Gear We Used for Testing Target: Big Shot Extreme 500 We tested accuracy from the bench, but that’s probably not how you’ll shoot when hunting, so we also tested crossbows offhand, kneeling, and off a tripod to see how they handled. We also took note of safety features, the nosiness of cocking mechanisms, and each crossbow’s manual of arms. We evaluated each crossbow for how easy and intuitive it was to cock and load. Accuracyįor every crossbow, each shooter shot three, three-shot groups at 50 yards from a lead sled. You’ll also see momentum calculated for each crossbow instead of kinetic energy because momentum provides a more accurate figure of an arrow’s lethality and ability to pass through an animal. For context, the bolt weight and momentum are also listed for each bow. Each crossbow was shot three times, and we averaged the speeds to give you the spec listed for each crossbow. We measured crossbow speed using a Labradar Doppler chronograph. How We Tested Crossbows A Labradar doppler chronograph was used to get an average speed for each crossbow. Best Recurve Crossbow: Excalibur TwinStrike TAC2.Best Value: Wicked Ridge Raider 400 De-Cock.So whether you want the flattest shooting crossbow or the most bang for your buck, you’ll be able to find the best crossbow for you. They’ve all been thoroughly tested and represent the latest in crossbow technology. In this review, you’ll find crossbows with speeds from 368 fps to 515 fps and posted prices from $550 to $4,000. This is refreshing after the speed race of last year, where two top crossbows surpassed the 500 fps mark, but struggled to shoot tight groups. The best crossbows of 2023 strike the right balance of speed and accuracy. I’ve tested crossbows that check a few of those boxes, but manufacturers have had a hard time building bows that check them all-until this year. It has to be accurate with field points and broadheads. The best part: it is affordable at around $500.A good crossbow needs to do a few things well: It must be easy to load and unload. Screw on your favorite broadheads and hit the field. The Wicked Ridge Invader G3 is an excellent example of such and, in fact, has previously won the Petersen's Hunting "Best Value Award." Boasting 330 fps, the Invader comes complete with a TenPoint 3X scope, cocking device (choose between TenPoint ACUdraw or Wicked Ridge ACU-52), three-arrow quiver, carbon arrows, field points, and an instructional DVD. Our advice is to start with a complete package made by a reputable manufacturer. However, with a little research, an American-made quality crossbow (avoid Chinese knockoffs like the plague) at a reasonable price can be obtained. Expect to pay as much as a high-end hunting rifle in many cases. If you are interested in giving it a try, but haven't shot one yet, where should one begin? The first thing prospective crossbow hunters will discover is quality crossbows don't come cheap. With legalization in most states, special hunting seasons in some, and a general overall acceptance of horizontal hunting, crossbows are becoming commonplace. Dig deep within the mysterious regulation descriptions and non-disabled hunters will discover that they may use a crossbow only during the "any weapon" season while other folks tote rifles.Ī generation ago, seeing a crossbow while hunting would have been about as common as seeing a knight of the Round Table in full armor. That disability must be obvious or accompanied by a physician's statement. If you get past that and find that you are indeed qualified/allowed to hunt your chosen destination, then it's time to look at practical facts, performance, and challenges.įor instance, in my native state of Utah a hunter may use a crossbow only during archery season, after applying for and obtaining a disability exemption. In many states, debates aside, your decision to hunt with a crossbow often hinges on legalities that are out of your control. Let's shrug off the controversy, ethics discussions, and self-righteous indignation and look at some cold, hard crossbow facts. Here are our picks for the best states for crossbow hunting in the West, but first a little background. If you're planning to hunt the West with a crossbow, knowing those regulations will help determine where you may wish to hunt. The western states offer some great opportunities for crossbow hunters, but regulations vary widely from state to state.
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