Best Crossbows for Hunting

Hunting with rifles and guns is in trend. But are they as cool as hunting crossbows? Definitely not!

Crossbows today have become quite modern with updated features and technologies. You can choose from a wide range of options based on types and features.

These have become expensive today. However, they have been improved to affect the hunting experience positively.

Here is everything you need to know about when looking for the best crossbow!

Best Hunting Crossbows Price Range & What to Expect

Hunting crossbows come in different price ranges with various features—the price increases as the quality and features of the crossbow increase.

Simply put, the more you want from a crossbow, the more you will have to spend. So let’s have a look at what you can expect from crossbows in different price ranges.

Basic Hunting Crossbows: Under $500

Crossbows that are under $500 are most suitable for entry-level hunters. However, experienced users can get them as well.

These are the best crossbows for their price if you’re just starting and have all the essential features one needs for hunting and survival on the field.

The usability and accuracy are moderate, enough to help you take out even the biggest of the game. The maximum range these hunting crossbows can hit is between 30-40 yards.

Beginners are recommended to start with crossbows in this price range.

Intermediate Hunting Crossbows: $500-$1000

Then comes the $500-$1000 range, which offers more diversity of features than the previous price point. More importantly, the quality of crossbows that fall in this range is significantly better.

You also get more and improved features as compared to the cheaper under the $500 range.

Hunting crossbows that are at the higher end in this range can offer lots of power to ease up big games. They also feature integrated cocking mechanisms, weight-reducing cutouts, and premium bolts and scopes.

Simply put, you get better quality and more features for spending more.

Advanced Hunting Crossbows: $1000+

The $1000+ range is the pro-level range which has everything you could possibly want in a hunting crossbow.

These crossbows are incredibly sturdy, powerful, and reliable. The accuracy is praiseworthy as it can even help out a beginner get good shots.

For the ease of the user, they also come with built-in cranks. In simpler words, if you are in the game to spend lots of bucks, these are possibly the best crossbows you can get.

They are best for pro hunters and those beginners who instantly want to ace their deer hunting game.

Top 13 Best Crossbows for Hunting

Now that you are familiar with the features and quality one gets from crossbows in different price ranges, it is time to review some of the best hunting crossbows out there.

For your convenience, I have mentioned in detail the features, build quality, weight, and even colors to make an informed decision when purchasing.

On top of it, I have listed them by order of price, starting from the cheapest model to the most expensive one.

Basic Hunting Crossbows

CenterPoint Sniper 370 Crossbow

This hunting crossbow might be the cheapest of the lot, but it offers enough value for the money. It has a draw weight of 185 pounds and measures 18 inches at full draw.

The crossbow also comes with an adjustable foregrip and stock for a firm grip, allowing for customization as per need.

For accuracy and power, it features a precision-machined cams system as well as quad limbs. Together these give it the force and accuracy needed for survival and hunting.

It was made to provide power and speed for big games in an affordable package. You can get a 13.50 power stroke and a 370 FPS from it.

To keep the noise and vibration low, it comes with integrated string suppressors. The body structure is made from aluminum with a compact design for a compound crossbow.

It only comes in a Camouflage color and design with some additional accessories in the package. It includes three carbon arrows which are 20 inches each, a 4x32mm scope, rope cocker, and parallel quiver.

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Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow

The next crossbow in line has a draw weight of 150 pounds and is made from stainless steel. It is durable, lightweight, and easy to carry on the field. It is 16.125 inches when you measure from axle to axle.

As for the kinetic energy potential, it goes as high as 103 foot-pounds. These are some pretty solid numbers for a beginner-level crossbow and are suitable for big games as well.

The overall weight of the crossbow is 6.4 pounds, which makes it easy to maneuver. It comes equipped with dual-stage latches that are heavy-duty and lockable.

The Barnett Whitetail can even withstand the jarring and bumping of airline travel thanks to the built-in pressure release valve.

The dry fires are eliminated by the ADF and knock sensor. You also get a zero-creep release that can resist a weight of up to 3 pounds.

You can get this in a Realtree Extra camo pattern. The whole package includes a rope cocking device, two headhunter arrows measuring 20 inches, lube wax, a lightweight quiver, and a 4×32 scope.

