Top 10 Crossbows of 2024: Our Expert Picks
As an avid crossbow enthusiast and seasoned hunter, I’ve had the pleasure of testing countless crossbows over the years. Each year brings new advancements in technology, making crossbows more accurate, powerful, and user-friendly. 2024 is no exception, with some truly exceptional models hitting the market. After extensive testing and countless hours in the field, I’m excited to share my top 10 crossbows of 2024. Here’s a detailed look at each one, along with why I personally love them.
1. Ravin R500E
Product Description
The Ravin R500E is a powerhouse of a crossbow, featuring an impressive speed of 500 feet per second (fps). It incorporates Ravin’s innovative Electric Drive System, allowing for effortless cocking and uncocking at the push of a button. The R500E boasts a compact design, measuring only 6 inches axle-to-axle when cocked, and comes with a built-in cocking mechanism and adjustable stock.
Why I Love It
The speed and precision of the Ravin R500E are unparalleled. The Electric Drive System is a game-changer, making it incredibly easy to cock and uncock the crossbow with minimal effort. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on power, making it perfect for tight hunting spots and long-range shooting alike. The build quality is exceptional, and the accuracy is top-notch, ensuring confidence with every shot.
2. TenPoint Vapor RS470 Xero
Product Description
The TenPoint Vapor RS470 Xero is an impressive piece of engineering, capable of reaching speeds up to 470 fps. It features the Garmin Xero X1i rangefinding scope, which automatically ranges targets and provides a precise aiming point, drastically improving accuracy. The crossbow also includes the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system for safe and controlled operation.
Why I Love It
The integration of the Garmin Xero scope sets this crossbow apart, providing an unparalleled level of accuracy and convenience. The ACUslide system is incredibly smooth and safe, allowing for precise cocking and de-cocking. The power and speed are more than sufficient for any hunting scenario, and the overall build quality and attention to detail make it a reliable choice for serious hunters.
3. Barnett HyperGhost 425
Product Description
The Barnett HyperGhost 425 offers a perfect balance of speed, power, and accuracy, firing bolts at 425 fps. It features Barnett’s innovative HyperFlite arrows, designed to deliver greater penetration and accuracy. The crossbow also includes a premium illuminated scope, a retractable underarm counterbalance support, and an anti-dry fire trigger system.
Why I Love It
The HyperGhost 425 is a versatile and powerful crossbow that performs well in various hunting situations. The HyperFlite arrows significantly improve accuracy and penetration, making every shot count. The illuminated scope is excellent for low-light conditions, and the retractable underarm support adds stability, enhancing overall shooting comfort and precision. It’s a reliable and powerful tool for any serious hunter.
4. Excalibur Assassin 400 TD
Product Description
The Excalibur Assassin 400 TD combines Excalibur’s renowned reliability with innovative features. It fires bolts at 400 fps and features the Quick-Loc Technology, allowing for quick and easy takedown and reassembly. The crossbow includes an integrated Charger Crank System for effortless cocking, and a Pro-Shot ACP trigger for a smooth and consistent pull.
Why I Love It
The takedown feature is incredibly convenient, making it easy to transport and store. The Charger Crank System is smooth and effortless, eliminating the strain of manual cocking. The Pro-Shot ACP trigger is one of the best I’ve used, providing a crisp and predictable release. The Assassin 400 TD’s rugged build and dependable performance make it a top choice for hunters who value reliability and ease of use.
5. Mission Sub-1 XR
Product Description
The Mission Sub-1 XR is designed for extreme accuracy and ease of use, with a speed of 410 fps. It features Mission’s Benchmark Fire Control technology, allowing for safe de-cocking without firing a bolt. The crossbow has an adjustable stock and cheekpiece, providing a customizable fit for shooters of all sizes. The Sub-1 XR also includes a two-stage trigger and a quiet, smooth operation.
Why I Love It
The Benchmark Fire Control technology is a standout feature, making it safe and easy to de-cock the crossbow. The adjustable stock and cheekpiece ensure a comfortable and personalized fit, enhancing shooting accuracy. The two-stage trigger is incredibly smooth, contributing to consistent and precise shots. The Sub-1 XR’s quiet operation and solid construction make it a favorite for both hunting and target shooting.
