Crossbow hunting is fun when you have the right gear at hand. It offers a unique combination of power, precision, and convenience, making it popular among hunters. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a beginner looking to explore this versatile weapon, we have a list of the best crossbows for hunting and a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose right.
Modern crossbows have advanced features that make them effective tools for hunting a wide range of game. From lightweight models ideal for mobility and quick setups to powerful crossbows designed for long-range accuracy, there’s a crossbow suited for every type of hunting scenario.
Additionally, these tools are designed with convenient features like high draw weights, fast arrow speeds, and sophisticated sighting systems to help you get the most out of every hunting expedition.
In this guide, we will explore some of the best crossbows optimized for hunting. We will look at crossbows suited for different types of game, from medium-sized game like deer and elk to smaller animals like turkeys and rabbits.
Without further ado, let’s jump right in.
Best Crossbows for Hunting
1) Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow
Specifications
- Item Weight: 6.6 Pounds
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Archery Draw Weight: 210 Pounds
- Archery Draw Length: 15.5 Inches
- Material: Plastic, Carbon Fiber, Metal
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow is the best crossbow for hunting. It is a well-rounded and versatile tool for hunters of all experience levels from beginners to veterans.
Weighing in at just 6.6 pounds, it offers a manageable and comfortable experience during long hunting sessions. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters and with the impressive draw weight of 210 pounds and a draw length of 15.5 inches, it delivers a powerful and accurate shot.
Construction-wise, the crossbow is built to last. The combination of plastic, carbon fiber, and metal materials ensures a durable yet lightweight construction for easy handling. Besides, the crossbow’s compact size makes it easy to maneuver in dense woods or confined hunting blinds, while its powerful performance can take down large game with ease.
Another impressive feature of the Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow is its balance between power and ease of use. The 210-pound draw weight provides ample power, allowing the crossbow to achieve impressive arrow speeds crucial for accurate shots and effective penetration.
Pros
- Lightweight (6.6 pounds) so it is easy to carry and maneuver without fatigue during long hunts
- Ambidextrous design suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters
- High draw weight (210 pounds) which delivers powerful shots with great penetration, suitable for large game hunting
- Compact size that makes it ideal for hunting in dense woods or confined spaces
Cons
- Plastic components are less durable over time compared to other materials, especially with heavy use
2) Wicked Ridge M-370 Crossbow Package with ACUdraw
Specifications
- Speed: 370 feet per second (fps)
- Power Stroke: 13.8 inches
- Draw Weight: 180 lbs
- Kinetic Energy: 115 ft-lbs
- Length: 35 inches
- Width Axle-to-Axle (uncocked/cocked): 14 inches / 9.5 inches
- Weight: 5.8 lbs
This is a highly efficient and lightweight crossbow, perfect for both novice and experienced hunters. Its overall build quality, combined with its high performance and user-friendly features, makes it one of the best crossbows for hunting, an excellent choice for hunters looking for reliability, power, and convenience in a compact and lightweight package.
The selling feature of this hunting crossbow is its impressive speed, capable of shooting bolts at up to 370 feet per second. This high velocity, combined with a kinetic energy of 115 ft-lbs, ensures deep penetration and powerful impact when hunting big game. Furthermore, the 13.8-inch power stroke and a draw weight of 180 lbs contribute to its overall performance, providing a smooth and consistent shooting experience.
The ACUdraw cocking mechanism is a game-changer. It significantly reduces the effort required to draw the bow, making it accessible even for those who might struggle with traditional cocking methods. Moreover, the crossbow’s compact design, with an axle-to-axle width of 14 inches uncocked and 9.5 inches cocked, ensures ease of maneuverability in tight spaces and dense cover.
Regarding weight, the crossbow weighs only 5.8 lbs making it one of the lightest crossbows in its class. The lightweight construction makes it easy to carry during long hunts. The Wicked Ridge M-370 Crossbow also features a built-in fore-grip and finger guards for added safety and an anti-dry fire mechanism to prevent accidental dry firing.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design for easy maneuverability in tight spaces and dense cover
- Durable construction
- Built-in fore-grip and finger guards for added safety
- Smooth cocking mechanism
Cons
- The scope included lacks in quality for long-range accuracy
3) KILLER INSTINCT Boss 405 Pro Crossbow
Specifications
- Speed: 405 Feet Per Second
- Kinetic Energy: 134-FT-LB
- Item Weight: 5 Pounds
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Archery Draw Weight: 6.7 Pounds
- Archery Draw Length: 35 Inches
The KILLER INSTINCT Boss 405 Crossbow Pro is a powerful and manageable crossbow perfect for hunting small to large-sized game. It is capable of shooting bolts at an impressive speed of 405 feet per second with remarkable kinetic energy of 134 foot-pounds.
Weighing just 5 pounds, the Boss 405 is lightweight and easy to handle. The lightweight construction makes it suitable for extended use in the field. Furthermore, the ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed users, enhancing its versatility and accessibility.
