Imagine this: the thrill of the hunt, the quiet anticipation, and then, the satisfying release. For many, this dream involves a crossbow. But what if the price tag of a brand-new one makes your wallet weep? That’s where the world of used crossbows opens up, offering a fantastic way to get into this exciting sport without breaking the bank.
However, buying a used crossbow can feel like navigating a maze. You worry about hidden damage, worn-out parts, or simply not getting the best value for your money. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices and unsure of what to look for.
That’s exactly why we’re here! This post is your friendly guide to the world of pre-loved crossbows. We’ll walk you through the important things to check, the common pitfalls to avoid, and how to find a reliable crossbow that will serve you well for years to come. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to make a smart purchase.
Our Top 5 Used Crossbows Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Used Crossbows Detailed Reviews
1. Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X Crossbow
Rating: 9.2/10
The Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X Crossbow is a fantastic choice for anyone just starting out with crossbows. It’s a compound crossbow that shoots arrows super fast, up to 390 feet per second. It’s also pretty light, weighing only 6.7 pounds, which makes it easy to handle.
What We Like:
- Great for beginners, making it easy to learn.
- Comes with everything you need: a scope, quiver, rope cocker, and three arrows.
- Shoots very fast for its price.
- Lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry and aim.
- Includes high-quality carbon arrows.
What Could Be Improved:
- You can only use Xpedition Archery XIT-20 bolts with this crossbow.
- It’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any issues.
This crossbow offers excellent performance without breaking the bank. It’s a solid package that gets you ready for the field right away.
2. Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready for your next hunt with the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow. This crossbow comes packed with everything you need to get started. It’s super compact and light, making it easy for any hunter to handle. Plus, it shoots arrows really fast, up to 400 feet per second! Barnett has been a trusted name in crossbows for a long time, and this model shows why.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight and easy to carry, weighing only 6.9 pounds.
- The compact design makes it manageable for hunters of all sizes.
- It shoots very fast at 400 feet per second, giving you great speed.
- Safety is a priority with the Nock Sensor and Anti-Dry Fire Trigger System.
- It comes with a good set of accessories: an illuminated scope, arrows, quiver, rope cocker, and wax.
- It ships mostly assembled, so you can get to hunting quicker.
- The TruBark Camo pattern helps you blend into your surroundings.
What Could Be Improved:
- It does not include a crank device, which you might need to buy separately for easier cocking.
- You need to wax the strings every 10 shots to keep it in good shape.
This Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow is a solid choice for hunters looking for a powerful and user-friendly option. Its included accessories and safety features make it a great value.
3. Killer Instinct BOSS 405 Camo Crossbow - 405 FPS Compact Hunting Package with Micro‑Lite Barrel
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for your next hunt with the Killer Instinct BOSS 405 Camo Crossbow. This crossbow packs a serious punch and is designed for hunters who demand speed, accuracy, and a comfortable fit. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and maneuver in any hunting situation.
What We Like:
- It shoots super fast, up to 405 feet per second, with lots of power to take down big game.
- It’s light, weighing only 6.7 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around.
- It’s not too wide when cocked, which is great for shooting from tight spots.
- The adjustable stock and foregrip let you get the perfect fit for better control and accuracy.
- The aluminum barrel makes it lighter and easier to aim.
- It comes with everything you need to get started: a scope, bolts, a rope cocker, and more.
- Killer Instinct offers a good warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The warranty only covers the original owner and non-wearable parts.
The Killer Instinct BOSS 405 is a powerful and user-friendly crossbow that’s ready for the hunt. Its smart design and included accessories make it a solid choice for serious hunters.
4. Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for your next hunt with the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow. This powerful crossbow comes with everything you need to hit the woods. It’s built for speed and accuracy, making it a great choice for hunters.
What We Like:
- It shoots super fast at 350 feet per second.
- It’s not too heavy, weighing only 6.4 lbs. This makes it easy to carry and aim.
- The crossbow is compact, so it’s easy to handle in tight spots.
- Safety is a top priority with features like the Soft Lok arrow rest and anti-dry fire system.
- The TriggerTech trigger is smooth and accurate.
- It comes as a complete “ready to hunt” package, so you can start right away.
- Barnett has been making crossbows since 1962, so they know what they’re doing.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some hunters might want a bit more power for very large game.
- The included scope is good, but serious hunters might upgrade for better magnification.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is a fantastic crossbow for most hunters. It offers great performance and safety at a good value.
5. Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Premium Bolts
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready for some serious fun with the Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow! This compact powerhouse is designed for speed and accuracy, making it a thrilling addition to your outdoor adventures. Its user-friendly self-cocking arm means you can get ready to shoot quickly and easily. Plus, the adjustable stock helps you find the perfect, stable grip for every shot.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to load thanks to the self-cocking arm.
- The adjustable stock lets you get a really steady hold.
- It shoots bolts fast, up to 175 feet per second!
- The compact size makes it easy to handle.
- It comes with three good-quality bolts to get you started.
