Crossbows have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people opting for them over traditional bows. Crossbows are great for hunting, target shooting, and even self-defense. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the right one, especially if you’re on a budget. That’s where we come in.
In this article, we’ve researched and tested several budget crossbows to identify the best ones on the market. When looking for a budget crossbow, the critical thing to pay attention to is the quality of the materials used. Cheaper crossbows may have lower quality materials that can lead to decreased accuracy and durability.
We spent countless hours researching and testing to identify the best budget crossbows that offer both quality and affordability. From our research, we’ve identified the top crossbows that are perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Best Budget Crossbows
Products Reviewed:
- Killer Instinct Boss 405 Crossbow Pro Package
- BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
- Avalanche Anaconda Recurve Black Crossbow
- CenterPoint Archery Sniper Elite 385 Crossbow Package C0004 With 4x32mm Scope, Quiver And Arrows, Black/Camo
- SAS Manticore 150lbs Hunting Crossbow Wood
- Killer Instinct Fierce 405 Crossbow Package
Killer Instinct Boss 405 Crossbow Pro Package
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly crossbow that packs a punch, the Killer Instinct Boss 405 Crossbow Pro Package is a great choice.
Pros
- Fires at an impressive rate of 405 feet-per-second, making it a powerful option
- The adjustable butt-stock comfortably fits a variety of users
- Built-in Dead Silent limb and string suppressors reduce noise and prevent prey from noticing you as you track them
Cons
- The scope mount that comes with the crossbow is not the best quality
- The string serving frays quickly
- The assembly instructions could be clearer
We recently had the chance to test out the Killer Instinct Boss 405 Crossbow Pro Package and were impressed with its performance. It fires at a rate of 405 feet-per-second and generates up to 134 foot-pounds on a hit, making it a powerful option for hunters and target shooters alike.
One of the standout features of this crossbow is its adjustable butt-stock, which can comfortably fit a variety of users. The built-in Dead Silent limb and string suppressors also make it a stealthy option, preventing prey from noticing you as you track them.
However, there are a few downsides to this crossbow. The scope mount that comes with it is not the best quality, so you may want to invest in a higher-quality scope. Additionally, the string serving tends to fray quickly, so you’ll need to keep an eye on it. Finally, the assembly instructions could be clearer, so be prepared to spend some time figuring out how to put it together.
Overall, we think the Killer Instinct Boss 405 Crossbow Pro Package is a great budget-friendly option for those looking for a powerful and versatile crossbow.
BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
If you’re looking for a budget crossbow that performs well for hunting, the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow is a great option.
Pros
- The crossbow is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces.
- It shoots at an impressive speed of 350 feet per second, making it a powerful weapon for hunting.
- The package includes everything you need to get started, including arrows, a scope, and a rope cocking device.
Cons
- The scope that comes with the crossbow isn’t the best quality and may need to be upgraded for more accurate shooting.
- The safety can be noisy when engaged, which could potentially scare off game.
- The crossbow may require some adjustments and tuning before it’s ready to use.
We took the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow out for a test run and were impressed with its performance. The lightweight and compact design made it easy to carry through the woods and maneuver into position. The speed of the crossbow was also impressive, allowing us to take down game with ease.
However, we did notice that the scope that comes with the crossbow isn’t the best quality and may need to be upgraded for more accurate shooting. Additionally, the safety can be noisy when engaged, which could potentially scare off game. We also found that the crossbow required some adjustments and tuning before it was ready to use.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget crossbow that performs well for hunting, the BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow is a great option. Just be prepared to make a few adjustments and upgrades to get the best performance out of it.
Avalanche Anaconda Recurve Black Crossbow
If you’re looking for a budget crossbow that’s perfect for both seasoned pros and beginners, then the Avalanche Anaconda Recurve Black Crossbow is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The tough composite stock is 33″ from the footclaw to the end of the stock and it weighs approximately 5 lbs.
- The 18 1/2″ power stroke, with a 175-lb draw weight, delivers arrow speeds of up to 245 fps with a 16″ aluminum arrow.
- The included red-dot scope attaches to the Picatinny rail for precision and accuracy.
