Best Crossbows Reviews – Buyer’s Guide

It seems that there are different things that have been changed about hunting recently so there are a lot of people who have become more intent on purchasing the right tools that they will use to haunt.

You have to remember that you have to make a lot of effort into purchasing the right tools.

One of the tools that people have used is the bow. It has been used for a long time. Our ancestors are said to have used the bow to hunt for animals that they use for their different needs including tools and of course, food. The most common bow is very simple, and people who know how to use it may be able to use it properly.

What tool do you think you should use? Most people would choose the crossbow simply because they believe that this is an easy tool to use. Once you have already decided that this is the crossbow that you ought to choose, the next thing that you have to figure out is choosing the crossbow that you think you need the most.

The difficulty in choosing the right crossbows has increased steadily over the past years probably because manufacturers have made it a point to improve on the things that they can offer to the people. If you are truly having a hard time choosing, getting to know the different things that you should consider can help a lot.

Compound crossbows, on the other hand, may differ in features. Some compound crossbows may offer things that other compound crossbows cannot offer. If you are already experienced in hunting, and you need the right compound crossbow, remember to check out the things that it can offer as well as the reviews other people have said about the product.

Top Crossbow Comparison Table:

Image	Model	Range	Size	Rating	Pricing
	Barnett 78128 Whitetail	350 Feet Per Second	34.25" x 18.25"	4	Check On Amazon
	Barnett Ghost 420	350 Feet Per Second	33" x 13"	4.6	Check On Amazon
	SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package	240 Feet Per Second	33" x 11"	4.4	Check On Amazon
	Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow	235 Feet Per Second	34.5" x 26.5"	4.2	Check On Amazon
	Barnett Wildcat C5 Crossbow Package	320 Feet Per Second	35.5" x 26.75"	4.6	Check On Amazon

Best Crossbow Reviews:

#1 Barnett 78128 Whitetail Hunter II 350 FPS Crossbow

Features of This Barnett Whitetail

This is a complete crossbow package that is known to be able to shoot from a distance. This is a unique crossbow that a lot of people will like and appreciate. Its 7 lbs weight makes it easy to bring around. This includes all of the items that you may need to make use of this property.

There are a lot of people who are quite happy with this product because they know that the parts that would need to be replaced can be done easily. No need to worry about how you are going to use this because you know that using this can be done very easily.

#2 Barnett Ghost 420 Revenant CRT2, 3 -22″, Scp, 420 Crossbow

Would you like to have a crossbow that you know will look great aside from being functional? This may be the right product for you to choose from.

Features

This has finger reminders to make it easy for you to use. It also has an ADF trigger system so you can be sure that you will be able to use it properly. It has a high energy cam system. This also comes with a crosswire string and cable system that can be used easily.

One thing that can be said about this product is that it is very easy to assemble. People can be sure that using this is not that hard to do and it can also be accurate even when it is being used for the first time. It is also very quiet and this is one of the things that people have been pleasantly surprised about when they use this product for the first time. This is one great product that can be used without having to spend too much money in the process.

#3 SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package

This is a crossbow package that comes with all the items that you may need. Do you think that this is the right product for you to choose? This may be the product that you are searching for.

Features of SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package

This is a crossbow that comes in a full coverage dipped camo. It has auto safety so that you will not injure anybody when you are using it. It is also lightweight so no need to worry about having to lug it around for a long time. This comes with items that will allow you to assemble it without any issues at all.

Pros and Cons of SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package

There is a possibility that you would like to get to know the pros and cons of the products that you will purchase and this is just one of the products that you ought to consider. Getting to know its qualities will help you make a decision.

While there are some people who are quite unhappy with some of the parts of this product, they are still happy about what they have gotten from it. This is a very affordable crossbow so they are sure that they do not have to spend too much on the funds that they will allow for it.

#4 Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow Kit (175-Pounds)

There is a chance that you would like to have a crossbow that you will be happy to practice in and happy to use when you are hunting. You can be sure that this is something that you can use quite easily.