If you are a beginner in hunting, this crossbow suits you. With a draw weight of 6.7 pounds, it is relatively easy to cock, especially when paired with a rope cocking device.
Moreover, the Boss 405 also boasts a substantial draw length of 35 inches, which contributes to its powerful performance. This longer draw length allows for more power stroke, which in turn generates higher speed and kinetic energy.
Construction-wise, the crossbow’s design and build quality are robust, offering a comfortable and ergonomic grip for improved control and accuracy. Additionally, the package includes essential accessories such as a scope, quiver, and bolts, providing excellent value for the price.
Pros
- Versatile and accessible to most hunters
- The ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed users
- High speed and kinetic energy
- Comfortable and ergonomic grip for improved control and accuracy
- Lightweight and suitable for extended use in the hunting field
Cons
- The length of 35 inches might be cumbersome for some users, particularly in dense or tight hunting environments
4) Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Invader M1 Crossbow
Specifications
- Speed: 390 Fps
- Kinetic Energy: 129 fp ke
- Length (w/o foot stirrup): 32″
- Width Axle-to-Axle (uncocked/cocked): 14″ / 9.5″
- Power Stroke: 13.8″
- Draw Weight: 190
- Weight (w/out accessories): 5.8 lbs.
As one of the best crossbows for hunting, the Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Invader M1 Crossbow is an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful crossbow at a reasonable price.
With a speed of 390 feet per second (FPS), it delivers impressive kinetic energy of 129 foot-pounds (fp ke), making it suitable for taking down large game with ease.
Ease of maneuverability is another facet that makes this crossbow perfect for hunting. Its compact design, measuring 32 inches in length without the foot stirrup ensures easy carrying in various hunting environments, from thick brush to tree stands. Moreover, the crossbow’s power stroke of 13.8 inches contributes to its impressive speed and kinetic energy, providing a potent combination of power and accuracy.
For added convenience, the crossbow’s 190-pound draw weight ensures a smooth and consistent draw cycle, while the lightweight design, at only 5.8 pounds without accessories, makes it comfortable to carry during long hunts.
Furthermore, the Invader M1 is equipped with TenPoint’s reliable and user-friendly ACUdraw system, which significantly reduces the effort required to cock the crossbow. This feature is particularly beneficial for those new in crossbow hunting. Other than that, the crossbow’s design includes a sturdy, durable stock that feels well-balanced and stable, providing a comfortable shooting experience.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight, and portable
- Reverse-draw performance and ultra-light frames that are easy to handle
- Robust, durable stock that feels well-balanced and stable
- Smooth and consistent draw cycle
Cons
- Big budget
5) TenPoint Titan 400 Compact Profile Crossbow with T5 Trigger
Specifications
- Weight: 6 Lbs
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Archery Draw Weight: 215 Pounds
- Length: 33″
- Width (Axle-to-Axle): 9.75″
- Power Stroke:12″
When it comes to versatility and performance, it is hard to go wrong with the TenPoint Titan 400 Compact Profile Crossbow. It offers a compelling blend of power and compactness, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned hunters and archery enthusiasts.
The selling point of this crossbow is its ease of use. Weighing in at just 6 pounds, it delivers a robust draw weight of 215 pounds while maintaining a streamlined profile. With a length of 33 inches and a width of 9.75 inches axle-to-axle, the Titan 400 excels in maneuverability whether you’re navigating challenging terrain or aiming for a precise shot.
Furthermore, the crossbow has an impressive power stroke of 12 inches. This design ensures a powerful shot, reaching speeds up to 400 feet per second, while remaining agile and easy to handle in tight spaces or dense brush.
The Titan 400’s T5 Trigger System further enhances its performance by providing a crisp, responsive pull with minimal creep. This goes a long way to improve accuracy and enhance consistency. Over and above that, the ambidextrous design accommodates both left and right-handed users, adding versatility to its impressive feature set.
Pros
- Lightweight design at 6 pounds that makes it easy to carry and maneuver
- Compact dimensions of 33 inches and a width of 9.75 inches axle-to-axle, it is suitable for use in tight spaces
- 12-inch power stroke that contributes to high velocity and accuracy
- T5 trigger system that delivers a smooth and consistent trigger pull, enhancing overall shooting performance
- Ambidextrous orientation accommodates both left and right-handed shooters
Cons
- A high draw weight of 215-pound may be challenging for some users to cock without additional assistance or mechanical aids
6) Ravin R10 Crossbow Package R014 With HeliCoil Technology
Specifications
- Weight: 6.8-Pounds
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand
- Speed: 400-fps
- Archery Draw Weight: 68 Pounds
- Archery Draw Length: 15.36 Inches
- Axle-to-Axle Cocked: 6-Inch
The Ravin R10 Crossbow is one of the best crossbows for hunting with HeliCoil Technology. It is designed to deliver both precision and power in all hunting environments.
The HeliCoil technology, which utilizes a unique cam system, ensures the bowstring is evenly distributed for optimal accuracy and speed. The draw weight of 68 pounds and a draw length of 15.36 inches guarantee superior power, achieving an impressive speed of 400 fps. This combination of speed, power, and technology translates to greater accuracy and lethality.
