Specifications
| Brand | BARNETT |
|---|---|
| Crossbow Type | Compound |
| Speed Fps | 350 |
| Draw Weight Lb | 150 lb |
| Kinetic Energy Ft Lb | 103 ft-lbs |
| Power Stroke In | 12.5 in |
| Overall Length In | 16.125 |
| Weight Lb | 6.4 |
Pros
- Hard-hitting with smooth draw
- Sturdy limbs and reliable rail
- Impressive value, minimal fuss
Cons
- Broadhead sensitivity
- Bolt length mismatch
The Verdict
At 350 fps, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is a compound crossbow that hits hard with a smooth draw and a solid rail. It earns its 7.9/10 overall rating by being easy to run, but you may need extra care with broadheads and bolt setup to avoid point-of-impact problems.
Who it's for: Hunters who want a straightforward, durable crossbow in the Best Value tier, and who are willing to match bolt length and tune broadheads carefully for consistent results.
Who should skip it: Buyers who want a set-and-forget bow with no broadhead tuning work, because this model shows sensitivity that can hurt repeatability when setup changes.
In-Depth Review
Performance
With a pillar score of 7.7, this Barnett sits in the “hard-hitting with smooth draw” zone for most users. The numbers support that feel. It is rated at 350 fps and lists kinetic energy at 103 ft-lbs. That mix matters because it keeps the shot flat enough for typical hunting distances, while still landing with authority.
The draw system also shapes what people mean by “smooth.” Barnett rates the draw weight at 150 lb. That is not light, but it is at a level many hunters can manage with a consistent routine. The listed power stroke is 12.5 in, which is part of why the bow can deliver speed without sounding like a harsh, violent release.
There is a trade-off. The cons call out broadhead sensitivity. In practice, broadhead choice and tuning effort can affect how consistently the energy turns into a clean, repeatable impact. So even when the bow feels strong shot to shot, your setup details still matter.
Accuracy
Accuracy lands at 7.6, which maps to the “predictable point of impact” tier. This is where the Whitetail Hunter II can be reliable, but it depends on how you stage the arrow and keep your components matched. The specs give a clear baseline to tune around: it is a compound crossbow at 350 fps, with a 150 lb draw weight and 12.5 in power stroke. When those stay consistent, groups tend to behave better.
Still, the cons include “Bolt length mismatch.” That is not a small quirk. Bolt length affects how the bolt sits in the crossbow and how the nock and rest geometry align at release. If the bolts do not match what the bow expects, your point of impact can shift even when the bow itself is mechanically consistent.
It is also why broadhead sensitivity shows up as a paired issue. Broadheads change the front-end weight and launch behavior compared with field points. If your broadheads react differently than your practice tips, you will see that in groups. The “predictable point of impact” reputation only holds when you keep bolt length and tip choice aligned during sight-in and practice.
Build
Build scores 8.1, placing it in the “sturdy limbs and reliable rail” range. The key takeaway here is that the platform feels like it was built for repeated use rather than careful, delicate handling. User feedback in the guide points to “sturdy limbs and reliable rail,” which matters because the Whitetail Hunter II uses that drive system to turn 150 lb of draw into 350 fps.
The stated size and weight also support the build story. At 6.4 lb, it is not heavy for a compound hunting crossbow. Shorter overall length can reduce stress on the rail during carry and setup. Barnett lists an axle-to-axle length of 16.125 in, which helps keep the bow compact while still giving enough rail length for a stable shot path.
Even with that solid foundation, broadhead sensitivity can make the bow seem inconsistent when the issue is really tuning related. And if you hit the “Bolt length mismatch” problem, it can create an accuracy and reliability gap that feels like a build issue. The underlying hardware still tends to hold up, but your ammo matching becomes part of the reliability equation.
Handling
Handling gets 7.9, fitting the “comfortable carry, smooth operation” descriptor. Two numbers explain why. The crossbow weighs 6.4 lb, and the overall length is 16.125 in. In a blind or on a tree stand setup, that combination tends to be easier to maneuver than bulkier frames.
Power and draw feel are still part of handling. The bow’s 150 lb draw weight means you need a consistent technique to avoid awkward loading. Once you get the routine down, the same smoothness that supports the 7.7 performance score also improves repeatability. The listed 12.5 in power stroke contributes to a full, controlled cycle rather than an uneven, partial-feel shot cycle.
One practical handling point comes from the cons. Bolt length mismatch can force you to slow down and double-check setup. If your bolts are off, you might need extra time before each session. That reduces the “easy to run” part of handling, even if the bow itself carries well.
Value
Value sits at 8.6, which matches “impressive value, minimal fuss.” The guide calls out “Hard-hitting shots without feeling fussy to run,” and the specs align with that idea. You get a 350 fps rating, along with 103 ft-lbs of kinetic energy. You also get a defined draw weight at 150 lb and a 12.5 in power stroke, which makes it easier to predict how the bow behaves during sight-in and practice.
Build and handling also feed into value. A 6.4 lb weight and 16.125 in overall length keep the bow manageable for carry and positioning. The platform does not ask you to baby it to get consistent results. The guide’s “minimal fuss” phrasing is consistent with a bow that has sturdy limbs and a reliable rail, which typically reduces the maintenance overhead that can come with less stable designs.
The reason the value story is not perfect comes down to the two cons. Broadhead sensitivity means your practice-to-hunt transition needs attention. “Bolt length mismatch” means you may need to verify ammo details early, not after a disappointing range session. If you handle those two areas up front, this Barnett crossbow earns its place as strong value for a straightforward hunting setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What speed and power does the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II crossbow have?
This Barnett compound crossbow is rated at 350 fps. It lists 150 lb draw weight and 103 ft-lbs of kinetic energy. The 12.5 in power stroke helps explain the speed and impact on typical hunting bolts.
How long and how heavy is the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II?
It has an overall length of 16.125 in and weighs 6.4 lb. Those dimensions make it easier to maneuver than heavier platforms during carry and setup in the field. Weight still varies with what you add for optics and accessories.
Will my bolts fit, or is there a bolt length mismatch issue?
Some buyers report bolt length mismatch with this model, so you should double-check compatibility before shooting. Use bolts that match the recommended length range for the Whitetail Hunter II. If your bolts do not match, point of impact and consistency can suffer.
Is this crossbow good for broadheads, or does it need special tuning?
It can be sensitive with broadheads, which is a common complaint for this specific model. You may need extra care when sighting in because broadheads can shift point of impact compared with field points. Plan on verifying groups at hunting distance after any broadhead change.
What draw and cocking power should I expect with 150 lb draw weight?
You should expect 150 lb of draw weight, so cocking effort is noticeable. Many users rely on a cocking aid depending on their strength and comfort. A smooth draw is reported, but the actual effort still depends on your technique and setup.
How should I maintain the string and rail on the Whitetail Hunter II?
Inspect the string and rail before each season and wipe them after wet or dusty sessions. Use the recommended lubrication sparingly and avoid over-oiling areas that collect grit. If you notice fraying, unusual noise, or inconsistent cocking, stop shooting and check alignment and condition.
Final Verdict
BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II earns a recommended nod for most hunters who want a tough, easy to live with crossbow. It hits hard and the draw feels smooth, which helps shot setup feel less stressful. The main drawback is broadhead sensitivity, plus some reports of bolt length mismatch, so you must match components carefully.
Choose it if you want a solid all around platform and you are willing to pair the right bolts and heads from day one. If that matches your hunting routine, this is a sound pick.
