Imagine the quiet woods, the anticipation building with every rustle of leaves. You are ready for the hunt, but is your equipment up to the task? Choosing the perfect hunting crossbow can feel like a maze. So many brands, speeds, and features flood the market. It is easy to feel overwhelmed and worry about picking the wrong tool for a crucial moment.
This matters because your crossbow is your partner in the field. A poor choice means less accuracy and a less successful hunt. You need reliable power and precision. That is exactly why we created this guide. We cut through the confusion to bring you clear, easy-to-understand advice.
By reading on, you will learn exactly what makes a great hunting crossbow. We will cover everything from draw weight to scope setup. Get ready to confidently select the crossbow that fits your hunting style perfectly. Let’s dive into the world of modern crossbows and find your ideal match.
Top Hunting Crossbow Recommendations
- BARNETT WHITETAIL HUNTER II CROSSBOW: High-performance compound crossbow in RealTree Extra with complete hunting accessory package. The lightweight crossbow is ultra-compact, shooting 350 feet per second
- EFFICIENT: Crossbow is equipped with an axle-to-axle length of 16.125" overall weight of just 6.4 lbs., creating an easily controllable profile that hunters of all skills and sizes can manage
- SAFETY FEATURES : Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, TriggerTech 3lb zero creep Frictionless Release Technology
- READY TO HUNT PACKAGE: Bow dimensions are 34.25"L x 18.25"W. Package includes two Headhunter 20" Arrows, Multi-Reticle Scope 4X32mm, Rope Cocking Device, Lightweight Side Mount Quiver, Lubrication Wax. Ships mostly assembled
- BARNETT: The most trusted name in crossbows since 1962
- The Scrapeline 390X is a perfect option for hunters new to crossbows.
- Crossbow comes fully kitted with a 4x32 illuminated scope, a 5-bolt quiver, a rope cocker, and (3) Xit-20 bolts. Shooting speeds up to 390 FPS and weighing only 6.7 lb., this crossbow brings superior shooting at an affordable price
- Three included 380 grain bolts feature 100% carbon shafts, clip-on nocks, and shield cut fletchings.
- Important Note: Follow all instructions carefully to avoid damage to the bow and safety hazards. Seller is not responsible for damage due to neglect of instructions.
- This crossbow is designed for use with Xpedition Archery XIT-20 bolts ONLY. Three of these bots are included with your purchase. .
- POWER & SPEED: This crossbow delivers exceptional performance with blazing speeds up to 405 FPS with 134 ft-lb of kinetic energy for hard-hitting performance on small to large game, ideal for both hunting and target shooting.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & COMPACT: Weighing only 6.7 lbs, the BOSS 405 is built for mobility with a 14.75″ cocked width and an adjustable 33.5–36" overall length, perfect for tight hunting spaces.
- CUSTOM FIT & CONTROL: The 6-position adjustable stock and X-Lok foregrip provide a tailored fit for enhanced comfort, control, and accuracy across a wide range of shooter sizes.
- PRECISION ENGINEERED: The Micro‑Lite aluminum barrel helps keep the crossbow light and easy to handle, giving you better balance and smoother aim whether you're in a blind, treestand, or out in the field.
- BUILT TO LAST: Includes a 4×32 IR scope, rope cocker, quiver, three HYPR Lite bolts, rail lube, and string dampeners, backed by Killer Instinct's limited lifetime warranty (non-wearable parts, original owner).
- Adjustable stock up to 2. 5” for increased stability
- Compact design pistol crossbow with arrow speeds up to 175 FPS
- User-friendly self-cocking arm, forearm grip
- Includes 3 premium bolts
- Engineered for top-of-the-line speed, extreme accuracy, and dependability
- Bundle Includes: Killer Instinct BOSS 405 FPS Crossbow Package with a crossbow case and three hunting broadheads
- Compact Frame: Reduced overall crossbow length is easy to handle and lightweight to carry
- Custom Fit: 6-position buttstock and adjustable X-Lok provide a customized fit
- Precision Shooting: Enhanced Micro-Lite aluminum barrel and 3.5-pound KillerTech trigger for consistent accuracy shot-after-shot
- Features: The new X-Lok adjustable foregrip and easy-to-handle narrow frame produce a balanced and compact shooting machine
- BARNETT WHITETAIL HUNTER CROSSBOW STR WITHOUT CRANK DEVICE: Ultra-compact compound crossbow with complete hunting accessory package. The lightweight crossbow has a manageable profile that hunters of all sizes can handle and shoots 375 feet per second
- EFFICIENT: Crossbow is equipped with Step-Through Riser (STR) technology that reduces the length of the crossbow and has an overall weight of just 6.6 lbs., creating an easily controllable profile that hunters of all skills and sizes can manage
- SAFETY FEATURES: Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, Finger Safety reminders, TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology
- INCLUDES: 4.32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, Two 22" Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, Rope Cocking Device, and Lubrication Wax. Ships mostly assembled. Color is Mossy Oak Bottomland
- The most trusted name in crossbows since 1962
- Bolt arrows at lighting speeds up to 340 fps with the Thunderstruck Blade Crossbow and sight-in on your target with the included 4x32 scope
- It has an adjustable, reinforced composite stock with a Picatinny rail, forceful textured A2-style pistol grip and anti-dry-fire safety
- The crossbow has a durable compression fiberglass, quad-limb design, aluminum die-cast riser and die-cast cams
- The 33 1/2” to 36” overall, sleek tactical crossbow weighs-in at 6 7/10 lbs, and has a 175-lb draw weight with a 12 1/2” power stroke
- Includes 4x32 crossbow scope, cocking rope, quiver, three 20” aluminum bolts, string wax, string stopper and goggles
- Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Without Crank Device: Ultra-compact compound crossbow with complete hunting accessory package; The lightweight crossbow has a manageable profile that hunters of all sizes can handle and shoots 400 feet per second
- Safety Features: Equipped with Nock Sensor and Anti-Dry Fire Trigger System to eliminate Dry Fires; Finger Guards & Finger Safety Reminders; Be sure to wax strings every 10 shots
- Includes: 4.32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, Two 22" Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, Rope Cocking Device, and Lubrication Wax; Ships mostly assembled. Allows for Intergration of Barnett Crank Cocking Device
- Specs: Draw Weight: 187 pounds. Kinetic Energy: 140 Ft. lbs; Power Stroke 16.375"; Overall weight: 6.9 pounds; Dimensions: 36.5" L x 20"W; Axle to Axle 17.625"; Color is TruBark Camo
- Barnett: The most trusted name in crossbows since 1962
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Next Hunting Crossbow
Choosing the right hunting crossbow can make your outdoor adventures much more successful and enjoyable. This guide will help you understand what matters most when you pick out your new gear.