More importantly, this crossbow is durable and lightweight for easy carrying in the field. The portable design is further enhanced by its axle-to-axle cocked measurement of just 6 inches, which allows for easy maneuverability in tight spaces and improved handling. Furthermore, the right-hand orientation of the crossbow ensures it fits comfortably for most users, while the overall design and weight distribution contribute to a more stable and controlled shooting experience.
Whether you’re navigating dense woods or aiming at a distant target, the Ravin R10’s innovative technology and powerful performance provide a reliable and effective solution for precision shooting.
Pros
- High Speed at 400 fps makes it ideal for hunting large game
- Compact design of 6-inch axle-to-axle measurement when cocked enhances maneuverability and ease of use in confined spaces
- Lightweight at only 6.8 pounds makes it is relatively easy to handle and carry
- The HeliCoil technology ensures optimal string alignment, enhancing accuracy and minimizing noise and vibration
Cons
- Designed exclusively for right-handed users, which limits accessibility for left-handed shooters
7) Excalibur Micro Mag 340 Crossbow Package
Specifications
- Weight: 5.5 Pounds
- Material: Aluminum
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Archery Draw Weight: 270 Pounds
- Overall Length: 31.75”
- Width (Cocked): 22”
- Width (Uncocked): 25”
Last but not least, is the Excalibur Micro Mag 340 Crossbow Package. This is a compact powerhouse designed to deliver impressive performance while maintaining a lightweight profile.
Weighing in at just 5.5 pounds, this crossbow is light and easy to carry in the field as you look for game. Though lightweight, it is constructed from aluminum, ensuring both strength and durability.
Furthermore, the crossbow features an ambidextrous hand orientation that caters to both left and right-handed users. This makes it versatile for a wide range of archers.
Regarding draw weight, the crossbow has a draw weight of 270 pounds. It delivers a powerful shot, achieving speeds of up to 340 feet per second. Other than that, the overall length of 31.75 inches and the width of 22 inches when cocked offer a compact design that enhances maneuverability, especially in tight hunting scenarios.
Pros
- Lightweight at 5.5 pounds for easy carrying in the field
- Durable construction from aluminum
- High draw weight which provides powerful shots for humane kill of both small and medium-sized game
- Compact design that makes it suitable for tight hunting spaces
- Versatile with ambidextrous hand orientation
Cons
- The 270-pound draw weight may be challenging for some users, especially those new to crossbows
Next Reads
How to Choose the Best Crossbows for Hunting
Consider the following when looking to buy a crossbow for hunting.
Draw Weight
The first thing to consider is draw weight. Crossbows with high draw weights mean more power and speed. However, they also require more physical strength to operate. For hunting, a draw weight of 150-200 pounds is typically sufficient.
Kinetic Energy
This is a measure of the crossbow’s power and is crucial for ensuring a humane kill. Look for crossbows with higher kinetic energy ratings, typically around 90-150 foot-pounds for hunting small to large game.
Speed
The speed of a crossbow is measured in feet per second (FPS). Faster crossbows offer better accuracy and flatter trajectory, making them more effective for hunting.
Accuracy
Consider the crossbow’s accuracy and consistency. A crossbow with a good scope and a stable platform will improve your chances of hitting your target.
Weight and Size
Weight and size are the other important features to look for in the best crossbows for hunting. The weight of the crossbow can affect your ability to carry it comfortably and aim steadily. It is therefore wise to get a light and compact crossbow that is easy to maneuver without sacrificing power.
Noise Level
Quieter crossbows are preferable for hunting, as they reduce the chance of spooking game. Look for crossbows with noise-dampening features to reduce noise and vibration.
Material and Build Quality
Durable materials and construction are important for reliability and longevity. Composite and aluminum are commonly used for their strength and lightweight properties.
Safety Features
Next, consider safety features. No matter the type of game you will be hunting, ensure the crossbow has reliable safety mechanisms, such as anti-dry fire systems and automatic safety catches.
Ease of Use
The best crossbows for hunting are built with ease of use in mind. Consider how easy the crossbow is to cock, load, and handle. Some crossbows come with cocking devices that make the process easier.
FAQs
- What is the ideal draw weight for hunting?
The ideal draw weight for hunting depends on the game you will be hunting. For big game hunting, a draw weight of 150-200 pounds is recommended while a draw weight of 100-150 pounds might be sufficient for small and medium game.
- How important is the crossbow’s speed for hunting?
Speed is important in crossbows for hunting. Faster crossbows generally result in flatter trajectories, which can improve accuracy and effectiveness at longer ranges.
Conclusion
With advancements in technology and design, today’s hunting crossbows are more efficient and easier to use, providing hunters with an excellent alternative to traditional archery equipment and firearms.
Whether you’re hunting in dense forests, open fields, or rugged terrain, all the crossbows mentioned above have the essential features you need to take your hunting a notch higher. Look at the features and specifications that make each crossbow the right purchase and choose accordingly.