The 7 Best Crossbows for Hunting in 2022
Crossbow hunting is one of the most efficient and stealthy ways of hunting that exists.
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get started, however let’s not get too cheap in our decision making.
This a somewhat intricate device and if we want to be carelful about skimping on some of the important components that put together a well-made crossbow.
If we’re not willing to spend at least around $400, we’re going to start having some basic problems in the field that lead to frustration, wasted time and energy, and costly misses that can leave your freezer feeling lonely.
Having said that, we here at Rugged Man love a good homemade primitive hunting tool.
However, once we cross the line and decide that we are going to go with a premanufactured crossbow, that is when we need to pay attention to the quality and craftsmanship of the tool we’re looking to invest in.
This purchase should be made bearing in mind a decision to make an investment with the idea that this tool can last us a lifetime. If properly taken care of, there is no reason why it shouldn’t.
Today we’re going to resist the temptation to examine the time-tested history of the crossbow and just bring you the basic facts and answer some common questions and considerations when deciding on The Best Crossbow for Hunting in 2022!
Are Crossbows Good for Hunting?
The crossbow is an amazing tool for hunting. It is effortless to cock, and unlike a compound or recurve bow, once cocked, it allows you to relax and focus 100% on aiming. And, unlike the rifle, it is VERY QUIET!
The modern crossbow will almost always come with a scope, is incredibly accurate, and offers extreme velocity and power. Crossbows are very easy to learn how to use and are lightweight and compact.
If you know how to use a rifle, then mastering the crossbow can be done rather quickly. Also, much like the compound/recurve bow, crossbow hunting seasons last longer than rifle season.
Make sure to check your state’s laws to make sure that crossbow hunting is permitted. Even if you can’t hunt with a crossbow, it makes for stealthy home and self-defense.
What is the Most Effective Range of a Crossbow for Deer Hunting?
You can expect to have and effective range of about 40 to 50 yards with a crossbow. The crossbow certainly does shoot with a similar mechanism as a rifle, however it does not have the same effective range as a rifle.
Just like with any skill, practice makes perfect. With practice you can certainly become proficient with longer ranges, just be mindful of the effective lethality of the arrow by the time it reaches the target. This is where it becomes a consideration of ethics.
Are Crossbows Accurate at 100 Yards?
As we have stated, with practice (and the right crossbow), you may be able to hit a target at 100 yds. However, with good hunting ethics in mind, we want to make sure our shots are reliably lethal from that distance.
This will take some research on putting together the right combination of velocity and power of the crossbow and the arrows chosen to hunt with. This will also take some research on the proper ways to train to ensure an ethical hunt.
Now that we have covered a few questions and considerations, let’s take a look at The Best Crossbows for Hunting in 2022!
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The 7 Best Crossbows for Hunting in 2022
TenPoint Nitro 505 Oracle X
For nearly 30 years, TenPoint has been a world-class manufacturer of crossbows that are recognized as the industry-standard safety, accuracy, precision engineering, quality, and durability.
With close to a million crossbows leaving Suffield, Ohio since TenPoint opened its doors, no other crossbow company has been more influential in the promotion of crossbow hunting and the success of hunters across the globe.
The TenPoint Nitro 505 Oracle X is truly next-level in not just one way but two. It delivers an astounding max speed of 505 fps, making it the fastest hunting crossbow on the roster.
Also, it comes fitted with the Burris Oracle X Rangefinder Crossbow Scope to deliver unparalleled precision at any range!
The TenPoint Nitro 505 Oracle X is compact, measuring just 6.5-inches when cocked. The 30.5-inch-long crossbow creates a whopping 227-foot pounds of kinetic energy when the included 400-grain bolts are sent down its rail.
The Burris Oracle X Rangefinder Crossbow Scope makes picking the perfect place to aim as simple as pressing a button. When activated via a wireless remote, the range button on the 2-7x optic provides immediate target distance and an exact aiming point that factors in shot angle.