Cons
- The assembly instructions could be more detailed and easier to follow.
- The scope that comes with it is not of the highest quality.
- The images in the assembly instructions could be of better quality.
We highly recommend the Avalanche Anaconda Recurve Black Crossbow for its ease of use, precision, and accuracy. The tough composite stock is durable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The 18 1/2″ power stroke, with a 175-lb draw weight, delivers arrow speeds of up to 245 fps with a 16″ aluminum arrow, making it a great choice for hunting and target shooting. The red-dot scope that comes with it attaches to the Picatinny rail, making it easy to aim and shoot accurately.
Assembly can be a bit tricky due to the vague instructions, but with a little patience, it can be done. The scope that comes with it is not of the highest quality, but it is still functional. The images in the assembly instructions could be of better quality, but there is a helpful video available for assembly.
Overall, the Avalanche Anaconda Recurve Black Crossbow is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget crossbow that’s easy to use and delivers great performance.
CenterPoint Archery Sniper Elite 385 Crossbow Package C0004 With 4x32mm Scope, Quiver And Arrows, Black/Camo
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly crossbow that delivers power and accuracy, the CenterPoint Archery Sniper Elite 385 Crossbow Package C0004 With 4x32mm Scope, Quiver And Arrows, Black/Camo might be the one for you.
Pros
- The quad limbs with precision-machined cam system deliver power and accuracy.
- The fully adjustable stock and foregrip allow for a customized fit to shoulder with confidence.
- The integrated string suppressors and limb dampeners provide a quiet, vibration-free shot.
Cons
- The assembly can be a bit challenging.
- The scope may need to be replaced for better accuracy.
- The cable and pulls may break after a few shots.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the CenterPoint Archery Sniper Elite 385 Crossbow Package C0004 With 4x32mm Scope, Quiver And Arrows, Black/Camo and were impressed with its performance. The crossbow is lightweight and easy to carry and maneuver in the field, making it perfect for hunting or target shooting.
The quad limbs with precision-machined cam system deliver power and accuracy, allowing us to hit our targets with ease. We also appreciated the fully adjustable stock and foregrip, which allowed us to customize the fit and shoulder the crossbow with confidence.
One downside we noticed was that the assembly can be a bit challenging, especially for those who are not experienced with crossbows. Additionally, the scope may need to be replaced for better accuracy, as some users have reported difficulty sighting in their shots.
Another issue we encountered was that the cable and pulls may break after a few shots, which can be frustrating and costly to replace. Despite these minor drawbacks, we still think the CenterPoint Archery Sniper Elite 385 Crossbow Package C0004 With 4x32mm Scope, Quiver And Arrows, Black/Camo is a great value for the price and would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly crossbow that delivers power and accuracy.
SAS Manticore 150lbs Hunting Crossbow Wood
If you’re looking for a budget crossbow that’s great for hunting or field practicing, the SAS Manticore is a solid choice.
Pros
- The crossbow has a powerful 150lbs draw weight and arrows can travel up to 210 FPS, making it great for hunting.
- The auto safety mechanism adds an extra layer of protection, making it safer to use.
- The high-tech fiberglass limb and aluminum barrel construction make it durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- The stringer is recommended to put or change the string, and you’ll need to purchase it separately (ASIN: B00JHA14NG).
- It’s not as powerful as some of the more expensive crossbows on the market, so it may not be suitable for more experienced hunters.
- The included arrows aren’t the best quality, so you may want to invest in some higher-quality arrows.
We recently had the chance to try out the SAS Manticore, and we were impressed with its power and accuracy. The crossbow is easy to assemble and comes with two aluminum arrows, although we’d recommend purchasing a few more if you plan on doing a lot of practicing.
One thing to note is that the stringer is recommended to put or change the string, and you’ll need to purchase it separately. However, once the string is in place, the crossbow is easy to use and has an auto safety mechanism that adds an extra layer of protection.
Overall, we think the SAS Manticore is a great budget crossbow for beginners or those who are looking for an affordable option for hunting or field practicing. While it may not be as powerful as some of the more expensive crossbows on the market, it’s a solid choice for those who are just starting out.
