The 7 Best Crossbows in 2024

When considering top-of-the-line crossbows, the Ravin R29X certainly deserves attention in the Best Overall category. One of its standout features is the impressive speed of 450 FPS, ensuring swift, decisive shots that can make all the difference when precision matters most. The compact design, with a six-inch cocked axle-to-axle using HeliCoil technology, offers hunters the perfect balance of power and portability, allowing easy maneuverability in dense woods or confined spaces.

The innovative silent cocking system, complete with a built-in cocking mechanism and anti-dry fire/auto safety, adds an extra layer of safety and convenience. This feature is particularly beneficial for those long days in the field when silence is golden. The 100-yard illuminated scope enhances accuracy, while the included quiver and fully assembled, pre-tuned design mean you can focus on the hunt rather than tedious setup.

While some may view the weight of 6.75 pounds as average, it strikes a nice balance between sturdiness and ease of handling. Additionally, the package includes three Ravin .003 arrows with field tips, ensuring you're ready for action right out of the box. These features collectively ensure that the Ravin R29X stands out as a formidable choice for any serious archer.

The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is a standout contender in the best value for money category, boasting an impressive blend of performance and affordability. At the heart of its appeal is the ultra-compact and lightweight design, which, at just 6.6 lbs., makes it accessible for hunters of all sizes. Shooting at a brisk 375 feet per second, this crossbow delivers both speed and power, crucial for an effective hunting experience.

Its Step-Through Riser (STR) technology is a key feature, making the crossbow more manageable without sacrificing power. Safety was evidently a priority in its design, equipped with an Anti-Dry Fire Trigger System and TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology, offering reliability and peace of mind.

The comprehensive accessory package, featuring a multi-reticle scope and high-quality arrows, enhances the overall value. While some components are standard, Barnett’s reputation and attention to detail ensure that the Whitetail Hunter STR remains an excellent choice for budget-conscious hunters seeking quality performance.

The TenPoint TRX 515 truly excels in the 'Best Powerful' category with its remarkable features and innovative technology. Measuring a compact 29 inches, it’s incredibly fast, firing arrows at 515 FPS. This speed, paired with its precision, makes it a top performer among crossbows. An essential component is the Garmin XERO X1i Rangefinding Scope, which eliminates guesswork with exact aiming, even at varied distances, ensuring a seamless shooting experience.

Adding to its prowess is the Twin-Riser Technology, which makes the bow significantly lighter and reduces riser flex, enhancing both mobility and accuracy. The custom 3-lb TriggerTech Trigger ensures a smooth and crisp feel with every shot. This, combined with the Guide-Lock Arrow Rest System, guarantees precise arrow placement and consistent down-range performance.

While all these features are impressive, the inclusion of the ACUslide MAXX system provides a user-friendly cocking and de-cocking experience, making it accessible to both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike.

The Excalibur Assassin 420 TD earns its spot in the 'Best Silent' category for crossbows due to its exceptional noise-reduction capabilities and precision engineering. The standout feature is its fully-adjustable Tru-Fit Stock, designed to provide a custom fit for any archer while incorporating R.E.D.S Suppressors that significantly dampen vibration and noise, ensuring a whisper-quiet shot ideal for stealthy hunting pursuits.

Moreover, the built-in Pro-Shot two-stage trigger system enhances accuracy with its clean break and light pull weight, allowing for consistent, precise shooting. Combined with the TACT-100 scope, which offers meticulous adjustments up to 100 yards, this creates a remarkable accuracy and performance package.

The effortless cocking system, thanks to the Integrated Charger Crank, and the Quick-Loc Technology for easy assembly and disassembly, highlight user-friendly features without compromising on robustness. While every crossbow has room for improvements, the Assassin 420 TD excels in delivering a quiet, powerful, and seamless shooting experience.

The Wicked Ridge Fury 410 De-Cock is a compelling choice for beginners in the crossbow world, primarily because of its user-friendly features and exceptional performance in the field. Its reverse-draw design is not only sleek and compact at just 29 inches, but it also provides an impressive speed of 410 FPS. This ensures powerful and accurate shots, crucial for those new to archery.

The standout feature for beginners is undoubtedly the safe crossbow de-cocking system. With the ACUdraw De-Cock, users can safely manage the crossbow without the need to shoot an arrow, making it convenient and secure. The incorporation of a D1 Trigger with a two-stage, zero-creep design and a 3.5-pound pull further enhances ease of use, delivering a consistent and crisp shooting experience.

While the crossbow comes boasting American craftsmanship, the inclusion of the RangeMaster Pro variable speed scope with lighted aiming points adds value by enhancing visibility in low-light conditions, an essential consideration for novices learning to aim effectively.

The TenPoint TX 440 crossbow stands out as a formidable option for deer hunting enthusiasts, thanks largely to its remarkable technological advancements. At the heart of its performance is the Burris Oracle X rangefinding scope, which offers precise aim points and extends the effective shooting range by incorporating shot angles. This innovation is particularly beneficial for hunters seeking accuracy across varying distances. Complementing this is the Twin-Riser technology, significantly reducing weight and minimizing vibration for enhanced shooting stability.

The TX 440 also impresses with its Precision Trigger, providing a smooth, “breaks like glass” feel that enhances shot accuracy. Moreover, the CenterPunch HPX arrows and ZERO-Trac Barrel contribute to seamless shooting experiences by minimizing arrow friction. Although these features are enhanced by the ACUslide MAXX system for simplified cocking, some might find the traditional elements—like the included accessories—more standard. Nonetheless, the TX 440 excels in delivering a superior hunting experience by leveraging cutting-edge features and reliable craftsmanship.

The Killer Instinct Lethal 405 packs an impressive punch in the budget-friendly category, offering remarkable speed and power. With a blistering speed of 405 feet per second and 134 foot-pounds of kinetic energy, it ensures that your target doesn't stand a chance. This crossbow is not only powerful but also designed for stealthy performance, thanks to the custom rubber shock absorbers that significantly reduce noise and vibration.

Moreover, the design focuses on user comfort and maneuverability with its ultra-light composite stock, making it easy to handle during intense hunting scenarios. The X-Lok foregrip is a standout feature, providing an adjustable Picatinny rail for personalized comfort and multiple holding options, catering to different shooting preferences.

However, the Lethal 405 is not just about its performance. It comes bundled with essentials, including a Lumix non-illuminated scope and handy accessories like a rope cocker and a 3-bolt quiver, enhancing the overall value and convenience for budget-conscious hunters.