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Bear X Intense RTS Crossbow

The Intense RTS crossbow by Bear X is a marvel of might performance packed in a compact form.

It measures 10 inches wide when cocked and goes higher to 14 inches when uncocked. The weight is on the lighter side at just 12.4 pounds.

The Bear Intense offers a high power stroke of 12.7 that allows for hard-hitting power at 400 FPS.

To prevent dry firing, it features an anti-dry fire system. It has everything ready for the hunter that is needed to get out on the field.

The whole package includes a scope with illumination, a cocking rope, string wax, 3 TrueX arrows by Bear X, and a 4-arrow quiver. You can get this in two different colors: Strata and Stoke.

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Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow

This crossbow from Barnett has a draw weight of 185 pounds and measures 18.125 inches from axle to axle. It falls in the under $500 range but has more than enough features for a fully professional time on the hunting field.

You also get 118.6 foot-pounds of kinetic energy. It is also easy to carry around thanks to the low weight of just 6.6 pounds.

The STR in the name stands for Stand-Through-Riser, which is a design platform by Barnett. It allows for increased stability and accuracy by shifting the weight to the stock from the riser.

The Barnett Whitetail also comes ready for the field with all the accessories in the box. All you need to do is install a single bolt before taking it for a run.

For safety, it features a spring-loaded bar that keeps the arrow in place until it’s properly in place. It also comes equipped with Barnett’s TriggerTech, which is crisp and smooth, probably the best on the market.

You can get this one in a Tru Bark Camo design and color. Additional accessories in the package come with a premium illuminated 4×32 scope, a side mount quiver, lube wax, two headhunter arrows measuring 22 inches, and a rope cocking device.

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Intermediate Hunting Crossbows

Bear X Constrictor RTS Crossbow

This is another one from Bear X with a similar size of 10 inches when cocked and 14 inches when uncocked.

However, this one is far superior when it comes to building quality, power, and accuracy. In addition, it provides a draw weight of 190 pounds which is great for big games.

The speed is as great as the draw weight at 410 FPS, making it a high-performing crossbow that can make the day on the field. It also allows for customized quiver placement thanks to the ambidextrous top-mount that can hold five arrows.

The dry firing is prevented with an anti-dry fire mechanism.

In the package, you get an illuminated scope, a sling, string wax, cocking rope, and a quiver alongside the crossbow. You can get this in two incredible colors, including Strata and Stoke.

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Tenpoint Titan M1 Hunting Crossbow

Tenpoint took their best-selling hunting crossbow model and gave it a total makeover. The result was the Titan M1 crossbow which is a complete package for the hunting field.

It has a width of 9 inches when measured from axle to axle. You can get 116 foot-pounds kinetic energy and a high speed of 370 FPS which are more than enough for the big game.

The highlight feature of this crossbow is the additional attachments it supports. If you get the ACUdraw cocking device, it can lower the draw weight to just 5 pounds.

You can add a lot of equipment to make it suitable for your style of hunting. It also offers excellent precision and accuracy thanks to the VX-5 inverted cams. In addition, it features a T5 trigger that is safe as well as crisp.

The crossbow is very compact and narrow, so if you are going into a hunting field with tight spaces, this is the right deal for you.

The whole package includes 3x Pro-View 3 Scope, 3-Pack Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrows, and a Tenpoint Quiver. As for the color, you can get it in a grey camouflage design.

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Wicked Range RDX 400 Crossbow

The RDX 400 by Wicked Range is an incredible crossbow for hunting that features a patented reverse draw technology. This allows it to feel lighter at the nose generating more power with less draw weight.

If you use the optional ACUdraw Pro cocking device with it, the draw weight can go as low as 8.5 pounds which is just great for the power it generates.

The speed limit goes as fast as 400 FPS. More importantly, it offers remarkable accuracy and precision at such high speeds thanks to the patented reverse draw technology that allows for amazing weight balance.

The riser is made from lightweight aluminum and has cushioning to make it comfortable. To dampen the noise, it comes equipped with a string stop system that is already installed.

