In a Hurry? Our Top 3 Picks to Buy!
Target shooting and hunting are a lot of fun. Crossbows are getting popular over the past few years for hunting and target shooting, not only among men, even amongst women of all ages.
Nowadays, many women enjoy these sports and hunting with crossbows. That’s why there are crossbows in the market specially designed for ladies and girls.
Crossbows for women are designed with some factors keeping in mind. Depending on height and stature, female hunters need a compact crossbow with a lightweight design.
There are various models released in the market, whether for hunting, target shooting, or just recreational use. The process of choosing the best is challenging for both amateurs and experienced shooters and hunters.
Here is a list of Best Crossbow For Women, including the buyer’s guide and reviews.
Comparison Chart for Top 10 Best Crossbows For Women
| Bow | Draw Weight | |
|---|---|---|
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter II | 150 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR | 230 | View on Amazon |
| Wicked Ridge M-370 | 180 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Explorer XP | 200 | View on Amazon |
| TenPoint Wicked Ridge Rampage | 175 | View on Amazon |
| SA Sports 649 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| TenPoint Turbo M1 | 190 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow | 195 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Archery Raptor Pro str | 187 | View on Amazon |
| Excalibur Matrix G340 Crossbow | 230 | View on Amazon |
Which are the 10 Best Crossbows For Women In 2023?
1. Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 350 fps |
| Draw Weight | 150 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 16.125″ / 18.25″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 103 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
| Length | 34.25″ |
| Power Stroke | 16.125″ |
| Finish | Real Tree Extra Camo |
The Whitetail Hunter II is ideal for beginners and experienced hunters. A 6.4 lbs weight is fit for women and smaller frame hunters to ensure that the weight isn’t too much of a burden. Also, the compact design allows easy handling in tight spaces.
This crossbow comes with a high-quality design that shoots fast and accurately. The crossbow limbs are made of custom composite laminate, which makes them durable for cold weather hunting.
In the crossbow package it includes a multiple-reticle scope, rope-cocking device, two headhunter arrows, and lubrication wax. It uses a Trigger Tech assembly that creates a smooth roller between the sear and the trigger. It is best for a beginner who still doesn’t know how to maneuver with a giant crossbow. It features premium crosswire strings and cams with different color accents.
Keeping shooter’s safety in mind, Barnett created nock sensors, a pass-through foregrip, and anti-dry fire technology.
Reasons To Buy
- ADF Trigger System.
- Rope cocking device.
- High-def camo pattern.
- Specialized in deer hunting.
- Easy to cock.
- Shorter width and Length for easy maneuvering.
Reasons To Avoid
- Without shoulder sling.
- The quality of the scope is marginal.
What’s the bottom line?
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is an entry-level crossbow, a best choice for amateur and basically for everyone looking for high power, precision, and safety at a low price.
2. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 375 fps |
| Draw Weight | 180 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel | 12.75″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 118.6 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Length | 32″ |
| Hand Orientation | Right Hand |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland |
The Barnett Whitetail hunter str crossbow delivers amazing speed up to 375 feet per second. It is equipped with a step- through riser technology that decreases the length of the crossbow.It is compact in size and lightweight.
It has an integrated crank cocking device, a soft lok floating arrow retainer, safety remainder, 4.32mm multi-reticle scope, two 22″ headhunter arrows,and lightweight quiver.
This crossbow has triggered tech release technology. It has a special design with free floating roller between trigger and sear.It has a trigger system to ensure frictionless and rigid shot. There is zero creep friction.
Reasons To Buy
- Single Bolt Assembly.
- Multi Rectile Scope.
- Finger Safety Reminders.
- Anti Dry Fire Trigger System.
- Frictionless Release Technology.
- One Picatinny Rail.
Reasons To Avoid
- High in Price.
What’s the bottom line?
Barnett Whitetail Hunter Str is one of the best crossbows with advanced trigger technology function that gives excellent accuracy and safety measures.
