerful 450 FPS shot
- Top-notch scope and quiver included
- Comes completely assembled
- Frictionless flight system for speed and accuracy
- Powered by HeliCoil cam system
Cons
- Cheek piece sits uncomfortably next to string
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
R29X
R29X Package
The R29X is Ravin’s most premium crossbow within their brand.
This is an all-around lethal and lightweight weapon that’s an excellent pick for hunters of all kinds.
Features Unique to the R29X
- Ability to shoot a 400-grain bolt downrange at an impressive 450 fps
- Impressive 12.5 inch power stroke
- 340 degrees of cable wind up powered by Ravin’s HeliCoil technology
- Frictionless flight system from the arrow through the shot creates high speed and accuracy
- Versa-draw system that is not only silent, but also creates ease for only a 12 pound draw weight
- Built-in break prevents crank from over free-wheeling
- Trac-Trigger Firing System (TTFS) is
housed in a mobile sled that slides up and down a track on the rail. The TTFS is so slick that it responds with an audible click that engages the anti-dry-fire mechanism for ultra safety - At only 6.75 pounds in mass, this bow feels nearly feather light
- Package comes complete with an illuminated scope, quiver, and 6 arrows
Hunter’s who have owned top-notch crossbows in the past know there’s no going back. The Ravin R29X is one of these bows. Owning this machine reminds you who’s boss, and facilitates a shot to get you what you go out for.
I’m a huge fan of the soft case that the crossbow package comes with, so make sure to give the package deal a glance. It’s lightweight, comfortable and straps on like a backpack. Now, there’s no more awkwardly carrying around your crossbow when you’re out in the field.
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
The Aculeus 460 is one amazing reverse limb crossbow, and it sits as the runner-up best on this list.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
As one recent purchaser of the Aculeus 460 wrote, “No more wounded deer to track. If you can afford it, buy it- you will not regret it.”
That is the model of this bow. It is expensive, and bow enthusiasts know, you get what you pay for. The Aculeus 460 is among the best crossbows in the world.
Let’s first talk about the features that come stock with this bow.
The scope is the Hawke 1.5X5 X32 IR Illuminated Scope and it is top notch. You can shoot 100+ yards with this set up and put arrows through the same hole- it’s really that amazing.
This also happens to be the second fastest reverse draw crossbow in the world. Pulling in at an impressive 460 feet per second, this is a top reverse limb crossbow.
If you look closely, you’ll notice the excellent engineering that’s gone into the design of this bow. The limbs are nearly parallel, which creates more room for mobility and helps store the kinetic energy in the bow for proper release during the time of the shot.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
The Aculeus 460 is best for the advanced hunter, who wants a no-BS way to hunt medium to large-sized game with an extremely fast, powerful and reliable bow that’s completely manufactured from start to finish in the U.S.
Most Compact hunting Crossbow
Description:
Welcome to the world’s most compact, and fastest crossbow! The Havoc RS440 is a bow hunter’s bow, and it tops all that’s currently on the market.
Let’s talk numbers:
The RS440 is only 26.5 inches long and shoots at a rapid speed of 440 feet per second. This is literally the fastest hunting crossbow shot per inch on the market. You want speed, you’ve got it, period.
Imagine owning this as part of your crossbow collection. It’s short, so it’s easy to carry, handle, and pack. I never knew a crossbow could feel so good just holding it. But that’s not even close to the end.
Features
- Safe De-Cocking: Simply wind back the handle and stop at any point. This is the safest cocking and de-cocking system in the crossbow industry.
- Reverse-Draw Advantage: With a 13.5 inch powerstroke, the RS440 delivers a faster shot that requires less up-front pull back strength.
- More Accurate: This ACUslide unit promises that your unit will be in the same place after you've shot it, so you can quickly and easily reload and shoot again with precision!
- Pro Trigger: This zero-creep trigger gives you same hole, down-range accuracy in every shot, and the control you get is out of this world.
- Most safe crossbow: with the dry-fire inhibitor, safety wings, and de-cocking mechanism, you're in the best of hands.
Best for the Money
Description:
Here’s everything you need to know about the Siege RS410. This bad boy is short, fast, and comfortable as can be when it’s in your hands. Just have a look at the picture above! Look at that grip, the handle, and the body!
Before we get into size, let’s talk about sound.
The Siege RS410 is the quietest compact hunting crossbow ever produced. This bow gives the shooter pure control with down-range speed jetting in at 410 feet-per-second speed. Because TenPoint packages their bows right, when you get this hunting weapon, it actually comes with their top-notch EVO-X CenterPunch carbon arrow, which is the exact arrow used in TenPoint’s speed test. And you’ll get it right with the purchase of the bow. That’s amazing.
Now it’s time for size.
