In a Harry? Our Top 3 Picks to Buy!
Do you love target practice or hunting? But don’t you want to spend too much on it?
If yes, here we listed top rated Crossbows under 400 dollars for you.
These advanced crossbows have been modified to serve the archer’s purpose and upgrade their hunting experience. All of the listed crossbows are selected based on various aspects such as draw weight, shooting calibers, speed, pulling mechanism, and shooting range.
These crossbows are perfect for novices, and the quality & features of them are good enough for all skill levels. Here is the list of Top 10 Best Crossbows Under $400 on the market, including buying guides and reviews.
Comparison Chart for 10 Best Crossbows Under $400
| Bow | Speed (FPS) | Draw Weight (lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Killer Instinct Burner | 415 | 220 | View on Amazon |
| Killer Instinct Boss | 405 | 220 | View on Amazon |
| PSE Archery Fang HD | 405 | 205 | View on Amazon |
| BearX Intense | 400 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper | 380 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Droptine STR | 370 | 155 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR | 375 | 165 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter II | 350 | 150 | View on Amazon |
| CenterPoint Tyro 4X Recurve Crossbow | 245 | 175 | View on Amazon |
| XtremepowerUS Hybrid Crossbow | 160 | 80 | View on Amazon |
Which are the Top 10 Crossbows Under $400 In 2023?
1. Killer Instinct Burner 415 Crossbow
| Killer Instinct crossbows Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 415 fps |
| Draw Weight | 220 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 14.75″ / 18.75″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 141 foot pounds |
| Weight | 6.7 lbs |
| Length | 37″ |
| Power Stroke | 14.5″ |
This affordable Crossbow can shoot arrows at incredible speed. At the same time, it is light in weight at 6.7 pounds and loaded with many unique features. It is easy to handle by shooters of different heights. Also, it has incredible speed, kinetic energy, and power stroke.
It comes with a 6-position AR-style buttstock and adjustable X-Lok. Thus it enables you to adjust the stock in six positions. Moreover, its X-Lok foregrip is adjustable for a more comfortable grip. The exciting feature is the integrated Dead Silent Kit that has string dampeners and limb silencers.
The 220lb draw weight isn’t easy to handle for beginners. However, it is easy to cock with a rope cocker device that cuts the weight in half down to 110 pounds of required effort. It comes as a ready-to-shoot package, including all essential accessories that match your expectations.
Reasons To Buy
- Narrow frame for easy handling.
- Lightweight and simple to handle.
- Excellent 415 fps crossbow at this price range.
- Easily adjustable to fit medium to large-sized hunters.
- In-built sound dampening system gives a quiet performance.
Reasons To Avoid
- Without a crank cocking device.
- No shoulder sling.
What’s the bottom line?
The Killer Instinct Burner has a narrow frame and light-weight design that can easily adjust, so it is suitable for any size hunter.
2. Killer Instinct Boss Crossbow
| Killer Instinct Boss Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 405 fps |
| Draw Weight | 220 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 14.75″ / 18.75″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 134 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.7 lbs |
| Length | 33.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.25″ |
| Finish | – |
This hard-hitting precision weapon is sufficient for bears, whitetail, or elk hunting. With the deadly combination of high-octane firepower and agility, the BOSS 405 smashes aim at 400 fps.
With the 6-position buttstock and X-Lok foregrip system, you can smoothly increase or decrease the frame’s size to fit your hands and height. It also maximizes strength and hunting skills, and as a result, you can easily chase animals. In this way, you don’t need to worry about handling a too-large unit for your hands and too heavy.
The Micro-Lite aluminum barrel drops excess weight and a Killer Tech trigger weighing 3.5lbs to ensure consistent and precise shooting. The HYPR Lite arrows are high-quality hunting arrows that design to maximize delivery speed. It is used for deer hunting.
The Lumix IR-W 4×32, illuminated wire reticle scope, is cheap, but it is decent in terms of performance. With its multiple brightness settings, the hunter can hit the target up to 50 yards.
Reasons To Buy
- Easy to set up and cock.
- Durable and Affordable.
- Precision shooting.
- Balanced and compact frame.
- Integrated dead silent kit.
- Compact frame reduces the overall length.
- 6-position buttstock and adjustable X-Lok provide a customized fit.
Reasons To Avoid
- Need to buy additional bolts separately.
- Draw weight might be more for some newbie and weaker users.
