Searching for a good crossbow is far more complicated than hunting itself. Nevertheless, crossbow use has surged in recent years due to advancements in crossbow technology (leading to faster and more accurate crossbows being produced) and an increase in the number of states legalizing crossbow use for hunting purposes.
Every season, major crossbow manufacturers can release several new crossbow models packed with the latest technologies and innovations (integrated cranking systems, sound dampening systems, illuminated scopes, and enhanced safety features). The crossbows cater to different users (men, women, youth, beginners, professional, amateur hunters, and sports persons). They are sold with competitive packages, all claiming to offer the latest bells and whistles. Crossbow specifications can vary in overall weight, draw weight, size, speed, power stroke, cocking mechanism, accessories, and design. With so many crossbows being manufactured, navigating this market for the uninitiated consumer can be mindboggling, and choosing the best Crossbow can prove challenging. Considering budgetary constraints and needs for a hunter can also be an essential determining factor in deciding which Crossbow is best to purchase. This guide aims to help you select the best Crossbow under $2000.
Factors to consider when purchasing a Crossbow under $2000
You can buy a premium crossbow for under $2000. Still, if you are willing to invest that much money, you should look for and consider the following factors in a crossbow that will assist you in your decision-making process, helping you choose more wisely.
Type of Crossbow
The first thing to decide before buying a crossbow is to select the type you want. Compound crossbows are compact and are better for hunting in tight spaces. They usually come assembled, but the maintenance and tuning of such models are complicated.
The next great choice is the traditional recurve Crossbow. Fortunately, under $2000, you will find recurve crossbows with all the techs and features, and for this price range, you can find compact crossbows with medium weight.
Speed
At this price point, the speed of the Crossbow shouldn’t go below 360 FPS. The higher the speed of the Crossbow, the better it is to hunt big games with more power and accuracy. It’s better to go for 400 or more FPS if you hunt from a long range.
Draw Weight
Draw weight is the amount of force required to pull back the string. The higher draw weight means the more power it can pack to shoot the arrow with more speed and energy. An increased draw weight also means a longer power stroke, which gives you an edge for more bolt speed. The draw weight of crossbows under $2000 is generally over 200 lbs.Â
Crank System
When you are willing to invest up to $2000, you should be expecting the quietest crank system. The integrated cranking device with detachable handles are best rather than a rope cocking aid. A rope cocking aid reduces the Crossbow’s weight, but comparatively, its use requires more manual strength to cock the Crossbow than would be required by a crossbow with an integrated or external crank system.
Scope
Buy the Crossbow that offers an illuminated clear scope in the package as this improves shooting range and allows for zeroing in on the far-off areas to hunt game and increase the accuracy of shots.
Overall Weight
The number of accessories and a sound dampening system equates to more overall crossbow weight, which will make it more difficult to carry as the day goes on. Also, more weight makes it challenging to keep the Crossbow steady, which, in turn, can affect accuracy.
Final Selection Time for the Best Crossbow
New crossbow models are introduced every year; that’s why we have selected the latest crossbows that fall under this price category. The best way to choose a crossbow is to familiarize yourself with each Crossbow’s main features, pros, and cons. Then, based on your need for ebike hunting big game, competitive gaming, crossbow type, weight, and speed, make the selection.
We at Savvy Crossbow did the research and evaluated the models on the guidance given above. We have presented the key features and specifications of our best crossbow models under $2000 for 2023. If you keep in mind your main crossbow goals and the purpose you will use your Crossbow for and take the time to go through our reviews carefully, you should find the best Crossbow for you.
Let’s have a look at our picks for the best crossbows under $2000 for 2023.
Best Crossbow Under $2000
Best Recurve Crossbow / Top Recurve Crossbow - Excalibur Assassin 400 TD (Editor's Pick)
With its 40 years of making crossbows, Excalibur, in 2019, introduced one of the most innovative and tech-savvy crossbows around, the Excalibur Assassin 400 TD. This crossbow ticks all the boxes easy to use, fast, powerful, portable, and quiet. Excalibur 400 T belongs to its Assassin series and is priced at the top end of the budget range.