3. Wicked Ridge M-370 Crossbow
| Wicked Ridge M-370 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 370 fps |
| Draw Weight | 180 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 9.5″ / 14″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 103 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 5.8 lbs |
| Length | 35″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.8″ |
| Finish | Peak |
The M-370 from Wicked Ridge is an incredible value in the crossbow division. One of the essential features is that it comes with an in-built ACUdraw cocking device that reduces the weight of force up to 5 pounds for all ages. Also, it includes a rope-sled that helps in locking the arrow in the bow.
With a width of 9.5 inches from axle to axle, while cocked, it provides more shot opportunities in tight shooting situations. This narrowest Wicked Ridge crossbow is the best for shooting from the tree. The M-370 trigger work on Dry Fire Inhibitor (DFI) means hunter can cock the bow safely in the fire position, and the trigger automatically moves to safe once the bow is cocked back.
VX-5 reverse cams power the M-370 that elongates the power stroke, and raises the rotation. It tends to produce one of the quietest shots with speed up to 370 feet per second with the same hole group accuracy. The lightweight scope feature fully coated optics, and three duplex crosshairs are calibrated for 20, 30, and 40 yards. Besides, the fourth partial line covers 50-yard shots.
Reasons To Buy
- Quiet and Deadly.
- Package includes all accessories.
- Dry Fire prevention safety mechanism.
- Arrow Quiver is ultra-durable and flexible.
- Patented narrow crossbow technology.
- Gordon Glass limbs provide best strength, power.
What’s the bottom line?
The Wicked Ridge M-370 has all speed, performance, and accuracy. It is lightweight, affordable, and smooth while shooting at 370 fps speed.
4. Barnett Explorer XP Crossbow
| Barnett Explorer XP370 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 370 fps |
| Draw Weight | 165 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 13.3″ / 16.5″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 115 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
| Length | 34.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.8″ |
The Explorer series of Barnett is famous for the production of a compound crossbow. You will get a 4x32mm multi-reticle scope, side-mount three arrow quiver, rope cocker, two 20 inch carbon arrows, and lube wax in this package. However, the high-quality arrow weighs 380 grains. It is easy to draw.
The Explorer compound crossbow features high-energy cams that produce a lot of power, making sure the two laminated limbs are durable. Along with this, the cross string and cable system also stable. The adjustable buttstocks for a custom length of pull, and they all have a pass-through foregrip.
The free-floating roller is among the sear and trigger aids for smoother shots. It also ensures a light, crisp pull and giving you more control over the shot. Moreover, the scope enables you to aim carefully on distances up to 60 yards. With the hard-hitting speed of Explorer XP370, you can hunt big game animals.
Reasons To Buy
- Three Picatinny rails.
- Single Bolt assembly.
- Adjustable buttstock.
- Comfortable to use for a newbie.
- Compatible with crank cocking device.
- TriggerTech frictionless release technology.
Reasons To Avoid
- Lack of pre-installed string dampeners.
What’s the bottom line?
This Barnett Explorer XP370 is a very accurate compound crossbow, and the Explorer series is perfect for entry-level users. It is best crossbows for youth, ladies, and small-framed shooters. It features a built-in cocking device for effortless cocking.
5. TenPoint Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 Crossbow
| TenPoint Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 360 fps |
| Draw Weight | 175 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 15″ / 19″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 112 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
| Length | 35.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.5″ |
| Finish | Peak Camo |
The Rampage 360 has an amazing value in the crossbow market. It is immersed in a cool peak camo pattern and available with different crank options, including the user-friendly ACUdraw. The performance is arguably the most powerful on this Wicked Ridge. The Rampage 360 is come by Wicked Ridge series, the first entry-level crossbow with an in-built cocking mechanism.
Handling the Rampage 360 is very simple and more comfortable than the other rival crossbows. The lightweight factor and ACUdraw crank-cocking device perfectly creates balance while hitting the target. Moreover, the auto-engaging safety lets you handle the crossbow without much effort as it will not crank back.