Features of Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow Kit

This is one product that comes with all the right items that you might need to assemble quite well. It has an anti-dry fire trigger mechanism as well as a thumb guard so you can be sure that this is something that can help you become protected. This is lightweight and compact so you can be sure that you have nothing to worry about.

Pros and Cons of Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow Kit

It is highly important that you get to know the pros and cons that you can possibly get when you make use of this product so that you can decide if you should purchase it or not.

A lot of people who have used this are quite happy with what they have received. This is one serious crossbow that will never disappoint because of the different things that it can do. The kit that it comes with is quite decent as you can be sure about what you may possibly expect to get from it.

#5 Barnett Wildcat C5 Crossbow Package (Quiver, 3-20-Inch Arrows and 4x32mm Scope)

There is a possibility that you would like to have a crossbow that will allow you to hunt without issues at all. This comes with all the possible items that you may need to work without the problem at all.

Features of Barnett Wildcat C5 Crossbow Package

This is one product that comes with 4 / 16” bolts. You can easily detach the quiver without problems at all if you would choose to do so. This also comes with a 3 red dot sight so trying to set this up will be an easy task to do. The anti-dry fire tiger mechanism will make it possible for you to be protected so you will not have issues at all.

Pros and Cons of Barnett Wildcat C5 Crossbow Package

Would you like to know more details about this product? You know that knowing the pros and cons will allow you to decide whether this is the right product for you to use or not.

The best thing about this product is that it comes with a 5-year warranty. You can be sure that this will last for a long period of time since you can easily have it replaced if you would need to. You can be sure that you can easily use items to improve its performance and at the same time, you can keep it lightweight and functional.

Best Crossbow Reviews – Ultimate Buying Guide 2018

Out of all the products that are mentioned above, do you think that you can already reach a decision based on the things that you have learned about them? Perhaps knowing more details will allow you to make a proper decision.

You can purchase Barnett Whitetail Crossbow Package (Quiver, 3 – 20-Inch Arrows and Premium Red Dot Sight) if you would like a product that you can hold steadily without having to worry that it will break down while you are using it. The fact that it is fast can also be very beneficial for you so make sure to take note of this.

You can purchase Barnett Outdoors Brotherhood Crossbow Package if you would like a product that is ultra-quiet. If silence means a lot to you, you know that this is one product that you can surely benefit from because just think about it, you will be able to use it without worrying that your game will hear and possibly run away.

You can purchase SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package if you are looking for a product with a solid frame. This means that you do not need to worry about handling this product at all. This is also an accurate crossbow that can be further improved if you would work a bit more at practicing and targeting.

You can also purchase Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow if you are searching for a product that does not only look cool but can be functional as well. This is one product that has safety mechanisms, so you need not worry about your safety and the safety of other people when you are using it. This is also easy to assemble so no need to worry about trying to understand important details about it.

Barnett Wildcat C5 Crossbow Package may be the best product for you if longevity is one of your biggest issues. If you would want to have a product that you know can last for a long period, you know that this is one product that you ought to use.

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If in case you are determined to purchase your very own crossbow, you have to remember that you would need to use it properly. If you do not know how to use it, there is a very big chance that you will hurt yourself in the process. Here are some tips that you ought to remember:

• Make sure that you will read the manual carefully. The things that are stated in the manual should be followed to ensure your safety and the safety of people that you may be with.
• Ensure that the safety lock is turned on so you will not have any issues when you are just trying to clean your crossbow, and you might suddenly set off the arrow somewhere else. As long as the safety lock is turned on, you have nothing to worry about.
• Only use crossbows that are allowed in your current area or location. There are some locations wherein crossbows are not allowed at all. Consider this before you make any purchase. You also need to consider the rules and regulations concerning the use of crossbows in your area.
• Remember that some crossbows will require you to maintain it more than other crossbows. If you do not mind having to do maintenance work from time to time then you can choose any crossbow that you please but if you would like to have a crossbow that will allow you to take aim whenever you need to, choose the right crossbow.
• The arrows that you are going to use will also have an effect on your performance or on how you are going to make use of the crossbow arrows appropriately. As long as you will pick the right arrows, using the products can be easy to do. Sometimes, the products may already come with their own arrows but you may still run out so being prepared is the key.