Why Excalibur 400 TD is Editor's / Top Pick
Excalibur Assassin 400 TD adopts the company’s signature recurve style limb crossbow type. The 400 in its name stands for the speed; 400fps and TD- stands for (TakeDown)Â the brand’s signature feature that allows it to be assembled and disassembled in a matter of minutes with minimal force and without affecting its accuracy and efficacy. This Crossbow is thus highly portable and compact. Simply depressing a small blue lever and moving the stirrup to the back will detach the limbs. Reassembling is as easy as sliding it in its place until the limbs lock into position.
Another noteworthy feature is its built-in charger crank system that requires a mere force of 14 pounds to cock and decock the string. The cocking system may add some additional weight to the overall Crossbow. Still, hunters highly value this feature because it facilitates quick use of the Crossbow and is silent to operate. Â The cranking system also benefits from a built-in breaker which prevents the device from “unwinding” if you accidentally stop cocking.
With its new “high-output express limbs” made of uncut solid fiber, the Excalibur has achieved the narrowest profile among all other Excalibur crossbows with only 20 inches width (when cocked). In addition, the limbs have unbreakable armor tips and can shoot the arrows at rapid speeds of up to 400 fps, 40 fps more than the Assassin 360 (an earlier predecessor).
The Excalibur Assassin model line employs one of the best two-staged trigger systems in the industry seen in other Excalibur crossbows. The trigger system resembles the match-grade rifle; the lightweight pull trigger breaks consistently, resulting in greater shot accuracy.
Excalibur Assassin 400 TD, is also one of the most adjustable Crossbows in the industry. It hosts an ambidextrous cheekpiece with an adjustable buttstock that can be set to any desired length. Not just that, the Crossbow has also been equipped with state-of-the-art multi tactile TACT-100 scopes with green-red illuminated crosshair system and a speed ring that’s marked with yard measure up to 100 yards.
Excalibur Assassin 400 TD is best for?
Seasoned hunters will benefit from its unmatched tech features that enhance their hunting experience, making it smoother and more enjoyable. However, the ease of use and assembly has made it an ideal choice for beginner hunters too. Thanks to its integrated cocking system, younger hunters and female hunters will find it an easy crossbow to cock. The adjustable length and cheekpiece make it fit for anyone, regardless of their height.
Excalibur Assassin 400 TD Product Specifications
- Speed: 400 fps
- Draw Weight: 325 lbs
- Draw Length: 15 inches
- Weight: 8.2 lbs without accessories, 9.8 with accessories
- Length: adjustable 30-33 inches
- Axle to Axle Width: (25 inches uncocked, 20 inches cocked)
- Cocking Type: Integrated
- TACT-100 scope
- Sound dampener
- Adjustable cheek piece
Excalibur Assassin 400 TD Package Includes
- Tact 100 illuminated scope with 30 mm scope rings.
- Anti-dry fire system
- 4 Arrow Quiver
- Explore case
- 2-Stage pro-shot trigger
- Axle to Axle Width: (25 inches uncocked, 20 inches cocked)
- 4 Pro Flight Arrows (16.5 inches)
- 4 (100gr) Field Point
- Fail-safe strap
- Recoil Energy Dissipation suppressors (R.E.D.S.) to reduce recoil, noise, and shock.
- Ambidextrous Cheek Piece
Pros
- Assemble and disassemble in seconds, making it highly portable.
- An integrated crank system requiring meagre force to quietly cock the Crossbow.
- High-speed shooting (400 FPS)
- Compact and easy to carry in a bag and small car.
Cons
- High draw weight
- Top-end of $2000 budget range
The Fastest Recurve Crossbow - Excalibur Assassin 420 TD
Our second pick is the Excalibur 420 TD Recurve Crossbow, which belongs to the “Assassin series” where TD stands for takedown technology, and 420 is the speed of bolt shooting in feet per second. It’s the upgrade of the Excalibur 400 series with the same Quick-Loc takedown technology – one of its kind in the industry and characteristics of Excalibur crossbows.
Standout Features of Excalibur 420 TD
With two swift clicks, you can assemble and disassemble it safely with no bolts and screw requirements to put it together or take apart. Just sliding the blue lever and pushing back the stirrup can take apart the front part of the crossbow.
The primary difference between Assassin 400 and Assassin 420 is speed. Along with that, the Assassin Crossbow 420 is relatively more significant, with 33 inches that can be elongated up to 36 inches by adjustable Tru-Fit buttstock. The ambidextrous cheek piece for the crossbow is also adjustable up to 2 inches horizontally.