You can get this in two different styles: ACUdraw and Rope Sled, depending on your choice. Apart from the string stop system, you also get a quiver and an optional scope alongside the crossbow in the package.

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Barnett HyperGhost 425 Crossbow

This is a high-performing hunting crossbow by Barnett that falls in the compound crossbow category.

It is based on a single bolt assemble and weighs just a mere 3.2 pounds making it easy to use and carry. You can also use it with the Barnett Crank Cocking device.

It also features STR by Barnett that makes it highly accurate and easier to balance. You get a shot speed of 450 FPS with 152-foot pounds of power, which can only be described as great. The setup is fairly easy, so you can take it on the field as you receive it.

Apart from the high performance, it also has the basics, which include trigger technology and anti-dry fire. The handle is extremely comfortable with a foam interior that has a high density. The outside is contoured recessed for a firmer grip.

You can get this in a Mossy Oak Original Treestand color. The accessories that come along include a premium illuminated scope, lube wax, 3 Hyper Flite arrows measuring 22 inches, and a rope cocking sled.

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Advanced Hunting Crossbows

Tenpoint Turbo M1 Crossbow

Another extraordinary Tenpoint crossbow is the Turbo M1 which takes the number we saw on the Titan M1 to a whole new level.

The turbo M1 is better in the sense that it is lighter, faster, and narrower. With just a 9 inches wide bow assembly, it can shoot arrows as fast as 380 FPS with absolute accuracy.

It also features the T5 trigger, the safest that you can get on the market currently. It has everything one needs, including a dry fire inhibitor and auto-engaging safety.

The Turbo M1 uses VX-5 inverted cams to generate more power, speed, and accuracy using less draw weight. In addition, the ACUdraw Pro Silent cocking device can reduce the draw weight to just 9 pounds, which is remarkable for the speed and power it offers.

Given its compact and narrow design, it is perfect for hunters who often find themselves in tight and narrow situations.

You can get this in a camo pattern color. The whole package includes a quiver, 3x Pro-View 3 Scope, and 3-Pack Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrows.

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Excalibur Assassin 420 TD Crossbow

The next in line is the Assassin 420, which is a remarkable crossbow model for hunting. It has a draw weight of 290 pounds which allows it to deliver incredible speed.

This crossbow can launch shots as fast as 420 FPS which can take out big games like a charm. It only weighs 8 pounds in total so you shouldn’t worry about carrying it for long hours.

It was designed to be a safe yet reliable and rugged crossbow that is easy to operate. All its features and specifications allow it to be exactly what Excalibur intended to make.

You can quickly reassemble the hunting crossbow in a matter of seconds using the quick-lock technology.

It also features an anti-dry fire system to prevent dry fires. Unfortunately, you can only get this in one standard camouflage pattern color.

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Tenpoint Viper S400 Hunting Crossbow

The Viper S400 by Tenpoint is another amazing crossbow that is simply remarkable. It has the power, speed, accuracy, and everything a pro hunter looks for in a crossbow.

It keeps the rail to string contact at just 50% using the Micro Trac Barrel. This allows it to produce some of the most accurate shots and increase string life, lasting for 1300 shots.

The width of this hunting crossbow is just 7.2 inches, so you can easily carry it.

If I talk about the speed, it can shoot an arrow as fast as 400 FPS which is incredible. The cocking and decocking mechanisms have been made safe and noiseless thanks to the ACUslide system installed.

It also comes with the S1 trigger that is based on an advanced roller sear design. You get a zero-creep and crisp trigger with a pull force of 3.5 pounds. The accuracy with this one is crazy, something that has not been seen before.

It comes in a package alongside a RangeMaster Pro Scope, three carbon punch arrows, and a quiver. You can either get this in a Graphite or Veil Alpine color.

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Ravin R20 Predator Crossbow

Coming to the second most expensive crossbow on the list, the R20 Predator by Ravin is a masterpiece. It comes tuned and fully assembled, so you can take it out as soon as you get it.

At a light weight of just 6.8 pounds, it seems to have a lot more power. It can shot an arrow with speeds going as fast as 430 FPS thanks to the Helicoil technology.

This only shows that the compact size has stored in a lot of power that comes bursting out.

