For our best crossbow, the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package is our top pick. Its limb is made from compression fiberglass and it also has a string length of 26.5. In addition, the crossbow’s width from limb tip to tip has a length of 31 in without the foot stirrup. This ideal crossbow weighs 4.85 lbs physically and is good for beginners.
Meanwhile, the step-up pick Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package (Quiver, 3 – 20-Inch Arrows and Premium Red Dot Sight) which can shoot up to 315 ft per second has a draw weight of 150 lbs. It is a complete package of a crossbow which includes bolts, quiver that is quick detached and red dot sight that is premium. In addition, it has a military style stock and is provided with energy wheels. The crossbow’s cable and string system is synthetic.
Our budget pick is the 80lbs Self Cocking Crossbow with 15 Arrows and Scope which shoots at the top speed of 160 FPS. It has a red dot scope and it is at an incredibly cheap price. In addition, it has a free metal arrows pack. Being ideal for small game, this cheap but efficient crossbow is coated in gold finish and fully made from sturdy metal.
A Little Background
Since ancient times, crossbows have been used in battle and hunting by warriors of the past. Crossbows are different from longbows, such that they require little training compared to longbows. Crossbows are generally easier to use than longbows, making them more efficient battler weapons. They have various targeting range and accuracy unparalleled.
Crossbows back then are usually made from wood or similar material. But today, more modern materials have replaced the wood finish, such as aluminum to keep it sturdy for long-time use. Nowadays, crossbows are not so much used in battle anymore, although some armies in some countries still use them for operations.
Crossbows nowadays are practically used for sports like target shooting, and for pastimes and hobbies like game hunting. These crossbows can be classified into beginner crossbows for smaller game and for target shooting, and bigger, more advanced crossbows that are for hunting bigger ones like moose or bears.
Since the modern times, crossbows are now just as restricted as firearms and other weapons – always check your governing laws with regards to the owning and usage of the crossbow.
How We Picked
We picked the best crossbow out there based from these guidelines and criteria:
Does it have a good string length? The string is a very important part of the crossbow and it should be able to withstand the force needed to hit the target with a fast arrow. In addition, make sure you also do proper maintenance on the string with every use so that it hits the target more effectively and efficiently.
Is the weight just right? A crossbow is going to be your companion and taken into the jungle or somewhere in the wilderness, hunting for game. Or, you might take it to a sporting event. You must be able to grip it just right and carry it with ease, keeping you more focused on the target rather than the crossbow’s weight itself.
Does it come with a variety of accessories? The scope is one of the must-haves of any crossbow package. Free arrows should not be just many but also durable and made from solid material. A crossbow package that has a lot of accessories and freebies in it is a good buy, especially if the options included are made from sturdy material and are very useful to your game hunting or target shooting.
Is the crossbow material durable? The crossbows today are mostly made from sturdy aluminum or alloys that help keep the crossbow sturdy and withstand weather and corrosion. Make sure that they are not just coated in camo but also deep within are made from absolutely tough material that is hard to corrode, bend or break.
Do the crossbow’s pros outweigh the cons? Take note of the reviews from Amazon and various sites first before you buy a product. Check out its advantages and disadvantages if any, and make sure there are more pros than cons when it comes to the crossbow’s features, usability and overall user experience.
Is the price worth the crossbow’s features and durability? Take note of the various features of the crossbow before you consider the price. Pricier crossbows have better features but if you are looking for a budget crossbow just for practice or beginner mode, you should not just invest in an expensive crossbow yet.
Can it reach far targets without sacrificing accuracy? The range of the crossbow is important, whether you are using it for game hunting or for target shooting. Just remember that the longer its maximum range, the better the crossbow is at hunting at farther distances. So if you want to use a crossbow on long distance hunting or target shooting, consider a crossbow with a good max distance range.
Is the crossbow good for general users? A good crossbow is one that can be used by beginners and experts alike – something that is within the fair price range and has the most general features and durability in the whole package.
Our Pick
SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package
For our pick, having a limb that is made from compression fiberglass, the renowned best crossbow of our article is the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package. It has a string length of 26.5 and weighs 4.85 lbs physically, so it is a good crossbow to consider for beginners. The crossbow’s width from limb tip to tip has a length of 31 in without the foot stirrup.
This crossbow has an 11.5 in stroke and for better comfort; it also has a padded shoulder sling. The scope mount is adjustable and is weaver style to give the user more flexibility and adding to comfort. The SA Sports Fever has a hunting range of 25 to 30 yards and it has a quiver that is quick detach.
Having a 4 x 32 multi reticle scope, the overall weight of package is 9.3 lbs. and coated in full dipped camo, the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package has overall dimensions of 33 in x 11 in x 4 in. The package includes hex keys and other assembly tools as well as the rear stock are compact, lightweight and ambidextrous. A 20 inch carbon or 16 inch aluminum arrow is recommended. The crossbow is under a 1 year warranty.
