Table of Contents
Did you go out hunting during 2020 and come to the realization that it’s time to upgrade your crossbow? This best crossbows for hunting in 2021 buyer’s guide will give you all the information you’ll need to find your next bow quickly and easily.
Best Crossbows for Hunting
Comparison Table: Best Crossbows
Award | Crossbow | Specs |
|---|---|---|
|  |
Weight = 8 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 6.75 lbs |
Best Reverse Limb Bow |  |
Weight = 7.5 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 7.2 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 7.9 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 7.2 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 4.8 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 6.5 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 6.4 lbs |
|  | FPS = 285Weight = 7.48 lbsLength = 36.5" Draw weight = 175 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 4.4 lbs |
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Quick Links: Best Hunting Crossbow
- Best on the market: TenPoint Vapor RS470
- Best for traveling hunters: Ravin Crossbow R29
- Best reverse limb: Scorpyd Aculeus
- Best under $1,000: Killer Instinct SWAT XP Crossbow
- Best recurve: Excalibur Hunting Crossbow Assassin 400 Td
- Best budget compound: Killer Instinct Lethal 405
- Best budget recurve: Barnett Blackcat
- Best for women: Ravin R26
- Best for teenagers: Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
- Best for girls: XGear Girls
- Best for junior hunters: Daisy Youth Crossbow
1. Best Hunting 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
“Perfection lives here” is TenPoint’s motto, and their Vapor Rs470 appears like perfection has arrived.
This bow is for the hunter who wants to shoot like a pro.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
The Vapor produces up to 470 FPS of smooth, accurate, and devastatingly powerful shots. This is a reverse-draw designed crossbow, and a lot of hunters are paying attention to the advantages of the reverse-draw style. The benefit of the reverse-draw design is that the string passes through the riser and generates more speed from a lighter draw weight. This system creates a smoother and quieter shot.
The Vapor Rs470 has an innovative cam system and is a narrow 6.5 inches wide when cocked. This creates great maneuverability for hunters using a tree stand or ground blind.
What I really appreciate with this bow is the ability to easily and safely uncock the bow. To do so, TenPoint created a system where all you have to do is unwind the cocking device. I also really like how the hunter can wind or unwind as much as they’d like. In other models, hunters accidentally unwind too far and cause damage to their bows. That’s not an issue with the Vapor Rs470.
The force to cock the crossbow is a mere 5 pounds. Never before has it been so convenient to set up a shot. The kicker is in the trigger. This crossbow is decked out with the S1 trigger that has a consistent, crisp control for down-range accuracy.
Who This bow is best for
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line crossbow, that includes all the specs you’d ever want, plus a complete hunting package, I suggest making a grab at the Vapor Rs470.
2. Best for Hunters who travel
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ravin R29 |
430 |
6.75 lbs |
39" |
6" |
10.5" |
12.5" |
12 lbs |
Pros
- Fast, compact, light and powerful
- HeliCoil technology advantage
- Versa-draw silent cocking mechanism
- Trac-Trigger firing system
- Anti-dry fire functionality
- Tactical scope, quiver and handling
- Fully assembled and pre-tuned
Cons
- Safety button should be easier to see
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
Light, mobile, and responsive, Ravin’s model, the R29 receives our best crossbow for hunters who travel award in 2021 award.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
Its super compact design is short in length and narrow in width. This is the lightweight crossbow at the pro level that you’ll find, and it’s an awesome advantage to have when you’re spending long days in the field.
The R29 produces an incredible kinetic energy, yet only requires a 12-pound draw to cock the bow. Once readied, the shot is wicked fast at 430 FPS.
Ravin’s popular HeliCoil system winds the cams and provides for yet another advantage. 340-degree cam rotation gives the shooter efficient performance.
Using the technology on the crossbow, Ravin’s frictionless flight system guides the arrow through the rail without actually touching the rail at all. This does two key things: first, it creates a spot-on, consistent shot. Second, it increases string life- two great things.
Who This bow is best for
The Ravin R29 is the perfect match for the hunter who values the compact, lightweight and wickedly sharp shot that this bow gives. This bow does the work, you just have to hold it- and then carry the buck to the truck.
3. Best Reverse Draw
| 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 the best reverse limb crossbow for hunting.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
4. 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?
5. Best recurve for Hunting
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Excalibur Assassin 400 |
400 |
7.9 lbs |
30-33" |
20.5" |
25" |
15" |
325 lbs |
Pros
- High-quality, built to last
- Easy to assemble
- Responsive scope
- High-output express limbs
- Includes Excalibur’s charger crank
- Quick Loc technology
- Pro-shot ACP Trigger
Cons
- None
Package includes:
- Tact-100 scope
- Soft case
- 4 Premium Black Eagle Pro-Flight arrows
- Scope
- 4-arrow quiver
- Tru-Fit stock for infinite adjustment
Coming from Excalibur, the Assassin 400Td is awarded our best recurve crossbow of 2021.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
Excalibur continues to improve and innovate in the field of crossbows. I really like this recurve crossbow for its ability to shoot with power like a compound, but maintain its simple, recurve style.
This is a high-performing and compact recurve crossbow that includes air breaks and a sound dampening system. This bow’s integrated cranking system and adjustable stock make it fit any hunter at any size.
