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Best Recurve Crossbows
Tired of not being able to fix your snapped string by yourself from a compound crossbow and ready for the simplicity that a recurve offers?
These days, there are so many available recurve bows out there, it would take an entire day to check out the company sites and read customer reviews. Luckily, I’ve done that research for you to help you easily find the best recurve crossbow for you.
Comparison Table: Best Recurve Crossbows 2021
Award | Crossbow | Specs |
|---|---|---|
|  |
Weight = 8 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 5.6 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 5.4 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 5.5 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 4.8 lbs |
|  |
Length = 32” Draw Weight = 175 lbs |
|  |
Weight = 4.4 lbs |
Quick Links: Best Recurve Crossbow
- Best on the market: Excalibur Assassin 420 TD
- Best under $1,000: Excalibur Micro 340 Td Crossbow Package
- Best for deer hunting: Excalibur Micro Suppressor
- Best for small-framed hunters: Excalibur Matrix Sapphire
- Best for beginners: Barnett Wildcat Recurve Crossbow
- Best for teenagers: SA Sports 647 Empire Fever Pro
- Best cheap recurve: Daisy Youth Crossbow
1. Best on the Market
| 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
- 100% designed and manufactured in the U.S.A.
- 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 hunter who is looking to upgrade their existing recurve crossbow, or the avid compound crossbow hunter interested in getting the best recurve crossbow on the market, this Excalibur Assassin 420Td is your bow.
2. Best Under $1,000
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Excalibur Micro 340Td |
340 |
5.6 lbs |
33" |
21.5" |
25" |
13" |
270 lbs |
Pros
- Quick-Loc technology
- All-aluminum mainframe
- Riser and trigger housing
- Air brakes SDS pre-installed
- Tacticle scope
- Compact micro limb technology
- Light weight
Cons
- Would prefer a bow that shoots in the 400 FPS range
Package includes:
- Tact-100 Illuminated Scope with 30mm rings
- R.E.D.S. Suppressors
- 4 Arrow Quiver
- Ambidextrous Cheekpiece
- 4 Quill Arrows
- Rope-Cocking Aid
Looking for the best crossbow for your buck? The Micro 340 is our Best For The Money Bow because it has premium and professional features at an amazing price just under $1,000.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
This bow is lightweight, compact, and easy to take where you need to go. Its Quick Loc Technology allows shooters to assemble and pack up in moments, which helps during those run-and-hunt times, plus storage and transportation.
Who This Crossbow Is Best For
Despite being a recurve, the Micro 340 is easy to cock alone in the field, so with all the features and function of this badboy, don’t worry about spending a few hundred extra than you originally anticipated because when you’re out shooting and the arrows land so close that they’re touching, you won’t regret the well-made purchase.
3. Best For Deer Hunting
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Excalibur Micro Suppressor |
355 |
5.4 lbs |
31" |
21" |
25" |
10.2" |
200 lbs |
Pros
- Excellent full, hunting package
- Sound-deadening system included
- Ready-rest stock included
Cons
- Must be able to cock the strong draw weight
Package includes:
- Tact-Zone Illuminated Scope
- Rope-Cocking Aid
- Guardian Anti-Dry-Fire System
- R.E.D.S. Suppressors
- Ambidextrous Cheekpiece
- Three Quill Arrows with 150gr Field Points
- Three Arrow X-Hanger Quiver with Bracket
- Sound Deadening System
The Suppressor is an ultimate hunting machine. It’s compact, silent, and delivers an amazingly accurate shot.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
The Sound-Deadening Systems works in tandem with the bow to produce silent shots that reduce shot vibration to shoot exactly where you aimed at. The rubber grips from the Ready-Rest Stock that are included with the package give you stability in setting up your shot.
The scope is awesome. It’s called the Tack Zone scope. It’s illuminated with yard markers all the way to 60 yards. The entire set up is lightweight and great for mobility.
One of the best aspects, from an eager hunter who doesn’t like to lose time when out in the field is that you can change out the string or do necessary adjustments yourself. I’ve had friends who couldn’t or struggled with this on their bows and lost time hunting.