Another difference in the Assassin 420 model is that the limbs are between 3-5inches wider than its previous 400 models, measuring 30 inches when uncocked and 23.3 inches when cocked. However, the larger size difference hasn’t contributed to too much overall weight difference. With 8.6 lb weight in the absence of accessories and 10.2 lbs with all accessories, this crossbow still falls under the mid-weight category of crossbows.
Like the Assassin 400 TD. The Assassin 420 TD also benefits from an integrated charger crank system that cocks the crossbow with dead silence, taking away the excessive force required to the crossbow. Not just this, the system is compatible with rope cocking devices or attachable cranks to engage the bowstring with a force of only 12 lbs.
The pro-sho shot two-staged trigger breaks cleanly and consistently at 3 pounds and yields more accurate shots.
Apart from the size and the speed difference, the built and accessories of the Assassin 420 TD are similar to the Assassin 400 TD with strong uncut fiber limbs. In addition, the tact-100 illuminated scope with 30 mm rings utilizes the full potential of 420 fps speed. A seasoned hunter can accurately fire up to 80 yards with such a whopping speed.
Excalibur Assassin 420 TD is best for?
The adjustability and integrated cocking aid make it a perfect choice for beginners or seasoned hunters wishing to upgrade their crossbow for the ease of cocking, better scope, accuracy, and durability. The wider limbs of the crossbow are somewhat the hindrance for hunting in tight spaces, trees, and or hunting in blinds. That said, the enormous bolt speed makes it an ideal crossbow for fast animals where speed, silence, and accuracy matter to shoot down the animal.
Excalibur Assassin 420 TD Product Specifications
- Draw Weight: 290 lbs
- Draw Length: 18.88 inches
- Weight: 8.6 lbs without accessories, 10.2 with accessories
- Length: adjustable 33-36 inches
- Axle to Axle Width: 23.3 inches uncocked, 30 inches cocked
- Speed: 420 fps
- Cocking Type: integrated
- TACT-100 scope
- Sound dampener
- Adjustable cheek piece
Excalibur Assassin 420 TD Package Includes
- Tact 100 illuminated scope with 30 mm rings.
- Anti-dry fire system
- 4-Arrow Quiver
- 2-Stage trigger
- 4-Pro flight arrows
- 4 (100gr) Field point
- Integrated cocking device with a fail-safe strap
- Recoil Energy Dissipation suppressors to reduce recoil, noise, and shock
- Ambidextrous Cheek Piece
Pros
- Quick-Lock takedown technology for assembling and disassembling in seconds without needing bolts and screws.
- A built-in cranking device with safety features to cock the device with the least force.
- Shooting speed 420 FPS.
- The two disassembled pieces of crossbow can be carried in the bag or van easily.
- Easy to maintain.
Cons
- Larger overall size
- Not suited for tree stand shooting or shooting in tight areas.
Our Choice for the Quietist & Lightest Recurve Crossbow - Excalibur Suppressor 400 TD
Suppressor 400 TD crossbow is from Excalibur’s Micro series and was introduced in 2020. As the name suggests, suppressor series crossbows have the deafening silence system for quiet shots, vibration resistance, and ninja-like strength. The Excalibur recurve suppressor 400 TD has many similarities to Assassin 400 TD, but it’s a budgeted option for those who want the latest tech of Assassin 400TD, which is our Editor’s Pick.
The Design, Tech, and Performance of Suppressor 400 TD
The Silent Excalibur Suppressor is built with “High Output Express Limbs” instead of regular micro limbs used in traditional models such as Excalibur Micro360 TD. As a result, it has vastly improved flexibility and performance. In addition, the crossbow’s components, such as riser and mainframe, are built with aluminum to bear the brunt of rough weather conditions. It’s a lightweight crossbow without accessories (only 6.8 pounds), but after attaching the accessories, the weight is 9.2 lbs, almost equal to Excalibur Assassin 400.
The lighter weight is that Excalibur Assassin 400 comes with an integrated cocking device, whereas Suppressor 400 uses an External crank system that needs to be attached by the hunter for cocking. You can also use a rope cocker for cocking, making it more lightweight. But the rope cocker is not included in the package. Instead, the crank system has an ambidextrous detachable handle that will reduce the draw weight to only 12 pounds.