Excalibur has put all of their best technology together for this one, and I’m really impressed. When you put the bow together to shoot, all you have to do is put the front piece on the body and twist to lock. Excalibur calls this their QuickLoc Technology, and honestly, it’s pretty revolutionary.
For the reason that it’s so easy to put together and take apart, the Assassin 400Td is also hands down the best recurve crossbow for the traveling hunter.
This recurve crossbow really has it all, and the package includes the necessary equipment to get started the day this bow arrives. Not only does this bow shoot well, the materials used are high-grade. Lube the string and maintain the body, and this bow will last for a long time.
One of the main advantages why hunters choose a recurve over a compound is the ability to repair your own bow. I get that, and the Assassin 400Td is so easy to use, this bow makes a great example of that.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
6. 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 cheap crossbow of 2021.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
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.
7. Best Budget Recurve
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Barnett Blackcat |
260 |
4.8 lbs |
35.5" |
22" |
28" |
12.5" |
165 lbs |
Pros
- Equipped with aluminum Easton bolts
- Trigger is metal-injected
- Picatinny Rail
- Anti-dry fire trigger system
Cons
- Quiver is cheaply made
- Scope is difficult to read range when it's bright outside
- Can be difficult to cock
- No sling or case included
Package includes:
- 3 aluminum Easton bolts
- Bolt tips
- Scope
- String lube
The Blackcat crossbow is one of Barnett’s longest-running manufactured crossbows. This model is a classic.
This sleek, black finish makes the Blackcat crossbow have the appearance of a high-priced bow, but on the contrary, the price tag sits low in the scale compared with other bows.
At 260 feet per second, you won’t be shooting big game, but for smaller game, this can be an excellent fit.
What Makes This Target Great
- Easy to use- simplicity of a recurve is excellent
- Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System
- Soft-Lok™ Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer
- Metal Injection Molded (MIM) Trigger
- Anti-Vibration Foot Stirrup
- Pass-Through Foregrip
- Mostly Assembled
- Three Picatinny Rails
- Finger Safety Reminders
- Cocking device not included
Who’s This Target Best For?
The Blackcat crossbow will help you shoot accurate arrows for a quarter of the price of other comparable crossbows on the market!
8. Best Crossbow for Women
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ravin R26 |
400 |
6.5 lbs |
26" |
5.75" |
9.25" |
9.5" |
12 lbs |
Pros
- HeliCoil Technology
- Comes fully-Assembled/Pre-Tuned
- Built-In Cocking Mechanism
- Anti-Dry Fire/Auto Safety
Cons
- Could be too compact for a big person
Package includes:
- 6 – Ravin .003 Arrows & Field Tips (400 Grain Total)
- 1 – Removable Draw Handle
- 1 – Quiver/Mounting Bracket
- 100 Yard Illuminated Scope
- Built-in Sling Mounts
Ravin R26 crossbow is their lightest, most versatile and easy to use crossbow by Ravin. Although the Ravin R26 is a prime model for both males and females, for a women looking for a high-end crossbow, the R26 is a great choice.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
Who This bow is best for
9. Best for Teenage Hunters
| 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.
10. Best Youth Crossbow For Girls
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
XGear Crossbow |
285 |
7.48 lbs |
36.5" |
Undisclosed |
27.5" |
11.5" |
175 lbs |
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Powerful shot
- Anti-dry fire safety mechanism
Cons
- Can be difficult to cock at first until it’s broken in
Package includes:
- 3-red-dot sight scope
- Quiver
- Padded sling
- 4pcs of 20" aluminum arrow
- Rail lube wax
- Cocking rope
The XGear crossbow is the best youth crossbow for girls.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
This crossbow has an excellent price to power ratio! What a great cheap bow for getting 285 feet per second out of it.
This crossbow is no joke though. It is best for the girl or junior who will have supervision while shooting.
This crossbow is so powerful it can be used for hunting. The dimensions are tight, the weight is light, and the shot is powerful. This is an excellent all around crossbow.
What I really like about this crossbow is that it has a built-in dry-fire mechanism for safety. Not all crossbows on the cheaper side have this function, and I’m really glad that this one chose to invest in safety. I’m sure safety is important when purchasing a crossbow for your child, so this might be the best choice for you.
How Is This Crossbow Best For?
This crossbow can be a great selection for a number of different youngsters. Of course, it doesn’t have to be a girl, but a girl who can handle such a powerful crossbow would really enjoy it. This crossbow is best for the junior hunter who wants a light crossbow, with safety features that has the power to hunt deer.
11. Best Youth Crossbow For Beginners
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Daisy Crossbow |
Undisclosed |
4.4 lbs |
38.38" |
Undisclosed |
Undisclosed" |
Undisclosed |
29 lbs |
Pros
- Great trainer for juniors
- Adjustable rear sight
- Includes 2 bolts
- Safety-first crossbow
Cons
- Latch release has been known to be installed backward
Package includes:
- Crossbow
- 2 bolts
The Daisy is a great little crossbow for the youngster in your household!
I don’t recommend trying to hunt anything with it, but this little bow can make a great practice crossbow for your kid’s first time shooting.
The crossbow comes with two bolts, and can be easily assembled right out of the package.
This is an inexpensive crossbow that would be for a super fun gift for a child.
Frequently asked questions
What Is The Best Crossbow Bolt For Hunting?
Related Page
Interested in the best crossbow bolts?
Check out our Best Crossbow Bolts page, where you can read reviews of the three types of bolts above and more!
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