The whole package is state of the art, However, it does not come cheap. But for those who want gear that’s on the bleeding edge of technology and innovation, meet the world's most advanced crossbow, the TenPoint Nitro 505 Oracle X!!
Engineered with TenPoint's advanced RX8-Cam System and Vector-QuadTM cable technology, the Nitro 505 Oracle X produces unrivaled power and nock-breaking accuracy in a super compact package.
It is the fastest, most accurate, and most powerful crossbow ever created thanks to its reverse draw design that sends arrows downrange at an insane speed of 505 FPS.
Every TenPoint crossbow is designed, tested, and built in America, guaranteeing uncompromising quality and creating jobs for American workers in their home state of Ohio.
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FEATURES & SPECS:
Reverse draw design with RX8-CamTM system rotates 404 degrees
Deeper cable grooves and improved cable spacing allows for increased strand count on string/cables for added strength and durability
Vector-Quad cable technology eliminates cam lean and generates straight-nock travel
S1 2-stage trigger delivers 3.5-lbs. of pull with zero creep
DFI (dry-fire-inhibitor) with nylon-filament arrow retention brush to improve arrow grip and alignment
Integrated string stop system reduces noise and vibration
20" MICRO-TRAC fluted aluminum barrel increases accuracy and provides the longest string life
2-piece TECH-X stock with multiple weight-reducing cutouts
ACUslide cocking and decocking system allows for silent cocking and safe and controlled de-cocking
Dyneema cocking strap with 7.5" XTEND adjustable crank handle reduces cocking effort to just 5 lbs.
Adjustable bull plate provides 1" length-of-pull adjustments
Elevated custom cheek piece provides perfect eye alignment with the Burris Oracle XTM scope
Range button generates exact range and aiming point with the press of a single button
Ready-to-Hunt Package - Burris Oracle XTM Rangefinding Scope with 2-7x magnification | 6-pk. EVO-X CenterPunch Premium Carbon Arrows | 6-arrow quiver | Integrated string stop system |
Color: Veil Alpine camouflage
Velocity: 505 FPS
Kinetic Energy: 227 ft.-lbs.
Power Stroke: 17"
Axle to Axle (Cocked): 6.5"
Overall Length: 30.7"
Weight: 7.9 lbs.
The R26 has a history from it’s inception for being the most compact and fast handling 400 fps crossbow on the market. The perfect stealthy on the move hunting weapon.
Measuring 5.75", axle-to-axle when cocked, a length of 26” and weighing in at 6.5 lbs., the R26X is probably the most compact crossbow on the market.
Brand new for 2022, the Ravin R26X Crossbow Package is the ultimate crossbow package for quickness on the move and being able to hunker down into tight spaces.
It’s unveiling in 2022 reveals it’s upgrades from the R26. These upgrades include a fully integrated silent cocking system with a 12 lb. draw effort, powered by HeliCoil technology and Frictionless Flight system, and it arrives fully assembled and pre-tuned right out of the box.
The Ravin R26X Crossbow Package is a game changer! It’s a vicious home defender and freezer filler!
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FEATURES & SPECS:
The new R26X takes the compact R26 platform and adds the Ravin Fully-Integrated Silent Cocking feature to give apex hunters a whisper quiet draw every single time.
HeliCoil technology coils cables away from both the top and bottom of the cams in helical grooves keeping the cams perfectly balanced. This allows the cams to rotate an incredible 340 degrees, while both cams remain perfectly level when drawing and shooting the crossbow.
Advanced HeliCoil Technology enables a slim 26” length and 5.75” axel-to-axel width as well as a blazing speed of 400 FPS. The R26X comes in all black coloring.
400 FPS
Weight: 6.5 lbs.
Length: 26”
Width Axle to Axle: 5.75” Cocked
Width Axle to Axle: 9.25” Un-cocked
Power-Stroke: 9.5”
Kinetic Energy: 142
Draw Effort: 12 lbs.
Draw Weight: 340 lbs.