[/wpsm_titlebox] [wpsm_titlebox title=”Types of crossbows” style=”3″] Knowing the types of crossbows that are available is extremely important. You have to know the different types to allow you to make the right choice. Once you have already made a choice, you can also narrow down your search for the right crossbow. Here are the crossbow types that you ought to consider.

#1 Recurve Crossbow

The recurve crossbow is well known for its very simple design. This is probably the type of crossbow that people have used for a long time. Usually, it has small curves that will allow the bow not to go back when it is being used. This is the type of crossbow usually recommended for beginners.

#2 Compound Crossbow

A compound crossbow is considered to be a modern bow because this comes with mechanisms that a recurve crossbow does not have. Usually, the system of the compound crossbow is different from a recurve crossbow and it can be much stiffer. This may make it easy or hard for some people.

Based on the things that are mentioned above, it will be up to you to choose which one you think will be better suited for you. Like mentioned earlier, the recurve crossbow is the recommended crossbow to be used by beginners since it has simple mechanisms that will be easy to understand.

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1. Will the type of crossbows used matter?

You have to remember that if you are not that good at using compound crossbows then you will not be able to use it well. The type of crossbow that you are going to use will affect your performance in an obvious manner.

2. Will crossbows be as strong as rifles?

There might be a myth regarding crossbows being as strong as firearms, but this is not true at all. Rifles are usually fast. While crossbows can be fast, they may start to lose speed at a certain range. Thus, this fact makes them slower than rifles.

3. Are there different crossbow laws?

You might think that a crossbow that is being used in one state can have the same rules as the crossbow being used in another, but this is not true. You have to be aware of the rules of your current location to ensure that your crossbow will be used appropriately.

4. Can people get better with their shots when using crossbows?

There are a lot of beginners who may have to shot in close range when using crossbows, but more advanced hunters may shoot from a distance and still make clean shots. Truly, being more aware of the right details will allow people to have great shots with the use of crossbows.

5. How will arrows matter a lot?

Just imagine having to use the wrong arrows for the crossbow that you are using, it will not make your crossbow very effective in the shooting. There are different things about the arrows that might matter such as its size. Focus on these aspects to choose the right arrow and improve your performance.

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Here are some other aspects to consider in addition to safety features:

• The type of bow that best suits your needs
• Draw weight
• Velocity
• Power stroke length
• The weight of the crossbow
• Scope sight
• The types of arrows and bolts

#1 Compound vs. Recurve Crossbows

Although there are numerous models available on the market, in the end, it all boils down to two main types, namely compound and recurve crossbows. Often described as the modern variant of crossbows, the compound weapon can be easily identified via its shorter and sturdier limbs. These two critical features determine professional hunters to point out that the compound crossbow is more energy efficient. The compound crossbow presents the following advantages:

• It is considerably faster at lower draw weights
• It requires less force on the trigger sears
• It is more powerful than its recurved counterparts due to the faster speed of the bolts
• It features a simpler cocking device
• It is overall more narrow and hence, it’s more efficient for areas with dense vegetation

In spite of all these advantages, take note that a compound model incorporates a higher number of moving parts that wear out relatively easy. Therefore, if you intend to use it frequently, you will also have to dedicate sufficient time for maintenance. In addition, compounds are a lot of noisier and heavier, especially if you account for the density and associated weight of the bow’s frontal section.

At the opposite pole, the recurve bow is one of the oldest and most simplistic designs applied to these weapons. Recurve crossbows can be identified via their distinct appearance featuring a tip that is curving away from the shooter. Its limbs are bent to ensure a longer draw weight, which in turn accelerates the projectiles.

