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10 Best Hunting Crossbows 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

RAVIN R29X XK7 Crossbow Package - High-Performance Compact Bow with Helicoil Technology, Silent Crank, and 100-Yard Speed Lock Scope - 450 FPS - Kings XK7 Camo - Pre-Assembled for Archery & Hunting

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,322
Arrow Speed
Weight
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
48 reviews

Arrow Speed
Delivers rifle-like accuracy with consistent, precise shots that make hunting highly effective.
Weight
Lightweight yet powerful, offering a remarkable upgrade in speed and accuracy over previous models.
Size and Dimensions
Balances a narrow profile with excellent stability, making it comfortable and steady to hold.
Trigger Mechanism
The trigger release is smooth and reliable, contributing to a confident shooting experience.
Safety Features
The silent cocking system significantly enhances stealth, allowing for quiet and controlled loading.

The RAVIN R29X XK7 is a compact, high-performance hunting crossbow designed for serious hunters who value precision and stealth. It features Helicoil technology, allowing the cams to rotate fully while staying balanced, providing rifle-like accuracy, which is beneficial for consistent, precise shots. With an arrow speed of 450 feet per second, it delivers ample power for effective hunting at various ranges. The crossbow weighs about 6.5 kilograms (around 14.4 pounds), making it heavier than some alternatives but still manageable for most users. Its compact size (16 x 16 x 9 inches) enhances maneuverability in tight spots or dense woods. The trigger system integrates Ravin’s Trac Trigger and includes a silent cocking mechanism that reduces noise and allows stopping the cocking mid-cycle, ideal for maintaining stealth during hunts.

Safety features include a smooth and reliable trigger along with an illuminated 100-yard Speed Lock scope that offers clear aiming with red and green reticles, protected against fog, recoil, and water. The package comes ready to hunt out of the box with arrows, quiver, sling mounts, and a removable draw handle, so additional purchases are not necessary to get started. The weight might be a consideration during long treks, and the price is generally higher due to advanced technology. While designed for ambidextrous use, it may feel large for those with smaller hands. For hunters seeking a durable, accurate, and stealthy crossbow with modern features suitable for medium to long-range hunting, this model represents a strong option.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,322
Arrow Speed
Weight
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
48 reviews

Arrow Speed
Delivers rifle-like accuracy with consistent, precise shots that make hunting highly effective.
Weight
Lightweight yet powerful, offering a remarkable upgrade in speed and accuracy over previous models.
Size and Dimensions
Balances a narrow profile with excellent stability, making it comfortable and steady to hold.
Trigger Mechanism
The trigger release is smooth and reliable, contributing to a confident shooting experience.
Safety Features
The silent cocking system significantly enhances stealth, allowing for quiet and controlled loading.
#2

TenPoint TRX 515 XERO, Vektra - 515 FPS - Fastest, Most Accurate, Most Advanced Crossbow in the World - Includes Garmin XERO X1i Rangefinding Scope, ACUslide MAXX & Three CenterPunch HPX Carbon Arrows

Rating
9.4
Safety Features

Most important from
6 reviews

Safety Features
The new dry-fire mechanism is a great addition, eliminating the need to send your bow back for repairs.

The TenPoint TRX 515 XERO is a top-tier hunting crossbow designed for serious archers. With a blazing arrow speed of 515 FPS, it is incredibly fast, which is essential for hunting. Its compact size (29” long and 6” wide) makes it easy to maneuver in tight spots, a significant advantage when you're out in the field. The weight of 7.2 pounds strikes a balance between being sturdy and portable, though some might find it a bit heavy on longer hunts.

The Garmin XERO X1i Rangefinding Scope is a standout feature, eliminating the need for gap-shooting by providing a single, precise aiming point, which promotes accuracy at any distance. The Twin-Riser Technology and ZERO-Trac Barrel further enhance accuracy by reducing weight and friction. The ACUslide MAXX system ensures safer and easier cocking and de-cocking, a crucial safety feature. The precision TriggerTech Trigger with Zero-Creep Technology offers a crisp release, enhancing shooting accuracy.

Safety features such as the Guide-Lock Arrow Rest System add to its appeal, ensuring the arrow is securely in place before shooting. However, the high-end features and technology come with a premium price, which might not suit all budgets. Additionally, its advanced features might be overkill for beginners or casual users. This crossbow is best suited for experienced hunters looking for top performance and advanced technology in their gear.

Rating
9.4
Safety Features

Most important from
6 reviews

Safety Features
The new dry-fire mechanism is a great addition, eliminating the need to send your bow back for repairs.
#3

TenPoint Flatline 460 Crossbow - 460 FPS - Fastest Compact Crossbow on The Market - Includes 100-Yard EVO-X Marksman Elite Scope, ACUslide Cocking & De-Cocking System & 6 EVO-X 16 Carbon Arrows

Rating
9.1
Arrow Speed
Weight
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
12 reviews

Arrow Speed
An impressive upgrade, burying bolts in the target even at 70 yards and maintaining a tight spread.
Weight
Super accurate and easy to use, with great size and weight.
Size and Dimensions
Super accurate and easy to use, with great size and weight.