The accuracy complements the speed with a top-tier score of 40 yards. The axle-to-axle length is 5.75 inches. If I had to describe it in two words, I would describe it as compact and powerful.

That is actually the case because you cannot get any crossbow on the market that is lighter, smaller, and more powerful than this.

The package is also filled with accessories, including an illuminated scope, a quiver that can hold three arrows, a draw handle, accessories bracket, field points, and six 400 grain arrows. You can get this in a camouflage design.

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Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Hunting Crossbow

The Vapor RS470 has everything that the Viper 400 has, but better. This gem of a crossbow by Tenpoint has made the top of the list because of the high price tag and the maxed-out features.

It boasts a top arrow speed of 470 FPS with a 225 pounds draw weight. The crossbow itself weighs just 8 pounds, and to think such great power can come out of such a small package.

Like the Viper, the Vapor also has a MICRO-RAC Barrel that minimizes rail to string contact by 50%. As a result, the shots fired are not just powerful and fast but also accurate. More importantly, the strings have a long-lasting life of 1300 shots.

The reverse draw bow assembly combined with the safest S1 trigger produces the same hole down-range accuracy. Also, the trigger is crisp and zero-creep with a 3.5-pound pull.

The Vapor Package has a lot more to make it the best for the hunting field. When it comes to the basics, you get an EVO-X Marksman Scope, a quiver that can hold six arrows, six lighted EVO-X, and 6 EVO-X carbon arrows.

Apart from these, you also get a pre-installed string stop system, a hard crossbow case, neoprene sling, three broadheads, bubble level, and ACUslide Cocking and De-Cocking System. The color options you have include Graphite and Veil Alpine.

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Things to Consider when Looking for the Best Crossbow

Now that I have reviewed some of the best crossbows out there, let’s discuss what you should consider when choosing the right one. There are many factors at play.

However, it all comes down to your personal preference in the end. But it is vital that you lean towards the perfect fit for you in order to have a great hunting experience.

Crossbow Type

The most important thing to consider when looking for the best crossbow is the type. The first category you need to narrow down is whether you want a one-handed crossbow or a two-handed crossbow.

One-handed crossbows are often used for target practicing and small games. However, if you are in it for the big game, a two-handed crossbow is more suitable.

Once this has been decided, you then have to choose from different types of crossbows. While there are many types, the most popular types of hunting crossbows used today are recurve and compound crossbows.

However, you need to research the features and benefits of each to figure out which one is best for you.

For instance, while a recurve crossbow is simple and easy to use, a compound crossbow offers more speed with low draw weights. More importantly, a compound crossbow is specifically used for hunting due to its high functionality.

The Draw Weight

The next important thing to consider is the draw weight. To put it simply, the draw weight is the force required to pull the bowstring back.

You do this when you have to cock a crossbow. So, for instance, if a crossbow has a draw weight of 100 pounds, drawing the bowstrings will be as difficult as lifting a 100-pound dumbbell.

Most hunting crossbows have a draw weight of 100 pounds. It starts from 75 pounds and can go beyond 200 pounds.

However, below 75 pounds, it’s too low for hunting. But above 200 pounds, it’s too difficult for an average man to draw.

The right draw weight for you will depend on your own strength, the power you require, and the kind of hunting you do.

For instance, you can take out a deer with a 100-pound draw weight, but to take out an Elk, you at least need 150 pounds of draw weight.

Arrow Speed

When it comes to arrow speed, 300-400 FPS is considered good. That’s because you need a minimum of 270 FPS to kill a deer. So anything above is good to go.

Most crossbows that I have reviewed fall in this range, and some even go beyond. A crossbow that has a speed beyond 400 FPS can even put a broadhead completely through the animal.

However, speed is not all that you want. While speed is an important factor and has the potential to make or break the day on the field, after a standard amount, having more speed at the expense of other factors does not do good.

Therefore, while looking for the best crossbow for hunting, consider the minimum amount of speed you require. Then, focus on other factors such as trajectory, noise, and retained energy.

Crossbow Weight

Crossbows are not only more complicated than traditional bows but also heavier. However, this added weight comes with a lot of additional features.

But you need to choose the right weight to perform well on the hunting field. Crossbow weight usually ranges from 5-6 pounds and can go as high as 15 pounds depending on how many attachments you add.