The design does not only reduce the shock you feel in the hand, but it also generates less noise while shooting. On a side note, less noise does not mean you should expect it to be 100% silent; you will hear a clatter when you shoot a recurve model. Besides being less noisy than its compound counterparts, the recurve presents the following advantages:

• It doesn’t require extensive maintenance, thus making it a perfect choice of weapon for long hunting trips
• It weighs less than a compound, making it easier to carry around
• The lighter weight also makes it easier to aim quickly
• It is easier to restring, unlike compounds that require you to use a bow press to fix a broken string

The main drawback of a recurve model is that it doesn’t feature a cocking device and hence, it will require some physical strength on the part of the user. In addition, you shouldn’t expect too much power or accuracy from a recurve weapon. Furthermore, due to the wider design, the recurve demands more draw weight for the same arrow speed.

Whether you should opt for a compound or a recurve crossbow is a matter of preference because both models include features the other does not have and vice versa. Then again, if you’re a beginner and this is your first crossbow, it would be wise to opt for a recurve model because it’s lighter and easier to manage.

Moreover, due to its simplistic design, a recurve is simpler to use in the sense that you won’t have to figure out how to operate it when you are in a tough spot. On the other hand, if you are an experienced hunter who prefers a strong, forceful weapon, then perhaps a compound model is more suitable for you.

#2 Draw Weight

Draw weight is a term that refers to the force required to cock the crossbow, force that is typically determined by the rigidity of the limbs and prod. In general, the higher the draw strength, the harder it will be to pull the string and, as a direct consequence, the deadlier the shot. In case you intend to use your bow for target practice or other recreational activities, then the draw weight is not really relevant.

On the other hand, if you want to use your weapon for hunting, then it is recommended to select a model with at least 150 pounds draw weight. After all, when you’re hunting you want to make sure that you’re actually killing your pray, not just wounding it.

In general, for recurve crossbows the draw weight will increase the farther back you pull the string. In this case, the bow will reach its maximum draw weight when it is fully cocked and in the locked position. Due to its design, compounds will reach a peak draw weight and then drop it to the holding weight; take note that the holding weight is usually up to 30% of the draw weight. However, high performance compound crossbows are capable of maintaining the peak draw weight longer during the draw cycle and hence, store more energy and deliver faster projectiles.

Granted, the draw weight is the direct indicator of the type of speed you can expect from a particular model. However, let’s not forget that not all bows are created equal, meaning that there are two other critical factors that determine how fast your weapon will shoot an arrow. These two factors include the shape of the cams and the power stroke. The cams, particularly their shape, directly affect the draw force curve, which is a measurement of the draw weight at a particular point in the power stroke. The power stroke refers to the distance a string can travel between the point where the bow is at rest to the cocking position point, but more on that later on.

Generally speaking, crossbows are considered weapons that can be effectively maneuvered by just about everyone, regardless of age, gender, size and the physical ability to bow hunt. However, considering that some of these bows come with draw weights of around 200 pounds, you will have to account for your physical limitations. Luckily, manufacturers have started including various cocking devices to aid you in drawing the crossbow. Nowadays, you can choose between three methods to draw your crossbow, meaning:

• Manual cocking
• Rope cocking
• Crank cocking

As the name suggests, manual cocking entails placing your foot in the stirrup and pulling the string back manually. While this method has the benefit of simplicity, you will need an adequate amount of physical strength to cock your crossbow.

The rope cocking mechanism is a pulley system designed to give the shooter a 50% mechanical advantage. Even though it allows you to cock a bow using half the force required, the setback of the rope cocking method is that it’s time-consuming and inconvenient in most situations.

Featuring a small hand winch, the crank cocking device permits you to stock the crossbow by winding a small handle. The obvious advantage is that a crank cocking device makes drawing 150 pounds seem like a walk in the park. However, take note that these mechanisms are expensive and that they add extra weight and bulk to your crossbow.