What’s the bottom line?
The Killer Instinct BOSS 405 is a powerful, budget-friendly, fast and durable Crossbow. It is easy to use and simple to maneuver, along with this great entry-level Crossbow is ideal for beginners.
3. PSE Archery Fang HD Crossbow
| PSE ARCHERY Fang HD Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 405 fps |
| Draw Weight | 205 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 14″ / 18″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 134 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 7.3 lbs |
| Length | 35.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 14.5″ |
| Finish | Camo |
The Fang HD shoots a crossbow at an impressive 405 fps speed. As compared to other PSE models, it is more compact that makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. With composite stock and limbs, it is durable and built to last in harsh hunting conditions. Moreover, its reverse type cam increases speed and power.
Apart from this, it comes with an ADF protection system and auto-engage safety. This feature is useful for both beginners and experts as it adds an extra layer of safety. Keeping comfort in mind, it comes with a bullpup configuration that gives additional support, and you don’t feel the Crossbow’s burden.
Assembling this Crossbow is easy. The installation of limbs, quiver, and scope is required. With the help of the user manual, it’s simple to install the Crossbow properly. All in all, it includes all the other things you need for a better hunting experience.
Reasons To Buy
- Narrow, slim profile – easy to handle.
- Adjustable buttstock for a custom fit.
- Best for men, young shooters, and women.
- Ergonomic design for unbeatable accuracy.
- Foot stirrup provides a solid base for cocking.
- String silencer and dampeners to reduce noise & vibration.
Reasons To Avoid
- Heavy cocking weight.
- Large Draw weight.
What’s the bottom line?
The PSE Fang HD Crossbow is suitable for beginners with a limited budget. It is well constructed, which makes it durable and delivers accurate results.
4. Bear X Intense Ready to Shoot Crossbow
| Bear X Intense Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 400 fps |
| Draw Weight | 185 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 14″ / 18″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 156 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 8 lbs |
| Length | 36.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 12.7″ |
| Finish | Camo |
This ready-to-shoot Crossbow comes with an incredible shooting speed of up to 405 fps. Its heavy, sturdy frame is a guarantee that you’ll get more than your money’s worth if you opt for it. The sleek profile of Bear X Saga Intense with 36″ length makes it easy to manage.
It is made entirely of plastic and doesn’t look cheap at all. It is made entirely of plastic and doesn’t look cheap at all. It is hard plastic and feels very durable. Furthermore, it features an anti-dry fire mechanism, making it perfect for beginner and youth crossbow hunters.
This Crossbow doesn’t have a premium scope as it is an entry-level crossbow. Even though it comes with a 4×32 multi reticle scope that is fog-proof and accurate once correctly sighted in. The ready-to-shoot package requires the installation of a quiver, foot stirrup, and scope. It is accessible to and shouldn’t take much time.
It consists of illuminated scope, cocking rope, a 4-arrow quiver, three Bear X TrueX arrows included, and rail lube / string wax.
Reasons To Buy
- Easy to assemble.
- Comes with a finger guard.
- Compact and easy to maneuver.
- Delivers powerful performance.
- Cocking rope comes in handy when you need to cock the bow.
Reasons To Avoid
- Bit heavyweight.
- Noisy without a dampening kit.
What’s the bottom line?
The Bear X Intense doesn’t have premium features like other rival crossbows from various brands such as Tenpoint and Barnett. However, it has a durable body and is easy to operate at an incredible speed that delivers high accuracy.
5. CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 Crossbow
| CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 380 fps |
| Draw Weight | 185 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 14″ / 18″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 120 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs |
| Length | 35″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.75″ |
| Finish | Camo |
The top-notch Crossbow arrives with a quality trigger group, foregrip, and string stoppers. This model comes in an attractive camo pattern. You can use this Crossbow in hunting blinds and tree stands as its axle to axle width is 14 inches, and foot stirrup length to buttpad is 35 inches.
Whisper 380 is capable of shooting 400-grain arrows up to 380 fps. It furnishes 2 string stoppers that bring the noise and vibration level to zero position. So, it helps to avoid startling your target.
The auto safety trigger mechanism whenever the bow is loaded resets the safety. Besides, the Anti-Dry Fire ensures that you won’t fire by an accident when it isn’t fully cocked.
Reasons To Buy
- High Projectile velocity.
- Operate in quiet mode.
- CNC machined cam system.