Key Features to Look For
Several features make a crossbow great for hunting. Pay close attention to these when shopping.
Speed and Power (FPS)
Feet Per Second (FPS)
- What it is: This measures how fast the bolt (arrow) leaves the crossbow. Faster speeds mean flatter shots and more energy when it hits the target.
- Why it matters: For big game like deer, you need higher FPS (usually over 350 FPS) for clean, ethical harvests. For smaller game, lower speeds work fine.
Draw Weight
The Force Needed to Pull the String Back
- What it is: This is the force, measured in pounds, required to cock the string.
- Why it matters: Higher draw weight means more power, but it is harder to pull back. Beginners should look for models with a cocking device or lower draw weights (under 150 lbs) until they build strength.
Size and Weight (Maneuverability)
How Easy is it to Carry and Shoot?
- Compactness: Shorter crossbows are easier to handle in thick woods or tree stands.
- Weight: A lighter crossbow reduces fatigue during long hunts.
Important Materials That Matter
The quality of the materials directly affects how long your crossbow lasts and how accurate it shoots.
The Stock and Limbs
The Body and Arms of the Bow
- Composite/Polymer Stocks: These modern materials are lightweight and resist weather well. They are very popular now.
- Fiberglass or Carbon Limbs: Limbs made of carbon are strong and durable. They handle the stress of repeated firing much better than older materials.
The Rail and String
The Track and the Shooter
- Aluminum Rail: A smooth, strong aluminum rail ensures the bolt travels straight for better accuracy.
- Dacron or Fast Flight String: Modern crossbow strings are built to last a long time and handle extreme tension.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all crossbows perform the same. These details separate the good ones from the great ones.
Quality Enhancers
- Accuracy Guarantee: Top brands often guarantee tight groupings at set distances. This shows high manufacturing precision.
- Adjustable Triggers: A crisp, light trigger pull reduces the chance of accidentally jerking the bow when you shoot.
Quality Reducers
- Plastic Components: Too much cheap plastic on critical parts like the cams or trigger assembly usually means the crossbow will wear out faster.
- Vibration: High vibration after the shot usually means the energy is not being transferred efficiently, which hurts accuracy and makes the bow loud.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use your crossbow.
Hunting Scenarios
- Tree Stand Hunting: Look for a narrow limb design. This keeps the limbs from hitting the stand walls when you shoot.
- Ground Blind Hunting: A slightly longer crossbow might be fine here, but noise reduction is key so you don’t spook nearby animals.
Maintenance and Noise
- Ease of Cocking: If you struggle to cock the bow, you will not hunt as often. Always check if a rope cocking device or crank is needed.
- Noise Level: Modern crossbows often come with dampeners installed. Quieter shots are better for follow-up shots and keep game less alarmed.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hunting Crossbows
Q: How fast does a hunting crossbow need to be?
A: For most North American game like deer, you need at least 300 FPS. Faster speeds (375+ FPS) give you more forgiving shots at longer ranges.
Q: What is the difference between a compound crossbow and a recurve crossbow?
A: Compound crossbows use cams (wheels) to store more energy and are generally faster and more compact. Recurve crossbows are simpler, quieter, and easier to maintain but are often slower.
Q: Do I need a license to buy a hunting crossbow?
A: In most places, no license is needed just to buy one. However, you absolutely need the correct hunting license or tag to use it to hunt game.
Q: How often should I replace the crossbow string?
A: Inspect the string often for fraying. Generally, replace the string every one to three seasons, depending on how much you shoot it.
Q: What is “kinetics energy,” and why is it important?
A: Kinetic energy is the force the bolt carries. Hunters measure this to ensure the crossbow has enough power to penetrate thick hide and vital organs cleanly.
Q: Should I buy a scope or red dot sight?
A: A variable power scope is best for hunting, as it lets you zoom in for precise aiming at different distances.
Q: How do I safely uncock a crossbow without a bolt?
A: Never dry-fire (shoot without a bolt). Always use a rope cocker or a specialized uncocking device designed for your model to safely release the string tension.
Q: Are crossbows hard to maintain?
A: Modern crossbows are relatively easy. You mainly need to keep the rail waxed, check the bolts for damage, and ensure the scope stays zeroed (aims accurately).
Q: What is “bolt” or “arrow” spine rating?
A: Spine rating refers to the stiffness of the bolt. You must match the bolt spine stiffness to the power of your crossbow for the best accuracy.
Q: Can I hunt with a crossbow in all hunting seasons?
A: Usually, yes. Crossbows are legal during modern firearms season and often during special archery seasons, but you must check your local state or provincial regulations.