The Excalibur Suppressor has a tremendous arrow speed of 400 FPS with 325 lbs draw weight and a power stroke of 15 inches. The sound dampening systems SDS installation have a negating effect on the crossbow speed; however, at 400fps, is still ample speed to m
The Suppressor 400’s silent action is due to the multiple sound dampening systems (SDS).
- The SDS system has Ex Shox dampening truss wedges to reduce oscillation of the bowstring.
- The SDS system also has RAVS (recoil anti-vibration system) placed around the limbs to absorb vibration.
- Air brakes and rubber-coated stirrups also help in low noise.
Like Excalibur Assassin, the Suppressor 400 model also uses quick-lock takedown technology, easy assembling, disassembling of the front part, convenient storage, and transportation. For sighting, the TACT 100 scope with red and green-lighted reticles and speed dial adjustment system helps with accuracy in shooting. In addition, the new ACP two-stage trigger system with a 3 lbs pull weight helps the hunter take the target with precision.
Excalibur Suppressor 400 TD is best for?
The crossbow is for those hunters who are always on the move and can benefit from takedown technology. The straightforward assembly and easier learning curve make it ideal for novice hunters who don’t want to spend the extra $300 on Assassin 400 TD. But seasoned hunters also appreciate the advanced tech and innovative design of the crossbow. Being a recurve, it’s not as narrow as a Compound/Reverse Crossbow; still, it is more compact than other recurve crossbows with easy maneuverability in the field. Excalibur also launched the double barrel crossbow also named as Twin Strike crossbow.
Excalibur Suppressor 400 TD Product Specifications
- Draw Weight: 325 lbs
- Draw Length: 15 inches
- Draw Effort: 14 lbs
- Weight: 6.8 lbs without accessories, 9.2 with accessories
- Length: adjustable 32 inches
- Axle to Axle width: 25 inches uncocked, 20.25 inches cocked
- Speed: 400 fps
- Cocking Type: External Crank
- TACT-100 Scope
- Sound Dampener
Excalibur Suppressor 400 TD Package Includes
- Tact 100 illuminated scope with 30 mm scope rings.
- Charger Ext. crank system
- Anti-dry fire system
- 4 Arrow Quiver
- Air brakes suppressor
- Proshot ACP trigger
- 4-Pro flight arrows (16.5 inches)
- 4 (100gr) Field point
- Fail-safe strap
- Recoil Energy Dissipation suppressors (REDS) to reduce recoil, noise, and shock.
- Sound Deadening System
- Ambidextrous Cheek Piece
Pros
- Quick-Lock Technology for speedy assembling and portability.
- Sound dampening system, air brakes, and rubberized components ensure that the crossbow shoots the arrow quietly without vibration.
- Speed of 400 FPS with a mere 14 lb draw effort.
- Downrange accuracy
- Safe external cranking system.
Cons
- No crossbow case or rope cocker
- You will have to install the cocking aid as it doesn't come assembled.
Best Budget Pick for Recurve Crossbow - Excalibur Assassin 360
Excalibur Assassin 360 is the earlier version in the Assassin series, introduced in 2018. Assassin 360 gave the Excalibur crossbows the footing needed for further advancement that we see in later models. The basic tech used in Assassin 360 is similar to the latest models, such as Assassin 400 or Assassin 420, but it doesn’t have the takedown technology. Nevertheless, with a powerful shooting arrow speed of 360 fps and integrated cocking device, the recurve type Excalibur made into our list of best crossbows under $2000.
What the Budget Pick Recurve Crossbow Offers?
Although it is the budget pick in our list, it still is the premium crossbow that demonstrates proficiency and accuracy. The Excalibur Assassin 360 is built with durable signature style curves; the crossbow is the pinnacle of power and can generate up to 100 ft-fps of kinetic energy. Assassin 360 is lightweight, about 7.9 pounds without accessories, but it falls into the mid-weight category after attaching all the accessories.
Excalibur Assassin 360 was the first Assassin crossbow with an internal cranking system and is still the highlight and preferential element by hunters to choose Assassin 360. The easy cranking takes away a lot of draw weight and requires a mere 12 lbs of force to cock the string. The cherry on top is that the integrated cocking aid is ambidextrous, so both left or right-handers can use it without any issue.