Reasons To Buy
- Limited lifetime warranty.
- Long-lasting limb system.
- Ultra-narrow bow assembly.
- 3 Arrow instant Detach Quiver.
- Accurate and perfectly balanced.
- Safe to use for beginners and youth.
Reasons To Avoid
- Arrows not included.
- No string dampeners in the package.
What’s the bottom line?
The Tenpoint Wicked Ridge Rampage 360, a beginner crossbow with an integrated cocking device, accuracy, and shoots a bolt at 360 feet per second. It is a quality crossbow with an outstanding feature unavailable with other crossbows at the price point.
6. SA Sports 649 Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow
| SA Sports Empire Hellhound 370 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 370 fps |
| Draw Weight | 185 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 14.25″ / 17.5″ |
| Kinetic Energy | |
| Weight | 6.15 lbs |
| Length | 35.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.5″ |
| Finish | Aluminium cast |
The Empire Beast uses exciting narrow limb technology. With 370 fps speed, SA Sports Empire Beast is the fastest crossbow available in the market.
This quad limb compound crossbow is a potent blend of speed and strength. It features a machined aluminium barrel and a rock solid aluminium cast riser for a smooth finish. This is a powerful animal tool with a top speed of 370 feet per second, which aids in making a flawless shot.
The Empire Kryptek 370 is easy to operate and reliable. The ambush is safe and easy to control enures by ambidextrous auto safety method.
Although SA Sport is popular for very powerful crossbows, they manage to keep the Empire Beast lightweight. To keep this crossbow light and compact, SA Sports built the Empire Beast with the machined aluminum barrel, CNC machined inverted cams, and aluminum riser.
Reasons To Buy
- Long power stroke design.
- Ambidextrous auto-safety.
- Adjustable tactical rear stock.
- Anti – Dry fire trigger.
- Quad limb compound crossbow.
What’s the bottom line?
The SA Sports 649 Empire Hellhound produces an impressive speed with long power stroke that keep you focused with the shot and comes with a powerful machinery.
7. TenPoint Turbo M1 Crossbow
| TenPoint Turbo M1 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 380 fps |
| Draw Weight | 190 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 9″ / 14″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 122 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
| Length | 32.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 14″ |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo |
If you seek a narrow crossbow that still comes with high speeds and precision then, Turbo M1 is an ideal option. It measures only 9-inch in width when cocked, and it is best in terms of balance and ease of use. The forward draw design allows shooting the target by keeping the Turbo M1 very narrow.
Talk about the speed and performance; the draw weight and design are the primary factors. TenPoint has the ACUdraw PRO cocking system that declines the force applied while cocking the arrow in the bow up to 9lbs. In terms of the power stroke, the VX reversed cams elongates the Length of pull and maximize the rotation. It allows the arrow to reach a maximum level of speed of 380 fps.
TenPoint Turbo M1 has a 3-pack of Pro Elite Carbon arrows. The weight of bolts around 400 grains and keep the speed of up to 370 feet per second. The Alpha nock is an extraordinary improvement on crossbow nocks and efficient in the speed category. They equipped the TenPoint 3x Pro View 3 Scope on the Turbo M1 that calibrates up to 50 yards.
Reasons To Buy
- Quiet and Safe.
- Ultra-Maneuverable.
- Sturdy and Durable Material.
- Optimal comb height and adjustable buttpad.
- Auto-engaging safety feature and anti-dry fire inhibitor.
Reasons To Avoid
- Little bit longer than other crossbows.
What’s the bottom line?
The TenPoint Turbo M1 is a great benefit for any hunter who wants to have best accuracy and safety while using a lightweight crossbow.