Fully-Assembled/Pre-Tuned
3 Ravin .003 Arrows & Field Tips (400 Grain Total)
1 Removable Draw Handle
1 Quiver/Mounting Bracket
100 Yard Illuminated Scope
Fully-Integrated Silent Cocking System
Anti-Dry Fire/Auto Safety
Built-in Sling Mounts
The bigger faster brother of the Ravin R26X, the Ravin R29X Sniper Package boasts incredible long-range accuracy and speed.
The Ravin R29X Sniper Package includes everything you need to get out there and get it done.
It shoots 3” groups at 100 yards with 450 FPS and is complete with the fully integrated Silent Cocking System, HeliCoil Technology, and the new Adjustable Turret Scope so you can adjust your yardage with a simple turn of the dial.
Also included in this package is the Ravin Case, designed to protect your Ravin R29X Sniper from damaging elements. This compact case can store a fully assembled Ravin Crossbow with mounted scope, quiver and arrows attached.
The Ravin Lighted Nocks are a 6 pack set that fits all Ravin-branded arrows. These nocks are LED illuminated nocks that contain a built-in lithium battery. Their ultra-bright orange color is easy to track in flight.
The included 6 pack of broadheads gives hunters surgical precision with its rear-deploying blades, which open on impact and have been tested and approved for crossbows shooting up to 450 FPS. This mechanical broadhead has a massive 2-inch cut and internal spring clip, eliminating the need for lock rings and O-rings.
Lastly, the included Ravin serving and string fluid is a non-wax polymeric lubricant for applying to the center serving of your crossbow string. The fluid is odor-free, waterproof, and should be applied at least once a year.
FEATURES & SPECS:
450 FPS
Weight: 6.75 lbs.
Length: 29”
Width Axle to Axle 6” Cocked
Width Axle to Axle 10.5” Un-cocked
Power-Stroke: 12.5”
Kinetic Energy: 180
Draw Effort: 12 lbs.
Draw Weight: 300#
HeliCoil Technology
Silent Cocking System
Fully-Assembled/Pre-Tuned
3 – Ravin .001 Arrows & Field Tips (400 Grain Total)
Adjustable Turret Scope
Scope Level
1 – Removable Draw Handle
1 – Quiver/Mounting Bracket
Built-In Cocking Mechanism
Anti-Dry Fire/Auto Safety
Built-in Sling Mounts
The Excalibur TwinStrike Crossbow Package is unlike anything you've ever seen before.
With other crossbows, one shot is all you get, but the Excalibur TwinStrike gives you a second opportunity and a second shot immediately following the first.
No reloading needed!
Thanks to its DualFire Technology, you can load up to two arrows at one time and shoot them rapidly with absolutely no loss in velocity or accuracy.
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FEATURES & SPECS:
Velocity: 360 FPS
Kinetic Energy: 104 ft.-lbs.
Power Stroke: 14.12"
Cocking Effort: 12 lbs.
Draw Weight: 358 lbs.
Axle to Axle (Cocked/Uncocked): 21.12" / 25.25"
Overall Length: 33.37"
Weight: 7.75 lbs.
DualFire Technology allows you to fire a second shot without reloading
2 independent triggers with 4-lbs. of pull
CeaseFire ADF system ensures your crossbow won't fire unless an arrow is loaded
Over/Under rail system with shoot through riser for increased consistency and accuracy
Included Accessory Package:
Overwatch Illuminated scope
Scope mount and 30mm rings
Charger EXT / fail safe strap
R.E.D.S. Suppressors
DualFire Decocking Aid
Rebolt 4 arrow quiver and bracket
4 quill arrows with Rhino nocks
4 100-grain field points
The Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Crossbow Package features a perfectly balanced combination of speed and downrange accuracy thanks to its advanced Reaper Cam System, elongated power stroke, and RDX laminated limbs.
Designed to deliver top-notch performance at a lower price point, the RDX 400 includes an accessory package with integrated strop stop system and ACUdraw cocking system.
Focused on speed-to-price ratio, the RDX 400 includes a complete package with a cocking device and Integrated String Stop System.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Velocity: 400 FPS
Kinetic Energy: 140 ft.-lbs.