Who Else Likes It?
According to a review from Best Crossbow Source, the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package has been hailed for being good for elk and deer hunting and the obvious excellent choice for target shooting, making it a generally versatile crossbow to use for beginners and intermediate crossbow users. This is a straightforward and a complete package that has everything you need, so you don’t need to worry about missing components or accessories to put you through hassle in your game hunting or target shooting. Its price is quite inexpensive for beginners at hunting and target shooting, making it an obvious choice for first-time users. However, the review also said that it is not recommended for bear and moose hunting due to its size and capacity and it also has an assembly that requires stringing. Nonetheless, it is a great crossbow to consider if you are new to the hobby or sport.
Another review from Sportsman Guide has rated the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package highly. The assembly is very easy for beginners, making it very convenient to use. In general, the crossbow packs a lot of power. Overall, it is said to have great customer service for manufacturing defects and it is a very affordable price for a cross bow. This has been a fairly positive review for the said crossbow, the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package.
Advanced Survival Guide also likes this for it has a very convenient and straightforward assembly and it is also very easy to string the crossbow, according to the review. The only complaint from the review is that it is quite heavy to carry but very durable and heavy duty. Nonetheless, the review stated mostly positive comments, saying that the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package is good for hunting deer and similar game.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
The only known flaws for the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package are such that it is not for advanced users, not suitable for bears, moose and larger animals and can be a bit heavy but its durability covers. Nonetheless, if you are looking for a good crossbow for beginners and intermediate users then this is a good crossbow to start yourself with, since is a general crossbow.
Step-up Pick
Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package (Quiver, 3 – 20-Inch Arrows and Premium Red Dot Sight)
For our step-up pick, we have the crossbow that can shoot up to 315 ft per second – the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package (Quiver, 3 – 20-Inch Arrows and Premium Red Dot Sight). This crossbow has a draw weight of 150 lbs and has up to 95 ft lbs of energy. In addition, it has a 3.5 lb trigger pull and it also has AVI foot stirrup and AVI bolt retainer.
Being coated in high definition camouflage, this crossbow comes with a picatinny and weaver rail and is made from very sturdy quad limbs. Adding to its neat list of features, it has an MIM ADF trigger mechanism.
The Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package (Quiver, 3 – 20-Inch Arrows and Premium Red Dot Sight) is a complete package of a crossbow which includes bolts, quiver that is quick detach and red dot sight that is premium. It also has a military style stock and provided with energy wheels. The cable and string system is synthetic.
The Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package is recommended to wax the string every 10 shots. It also has climate controlled storage. The crossbow weighs 7.7 lbs and has dimensions of 35 in x 26 in, having 12 inches power stroke. It is under a 5 year warranty, with the recommended arrows being 20 inch or 18 inch. Generally, the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package is good for hunting deer.
Budget Pick
80lbs Self Cocking Crossbow with 15 Arrows and Scope
The 80lbs Self Cocking Crossbow with 15 Arrows and Scope is our budget pick which shoots at the top speed of 160 FPS. It also has a convenient red dot scope. This crossbow has an incredibly cheap price and in addition, it has a free metal arrows pack. If you are up for a crossbow that is ideal for small game, this one is the one to pick. It is coated in gold finish and fully made from sturdy metal.
This budget pick has an auto safety feature for cocking track style. It has a total of 15 free arrows. You can easily load and shoot with the 80lbs Self Cocking Crossbow with 15 Arrows and Scope that was made from fiberglass and aluminum alloy and weighs 3 lbs, making it a very lightweight crossbow to use.
Best Wooden Crossbow
Wooden Crossbow with Quiver and Pack of 3 Arrows
The Wooden Crossbow with Quiver and Pack of 3 Arrows is ideal for those who want a traditional wooden crossbow to have that authentic feel. It has 20 in x 11 in dimensions and also comes with quiver and 3 arrows. The arrows have rubber tip so it is safe to use even for kids and youngsters. It can reach up to 25 feet distance of shooting and accuracy and is made from solid and authentic wood. Overall, the Wooden Crossbow with Quiver and Pack of 3 Arrows make a good gift for crossbow starters and it only weighs 12.8 lbs.
Includes Extra Arrows and Rope
150lbs Crossbow with Scope, Extra Arrows and Rope Cocking Device
The 150lbs Crossbow with Scope, Extra Arrows and Rope Cocking Device is a nice crossbow package that includes various extras with it. Being a 150 lbs crossbow, it includes a free rope cocking device. Having a 210 FPS top speed, this crossbow was built heavy duty to last long so durability is out of question. It can reach up to 60 yards of accuracy and in addition, it has an auto safety cocking mechanism.