Who This Crossbow Is Best For
4. Best for Small-Framed Hunters
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Matrix Sapphire |
305 |
5.5 lbs |
32.2" |
26.75” |
30. 5” |
10.8" |
200 lbs |
Pros
- Specifically engineered for the small-framed shooter
Cons
- Instructional manual isn't very helpful
Package includes:
- Dead-Zone Scope
- 1″ rings
- 4-Arrow Quiver
- Four Diablo Arrows with 150gr Field Points
- Rope-Cocking Aid
This Sapphire Crossbow by Excalibur offers an excellent crossbow for small-framed hunters.
You might be asking, why would the Sapphire be better for a small-framed hunter rather than the Micro series, that are listed above. The reason that the Sapphire will be a better pick for small-framed shooters is because of the easy-to-draw draw weight.
This bow is shoots at 305 feet per second, even though the draw weight is a mere 200 pounds.
Another thing that’s great about this model is that Excalibur offers a life-time warranty. In order to assemble this crossbow, all you have to do is bolt the riser onto the stock and you’ll be good to go.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
- Specifically engineered for the small-framed shooter, the new Matrix Sapphire is ultra-maneuverable in a lightweight and compact platform
- Comfortable narrow profile and short stock, offering a reduced length of pull
- Compact Recurve Technology limbs and an ergonomic thumbhole stock for unparalleled performance
- Delivers the same trusted durability and reliability expected from any Excalibur Crossbow
Who This Crossbow is Best For
The Excalibur Sapphire crossbow is the best pick for the small-framed shooter looking for an easy to shoot and maneuver bow.
5. Best For Beginners
| 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 recurve crossbow for beginners.
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 hunter within and captivate any noobie into a genuine hunter. If you’re looking for a gift to get someone (maybe yourself) into bow hunting, start with the Barnett Wildcat.
6. Best for Girls
| Model | FPS | Weight | Length | Width while cocked | Width while uncocked | Power Stroke | Draw Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
SA Sports 647 Empire Fever Pro |
235 |
5.1 lbs |
32" |
Undisclosed" |
26.5" |
12" |
175 lbs |
Pros
- Great weight and simple design
- Hand saver palm grip
- Ambidextrous auto safety
- Integrated broadhead wrench molded into stock
- Flip-open storage compartment
- Adjustable weaver scope mount
- Sturdy cast aluminum traack
Cons
- Trigger quality is mediocre
- Bolts are mediocre
Package includes:
- 4x32 scope
- 4 aluminum arrows
- Quick detach quiver
- Padded shoulder sling for easy transport
The Empire Fever Pro is a versatile, easy-to-use bow suitable for both experienced shooters and beginners, and for this reason, this is the best recurve crossbow for girls.
What Makes This Crossbow Great
This lightweight and shooter-friendly bow is ripe for a smaller-bodied person, who is looking for a crossbow that doesn’t have a heavy weight.
The length is perfect for fast and mobile shots when first spot your game and need to set up with speed. What I like so much about the Empire Fever Pro is that it includes the features demanded by crossbow enthusiasts with an extremely affordable price tag.
SA Sports also created some innovative designs that I’ve noticed to be extremely useful. For example, the flip-cap dry storage works great if you’ve need to pack something light or keep something dry, you can put it right into the bow. Also, the optional saver-palm grip allows shooters to choose whether or not they want the crossbow to be handheld or not. Options are nice, and for the price, this bow gives them all.
Who Is This Crossbow Best For?
The Empire Fever Pro crossbow is an excellent pair for girls, junior hunters, or small-built hunters who are looking for an easy-to-handle crossbow that will still take down game!
7. Best Cheap Crossbow
| 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.
Helpful Information For Buying A Recurve Crossbow:
What Is A Recurve Crossbow?
A recurve crossbow is a crossbow with the simple design of a curved bow perpendicular to the end of the flight groove, or arrow track. The bow structure as well as the bow’s draw are long. Hunting and archery enthusiasts choose a recurve bow when they want the feeling of a more traditional shot. By design, recurve crossbows are minimalistic as they do not contain the cam, or wheel, and intricate cables of a compound crossbow.
How Do The Limbs On A Recurve Crossbow Differ From The Limbs On A Compound Crossbow?
The limbs on a recurve crossbow are longer and bend more than the limbs on a compound crossbow. The longer recurve limbs provide the power stroke produced by the shot of a recurve crossbow.
What Are The Advantages Of A Recurve Crossbow?