Excalibur has used a 10-pound Ex-shot sound dampening system and air brakes to lower the vibration and noise level by 25%. These suppressors, air brakes, and string stops make it quieter and make the crossbow last longer by reducing shock and recoil.
The trigger on the system gives a rifle-like feel and provides a clean, smooth, accurate, and crisp shot. The tact zone scope lets you zoom into the field for a perfect shot.
The True Fit stock with a real tree edge finish is adjustable to suit the height of the hunter. Also, the cheek is adjustable too and can go backward and forward.
Excalibur Assassin 360 is best for?
The Excalibur Assassin crossbow is for those who prefer traditional recurve crossbows with new tech installed. The integrated cocking system is now a preferred choice for both beginners and seasoned hunters. Recurve crossbows used to be longer, but Excalibur’s recurve crossbow’s overall length is shorter with adjustability options to fit every hunter.
Excalibur Assassin 360 Product Specifications
- Draw Weight: 285 lbs
- Draw Length: 15 inches
- Weight: 7.9 lbs without accessories, 9.6 with accessories
- Length: 30 inches
- Draw Effort: 12 lbs
- Axle to Axle Width: 25 inches uncocked, 21 inches cocked
- Speed: 360 fps
- Cocking Type: integrated
- TACT Zone illuminated scope
- Sound dampener
- Adjustable cheek piece
Excalibur Assassin 360 Package Includes
- Tact Zone illuminated scope with 30 mm scope rings.
- Anti-dry fire system
- 4 Arrow quiver
- 2-Stage pro-shot trigger
- 4-Arrows (16.5 inches)
- Sound deadening system (SDS.)
- 4 (100gr) Field point
- Fail-safe strap
- Recoil Energy Dissipation suppressors (REDS.)
- Ambidextrous Cheek Piece
Pros
- Integrated cocking device that requires only 12 lbs of force.
- The quiet recurve model with the sound deadening system.
- No tuning is required, like compound crossbows.
- Pro-shot match trigger for a clean and accurate shot.
Cons
- Cocking aids need to be replaced in the factory and may cause issues due to wear and tear.
- Not suitable for tree stand hunting and may feel heavier for some hunters due to more front weight.
Best Compound Crossbow in terms of Speed, Sleek Profile, and overall Weight - Ravin R20 Crossbow
Ravin R20 is an update of predecessor R10 and R15, and the new 2020 models of Ravin are R29 and R29x. While the new models come with all the bells and whistles, they come at a price; (close to the top end of our budget with the RRP at $1725). In terms of performance, it boasts the best bolt speed at 430fps. Ravin crossbows are equipped with Helicoil technology to provide accuracy and efficiency like a rifle. The technology keeps the coil in the grooves but away from the top and bottom. The cams can rotate 340 degrees and keep the crossbow balanced, accurate, and compact.
Why we chose Ravin R 20?
Ravin crossbows can give downrange accuracy up to 100 yards with incredible speeds of 430 FPS. Since the cams can rotate 340 degrees, the compound crossbow can contract. And in a fully drawn position, the crossbow width is only 6 inches, equal to Ravin’s most expensive R29x model. The Ravin R20 crossbow has the most compact profile on our list. The uncocked width from axle to axle is 10.5 inches. The overall weight of the crossbow is only 7.1 lbs.
Another exclusive feature of Ravin R20’s Crossbow is the bowstring’s frictionless flight as the bow hardly touches the rail. Instead, the arrow only comes in contact with the dual wheel system at the front. The frictionless flight of the bolt is the reason for its powerful speed and accuracy.
Such a powerful performance couldn’t be achieved if the crossbow lacks in build. The Ravin R20 crossbow has a rifle-like appearance and is made of cast polymer. At the bottom side of the crossbow is a safety panel with finger grooves so that your hands don’t accidentally come in the way of the rail.
Like other models we have reviewed, the Ravin crossbow also has a built-in cocking system called Versa Draw. The ambidextrous cocking system has a magnetic base to attach the cocking handle. The magnetic base ensures that the handle doesn’t fall off accidentally while cocking. Additionally, thanks to the integrated cocking aid, the draw force is merely 14 lbs.