8. Barnett Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow
| Barnett Wildcat Camo Recurve Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 260 fps |
| Draw Weight | 195 lbs |
| Trigger Type | Anti-Dry Fire |
| Kinetic Energy | 57 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs. |
| Dimensions | 32.88″ x 12.75″ x 7.13″ |
| Material | Blend |
| Hand Orientation | Right Hand |
Barnett Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow comes in the classic design with all the modern modifications to meet the hunters’ needs and provide them a good hunting experience. It is easy to use and hence perfect for complete beginners.
It is lightweight and sturdy which makes it comfortable to hold. It comes with a full camo wrap, a 4 x 32 mm multi-reticle scope and patented sift lok floating bristle arrow retainer. All these accessories make this crossbow a ready to hunt package right after you take it out of the box.
As far as safety is concerned, it features an anti-dry fry trigger system which prevents damage in case of dry firing.
Reasons To Buy
- Lightweight and Sturdy.
- Full Camo Wrap.
- Anti-Dry Fire System.
- Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer.
Reasons To Avoid
- Slow in SPeed.
What’s the bottom line?
Barnett Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow is easy to use, durable and safe. A complete beginner can also use it conveniently.
9. Barnett Archery Raptor Pro str Crossbow
| SA Sports Beast 400 Reverse Cam Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 400 fps |
| Draw Weight | 187 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 17.75″ / 20″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 135 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.9 lbs |
| Length | 36.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 16.25″ |
| Finish | Realtree Edge Frame |
Barnett Raptor Pro is a lightweight crossbow that is compatible with a crank cocking device. It includes a unique fiberglass composite step-through riser design. Further, it includes 4×32 mm Multi-Reticle scope and two 22 inches headhunter arrows. The solid, durable body offers high power and sufficient speed to arrow to hit the target. The Realtree Edge frame completely envelopes the bow’s stock, limbs, and riser.
Every Barnett bow brings Trigger Tech Frictionless Release Technology and Metal Molded Trigger. It involves a free-floating roller that is drawn between the latch and sear. As a result, it gives zero creeps and a 3lbs trigger system that allows you to make the shot without any hurdles.
The in-built foot stirrup is a useful feature for cocking the bow. It saves a lot of weight, space and enlarges the power stroke that gives a faster crossbow. By using the rope-cocking, you can reduce the draw weight up to 50%. Also, with the help of crank cocking, it will reduce up to 93%.
Reasons To Buy
- Light and compact size.
- User-friendly.
- String dampeners.
- Crank cocking compatible
- Lightweight Quiver.
- Anti Dry Fire Trigger System.
- Finger Safety Reminders.
Reasons To Avoid
- Quality of the String is not good.
- No magnifications setting on the scope.
What’s the bottom line?
If you are searching for a fast and light crossbow, then this Barnett Raptor Pro str is suitable for women and beginners. Its impressive speed, safety measures, and performance meet the requirement of full-framed shooters.
10. Excalibur Matrix G340 Crossbow
| Excalibur Matrix G340 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 340 fps |
| Draw Weight | 230 lbs. |
| Dimensions | 36″ x 12″ x 7″ |
| Weight | 5.13 lbs. lbs |
| Material | Blend |
| String Type | Matrix. |
| Finish | MO BUC |
Excalibur Matrix G340 Crossbow comes in a skeletonised design for making it lightweight. Though being lightweight it still maintains Excalibur’s signature premium quality and durability. It can shoot arrows at a deadly speed of 340 feet per second.
Moreover it features a rope cocking device which is very helpful in cocking the bow. Also it has a dead zone scope with 1 inch rings. Also it comes with three diablo arrows with 100-grain field points and a four arrow quiver.
Reasons To Buy
- Rope Cocking Mechanism.
- Wonderful speed Of 340fps.
- Excellent Power And Speed.
- Great Durability.
Reasons To Avoid
- Does Not Come With Supressors.
What’s the bottom line?
The Matrix G340 is lightweight, powerful and durable. So if you are looking for a powerful and durable crossbow then this is just perfect for you.
How To Choose The Best Crossbow for Women?
If you are a beginner who has never fired a crossbow, you should pick the most basic model. It helps you to understand the basic processes and mechanisms.