Power Stroke: 15.5"
Draw Weight: 175 lbs.
Axle to Axle (Cocked/Uncocked): 9" / 15"
Overall Length: 33.25"
Weight: 7.1 lbs
Reverse-draw technology creates a longer power stroke for smooth shooting
RDX laminated limbs with Reaper Cam System and DynaFLIGHT 87 strings
Machined aluminum RDX cams with 440 stainless steel bearings
Machined lightweight aluminum riser and pockets for reduced limb stress
Included Accessory Package
TenPoint 3X Multi-Line Scope
Machined aluminum 7/8" fixed dovetail mount
Wicked Ridge 3-arrow Instant Detach Quiver
3 aluminum arrows with practice points
Integrated string stop system (pre-installed)
ACUdraw cocking system
Meet the world's most advanced crossbow.
Engineered with TenPoint's advanced RX8-Cam System and Vector-Quad cable technology, the TenPoint Nitro 505 Xero X1i Crossbow Package produces unrivaled power and nock-breaking accuracy in a super compact package.
The TenPoint Nitro 505 is the fastest, most accurate, and most powerful Crossbow ever created thanks to its reverse draw design that sends arrows downrange at an insane speed of 505 FPS!
Micro-Trac Barrel
When it comes to friction, less is more. TenPoint’s new 20" Micro-Trac fluted aluminum flight rail reduces flight deck surface area by an incredible 50%, which ensures minimal string-to-barrel contact, keeping your string newer longer.
Even after 1,000 shots, your string will still be going strong.
Advanced S1 Trigger
TenPoint’s new S1 Trigger mechanism boasts a clean, crisp 3.5-pound trigger break with all of the advantage of an ultra-smooth 2-stage design, plus zero creep in the second stage.
Plus, it comes equipped with a DFI and nylon-fitted arrow retention brush that improves arrow grip and alignment to reduce noise and vibration.
ACUslide Cocking & De-cocking System
Silently cock your crossbow with just 5 pounds of force. If you don’t take a shot during the hunt, you can safely de-cock your crossbow by just backwinding the handle.
And unlike other de-cocking systems, you can stop at any point without the fear of losing control.
Garmin Xero X1i Rangefinding Scope & Ready-to-Hunt Accessory Package
The Garmin X1i Xero Rangefinding Scope is the first of its kind with built-in rangefinder, 3.5X magnification, and digital auto-ranging. Gone are the days of hoping and praying your target is in range.
The X1i Xero features an illuminated aim point that automatically adjusts for both distance and lighting conditions.
With just the push of a button, you can range game out to 250 yards or any reflective target up to 500 yards.
Includes Ready-to-Hunt package with ACUslide cocking system, 3-pk EVO-X CenterPunch carbon arrows, integrated string stop system, and 6-arrow tech quiver.
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FEATURES & SPECS:
Velocity: 505 FPS
Kinetic Energy: 227 ft.-lbs.
Power Stroke: 17"
Axle to Axle (Cocked): 6.5"
Overall Length: 30.7"
Weight: 7.9 lbs
Reverse draw design with RX8-Cam system rotates 404 degrees
Deeper cable grooves and improved cable spacing allows for increased strand count on string/cables for added strength and durability
Vector-Quad cable technology eliminates cam lean and generates straight-nock travel
S1 2-stage trigger delivers 3.5-lbs. of pull with zero creep
DFI (dry-fire-inhibitor) with nylon-filament arrow retention brush to improve arrow grip and alignment
Integrated string stop system reduces noise and vibration
20" MICRO-TRAC fluted aluminum barrel increases accuracy and provides the longest string life
2-piece TECH-X stock with multiple weight-reducing cutouts
ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system allows for silent cocking and safe and controlled de-cocking
Dyneema cocking strap with 7.5" XTEND adjustable crank handle reduces cocking effort to just 5 lbs.
