Crossbows

Recurve vs. Compound Crossbows

Recurve crossbows use a single curved limb design — simpler, lighter, and easier to work on in the field. If a string breaks during a hunt, replacement requires no bow press. The tradeoff is that recurves typically require more draw weight to achieve the same arrow velocity as a compound. Compound crossbows use cams and pulleys to generate higher arrow speeds at lower peak draw weights, producing shorter, more compact designs. Most modern hunting crossbows are compound designs for their speed and compact size. Recurves retain a devoted following among hunters who prioritize simplicity and field-repairability. Excalibur is the dominant recurve crossbow manufacturer; TenPoint, Ravin, and Barnett lead in compound designs.

Speed, Kinetic Energy, and What Actually Matters for Hunting

Crossbow manufacturers prominently advertise feet-per-second (fps) velocity. While speed matters, kinetic energy — the combination of bolt weight and velocity — is what actually kills deer. A 400-grain bolt at 350 fps delivers more kinetic energy than a 300-grain bolt at 400 fps, and heavier bolts retain energy better at distance. For whitetail deer inside 40 yards (the practical effective range for most hunters), virtually any modern hunting crossbow with 80+ foot-pounds of kinetic energy is sufficient. Speed becomes more relevant for longer shots where trajectory flattens out. The practical recommendation: don't buy on fps claims alone — look at kinetic energy, accuracy, and noise level together.

Width, Balance, and Hunting Application

Crossbow width at full draw is a critical hunting consideration. A wide crossbow is difficult to maneuver in a ground blind or tree stand, and may catch on branches while carrying. Narrow-profile crossbows (under 12 inches axle-to-axle at full draw) are the most versatile for hunting from confined positions. Compact reverse-draw designs — where the limbs point toward the shooter — reduce overall length and shift weight rearward for better balance and less muzzle-heavy feel. For ground blind hunting where width is critical, a narrow compound or reverse-draw is the practical choice. For open-country elk hunting where space isn't an issue, standard-width designs are fine and typically less expensive.

Crossbow Brands: Ravin, TenPoint, Excalibur, Barnett

Ravin produces some of the most compact and accurate crossbows on the market — their HeliCoil technology keeps the cams rotating in sync, delivering exceptional accuracy. The R10X and R29X are flagship models with sub-1-inch groups at 100 yards. Premium pricing reflects premium engineering. TenPoint is another premium brand with broad model range from their Turbo M1 flagship to accessible entry-level options, all known for accuracy and build quality. Excalibur dominates the recurve market — the Matrix and Assassin series are trusted by serious hunters for their field reliability and simplicity. Barnett and CenterPoint cover the value tier — solid hunting crossbows at accessible prices well-suited to hunters who shoot occasionally rather than year-round competitors.

Bolt and Arrow Selection

Crossbow bolts (also called arrows) are shorter and heavier than vertical archery arrows — typically 16–22 inches and 300–450 grains. Match bolt weight to your crossbow manufacturer's recommendations; too light a bolt can be unsafe with high-powered crossbows. Carbon bolts are the standard for hunting — lightweight, straight, and consistent. Aluminum bolts are less common but preferred by some target shooters for their consistency. Broadhead selection follows the same principles as vertical archery: fixed-blade broadheads are more reliable in heavy brush; mechanical broadheads fly more like field points, making pre-season zeroing practice directly transferable to hunting. Practice with the same bolt weight you'll hunt with to ensure your zero holds.

Crossbow Scopes and Optics

Most hunting crossbows include a scope in the package — typically a multi-reticle scope with holdover points calibrated for different distances. These bundled scopes are functional for most hunting applications out to 50 yards. For serious long-range shooting or competition, a dedicated crossbow scope with illuminated reticle and precise holdover adjustments adds meaningful capability. Red dot sights are increasingly popular on compact crossbows for their speed at close range. Verify that any optic you add is rated for the recoil profile of a crossbow, which differs from rifle recoil.

Cocking Aids and Accessories

Most hunting crossbows require 100–185 lbs of draw weight to cock — beyond the comfortable range for many hunters without assistance. Rope-cocking aids (typically included) cut required effort roughly in half. Crank-cocking devices reduce effort to a few pounds and are valuable for hunters with upper body limitations or those hunting in awkward positions. A crossbow sling, bolt quiver, and hard or soft case complete a practical hunting setup. For hunters who shoot in the rain, a rail lubricant appropriate for their specific crossbow rail type is worth adding to the kit.

Crossbow Regulations by State

Crossbow regulations vary significantly by state and season. Many states now allow crossbow use during general archery season for all hunters; others restrict crossbow to disabled hunters during archery season but allow unrestricted use during firearms season. Utah and Idaho — where Impact Guns operates — both allow crossbow hunting with relatively broad season access. Always verify current state regulations for your specific hunting unit and season before purchasing a crossbow for hunting use, as regulations change annually.

Shop Crossbows at Impact Guns

Browse the full crossbow selection at Impact Guns. For compound bows and traditional archery, see our bows and archery page. For hunting rifles as an alternative or complement to crossbow hunting, see our hunting rifles page.