Whether you are just starting to get into using a crossbow or you are looking at changing up to a better model, the range of choice can be overwhelming. This is mainly due to the fact that crossbows have developed at an impressive rate.
To make the search even easier for those looking for the best crossbow we have created a list of the top ten available models and we have also included all of the tips that you will need.
Things to Keep in Mind
Here are some of the features you should consider before you choose from the list.
- Ergonomics and Comfort. These factors are important for obvious reasons but for a new crossbow user it can be a little confusing knowing which models are comfortable and which ones are not.
Apart from trying out the crossbow before you buy it, the only way to know which is the ideal crossbow for ergonomics is to consult experts and their trusted reviews.
- Trigger. This is one of the most forgotten about yet one of the most important parts of the crossbow. If you have used a crossbow before then you should make sure the trigger is as similar as possible.
For those that are new to crossbows, it is a great idea to look at expert reviews and note any mention on the positive or negative qualities of the trigger.
- Important Tip. While having a quality crossbow is crucial to successful hunting, it would be a huge mistake to not carefully select your arrows.
Top 10 Crossbows Table
| Picture | Name | Draw Weight | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. PSE Fang 350 Crossbow | 155 lbs. | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | 2. Barnett Recruit Compound Crossbow Package | 130 lbs. | $$$ | 4.4 |
 | 3. Prophecy 80 Pound Self-cocking Pistol Crossbow with Cobra System Limb | 80 lbs. | $ | 4.4 |
 | 4. Barnett Ghost 410 CRT Crossbow Package | 185 lbs. | $$$$ | 4.4 |
 | 5. SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package | 175 lbs. | $$ | 4.3 |
 | 6. Cobra System K-8025 Self Cocking Pistol Tactical Crossbow | 80 lbs. | $ | 4.2 |
 | 7. Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package | 150 lbs. | $$ | 4.2 |
 | 8. Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow Kit | 175 lbs. | $$ | 4.2 |
 | 9. SA Sports Empire Terminator 260 FPS Crossbow | 175 lbs. | $$ | 4.2 |
 | 10. Barnett Quad 400 Crossbow Package | 150 lbs. | $$$ | 4.1 |
Choosing the Best Crossbow for You
While there is a whole range of features that you should be focusing on when you are making your final decision, the main aspect is that of the draw weight.
On our list, we have included the information regarding the draw weight for each of the best crossbow models that are included. Most buyers make the mistake of thinking that the higher the power the better it will be, but this certainly isn’t the case.
Tip: It really only takes between 25 and 45 lbs. of power for an arrow to pass straight through a deer.
Having a little more power does mean that you will have a higher chance of getting a kill and at longer distances. There are, however, several things that you should keep in mind before you opt for a higher powered crossbow.
- Being Comfortable Cocking It. If you struggle to cock the crossbow then the extra power becomes useless. Needing to put a lot of effort into cocking the crossbow will also mean that you could cause yourself physical injury as well as potentially missing a crucial second shot.
- Reduced Accuracy. Another common problem that comes from having a draw weight that is too high is that it can prevent the user from easily aligning the arrow. Even if the loading is slightly off to one side, this will be largely exaggerated when the crossbow is discharged.
- Power Doesn’t Equal Success. If you are not able to achieve great shot accuracy with a crossbow then it doesn’t matter how much power it has. If you are new to using a crossbow then you should certainly opt for a lower draw weight and a crossbow that comes at the cheaper end of the price scale.
Top 5 Crossbows Reviews
1. PSE Fang 350 Crossbow
Serious crossbow enthusiasts should consider only the best of the best and that means the PSE Fang 350 crossbow. This is one of the most versatile and lightweight options without compromising the overall quality of the bow. Considering the price and the number of features and additions you get with this hunting tool, it really is a great deal.
It comes with a scope and some arrows that are perfectly suited for the bow, but can easily be swapped out for any hunter that wants a more customized bow to work with. Even with the original features, this bow is incredibly accurate and easy to shoot.
Anyone that knows their stuff about shooting, arrows and crossbows, in general, will be able to see immediately how impressive this piece of equipment is and how essential it is to have for any hunt.
2. Barnett Recruit Compound Crossbow
The Barnett Recruit Compound is perfect for hunters with a smaller frame based on the draw weight and the overall design of the equipment. The crossbow itself will need to be assembled but this is relatively easy and won’t take too long when you follow the instructions to the letter.
This tool is light, yet powerful. The convenience of the setup and being able to bring it when trekking through the woods are huge advantages.
It should be noted that using the Barnett 20” carbon arrows will give you the best results as they have been specifically designed to be used together. This simply helps to ensure accuracy, which is obviously important for a successful hunting trip or shooting session.
3. Prophecy Self-cocking Pistol Crossbow
First off, the Prophecy Self-Cocking Pistol is simply an impressive tool to own. It is different from other crossbows in how it looks and how it operates but this doesn’t mean that any power or proficiency is compromised as a result.
This bow is lighter than similar ones that are made entirely of metal. The plastic components of this tool make it lighter and easier to carry and hold. This, however, does not mean that this is a toy, in any sense.
This is a crossbow and it will shoot arrows that will go through or in any chosen target. This is not suited for anyone that doesn’t have the appropriate knowledge of crossbows or the associated dangers, as this is serious hunting equipment.
4. Barnett Ghost 410 CRT Crossbow
The Barnett Ghost CRT crossbow is a piece of equipment that will enhance any hunter’s experience. This is a sturdy and reliable bow that won’t have any issues once you get it all set and ready to shoot.
Basically, if you want flawless performance and reliability then this is the best crossbow you could buy. It will help you stay on target and is easy to carry around with you on hunts that require a little trekking.
It should be noted that this is an incredibly powerful tool, meaning that in many cases the impact of the shot means that the bolt will go directly through the target. There are things you can do to combat this, but you should still only ever be using carbon bolts.
5. SA Sports Fever Crossbow
Its size, quality, and cost make the SA Sports Fever a great option for anyone that wants to get into using crossbows for hunting or would like another durable option for their collection.
When this crossbow has been properly put together, it will do everything that it has been designed to do. It will shoot with impeccable precision and it will shoot with incredible force too. This is the kind of tool that can take down a deer easily.
This is a more lightweight crossbow meaning it can be used during a full day of hunting without the hunter getting tired of holding and using it. Even with the lightweight nature of this bow, it is still just as powerful as advertised.