The TenPoint Flatline 460 Crossbow is designed for hunters looking for a compact yet powerful option, boasting an impressive arrow speed of 460 FPS and a lightweight frame of just 3.5 pounds. Its small size (26.5" x 7.5") makes it easy to maneuver in the field, enhancing the user's ability to take quick shots. One of the standout features is the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system, which allows for silent operation, ensuring safety and control during both cocking and de-cocking processes. This system can be particularly appealing for hunters who value stealth and safety while in the field.

The included EVO-X Marksman Elite Scope is another highlight, offering variable magnification and a customized reticle that maximizes accuracy up to 100 yards. The scope's sturdy construction adds to its reliability, making it suitable for various hunting conditions. The S1 trigger is also noteworthy, praised for its smooth, zero-creep design that enhances shooting precision.

Potential buyers should be mindful of a few drawbacks. The crossbow's compact design, while advantageous for portability, may limit stability when shooting, especially over longer distances. Also, while the included arrows and accessories provide good value, some users might find the need to invest in additional gear for specific hunting scenarios. The TenPoint Flatline 460 is an excellent choice for serious hunters looking for a powerful, compact crossbow with advanced features. It's particularly suitable for those who prioritize accuracy and stealth but may require some adjustment time for those new to crossbows or unfamiliar with its sophisticated systems.

Rating
9.1
Arrow Speed
Weight
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
12 reviews

Arrow Speed
An impressive upgrade, burying bolts in the target even at 70 yards and maintaining a tight spread.
Weight
Super accurate and easy to use, with great size and weight.
Size and Dimensions
Super accurate and easy to use, with great size and weight.

Buying Guide for the Best Hunting Crossbows

Choosing the right hunting crossbow can significantly enhance your hunting experience. It's important to consider various factors to ensure you select a crossbow that fits your needs, skill level, and hunting style. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best crossbow for you.
Draw WeightDraw weight refers to the amount of force required to pull back the string of the crossbow. This spec is important because it affects the power and speed of the arrow. Crossbows with lower draw weights (around 75-125 pounds) are easier to cock and are suitable for beginners or those with less upper body strength. Medium draw weights (125-175 pounds) offer a balance of power and ease of use, making them ideal for intermediate hunters. Higher draw weights (175 pounds and above) provide maximum power and speed, suitable for experienced hunters targeting larger game. Choose a draw weight that matches your physical ability and the type of game you plan to hunt.
Arrow SpeedArrow speed, measured in feet per second (FPS), indicates how fast the arrow travels when shot from the crossbow. This spec is crucial for determining the crossbow's effectiveness in hitting targets at various distances. Lower speeds (up to 300 FPS) are adequate for small game and close-range hunting. Medium speeds (300-400 FPS) are versatile and suitable for most hunting scenarios, providing a good balance of speed and accuracy. Higher speeds (over 400 FPS) are ideal for long-range shots and larger game, offering greater penetration and flatter trajectories. Consider the type of game and typical shooting distances when selecting the appropriate arrow speed.
WeightThe weight of the crossbow affects its portability and ease of handling. Lighter crossbows (under 6 pounds) are easier to carry and maneuver, making them suitable for hunters who need to move frequently or cover long distances. Medium-weight crossbows (6-8 pounds) offer a balance between portability and stability, providing better accuracy for stationary shots. Heavier crossbows (over 8 pounds) are more stable and can absorb more recoil, but they can be cumbersome to carry for extended periods. Choose a weight that you can comfortably handle based on your hunting style and physical endurance.
Size and DimensionsThe size and dimensions of a crossbow, including its length and width, impact its maneuverability and ease of use in different hunting environments. Compact crossbows (shorter and narrower) are easier to handle in tight spaces, such as dense woods or ground blinds. Standard-sized crossbows offer a balance of maneuverability and stability, suitable for a variety of hunting situations. Larger crossbows may provide better accuracy and power but can be more challenging to maneuver in confined spaces. Consider where you will be hunting and how much space you have to move when choosing the size and dimensions of your crossbow.
Trigger MechanismThe trigger mechanism of a crossbow affects the ease and smoothness of shooting. A good trigger mechanism should have a smooth pull and a crisp release, which can improve accuracy and shooting comfort. Basic triggers may have a heavier pull and less precision, suitable for beginners or casual hunters. Mid-range triggers offer a smoother pull and better precision, ideal for intermediate hunters looking for improved performance. High-end triggers provide the best precision and smoothness, suitable for experienced hunters who demand the highest accuracy. Choose a trigger mechanism that matches your skill level and shooting preferences.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring safe operation of the crossbow. Common safety features include an automatic safety, which engages when the crossbow is cocked, and an anti-dry fire mechanism, which prevents the crossbow from firing without an arrow loaded. Basic crossbows may have minimal safety features, suitable for experienced hunters who are confident in their handling skills. Crossbows with standard safety features provide a good balance of safety and usability, ideal for most hunters. Advanced safety features offer maximum protection and are recommended for beginners or those who prioritize safety. Consider your experience level and safety needs when evaluating the safety features of a crossbow.

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