#3 Bolt Velocity

Velocity refers to the speed with which the projectile is going to travel for the first 20 or 30 yards. On a side note, after this short distance, the bolt velocity will start to decrease. Velocity is measured in feet-per-seconds and, if you’re going to use the crossbow for hunting purposes, you should pick a bow with at least 200 FPS.

Then again, if you’re serious about hunting, then a 300 FPS model is what you should be aiming for. Not only does this velocity ensure the arrow drop is small enough, but the kinetic energy is sufficiently high to guarantee the necessary accuracy for taking a target down from up to 50 yards away.

While you might be tempted to believe that higher velocity is an indicator of a better, faster weapon, in reality, the measurement is relative. First off, the actual velocity is determined by the draw weight as well as the weight of the projectiles you intend to use. Therefore, at least in theory, a lighter bolt will travel faster than a heavier bolt shot with the same model.

Even though velocity is pretty easy to understand, you should be aware that the measurement is usually relative, as it mostly depends on the testing methodology and the arrow’s total weight. To put it simply, some manufacturers do not adhere to the same testing standards when it comes to determining their crossbows’ speed. While some specify the details on how their arrow speed data is obtained, others do not. It is wise to avoid investing in a weapon that doesn’t include this type of information.

#4 Power Stroke Length

As previously mentioned, the power stroke length is a measurement that refers to the distance a string will travel from its loose position until it reaches the latch and gets in the cocking position. In general, crossbows available on the market have a power stroke between 10 and 14 inches, a higher value indicating a higher stroke and a more powerful shot. Without denying the importance of the power stroke length, the value should not be the most important criterion in your decision. Let’s not forget that what really matters in the power stroke is that it is properly adjusted for the draw weight.

In case you are wondering why manufacturers don’t make a longer power stroke on all crossbows, then the answer is the design of the weapons. Because crossbows tend to be heavier in the front, having an excessively long power stroke means it will become increasingly difficult for you to move the bow further out in front. Therefore, it will become harder to aim with it, making the weapon less ideal for hunting.

Take note that the only effective way to extend the power stroke on the crossbow – without diminishing the weapon’s hunting capabilities – is to incorporate the reverse draw technology method to increase its balance. In case you didn’t know, the reverse draw technology means that the riser of the bow is mounted behind the string, an aspect that allows for string to be pushed further down the barrel. Considering that when you shot, you are transferring the weight of the crossbow towards its middle area, the weapon becomes heavier in the front and it balances better.

#5 Weight of the Crossbow

More often than not, hunters prefer to invest in the lightest crossbows available. Without denying that a light crossbow will be convenient while you’re out in the woods, keep in mind that a weightless weapon is harder to keep steady and maneuver while aiming. To put it simply, having a little bit of extra weight will automatically increase your aim as well as your steadiness and precision.

A further reason why purchasing a heavier model is advisable stems from the fact that the extra weight makes the weapon sturdier. Therefore, you can be certain the crossbow won’t break down due to extensive usage.

In order to select an appropriate weight for your weapon, first, you will have to consider its primary use. After all, crossbows can be employed for other activities than hunting. In case you’re purchasing it for fun or target practice, then the weight and the size of the weapon are irrelevant. In fact, if the weapon will be stationary, the size and weight of the crossbow will not be an issue at all.

On the other hand, if you’re investing in a weapon for serious hunting, then opting for a model that is neither too heavy nor too light is your best bet. While it’s true the weapon will feel cumbersome during a long hunting excursion, a heavier crossbow will be more suited for your hunting needs. In the end, it is advisable to test or operate the weapon for a while and choose one that is fairly easy to maneuver.