This bow is only 26.5 inches long! It’s width is a mere 7.5 inches wide. Believe me, I know there more narrow bows out there, but the Siege RS410 is small in size, yet hits hard like a rattler.
All of the features will be discussed below, but some of the main features that I just couldn’t forget to miss right here in this introduction include that this bow has the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking mechanism. In case you didn’t know, this is a totally silent system that allows for the hunter to have 100% control over how and when you shoot this crossbow.
The trigger, yeah, it’s exactly what you’d want to have. 3.5 pounds of crisp glass-like break from the two stage trigger.
Features
- Safe De-Cocking: Simply wind back the handle and stop at any point. This is the safest cocking and de-cocking system in the crossbow industry.
- Reverse-Draw Advantage: With a 13.5 inch powerstroke, the RS440 delivers a faster shot that requires less up-front pull back strength.
- More Accurate: This ACUslide unit promises that your unit will be in the same place after you've shot it, so you can quickly and easily reload and shoot again with precision!
- Pro Trigger: This zero-creep trigger gives you same hole, down-range accuracy in every shot, and the control you get is out of this world.
- Most safe crossbow: with the dry-fire inhibitor, safety wings, and de-cocking mechanism, you're in the best of hands.
Best Recurve
Twinstrike Specs:
- Speed: 360 Feet per second
- Weight: 7.75 lbs
- Cocking Effort: 14 lbs
- Draw Weight: 358 lbs
- Draw Length: 14.125 inches
- Overall length: 33.375 inches
- Width Cocked/ Uncocked: 21.125 inches/ 25.25 inches
- Stock: Overmolded Bullpup
Description:
DualFire Technology
Yes, you can fire both arrows at the same time. Excalibur isn’t just about making crossbows, they’re about changing the future of how we shoot. And that’s exactly what they’ve done with this bow.
There are three important pieces of engineering and design that you need to know about if this bow interests you, so let’s get to those now.
Two-Trigger Platform
- Two, single match-grade 4 lb. frictionless triggers
- Front trigger fires the top rail, back trigger fires the bottom rail.
CeaseFire Technology
- Makes sure your crossbow does not fire without an arrow loaded
- Works in tandem with Excalibur’s new Rhino Nock- a super safe system where the arrow literally clicks into place
Over/ Under Rail System
- Balanced to work perfectly with the triggers and body to fire accurate arrows
- Prime short and long-distance shooting works well
- Consistent arrow placement everytime
The TwinStrike is legal in any state where crossbow hunting is legal.
What you'll get:
The Excalibur Twinstrike comes with a complete hunting package to give you everything straight out of the box that you’ll need to get out and shoot game. The package includes the following:
- Overwatch Illuminated Scope
- Scope Mount and 30mm Rings
- Charger Ext / Fail Safe Strap
- R.E.D. Suppressors
- DualFire Decocking Aid
- Rebolt 4 Arrow Quiver and Bracket
- 4 – Quill Arrows with Rhino Nocks
- 4 – 100 gr. field points
Description:
Barnett’s 2021 flagship crossbow, the HypterTac Pro 430 is Barnett’s best ever made bow.
The trigger is crisp, the arrows shot fast, and it is probably the easiest-to-shoot bow Barnett has ever created. That means that this crossbow makes for a great avid hunter’s bow, but also for the man who is starting out and wants a quality hunting crossbow.
There are tons of features on this badboy, which I’ll get to further down on this review. Just to spout off one right now that I was really impressed with is that Barnett has a newly patented string hook system that is exclusive to this bow. No other Barnett models have it, and no other brands are using this technology yet.
Safety is always a concern with new crossbow lines. You want to make sure safety is up to par and won’t dry fire on you at any time. Barnett has made sure thing bow is as safe as possible with the paired quick-detach CCD. This helps hunters cock and uncock the bow quickly and easily.
One of my favorites is that the HyperTac 430 Pro is completely customizable. Barnett utilized the flip-down Verti-Grip in order to shoot this bow just like a traditional AR. If you’re a tactical, outdoor, and/or survival-type, this crossbow is for you. Next, the butt stock and cheek piece are adjustable to fit any sized hunter.
This bow gives you a great sense of control. Due to the narrow backend, but the traditional frontend shape, you get supreme maneuverability what ever position you find yourself hunting in.
Remember that this is a full and complete crossbow hunting package that comes equipped to give you ever piece of equipment you need to get out and start shooting- with accuracy!
One of these included pieces of equipment are the Hyperflite arrows. Talking about accuracy, these are light, strong and some of the best arrows in the business.
Along with quality arrows, the scope that comes with the bow is a 1.5-5x32mm red and green illuminated, speed-compensating scope. If you’re looking for additional scopes check out Best Crossbow Scope Review page!