There are many advantages of a recurve crossbow. For one, their simple design makes maintenance and repair easier. Speaking of repair, replacing a broken string on a recurve is a much simpler process than with a compound crossbow. Due to the nature of their simple design, cocking and firing a recurve crossbow is more quiet than a compound bow, which makes a big difference when out hunting. Holding and handling a recurve crossbow is often easier than most compound crossbows because they are often lighter. A few pounds here and there makes a significant difference during a day out hunting.
What Are The Disadvantages Of A Recurve Crossbow?
Recurve crossbow designs are longer than most compound crossbows. This extra length gives its power to the recurve crossbow, but limits the shooter’s agility. Many bow enthusiasts prefer the recurve design to get back the feeling of that traditional way of hunting; however, the shooter must be physically strong enough to cock the bow themselves, as recurve crossbows do not include a cocking system. However, a rope cocking device is often used.
How To Choose The Best Recurve Crossbow For You?
Determine Your Purpose
What reason are you researching about recurve crossbows? Are you looking for the best recurve crossbow for hunting? Are you looking for the best recurve crossbow for a beginner? Determining your purpose for purchasing a crossbow will help you narrow your focus for the bow by reading through the detail specs of each bow that are provided in this post. If you’re hunting, you’re going to want a crossbow that you’ll be able to carry around for hours at a time and also maneuver when the target is near. If you’re planning to hunt with your bow, you’ll also want to invest in quality.
How much does speed matter to you?
If you’ve shot crossbows before, and you’re looking for a powerful shot, don’t buy a crossbow that’s not going to give that to you. Use the information from the post above to gauge how fast you’d like your bolts to fly, and pick out the crossbow that will give you what you’re looking for.
How much weight do you feel comfortable holding?
If you have a look at the resource chart that lists all the recommended recurve crossbows above, you’ll notice that the weight varies widely. Put on, or take off an extra couple pounds and you will feel it right away.
Who Makes The Best Recurve Crossbow?
The best recurve crossbows come from Excalibur and Barnett. The brands are trusted in the world of crossbows, and they manufacture great products. They produce both recurve crossbows and also compound crossbows. Both Excalibur and Barnett continue to outperform themselves year after year.
In this page alone, Excalibur has three out of the six listed recurve crossbows. Our favorites include the Excalibur Hunting Crossbow Assassin 400, the Excalibur Micro 340 Td Crossbow, and the Excalibur Micro Suppressor Crossbow. The Excalibur Hunting Crossbow Assassin 400 is the fastest recurve crossbow. From the side of Barnett, they’ve created the Barnett Wildcat Recurve Crossbow, which is an excellent beginner bow.
Are Recurve Crossbows Any Good?
Recurve crossbows are great for individuals looking for simplicity of design and ability to repair their own bows. One advantage for recurve crossbows is that the shooter is able to change a string in the field themself. This is especially important for people, who travel for their hunting and are far away from a pro shop to help them. A recurve crossbow can appeal to those who find self-sufficiency vital to their way of shooting.
Are Recurve Crossbows Quieter?
Most recurve crossbows are quieter than compound crossbows. However, animals’ sense of hearing are so fine, the noise from the string as it releases the arrow creates a vibrating sound against the barrel that creates a sound. Animals can usually hear this sound no matter which crossbow you shoot with, unless the wind is on your side and you’re shooting from a further distance.
Why Do Many Hunters Choose A Recurve Crossbow Instead Of A Compound Crossbow?
Many hunters choose a recurve crossbow instead of a compound crossbow due to their simplicity of design, easy-to-use functionality, and the ability to repair your own bow. Hunters like the traditional feel of a recurve crossbow. When shooting a recurve crossbow, it feels like hitting the target is solely up to you, without the assistance that a compound crossbow will give, for example.
Are Recurve Crossbows Better Than Compound Crossbows?
The answer to this question is subjective. Recurve crossbows have a different style than compound crossbows. Oftentimes, the individuals who enjoy one, will also enjoy the other. That’s why it’s so nice to have both at home. Similar to having two different drivers in your golf bag, the option is nice to have.
Can A Recurve Bow Kill A Deer?
A recurve crossbow can absolutely kill a deer, and even larger game, too. Recurve crossbows carry a lot of power in their shots. Our traditional bows were recurve before compound bows were invented.
Time To Pick Out A Recurve!
From the absolute best recurve crossbow on the market, to the best for the money, best for hunting, best for beginners and even more, I hope this review helped you narrow down your selection for the best bow for you.
Grab a bow, join the club, and get some outdoor shooting time. That’s what it’s about!
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