To figure out the right weight for you, a lot of factors have to be considered. Generally, a 7-9 pounds crossbow is considered ideal.

However, if you need more attachments and features, you might have to carry more weight. A heavier crossbow will simply cause fatigue sooner than expected.

A lighter crossbow is easier to carry and can be operated quickly. A heavier crossbow, on the other hand, might not be as quick to operate. However, it is still more accurate.

In the end, the ideal weight depends on your preference and the amount of weight you can easily carry.

The Price

Crossbows come in all different price ranges. Generally speaking, the ranges are divided as; under $500, $500-$1000, and above $1000.

Under $500 are basic crossbows for hunting novices. However, anyone who wants to practice or does not know how to use a crossbow should get one in this price range.

Between $500-$1000 are crossbows which come with greater quality and more features. These are good for hunting on the field and can easily take out big games. The quality and features get better as you move closer to the $1000 mark.

Beginners can choose to get a crossbow in this price range if they have the money to spend. It will become easier for you to learn. More importantly, a well-equipped and high-quality crossbow also helps with aim and accuracy.

The above $1000 category is for professional hunters. These hunting crossbows have high speeds and maxed-out features.

People who have been hunting for a while getting these and can use them to their full potential.

Cocking Mechanisms

There are three main cocking mechanisms, and it is important to choose the right one for you.

The standalone rope cocker is the most basic one and consists of handles, hooks, and a rope. It does not add weight to the crossbow since it is not integrated. It also reduces the draw weight by about 50%.

Next is the integrated rope cocker that is installed on the crossbow. This is no different than the standalone rope cocker other than the fact that it comes on the crossbow.

However, this is a lot quicker in the sense that you have right on the crossbow. It also reduces the draw weight by 50%.

The most efficient of all is the integrated crank cocker. It makes cocking a lot easier thanks to a separate crank handle. This can reduce draw weights by 90%, which is incredible.

However, it adds weight to the hunting crossbow, and some people might consider this a drawback.

Unless you have a weak upper body or any impairments, an integrated rope cocker will do just fine.

Crossbow Safety Features

You should always look for safety features in the crossbow. Like every hunting equipment, certain things make a crossbow safer to use.

The most important of these are the size and fit of the crossbow. You need to make sure that the crossbow you get is fit for your frame size. This makes it easier and more effective to use.

The more control you have over it, the safer it will be to use. If the size is not fit for your body size, you won’t be able to use it properly. This increases the risks of accidents.

Secondly, a forestock with a fingerguard is essential as it prevents contact with the string. Now, this might sound like a safety feature for beginners. But trust me, even professional hunters can make mistakes.

Another feature, anti-dry fire, also reduces the risks of accidents and makes the crossbow a lot safer to use for hunting.

Finally, you should also look for safety springs that keep the arrow and bowstrings in place when cocked as well as advanced trigger technologies.

Maintenance

Maintenance is another factor you should consider when looking for a crossbow. It won’t affect you much as long as you are getting a good-quality crossbow.

However, you still need to look for one that has premium quality strings. More importantly, it should come with sting wax that keeps them in good shape.

Depending on your use, the crossbow is going to suffer from wear and tear. Its condition will depend on how well you maintain it.

Most good-quality crossbows for hunting require minimum maintenance such as regular cleaning, lubrication, and string waxing.

If you are getting a cheaper crossbow for hunting that is low quality, chances are you will find yourself getting new components and strings quite often.

Best Crossbow Accessories

The next step is to know what accessories are important and what you might need on the field. There are some essential crossbow accessories that improve functionality and performance.

Let’s get right into them.

Crossbow Scope

The scope comes in handy if you hunt and the target is more than a few yards from you. It is similar to how it works on a rifle.

Crossbow scopes help make your shots more precise, quicker, and cleaner to get more kills. Crossbows for hunting often come with scopes or red dot sight.

However, the one that comes along might not be the right fit for you. This is because scopes come in different types and have different ranges. So, you might need to find a longer range scope depending on how far your targets usually are.

Arrows & Bolts

When it comes to crossbow arrows and bolts for hunting, these are often used interchangeably by hunters. However, there is a difference between the two.