Killer Instinct Fierce 405 Crossbow Package
If you’re looking for a budget crossbow that delivers impressive performance, the Killer Instinct Fierce 405 Crossbow Package might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The Fierce 405 packs a punch with a speed of 405 feet per second and 134 foot-pounds of kinetic energy, making it a great choice for hunting.
- Custom rubber shock absorbers help to reduce noise and vibration, making it a quiet performer.
- The ultra-light composite stock is comfortable and easy to maneuver, making it a great choice for hunters of all experience levels.
Cons
- The scope can be difficult to sight in properly, which can be frustrating for some users.
- Some users have reported issues with the bolts coming loose after a few shots, which can affect accuracy.
- The crossbow can be a bit heavy for some users, especially if you plan to carry it for long periods of time.
In our experience, the Killer Instinct Fierce 405 Crossbow Package is a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget crossbow that delivers impressive performance. The speed and kinetic energy are impressive, and the custom rubber shock absorbers make it a quiet performer. The ultra-light composite stock is comfortable and easy to maneuver, making it a great choice for hunters of all experience levels.
However, we did have some issues with the scope, which can be difficult to sight in properly. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the bolts coming loose after a few shots, which can affect accuracy. The crossbow can also be a bit heavy for some users, especially if you plan to carry it for long periods of time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget crossbow that delivers impressive performance, the Killer Instinct Fierce 405 Crossbow Package is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to spend some time getting the scope properly sighted in, and keep an eye on the bolts to ensure they stay tight.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a budget crossbow, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you get the best product for your money. Below, we’ve outlined some key features to look for when choosing a crossbow.
Draw Weight
The draw weight of a crossbow is the amount of force required to pull back the string and cock the bow. It’s important to choose a crossbow with a draw weight that you can comfortably handle. A draw weight that’s too heavy can make it difficult to aim and shoot accurately, while a draw weight that’s too light may not provide enough power for your needs.
Speed
The speed of a crossbow is measured in feet per second (FPS) and refers to how fast the arrow travels when fired. A higher FPS generally means a more powerful shot, but it can also mean a louder shot and a heavier draw weight. Consider your needs and preferences when choosing a crossbow with the right speed for you.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of a crossbow can affect how easy it is to carry and maneuver, as well as how comfortable it is to shoot. A crossbow that’s too heavy or unwieldy can be difficult to use, while a crossbow that’s too small may not provide enough stability for accurate shots.
Accessories
Many crossbows come with accessories such as scopes, quivers, and bolts. Consider what accessories you need or want and look for a crossbow that includes them or allows you to add them later.
Price
Of course, price is a major factor when choosing a budget crossbow. Look for a crossbow that fits your budget while still providing the features and quality you need. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality or performance, so do your research and choose wisely.
By considering these key features, you can choose a budget crossbow that meets your needs and provides a great shooting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some affordable crossbows for hunting?
If you’re looking for an affordable crossbow for hunting, we recommend checking out the CenterPoint Sniper 370 or the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II. Both of these crossbows offer a great balance between price and performance, making them perfect for budget-conscious hunters.
Which crossbow brand offers the best value for the price?
In our opinion, the best crossbow brand for value is CenterPoint. Their crossbows offer a great balance between price and performance, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious hunters and target shooters alike.
What are some beginner-friendly crossbows?
For beginners, we recommend the Barnett Recruit Terrain or the CenterPoint Tyro 4. These crossbows are easy to use, lightweight, and come with everything you need to get started.
What are the top-rated crossbows for deer hunting?
If you’re looking for a crossbow specifically for deer hunting, we recommend the TenPoint Turbo M1, the Ravin R20, or the Excalibur Micro 360 TD. These crossbows offer excellent accuracy, speed, and power, making them perfect for taking down big game.
Which crossbows come with built-in cocking devices?
If you’re looking for a crossbow with a built-in cocking device, we recommend the TenPoint Titan M1 or the Ravin R29X. These crossbows come with built-in cocking devices that make it easy to load and fire your arrows.
What are some reliable and affordable crossbows for target shooting?
For target shooting, we recommend the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR or the CenterPoint CP400. These crossbows offer excellent accuracy and power, making them perfect for hitting targets at long distances.