This list doesn’t stop with the awesome arrows or high-quality scope, because this crossbow package also includes pre-installed string dampeners and a multi-position premium quiver to actually give you everything you need in one crossbow package.
Some additional information that I always like to know before buying is that Barnett packages this HyperTac 430 Pro to be fully assembled and ready-to-hunt straight out of the box!
Literally, order the bow, open the package, and shoot! I love that. I’ve you’ve ever had to assemble a new crossbow, you’ll know what it’s like to attach the string – not something I’ll have to do with this Barnett!
Features
- Free $200 Custom Trigger Upgrade: The Frictionless Release Technology™ creates a free-floating roller between the sear and the trigger – offering a smoother, lighter trigger unlike anything else on the market. Nock sensors and anti-dry fire give you peace of mind for double the safety, and a three-pound, zero-creep release gives you confidence to make the shot.
- Patented Integrated String Hook System
- Micro-Adjustable Length-of-Pull Butt Stock and Cheek Piece
- Pass-Through Forend with Articulating Verti-Grip™ Palm Rest
- Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System
- Integrated Crank Cocking Device with Push-Button Handle Release
- 1.5-5x32mm Illuminated, Speed Compensating Scope
- Premium Multi-Position Side-Mount Quiver with Quick Detach
- Metal Injection Molded (MIM) Trigger
- Soft Lok™ Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer
- Pre-Installed String Dampeners
- CNC Machined Aluminum Flight Track
- SureShot™ Monopod Compatibility
- Three Picatinny Rails
- Comes Fully Assembled
What you'll get:
Complete hunting package from this Barnett HyperTac 430 Pro, which includes the following:
- Three 22” Hyperflite™ Arrows
- Premium 1.5-5×32 Illuminated, Speed Compensating Scope
- Integrated Crank Cocking Device
- Premium Side-Mount Quiver
- Lubrication Wax
Specs:
A closer look:
- Weight: 8.9 lbs
- Crank cocking device tension: 7 lbs
- Axel to axel width: 9.125″
- Draw weight: 230 lbs
- Kinetic energy: 156 ft./lbs
- Power stroke: 14.25″
- Speed: 430 Feet Per Second
- Trigger type: TriggerTech
Best under $1,000
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Killer Instinct Swat Xp |
415 |
7.2 lbs |
27" |
9.125" |
14.125" |
16.25" |
12 lbs |
Pros
- Ultra-compact
- Killer Instinct Accutac Barrel system for accurate shots
- Broadhead cage keeps bolts on track
- Center balance design for greater shot control
Cons
- A case is not included with the Elite package
- Upper limb requires heavyweight arrows
Package includes:
- LUMIX SPEED RING 1.5 - 5 x 32 IR-E Scope,
- DSC™ Dead Silent Crank
- Rope Cocker
- String & Limb Suppressors
- 5-Bolt Quiver
- 3 SWAT XP Bolts (400 Grains) with Field Tips
- Stick of Rail Lube
The Killer Instinct Swat Xp is rated our best crossbow under $1,000. The Swat Xp model provides a lot of punch for the price tag it is listed under.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
Hunters know the importance of the scope. This bow comes with the Lumix speed scope that normally sells for over $100, but is included in the package. Next, Killer Instinct’s popular dead silent crank, rope cocker and string & limb suppressor are all included with the package.
The design of the Swat Xp is individual and unique in that the features of the bow are placed near the center of the body. This design improves the front-heavy feeling that often comes with most conventionally designed crossbows.
More on the design of the bow, the Swat Xp is built for balance and control. This bow creates a high-energy power stroke from using its full length to create perfect balance.
Killer Instinct’s Broadhead Cage technology facilitates the bolt and broadhead in the riser to take away any chance the bolt flies off the bow’s track. This is located at the end of the AccuTac Barrel and provides a more accurate shot.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
Best Cheap Hunting Crossbow
| 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
This bow is a great choice for the avid hunter, as well as the occasional deer hunter. Don’t let the name fool you, however, whether you’re taking down turkey, deer, hog, elk or other, this bow will do the trick.
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?
If you’re looking to give the amazing gift of a proper hunter crossbow to a teenager, this Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is the model to go with.
Best Pistol Crossbow
| 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 best pistol crossbow on the market. At the time this review was written, this handheld crossbows runs for less than $75, and this makes for a youth crossbow pick!
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 young shooter to gain real target practice for UNDER $100!
Conclusion
Crossbow technology these days is excellent.
Don’t feel worried about getting the perfect bow. Click the buttons near the crossbow reviews, read more about the bows, and find one that works best for you.
The important part is getting a bow, using it, and learning more about it through practice.
That is all for this post. I hope you found this helpful, and if you have another crossbow model to recommend, make sure to leave your comment in the comment section below!
BowScanner
Thanks for stopping by! For more information on the best bow-related gear, check out our homepage.