Adjustable bull plate provides 1" length-of-pull adjustments
Ready-to-Hunt Package
EVO-X Marksman Elite Variable Speed Scope with external adjustment turrets
6-pk. EVO-X CenterPunch Premium Carbon Arrows
6-arrow quiver
Integrated string stop system
ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system
Introducing the budget friendly crossbow on our list today, and well built choice, the Wicked Ridge Blackhawk 360 Crossbow Package.
The Wicked Ridge Blackhawk 360 Crossbow Package was made right here in the United States using only quality components and the most advanced technologies and under $400!
This durable crossbow shoots arrows up to 360 FPS and features a lightweight, hard-hitting design that's great for whitetails and other big game.
The Wicked Ridge Blackhawk 360 Crossbow Package includes a multi-line scope, (3) XX75 arrows, quiver, and rope cocking device.
Ultra-Narrow Bow Assembly
Built for success in tight crossbow hunting situations, the Wicked Ridge Blackhawk 360 features a 15-inch wide bow assembly.
Made in the USA
Put your hard-earned money to work with an American-Made crossbow. Unlike other import models, Wicked Ridge is American Built by American workers - allowing you to experience high-performance and uncompromising quality craftsmanship.
Pre-Sighted for Box-to-Bullseye Performance
The Blackhawk is pre-sighted at the factory - allowing you to go from box-to-bullseye in no time!
Easy, Single-Bolt
The Blackhawk requires just one bolt for assembly - allowing you to go from box-to-bullseye in no time!
3x Multi-Line Scope
Only 8.5-inches long, this compact scope features fully-coated 3x optics and three duplex crosshairs calibrated for 20, 30, and 40 yards, and a fourth partial line for 50-yard shots. Scope mounting rings included.
Rope-Cocker
This ultra-durable crossbow rope-cocker features an abrasion-resistant, high-tenacity polyester cord, custom-dyed in high-visibility hunter orange. Its plastic handles and hooks are constructed from super-tough ST801 nylon.
3-Arrow Quiver
At a lightweight 4.75-ounces, the 3-Arrow Instant Detach Quiver features an ultra-durable spine, and a unique, flexible rubber loop, allowing you to silently hang the quiver while in your treestand.
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FEAUTRES & SPECS:
Velocity: 360 FPS
Kinetic Energy: 108 ft.-lbs.
Power Stroke: 13.5"
Draw Weight: 175 lbs.
Axle to Axle (cocked/uncocked): 15" / 19"
Overall Length: 35.5"
Weight: 6 lbs.
Multi-line scope comes pre-sighted from the factory
Single-bolt assembly
Includes accessory package with multi-line scope, (3) XX75 arrows, quiver, and rope cocking device
Made in the USA
“Maybe stalking the woods is as vital to the human condition as playing music or putting words to paper. Maybe hunting has as much of a claim on our civilized selves as anything else. After all, the earliest forms of representational art reflect hunters and prey. While the arts were making us spiritually viable, hunting did the heavy lifting of not only keeping us alive, but inspiring us. To abhor hunting is to hate the place from which you came, which is akin to hating yourself in some distant, abstract way.”
― Steven Rinella, Meat Eater: Adventures from the Life of an American Hunter
There are a lot of reasons that one of our favorite hunting and defense tools is the crossbow. Stealthiness is at the top of that list. And, just like a vertical bow the bolts (arrows) are able to be reused. Just check them for damage before trying to do so.
Again, there are some very pricey crossbows on the market today, but you can just about guarantee that they are worth every penny and should last you a lifetime if you take care of them properly.
Perhaps you’ll want to start with a more budget friendly option to begin with. If you feel like you want to up your game down the road, you’ll have your first one either as a hand-me-down gift, an extra available to take a hunting partner along, or just to sell.
Crossbow hunting is fun and often undetected, which can come in handy if you ever had to keep your location quiet from bad-intentioned two-legged creatures, but still need to protect yourself and hunt for food.
We hope this article has been informative and will help to get you on your way to filling those freezers with the best quality meat on the planet with another alternative hunting style.
Be safe out there, have fun, and remain Rugged!
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