A bolt is relatively shorter than an arrow. There is no set standard, but the general consensus is that if it’s shorter than 16 inches, then it’s a bolt.

Anything larger than 16 inches, such as the 20 inches arrows we saw in our review list, is considered an arrow.

However, both are very similar in design and how they look. The only difference is in the size and the projectile.

Historically it is believed that the shots fired using bolts are relatively flat and short projectiles without vanes. On the contrary, an arrow’s projectile is similar to the dart projectile – not flat.

Field Points & Broadheads

Field points and broadheads both go at the front of the bolts that you shoot from a hunting crossbow. However, they are both different in design, functionality, and flight.

A field point is a narrow and slender point with a conical shape. It is often used for practice because of the accuracy and speed it offers.

On the other hand, broadheads have huge broad blades on all their sides at the front. These are best for use on the field to give large wounds to the prey.

However, the broadheads tend to lose speed much faster as their blades cover more surface area and create friction.

Cocking Device

A cocking device makes cocking a crossbow a lot easier and lighter. For instance, if you have a high-powered crossbow with heavy draw weight, you might find it difficult to cock unless you hit the gym daily.

As a result, cocking devices come in really handing for quickly and easily cocking a crossbow.

There are mainly two types of cocking devices that we see: an integrated crank cocking device and a rope cocking device.

The rope cocking device comes separately and can be thrown in a bag or pouch.

An integrated crank, on the other hand, is installed on the crossbow. This is more convenient and a lot quicker. However, it also adds some weight to the crossbow.

Depending on your hunting style, budget and choice, you can go for either of the two.

Crossbow Quiver

A crossbow without a quiver is like a rifle without an ammunition belt.

The quiver holds the arrows or bolts you use to cock and shoot from the crossbow. It is extremely necessary to have one so that you can secure your bolts.

Most hunting crossbows do come with quivers. However, you can always upgrade depending on your choice and need.

You can either carry a quiver on your crossbow or your belt. Make sure the one you get is durable and strong enough to hold broadheads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hunting crossbow brands on the market?

There are several good crossbow brands out there. However, the ones that have stood out among hunters over the years include Barnett, Tenpoint, Bear X, Excalibur, and Ravin. They make hunting crossbows in all different styles and price ranges.

What are some of the best crossbow types for beginners?

Crossbows come in several different types. The most common ones a recurve and compound crossbows. Of these two, recurve crossbows are lighter and easier to use. As a result, beginners are generally recommended to go for recurve crossbows. Once they are familiar with using one, they can then move up and get a compound crossbow.

What’s the difference between a compound and a recurve crossbow?

Both types are based on different mechanisms. Compound crossbows are more popular and more powerful. Their speeds are greater in comparison as their design generates greater tension in the strings leading to greater speeds.

Recurve crossbows are quite simple and work on the same mechanism as bows have been for centuries. Compound crossbows, on the other hand, are complicated and use cables and cams to improve performance.

Are triggers an important part of the crossbow for hunting?

Triggers are as important in a crossbow as they are in a gun. A crossbow with a crisp and zero-creep trigger that is also safe can make or break the day on the hunting field.

What’s the difference between expensive and cheap crossbows?

While both an expensive and a cheap crossbow can take out an animal, a cheaper crossbow cannot perform as well. This is because expensive crossbows are quieter, faster, and more powerful in comparison. More importantly, expensive hunting crossbows have better features and build quality, allowing them to have better aim and accuracy.

What’s the draw weights range for the best hunting crossbows?

Draw weights can go as high as 400 pounds. However, the usual range for draw weights is between 150-200 pounds. Anything in this range is more than good enough. Some hunting crossbows with higher draw weights have cocking devices, which can make it quite easy.

What are the advantages of hunting with a crossbow?

Hunting with crossbows has several advantages. For instance, they make less noise which allows you to get closer to the prey and hunt in closer proximities to populated areas. Moreover, less noise also means you don’t have to wear ear protection.

In comparison to a bow, hunting crossbows have greater power, accuracy, and trajectory. As a result, they significantly improve performance, aim, and chances of success on the hunting field.