- Auto Safety triggers along with the ADF system.
- Shot in bushes and free stands due to narrow width while cocked.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not a lightweight crossbow.
- Scope is not upto the mark.
What’s the bottom line?
The CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper is the best hunting crossbow for this price range. It has high-quality build material from Crossman and an excellent string suppressing system.
6. Barnett Droptine STR Crossbow
| Barnett Droptine STR Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 385 fps |
| Draw Weight | 155 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 18.125″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 125 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.9 lbs |
| Length | – |
| Power Stroke | 15.75″ |
| Finish | Realtree |
For novice shooters or those looking for a basic, inexpensive bow should take a look at the Barnett Jackal. This Crossbow offers good power accuracy and a lightweight, durable stock.
It comes with all of the safety features that you would expect from a crossbow at this price. It assembled in less than 10 minutes. The Jackal is designed for new archers involved in target shooting and to make that experience the best one.
The accuracy ranges up to around 40 yards, while if you’ve great precision, you can exceed 50 to 60 yards. The Barnett recruit has quad split style limbs that are stable and provide great support to take proper aim and make a precise shot. Also, its evenly distributed mass makes it comfortable to use.
The crossbow package includes 4×32 scope, Rope Cocking Device, Side Mount Quiver, Two 22″ Headhunter Arrows, and Lube wax.
Reasons To Buy
- Simple to set up.
- 5-year limited warranty.
- Good power and accuracy.
- Durable and easy to handle.
- Great and sturdy construction.
Reasons To Avoid
- Little bit loud.
- Stock isn’t adjustable.
What’s the bottom line?
Barnett Droptine is an accurate and durable weapon, and it has everything that hunters require. The quad limbs and red dot optics offer plenty of stability and energy for a fast and powerful shot.
7. BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow
| BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 375 fps |
| Draw Weight | 165 lbs |
| Width axel-to-axel (Cocked / Uncocked) | 18.125″ / 20.125″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 118.6 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Length | 35″ |
| Power Stroke | 15.437″ |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland Camo |
All the Barnett products are built to last, so likewise, this model has no exceptions, and it is pretty durable. The step-through riser is made from a composite fiberglass material that keeps the weight at a minimum level.
The Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage pattern helps you remain concealed when you approach your prey without being recognized. Using this whitetail crossbow, you can target at a distance of 50-60 yards without being detected.
The frictionless release technology creates a free-floating roller between sear and trigger to give you a smooth, light trigger. Apart from this, nock sensors and anti-dry fire give you peace of mind regarding safety.
Reasons To Buy
- Light-weight Quiver.
- Various catering features.
- Inexpensive than other models.
- Build with several safety measures.
- Tremendous accuracy while shooting.
- Slim profile makes it a beginner’s choice.
- It is one of the best-selling crossbows for both skilled shooters and beginners. It has a manageable draw weight.
- This best Crossbow comes with TriggerTech frictionless technology for increased accuracy and power. Due to its lightweight, the bow is easy to hold and keep balanced when you hunt.
- It comes with a solid aluminum crafted rail with the ideal amount of force, draw weight, and balance to suit 5′ 9″ to 6′ 3″ shooters. This Whitetail Hunter 2 is the best mid-level Xbow for someone looking to step up their game.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not great optic scope.
- Without noise dampeners.
What’s the bottom line?
The Whitetail Hunter str might not be the fastest Crossbow, but you can find it with loaded accessories. It is designed to deliver smooth operation with easy handling.
8. 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 | 12.5″ |
| Finish | RealTree Extra Camo |
It is one of the best-selling crossbows for both skilled shooters and beginners. It has a manageable draw weight.
This best Crossbow comes with TriggerTech frictionless technology for increased accuracy and power. Due to its lightweight, the bow is easy to hold and keep balanced when you hunt.
It comes with a solid aluminum crafted rail with the ideal amount of force, draw weight, and balance to suit 5′ 9″ to 6′ 3″ shooters. This Whitetail Hunter 2 is the best mid-level Xbow for someone looking to step up their game.
Reasons To Buy
- Simple to operate.
- Impressive Quality.
- Amazing accessories.
- Powerful Xbow for hunting.
- Well Balanced and constructed.
- Assemble without any efforts.
Reasons To Avoid
- Average Arrow speed.
What’s the bottom line?