Experienced female-hunters should focus on mid-range crossbows that need more skilled handling.
Velocity
The first thing that always comes to mind while buying a crossbow is the speed or velocity. This factor increases the chances of success; the faster your bow is, the higher the probability of hitting your game. For hunting purposes, the velocity of your crossbow is important to achieve the target.
For fast-moving targets such as deer, a minimum 300FPS velocity must generate sufficient speed & power to hit the target. You can also pick a Barnett Recruit Terrain crossbow that offers 330 feet per second speed.
Weight of the Bow
Another critical factor is bow weight, which is responsible for the performance. So, if you want to conduct long hunting sessions and don’t want to suffer from arm fatigue, select a lighter crossbow. It ensures your shooting setup is more stable that raises the chances of hunting success. The lightweight models give you more stability as well as accuracy.
Undoubtedly, the heavier ones have wrong sides, but they offer best stability and long-lasting. It all relies on your needs and preference to identify which one you will get. Moreover, a crossbow with lightweight is best for hunting goals as it is easy to carry around. You can go with a heavy one for shooting purposes, where you don’t need to travel for miles for shooting.
Draw Weight
It refers to the amount of power and effort required to pull the arrow back so you can shoot the target. Crossbow with a heavier draw-weight tends to shoot faster compared to a bow with the lighter draw weight. Therefore select a crossbow that you can pull easily or draw-back.
Speed
The amount of force requires to draw the bow back to its fully cocked and locked position to shoot the target. Or you can say the draw weight determines how much energy is applied to the arrow.
A crossbow with a heavier draw-weight tends to shoot faster compared to a bow with lighter draw weight. Thus pick a crossbow that you can pull easily or draw-back.
Cocking Devices
A cocking device helps to lessen the draw weight of a bow by up to 50%. With a rope cocking device, it is easier to draw. Hold the crossbow down with your foot and pull on the rope handles instead of the string.
For a 130 pounds draw-weight crossbow, you require to pull to just 65lbs. Moreover, these rope cockers are tiny, cheap, and easy to carry.
Another device is a crank cocking device that is fitted to the bow to make the draw easier. It is a crank handle that enables you to rewind the string. This device adds more weight to the crossbow, but it is best if you need a high-power crossbow.
Scope
The scope is the most valuable part of the crossbow that aids in getting more precise and accurate shots. It helps to improve the crossbow hunter efforts in getting the true accuracy while targeting. With the scoped crossbow, the sighting game is faster and easier. Many of the scopes take time to sight the target. Therefore, make sure you take a decent scope for a better hunting experience. It must be shockproof and waterproof.
Safety System
Safety is the primary concern while shooting with a bow for a newcomer. Most of the bows require disengaging a safety lock before firing an arrow from a cocked or loaded position. There are a variety of locks and sensors on crossbows.
Each crossbow has various degrees of the safety system, so consider the one that suits you.
Styling
Today manufacturers are now opting for the pink tint among camouflage colors.
Some people might be thinking that the pink camouflage is more visible to your prey! But the truth is that deer and many other animals only see in grey. So a little bit of pink will not be visible to them. The patterning on the crossbow matters more than the coloration.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What crossbows fit women?
There are various things to evaluate when picking women’s crossbow. It must be light in weight and of shorter length. Also, its design counts as women are usually drawn to color and design.
2. Is it fine to leave a crossbow cocked overnight?
Don’t leave the crossbow cocked or dawn overnight. If strings break, it can go off and cause damage to property or people.
Decock the crossbow at the end of the day or when it is not in use.
3. What size crossbow arrow should you buy for a women’s crossbow?
Most of the crossbow arrows are 16″ to 22″ in length, with the average being 20 inches. When you are buying a new arrow, make sure that they are the same length as recommended.
4. What is the average draw weight for a woman?
- Women (100 to 140 lbs): 30-40 lbs
- Women with a larger frame (160 to 190 lbs): 40-50 lbs