Ravin R20’s patented 4 lbs. Trac-trigger system is clean and with a crisp pull. In addition, the system has 2-position safety features and an anti-dry fire system.
Ravin R20 comes with 100 yards illuminated scope that is fog proof and waterproof and ranges from 20-100 in increments of 10 yards.
Ravin R 20 is it best for?
The rifle-like appearance of the crossbow is suitable not only for crossbow hunters but also as an alternative for rifle hunters. The narrow profile of the crossbow with its low overall weight makes it more portable and is the best solution for blind hunting, tree stand, and stealth hunting. The low weight and less draw effort make it compatible for female or young hunters too. Not just that, the high speed and downrange accuracy help the hunters shoot faster animals such as deer from further afield.
Ravin R 20 Product Specifications
- Draw Weight: 270 lbs.
- Draw Effort: 12 lbs.
- Power Stroke: 13 inches
- Weight: 7.1 lbs
- Length: Adjustable 34.5 inches
- Axle to Axle Width: 10.5 inches uncocked, 6 inches cocked
- Speed: 430 Fps
- Cocking Type: integrated
Ravin R 20 Package Includes
- Illuminated scope 100 yard
- 3-Arrow Quiver
- 400 grain 6 Pack match-Grade Ravin .003 arrows
- 1-Removable cocking handle
- Mounting bracket
- Anti-dry fire
- Built-in cocking system
Pros
- Helicoil technology makes it ultra-compact and accurate.
- Frictionless flight of both to improve accuracy and speed.
- High speed of arrow 430 FPS
- Lightweight
- Integrated Versa draws cocking system that requires only 14 lbs draw effort for cocking.
- Durable due to sturdy build and lightweight
Cons
- You can't release it when it's half-cocked.
- Multiple reticles are missing in the scope.
Our Choice for most Compact and Lightweight Compound Crossbow - Tenpoint Siege RS 410 Crossbow
The Tenpoint RS 410 Crossbow is the latest 2021 reverse crossbow that comes completely assembled and in a ready-to-hunt package. Additionally, Tenpoint Crossbow is available in two finishes, Veil Alpine and Graphite Grey.
As it’s a reverse crossbow with its limbs in a reversed position, it has a center of gravity at the middle point, unlike the conventional crossbows that have more weight at the front.
Due to the limbs reversed position of the crossbow, it is the ultra-compact hunting weapon with only 26.5 inches length, 12.3 inches width from axle to axle when it is uncocked, and 7.5 inches wide in a cocked position. Additionally, the reverse construct of the crossbow gives the Tenpoint RS 410 crossbow more balance as the riser and limb pocket are mounted halfway down the stock.
The reverse technology has allowed the Tenpoint Crossbow to have more power stroke (13.5 inches) without extending the bow and less draw weight. In addition, the elongated Powerstroke enables it to shoot arrows at amazingly fast speeds of 410 FPS.
The compact crossbow provides excellent maneuverability with its compact size and weight of only 7.5 pounds without accessories and 9 pounds after attaching a scope and 6-arrow Quiver. It is one of the lightest in overall weight in our list of best crossbows under $2000.
The Tenpoint RS 410 Crossbow has an illuminated Range Master pro scope that can aim up to 60 yards. Certainly not as good as Excalibur, but super clear with 1.5 to 5 times magnification.
Also, it’s one of the quietest and deadliest that doesn’t generate a lot of vibration and sound. The integrated string stop system catches the string to dampen the noise.
Tenpoint features the safest integrated ACUslide cocking system that minimizes the cocking force to just 5 pounds – a feat for young hunters who can’t employ more physical force when cocking devices. Just like Excalibur, it also has an auto-brake system, so even if the hunter removes the hand from the cocking handle, the handle won’t start to unwind.
Equipped with the latest S1 2-stage trigger, it shoots arrows with the same hole downrange accuracy and deadening speed.
TenPoint Seige RS 410 is it best for?
Tenpoint RS 410 compact crossbow with all advanced frills and features is best for seasoned hunters. However, beginners can also benefit from its ease of use, patented integrated, and the safest cocking system. The 1-inch adjustable buttstock also makes it fit for everyone. The compactness has added to its maneuverability, portability, blind hunting, and tree stand hunting.