#6 Scope Sight

Even though you can still find open sights crossbows on the market, the truth is that you would better off with some sort of a scope sight. You have three options when it comes to scope sights, namely:

#1 Pin and peep sights

Found mostly on base model crossbows, the pin and peep consist of an aiming point mounted at the front end of the crossbow, usually on the riser itself. The device also includes a peep sight bridge that is fastened at the rear of the bow. The peep sight can be made of plastic or aluminum and has a hole in it that allows you to look through it, at your aiming point. The mechanism also includes a series of adjustable pins that permit you to mark the distance; alternatively, you can use the pins to move the point of interest to the left or right.

#2 The red dot scope sight

Available in two models – the single red-dot and the triple red-dot sights – the scope is the next step mechanism from the classic pin and peep style. The preferred scope sight of experienced hunters is the three red-dot sight, as it allows them to better judge their actual distance from their target.

The top dot is used for targets at around 20 yards, the middle one for aims at 30 yards and the lower dot is for targets located at least 40 yards away. As far as the single red-dot sight scopes are concerned, you will have to make sure the dot is aligned with the target and adjust the distance according to your experience.

#3 Optical scopes

As you probably already guessed, optical scopes are more advanced than the aforementioned sights. Similar to red-dot scopes, they are available in two variants, namely single and multi-reticle, which serve the same purpose. Unlike the red-dot scope, the optical sights are superior, include numerous accessories and have an overall better quality, some even comparable with the scopes commonly employed in rifles.

The best types of optical scopes are those with a single-tube design, mostly because they don’t include multiple parts and have a lower chance of breaking. These optical scopes allow a magnification between 1x and 5x that can include water and fog proof screens.

If you’re purchasing a weapon for hunting purposes only, then it is best to opt for a scope featuring additional illumination dots. The extra illumination sources will not only make it easier for you to hit a target in poor lighting conditions but will also allow you to hunt during the nighttime.

#7 Arrows/Bolts

boltsAlthough lighter projectiles fly faster, keep in mind that reputable manufacturers recommend a minimum grain weight bolt for optimal use with their models. Shooting lightweight projectiles put unnecessary stress on the components of your crossbow, causing them to break or fail and placing you at risk of personal injury. Therefore, it is highly advisable you inform yourself and use the correct arrows and/or bolts. On a side note, sometimes shooting with other arrows than the ones indicated by the manufacturer can void the factory warranty.

The crossbow arrow is made of aluminum or carbon, has a length of around 20 inches and consists of the following parts:

• The head – refers to the part that is typically fastened into the insert at the front of the shaft. Arrows are available with field point heads and broadheads, the latter including sharp edges and is mostly used for hunting. The point heads don’t incorporate sharp parts and can be used for small game hunting as well as target practice;
• The shaft – represents the elongated body of the arrow;
• The insert – refers to the round pull-out that is attached to the front of the arrow shaft. The inserts can be made of aluminum, brass or both metals;
• The nock – is the small part affixed to the rear of the arrow shaft. Made from plastic or aluminum, the nock comes into contact with the string when you cock the crossbow. Nocks are available in a half-moon style or can be flat. A half-moon nock includes a small groove that makes it easier for you to align the arrow horizontally with the string before you take a shot.

In the past few years, crossbows have been gaining popularity in hunting and recreational activities alike. In case you intend to acquire a crossbow in the near future, then don’t forget to account for all your hunting or recreational needs before reaching a decision.

Because some crossbows are more difficult to maneuver than others, it is highly advisable to select one that satisfies your requirements and that is on par with your physical abilities. And you can find out just that on our website from our reviews so have fun learning!

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In Conclusion To Buying The Best Crossbow:

There may be a lot of details that you have learned today and hopefully, through the details mentioned, you were able to figure out the best compound bow for you. You may have formulated that having the best bow will not be too helpful if you do not have the best crossbow arrows. Aside from searching for the right crossbow, you may also want to make the effort to search for the right bow.

This can truly help. The fastest crossbows may not necessarily be the best crossbows, but they can help tremendously. The Excalibur Crossbow best reviews are meant to help you out with the right information.

Do you think that you have learned everything that you ought to know?

Tell us in the comment section below.