The 10 Best Crossbows  Oct 2023

There are two types of crossbows: recurve and compound. Both are great options for target shooters or hunters who value accuracy in their archery.

Recurve: Recurve crossbows look similar to traditional bows (think Robin Hood), but are attached to a handle, trigger, and shoulder rest (like a rifle). Recurve crossbows are the oldest and most simple crossbow and are recognized by their bow tips, which point away from the shooter. This style of crossbow is the lightest, easiest to fix, and has the fewest moving parts. Generally quieter and less expensive, they are a good value for the average shooter.

Compound: Like standard compound bows, compound crossbows utilize pulleys and multiple strings to store more energy, allowing for faster and more powerful shots. A modern design, compound bows tend to be narrower for easier maneuverability in small spaces and often come with a cocking mechanism to make drawing the bow easier. Enthusiasts, and hunters in particular, find compound bows suit their needs well.

Based on all the consumers' reviews we've scanned, these are the top things they mentioned about their new stuff:

1. Easy to assemble: New owners love crossbows that are quick and easy to set up. Nearly all bows require some level of assembly when first used, but crossbows with good instructions consistently rank higher.
2. Sight accuracy: Accuracy is key with any bow, and an easy to sight crossbow and scope were mentioned as important factors in nearly every good review we read. Bows manufactured to high standards and accompanied by a good scope will be easier to sight for repeated accuracy, and once sighted, reviewers were amazed at the consistency of their new bows.
3. Replacement parts: Crossbow strings and bolts will wear with use. Shooters value crossbows that have easy-to-find replacement parts so that they can get many years out of their trusty bows.
4. Power: Nearly every positive review expresses amazement at the power of their crossbow. Specific pull weight seems less important than the fact that modern crossbows store an incredible amount of energy, resulting in more confident use and excitement about the quality of the product.

• Choose your crossbow based on intended use. Are you hunting or shooting target practice? Will you carry your bow long distances, or mostly rest it in a stand? Smaller, lighter bows are great for active hunts where weight and maneuverability are key. Target shooting or more stationary hunting can accommodate a heavier bow made of less expensive materials.
• Know your strength. Crossbows are categorized by their pull weights. The higher the number, the more force the bow carries. Higher pull weights also require more effort to cock the bow before loading an arrow. Compound crossbows often have built in aids that make drawing the bow easier. Shooters who are older, younger, or not as confident in their arm strength, should consider a compound bow for this reason.
• Virtually all crossbows come with a scope for increased accuracy, but whether it is optical or red-dot will depend on the model. Optical sights are hassle free and require no batteries, while many people find red-dot scopes easier to see and customize.
• Use arrows that match your bow. Crossbow arrows are called bolts, and stronger, compound crossbows need correspondingly stronger bolts. Most new crossbows come with bolts that are pre-approved by the manufacturer. Check with your manufacturer if you have old bolts or want to buy new ones in order to ensure compatibility with your new crossbow.

Barnett: Barnett Crossbows have sold more than one million crossbows since they opened 50+ years ago. They are credited with inventing the first compound crossbow.

Excalibur Crossbows: Started in 1983 by a husband and wife hunting team, Excalibur exclusively manufactures recurve crossbows, with the aim of making “the most efficient, reliable, and accurate hunting crossbow that money can buy.”

Arrow Precision Outdoors: Arrow Outdoors manufactures a wide range of outdoor sporting goods, including crossbows that suit participants of a wide range of skill levels and abilities.