TenPoint Seige RS410 Product Specifications
- Draw Weight: 220 lbs.
- Power Stroke: 13.5 inches
- Weight: 7.5 lbs. without accessories, 9 with accessories
- Length: 26.5 inches
- Axle to Axle Width: 12.3 inches uncocked, 7.5 inches cocked
- Speed: 410 fps
- Cocking Type: Integrated ACUslide cocking system
- RangeMaster Pro Variable Speed Scope
TenPoint Seige RS410 Package Includes
- Tact 100 illuminated scope with 30 mm scope rings.
- EVO-X Center Punch Carbon Arrows (16 inches-6 pack)
- 6-Arrow Quiver
- Integrated string stop system
- 2-Stage pro-shot trigger
- ACUslide cocking and decocking system
Pros
- Compact design due to reverse limbs.
- Excellent speed (410 fps) with accuracy
- Integrated ACUslide safe cocking and decocking with a built-in break.
- Comfortable to hold due to finger rest at the bottom
- Great power stroke with less draw weight.
- Lightweight
Cons
- Scope's illumination is brighter, especially with the new battery.
Our Pick for the Best Compound Crossbow for Overall Value - Tenpoint Viper S400
Tenpoint Viper S400 is a 2020 model outfitted with the latest technological features at a reasonable price, compared to the others we have reviewed above. It is a forward draw compound crossbow that is ultra-compact, quiet, and accurate weaponry. The ACU slide cocking system, less friction between the flight deck and bolt, and the new S1 trigger system are distinctive.
Tenpoint Viper S400 has a sleek chassis with an innovative Tec-X stock that is neatly cut out and reduces the weight by more than half a pound, giving more opportunities to utilize it in hunting or competitive shooting. The crossbow comes assembled and only weighs 7.5 pounds. In addition, the uncocked axle-to-axle width is merely 11 inches, whereas the cocked width further reduces to about 7.2 inches, giving it the sleekest profile.
The integrated ACU Slide cocking mechanism is what makes it desirable. The quietest cocking system is effortless and requires significantly less force for engaging the string. The detachable cocking handle can extend up to 7.5 inches – a standout feature that we don’t see in many handles. Not just this, the ACU slide system has a built-in brake system that prevents the handle from unwinding in the cocking/de-coking process. During the cocking process, the entire trigger box slides down the rails to capture rollers and engage the string- it’s something we have seen in Ravin crossbows.
The aluminum barrel is made of “Micro Trac ” technology and is constructed to reduce friction between the bolt and the barrel that measures only 17 inches. The friction reduction technology increases the accuracy, lifespan of strings, and speed.
Speaking of speed, the TenPoint Crossbow can shoot arrows with up to 400 FPS, but the speed is dependent on the arrow. The Evo-X Center punch carbon arrows accompanied by the crossbow have 445 grains, giving a velocity of 370 FPS. If you want more speed, you will have to buy Pro Light Carbon Arrows with 370 grain.
TenPoint S1 trigger is a 2-stage trigger with zero-creep, consistent break, and has a 3.5 lb pull weight. Not just that, the trigger lock latch system locks the trigger box in the same position for every shot and releases the tension from the string. As a result, it leads to increased 48% accuracy of same-hole shots.
The scope is similar to that used by Tenpoint Siege RS410 and can aim up to 60 yards with 1 -1.5 times magnification.
TenPoint Viper S400 is best for?
The compact crossbow with a silent cocking system and lightweight is best for those hunters who want the quietest crossbows and who do not want to compromise on the speed and for hunters who will hunt for long seasons. It can be used for competitive gaming, pest control, stealth hunting, tree stand, or blind hunting. Since the usage is relatively simpler with the ease of integrated cocking, new hunters can also choose this premium weaponry tool.
TenPoint Viper S400 Product Specifications
- Draw Weight: 325 lbs.
- Power Stroke: 11 inches
- Weight: 7.5 pounds
- Length: 32 inches without stirrup
- Axle to Axle Width: 11 inches uncocked, 7.2 inches cocked
- Speed: 400 fps with Prolight carbon arrows
- Cocking Type: AcuSlide integrated
- RangeMaster Pro Scope
- Draw Style: Forward draw
TenPoint Viper S400 Package Includes
- RangeMaster Pro Scope
- Anti-dry fire system
- 6 Arrow Quiver
- 2-Stage pro-shot trigger
- 3 Evo-X Center Punch carbon arrows
Pros
- Ultra-Compact forward draw crossbow
- High-speed 400 FPS
- Integrated cocking system for effortless and safe cocking/de-cocking
- Minimum friction between rail and arrow that increases speed.