- It’s built tough for reliable use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, some users might prefer an even lighter feel.
- More bolt options could be offered for different shooting styles.
This crossbow delivers an exciting experience with its impressive speed and accuracy. It’s a dependable choice for anyone looking for a fun and effective pistol crossbow.
Your Guide to Buying a Used Crossbow
Buying a used crossbow can be a smart move. You can save money and still get a great piece of equipment. This guide will help you find the best used crossbow for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
Several important parts make up a crossbow. You need to check them all.
- Draw Weight: This is how much force it takes to pull the string back. Higher draw weights shoot arrows faster. Make sure it matches your strength.
- Draw Length: This is how far you pull the string back. It needs to fit your arm length for comfort and accuracy.
- Arrow Speed (FPS): Feet Per Second (FPS) tells you how fast the arrow flies. Faster arrows hit harder and travel flatter.
- Kinetic Energy (Foot-Pounds): This is the power of the arrow when it hits. More kinetic energy means more stopping power. This is important for hunting.
- Scope: Most crossbows come with a scope to help you aim. Check if it’s clear and has good magnification.
- Trigger: A smooth trigger pull makes it easier to shoot accurately. A creepy or heavy trigger can ruin your shot.
- Safety Features: Look for an anti-dry fire mechanism. This prevents firing without an arrow loaded, which can damage the crossbow.
2. Important Materials
The parts of a crossbow are made from different materials. These affect how strong and light it is.
- Riser and Limbs: These are often made of strong fiberglass or carbon composites. They need to be tough to handle the tension.
- Stock: The stock can be made of durable plastic or wood. Lighter materials make the crossbow easier to carry.
- Cams and Wheels: These are usually made of strong metal like aluminum. They need to be smooth and precise.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a used crossbow better, while others make it worse.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make more reliable and durable crossbows.
- Maintenance: A crossbow that has been well cared for will perform better. Check for signs of rust or wear.
- Upgraded Parts: Some crossbows might have better scopes or accessories already installed.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Visible Damage: Cracks in the limbs, a worn string, or a damaged scope are bad signs.
- Rust or Corrosion: This means the metal parts might be weak.
- Stiff or Rough Trigger: This makes shooting difficult.
- Worn String and Cables: These are crucial for performance. A frayed string needs to be replaced.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the crossbow.
User Experience:
A good crossbow feels balanced in your hands. It should be easy to cock (pull back the string) and shoot. A comfortable grip is also important for long hunting trips or practice sessions.
Use Cases:
- Hunting: For hunting, you need a crossbow with enough power (high kinetic energy) to take down game ethically.
- Target Practice: If you just want to shoot at targets, a lighter draw weight and less power might be fine.
- Archery Competitions: Some competitions have specific rules about crossbows.
When buying used, always ask questions. Check the crossbow thoroughly. A little effort now saves you trouble later.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Crossbows
Q: How do I know if a used crossbow is safe?
A: Inspect it for any cracks, dents, or worn parts, especially the string and limbs. Make sure the trigger works smoothly and the safety is functional.
Q: What is a good draw weight for a beginner?
A: For most beginners, a draw weight between 150 to 175 pounds is a good starting point. It’s manageable but still powerful enough.
Q: How important is the crossbow’s brand?
A: Brand reputation matters. Established brands often use better materials and have better designs, leading to a more reliable crossbow.
Q: Can I replace parts on a used crossbow?
A: Yes, you can often replace parts like the string, cables, and even the scope. However, check the cost of replacement parts before buying.
Q: What should I look for in a used crossbow’s scope?
A: The scope should have clear lenses with no scratches. Check the reticle (the aiming lines) and ensure the magnification works properly.
Q: How can I tell if the string and cables are in good condition?
A: Look for fraying, nicks, or wear. The string should be smooth, and the cables should not be stretched unevenly.
Q: Is it okay if the crossbow has some cosmetic scratches?
A: Minor cosmetic scratches are usually fine. However, deep gouges or cracks in critical areas like the limbs are a serious concern.
Q: What is “dry firing” and why is it bad?
A: Dry firing is shooting a crossbow without an arrow. It releases all the energy into the crossbow itself, which can cause serious damage to the limbs and other parts.
Q: Where can I find good deals on used crossbows?
A: You can find used crossbows at sporting goods stores, online marketplaces, hunting forums, and at local archery shops.
Q: Should I bring an expert when I go to buy a used crossbow?
A: If you’re unsure, bringing someone experienced with crossbows can be very helpful. They can spot problems you might miss.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mette Morgan—a lifelong pet enthusiast and the heart behind PetNobs.com.. My journey with animals began at an early age, and over the years, I’ve gathered invaluable experiences and insights on everything from everyday pet care to the unique quirks each animal brings to our lives. Here at PetNobs, I share my genuine passion, practical tips, and personal stories to help you create a loving, well-informed environment for your furry, feathered, or scaled friends. Welcome to my little corner of the pet world—it’s a joy to have you here!