6. CenterPoint Wrath 430
Product Description
The CenterPoint Wrath 430 delivers impressive performance with a speed of 430 fps. It features an adjustable buttstock and an anti-dry fire and auto-safety trigger mechanism. The crossbow has an innovative hybrid design, combining the benefits of both traditional and reverse-draw crossbows. It also includes a 4×32 illuminated scope for improved accuracy in various lighting conditions.
Why I Love It
The hybrid design of the Wrath 430 provides a perfect blend of balance and power, making it versatile for different hunting scenarios. The adjustable buttstock ensures a comfortable fit, and the anti-dry fire mechanism enhances safety. The illuminated scope is a great addition, providing clear and precise aiming points in various lighting conditions. It’s a powerful and well-rounded crossbow that performs exceptionally well in the field.
7. Killer Instinct Speed 425
Product Description
The Killer Instinct Speed 425 lives up to its name, firing bolts at 425 fps. It features an adjustable buttstock and forearm grip for a customizable fit. The crossbow includes a Lumix Speed Ring 1.5-5×32 IR-E scope, designed to improve accuracy and target acquisition. It also comes with a Rope Cocker, three bolts, and a quiver.
Why I Love It
The Speed 425 offers a great balance of speed, power, and accuracy. The adjustable buttstock and forearm grip make it comfortable for shooters of all sizes. The Lumix Speed Ring scope is excellent for quick and accurate target acquisition. The overall build quality and performance make it a reliable and powerful crossbow for serious hunters and enthusiasts.
8. Wicked Ridge RDX 400
Product Description
The Wicked Ridge RDX 400 features a reverse-draw design, providing excellent balance and reduced recoil. It fires bolts at 400 fps and includes an ACUdraw PRO cocking device for easy and quiet cocking. The crossbow also comes with a TenPoint 3x Pro-View scope, three bolts, and a quiver.
Why I Love It
The reverse-draw design of the RDX 400 offers superior balance and stability, making it easier to shoot accurately. The ACUdraw PRO cocking device is incredibly smooth and quiet, enhancing the overall shooting experience. The 3x Pro-View scope provides clear and precise aiming points, even at longer distances. It’s a well-designed and dependable crossbow that performs exceptionally well in the field.
9. Bear X Constrictor CDX
Product Description
The Bear X Constrictor CDX is a compact and powerful crossbow, firing bolts at 410 fps. It features an adjustable cheek pad and buttstock for a customizable fit. The crossbow includes an illuminated scope, anti-dry fire mechanism, and an ambidextrous safety. It also comes with three bolts, a quiver, and a rope cocking device.
Why I Love It
The compact design of the Constrictor CDX makes it easy to maneuver in tight hunting spots. The adjustable cheek pad and buttstock ensure a comfortable and personalized fit. The illuminated scope and anti-dry fire mechanism are excellent safety features. The overall build quality and performance make it a reliable and powerful crossbow for any hunting situation.
10. Parker ThunderHawk Pro
Product Description
The Parker ThunderHawk Pro is a lightweight and powerful crossbow, firing bolts at 330 fps. It features an advanced G2 trigger for a smooth and crisp pull. The crossbow includes an illuminated multi-reticle scope, an anti-dry fire mechanism, and an ambidextrous safety. It also comes with four bolts, a quiver, and a rope cocking device.
Why I Love It
The ThunderHawk Pro’s lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver in the field. The G2 trigger is incredibly smooth, providing consistent and accurate shots. The illuminated scope and anti-dry fire mechanism are great safety features. The overall build quality and performance make it a reliable and versatile crossbow for hunters of all skill levels.
Conclusion
Choosing the right crossbow can significantly enhance your hunting or target shooting experience. Each of the crossbows on this list offers unique features and exceptional performance, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for speed, power, accuracy, or ease of use, there’s a crossbow here for you. Invest in one of these top picks, and you’ll be well-equipped for success in the field. Happy hunting!