- Extendable detachable cocking handle.
- Cut-out Tec-X stock that has reduced the overall weight of the crossbow.
Cons
- Various arrows bring different speed results.
Best Compound Crossbow for Tree Stand, Blind, or Stealth Hunting - Mission Sub-1 XR (Extended Range)
Mission Crossbow currently has only three crossbows in their lineup. Sub-1 lite is the lightest with a speed of 335 FPS, whereas Sub-1 has slightly more weight and an increased speed of 385 FPS. Mission Sub 1 XR (Extended Range) is their fastest (410 FPS) and most accurate crossbow.
What makes Mission Sub-1 XR extraordinary?
The Mission Sub-1 XR maintains a small profile and shoots with accuracy. Â This crossbow is ultra-compact, measuring only 30.5 inches in length. When it is uncocked, the limbs’ width is 12.5 inches, which reduces to 9.1 inches in a cocked position. In addition, the Mission Sub-1 XR weighs only 7.6 inches (which is evenly distributed across the crossbow – unlike other compound crossbows where the weight is heavily concentrated towards the anterior (front) portion of the bow).
The crossbow comes fully assembled and “ready to shoot” right of the box. The innovative “Benchmark Fire Control” system allows the hunter to safely, quietly, and painlessly de-cock the crossbow by pressing only the specified “de-cocking” button. The benchmark system also has a match-grade two-stage trigger with a pull weight of 3 pounds that has a remarkable clean break for optimizing accuracy.
The best thing about the crossbow is that the draw weight is adjustable from 150 to 250 lbs. with a let-off of 80%. Unlike other crossbows in our list, the Mission crossbow doesn’t have an integrated cocking aid, but this can be purchased separately. The rope cocker assists in cocking with a power stroke of 14.625 inches and shoots the bolt with an impressive 410 FPS.
The cam system on the Mission compound crossbow is fully synced, so the arrow doesn’t have a horizontal nock, nor does it veer on either side of the left or right line when we aim for the target, resulting in accurate shooting.
Other features include a scope with variable speed adjustment and can shoot the target at a distance of 100 yards. In addition, the ergonomics of the Mission Sub-1 XR are exceptional, providing comfort and functionality with adjustable buttstock and ambidextrous cheekpieces.
Mission Sub-1 XR is best for?
Mission Sub-1 XR crossbow is best for stealth or blind hunting to camouflage by the surroundings. Adjustability and low weight are better for new hunters to handle if they are comfortable cocking by rope cocker. It’s also the best choice for an extended hunting season as the maintenance doesn’t require a bow press. However, since this is a premium crossbow with innovative features, seasoned hunters who wish to upgrade their crossbows will also love this model from Mission.
Mission Sub-1 XR Product Specifications
- Draw Weight: 250 lbs. adjustable
- Power stroke: 14.625 inches
- Weight: 7.6 lbs.
- Length: 30.5 inches
- Axle to Axle Width: 12.5 inches uncocked, 9.1 inches cocked
- Speed: 410 fps
- Let off: 80%
- Cocking Type: Rope cocker but Removable Silent Draw Cranking Aid can be attached
- Adjustable cheek piece
- Scope: Hawke 1.5-5 magnification with red/green illumination
Mission Sub-1 XR Package Includes
- Illuminated scope with rings
- Anti-dry fire system
- 3 Arrow Quiver
- Padded soft custom bag
- 2-Stage pro-shot trigger
- 3 Carbon shaft arrows 19 inches and 250gr.
- Rope cocking device
- Rail lube
- Ambidextrous Cheek Piece
- Optional Accessory: Removable Silent Draw (RSD) hand-cranking device
Pros
- Benchmark Fire Control with a safe de-cocking button.
- High speed 410 FPS
- Illuminated Hawke Scope
- Adjustable draw weight, cheekpiece, and buttstock
- Accurate, lightweight
- Compact
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- No integrated/external cocking device included
- External attachable cocking device has to be purchased separately.