The construction is made from aluminum barrel and the limb is made from fiberglass, making durability its top priority among things. The 150lbs Crossbow with Scope, Extra Arrows and Rope Cocking Device is ideal for hunting down deer and similar game. Emphasizing both the sturdy built and the accuracy of its shot, this crossbow is the ideal hunting package if you are an intermediate game hunter and you might also want to use it for target shooting or similar sports. The bow package includes crossbow string, limb, footclaw, 4 x 20 crossbow scope and 6 aluminum bolts / arrows measuring 14 inch each. The crossbow weighs only 9 lbs and comes in a variety of color models: black, brown camo, green camo and wood.
Best Reverse Draw Crossbow
Barnett BC Raptor Reverse Draw Crossbow Package, Camo
When it comes to having the best crossbow that is unique with its reverse draw design, the Barnett BC Raptor Reverse Draw Crossbow Package, Camo is a well-recommended crossbow you need to consider. The index finger placement makes it a convenient crossbow and in addition to its comfortable and convenient features, the hand placement is repeatable due to its contours.
One can easily reduce recoil with its revolver grip. Overall, the dimensions of the Barnett BC Raptor Reverse Draw Crossbow Package, Camo are 31 in x 17 in x 8 in and it weighs 6.5 lbs (shipping weight is 12.5 lbs). This is a 2015 model in which the package includes the crossbow, premium illuminated scope, 20 inch headhunter arrows x 3, quiver that can fit 3 arrows and a rope cocking device.
Best Fiberglass Material Crossbow
150lb Crossbow Fiberglass Stock Aluminum 2 Arrows by Jaguar
Weighing at only only 10 lbs (actual weight is 8 lbs with scope), the 150lb Crossbow Fiberglass Stock Aluminum 2 Arrows by Jaguar is our best fiberglass material crossbow. Fiberglass is known for being a sturdy material that can withstand extreme temperatures.
Both the body and handle are made from aluminum alloy, making it a super sturdy crossbow. It also comes with a foot stirrup as well as 2 bolts with high poundage are included. The 150lb Crossbow Fiberglass Stock Aluminum 2 Arrows by Jaguar is indeed a sturdy fiberglass bow. The sights are adjustable and it is easy to string.
Best Crossbow with Scope Package
SAS Crusher 150lbs Tactical Crossbow 4×32 Scope Package
The SAS Crusher 150lbs Tactical Crossbow 4×32 Scope Package is an awesome scope package crossbow. It has a top speed of 325 FPS and it also has a CNC precision technology that comes with a riser and cam machined. The technology that uses inhibitor trigger dry fire makes it a very safe crossbow to use.
In addition, the fore grip is pre-installed to make it a very tactical crossbow. With up to 150 lbs draw weight and it has a power stroke of 14 1/2 in. With a length of 33 in and width of 22 in, the SAS Crusher 150lbs Tactical Crossbow 4×32 Scope Package comes with a weaver rail, the stock is reinforced and composite and in addition, the limb is made from compressed and molded fiberglass.
If you order the SAS Crusher 150lbs Tactical Crossbow 4×32 Scope Package , it comes with quiver, rail lube, 20 in aluminum arrows x 4, padded sling, illuminated scope and a rope cocking device. With an overall weight of 12.6 lbs (stock weight of 11 lbs), this crossbow has a 3 year manufacturer’s warranty.
Comes with an Arrow Bolt Set
KingsArchery Self-Cocking Crossbow Bundle with Adjustable Sights, Spare Crossbow String and Caps, 27 Aluminum Arrow Bolt Set
Having a 27 aluminum arrows included in the package, the KingsArchery Self-Cocking Crossbow Bundle with Adjustable Sights, Spare Crossbow String and Caps, 27 Aluminum Arrow Bolt Set is the ultimate crossbow package if you want a ton of arrow bolts along with your crossbow. This also includes a spare crossbow string as well as caps.
Being an 80 lbs and self-cocking for user convenience, giving it faster reload times, this crossbow is super tough because of its fiberglass material of the bow makes it durable. The KingsArchery Self-Cocking Crossbow Bundle with Adjustable Sights, Spare Crossbow String and Caps, 27 Aluminum Arrow Bolt Set has an FPS of 25 yards. It has dimensions of 19.5 in x 17.5 in. It has a 30 day warranty and lifetime technical support.
Best Crossbow for Expert Users
Excalibur Crossbow Matrix 405 Mega Crossbow with Twilight DLX, Treestand, 290-Pound
Having a draw weight of 290 lbs, the Excalibur Crossbow Matrix 405 Mega Crossbow with Twilight DLX, Treestand, 290-Pound has speed and accuracy of 405 FPS that makes it a super fast crossbow to use for hunting or target shooting. Having a sturdy and ergonomic design, the length of bolt is 18 in and the overall length of crossbow is 36.2 in.
The minimum arrow weight is 350 g. The crossbow has a 13.9 in power stroke and its item weight of 6.2 lbs and overall weight of 12.3 lbs. Having dimensions of 35 in x 6 in x 10 in, the Excalibur Crossbow Matrix 405 Mega Crossbow with Twilight DLX, Treestand, 290-Pound has a smooth and professional mossy oak tree finish.
In addition to its convenient features, the thumbhole stock is ergonomically designed to keep a good grip. The crossbow includes a 4-arrow quiver that comes with a bracket and in addition, it also includes the Twilight DLX scope which has 30 mm rings. The Excalibur Crossbow Matrix 405 Mega Crossbow with Twilight DLX, Treestand, 290-Pound comes with 4 Diablo bolts, cheek piece, rope cocking aid and 150 grain field points x 4. It also has a guardian anti-dry fire system and it features an easy uncocking due to its built in release. It also makes use of the BCY Dynaflight 97 string with R.E.D.S. string suppressors.
The Competition
The crossbows that did not make it to our list were mostly expensive or lacking in review information. Some of them don’t have enough features to make them unique among the ones we have listed here. These crossbows that unfortunately did not get included in our review are mostly ones with bad reviews, so it is safe to say that these crossbows are the ones that are going to give you a satisfactory time when it comes to game hunting and target shooting, provided that you exercise with your skills and use the crossbow the right way.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How important are crossbows?
A: According to this history lesson from The High and Late Middle Ages , crossbows were already used by knights in Medieval Period mostly for battle, as we mentioned in the introduction. These were very vital weapons during these periods and without them, wars would have not won. These crossbows required less training for users compared to using longbows, which were a bit troublesome and requires a lot of training for the person who will use them. These crossbows were effective during battle because of their ease of use and easy to carry design. Overall, the crossbow’s easy loading makes them efficient weapons. Even today, crossbows are more preferred than longbows, but in general, crossbows are important in the field of sports and hunting and sometimes, survival combat, especially if you are in the wilderness and you need to hunt for food to survive.
Q: What are the uses of the modern crossbow?
A: According to this article from Off the Grid News , the crossbow is an alternative modern day weapon and the big advantage of the crossbow is that it supports all types of statures so it can be used particularly by everyone if they learn the basics. In addition, having and using a crossbow is okay for different strengths so practically almost anyone can learn to use it.
Overall, a crossbow is very useful for game hunters, for hunting deer, elk, moose, etc. Nowadays, it is widely used in sports for target shooting and similar activities. Generally, crossbows are very fun to use for pros and amateurs. However, a fair warning – one must know the laws as to where not to use it, as crossbows are weapons that might do some unwanted havoc around the neighborhood. Always be careful when using crossbows to avoid injuries. On a side note, in some countries, they are still used by the military as weapons.
Q: What are the dos and don’ts of using a crossbow?
A: This informative article from The Prepper Journal talks about how to use a crossbow properly and the things you should do and should not do with them. First, you should make sure it is budget friendly and purchase a crossbow at your skill level and budget. Always consider the fact that the draw weight should be enough to have fewer problems with using the crossbow. It must have a scope sight for better accuracy on hitting the target.
In addition, the arrow must be fast enough because a slow arrow has a more likely chance of not hitting the target directly. Always remember to take frequent breaks when your accuracy is failing you, since holding down shot positions can be so tiring. A relaxed set of arms and hands are more likely to hit the target at the most accurate moment and with the best force.
In addition, the broad heads must be quality and having a rangefinder is important as an accessory. Generally, of course, arrow trajectory is important to learn, so that you can be a better hunter or target shooter. There are no shortcuts to learning skills and we all know that practice makes perfect, so always make the best out of any activity, never stop trying and you will hone your drawing skills very well as well as your accuracy skills. Trajectory involves a scientific approach of hitting your target based on angle and wind resistance, and these factors can greatly affect whether you will successfully hit a target.
You must also remember to keep regular maintenance for the string, trigger and rail and in addition, the trigger must be felt and practiced with to get better shots. Here are some don’ts – don’t shoot watching your fingers and thumb and don’t shoot with the off-hand position. Last, but not the least, do not shoot outside the maximum effective shooting range, as this could be bad for your accuracy and this can result you not hitting the target well. Always calculate your moves thoroughly before shooting and wasting an arrow and a target.
Wrapping It Up
As a whole, our best crossbow, the SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package is for the general game hunters as well as target shooters and will definitely provide you with hours of entertainment and off the grid survival.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.