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II has various specifications that you need in a crossbow. The 16.125″ width from axle to axle keeps it compact and makes it good for handling in tight areas and maneuvering.
9. CenterPoint Tyro 4X Recurve Crossbow
| 9. CenterPoint Tyro 4X Recurve Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 245 fps |
| Draw Weight | 175 lbs |
| Dimensions | 29 x 12 x 3.75″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 56 ft-lbs |
| Weight | 5 lbs |
| Power Stroke | 10.5″ |
| Scope | 4 x 32mm |
| Finish | Camo |
If you are looking for a lightweight crossbow for hunting, the centrepoint tyro 4 x recurve crossbow is the best. It has everything that you need to give you the best hunting experience.
The Tyro comes with an adjustable stock and generates 245 fps with a minimum 175 lbs draw weight . It features an anti-dry fire and automatic safety cocking mechanism that protects the shooters from injury.
Moreover, this crossbow is more powerful than other recurve crossbows. It comes with complete accessories, a 4 x 32mm scope, 16″ aluminum arrows, a quiver, a rope cocker and rail lube. It performs so amazingly with its great features and is easy to cock with a rope cocking device that cuts the weight by its half.
Reasons To Buy
- Light Weighted.
- Adjustable Stock.
- Easy To Assemble.
- Rope Cocking Device.
- Foregrip Storage Compartment.
- Auto-Safety Cocking Mechanism.
Reasons To Avoid
- Poor Material Quality.
What’s the bottom line?
The Centrepoint Tyro 245 recurve is an entry level and budget friendly crossbow. It is a lightweight adjustable stock and compression molded fiberglass.
10. XtremepowerUS Hybrid Crossbow
| XtremepowerUS Hybrid Crossbow Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 160 fps |
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| color | 18″ / Black |
| Kinetic Energy | 110 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 5.96 lbs |
| Length | 29.53″ |
| Power Stroke | 10″ |
| Dimensions | 30×21.5×11″ |
Xtremepower US hybrid Crossbow is a user friendly hunting tool that has a speed of 160 fps and accurate and precised shooting experience. It also has an adjustable stock and a fore grip that can be fit to the shoulder of the user whille operating it.
It has a weight of 80 lbs, which is not difficult to handle, and the user can comfortably and easily hit the desired target. Moreover, it has an effective range of up to 75 m, which also assists the user in the functioning of the crossbow.
Reasons To Buy
- Userfriendly.
- Adjustable Stock.
- Flexible Foregrip.
- Appropriate Range.
- Light Weighted.
Reasons To Avoid
- Slow In Speed.
What’s the bottom line?
This crossbow is one of the best and the fastest crossbow that has even 160fps speed but the stroke and aacuracy and precision makes it more swift appropreiate to hitting target.
Factors To Consider When Looking For The best Crossbows Under $400?
Choosing your first Crossbow can be an arduous job, but that is why we are here to help. When it comes to picking which one to buy, consider the following:
Draw Weight
It is defined as the amount of effort you must put into a crossbow to cock it and get it ready to hunt. The heavier the draw weight, the more power the Crossbow has, but it isn’t always the case. Technology has developed so rapidly in hunting crossbows that even crossbows that shoot over 400 FPS don’t necessarily need incredible strength to run.
It generally falls between 150 to 220 pounds. You can use a rope cocker or crank cocking device to cock a crossbow with ease. In simple words, the amount of effort or draw weight is the most understated factor while choosing a proper crossbow.
Velocity
The arrow velocity is an essential element depend on the different types of crossbows than the draw weight when it comes to hitting an animal. Hunting crossbows shoot faster than long bows and consider as nice hunting companions in the last decade.
It is a vital factor to consider as the higher the arrow velocity, the farther the arrow will travel. For deer hunting purposes, select a crossbow with a speed of 300 fps.
Bow Weight
Weight is the crucial part, and you need to consider it before buying the Crossbow. Bow weight is the whole weight of the Crossbow regardless of bows, bolts and other parts. It should be lighter in weight, so it is easy to use in hunting being a portable weapon.
Crossbow weight can decrease or increase maneuverability. Low-weight models are perfect for beginners, women, and youths.
Additional Features
With extra features, it assures excellent accuracy, dependability, and safety. It comprises scopes, noise dampening-devices, and other accessories.
The noise dampener reduces the noise and vibration when the shot is fired.
Price
For quality products, you have to spend at least $300. Under $400-$500, there are some advanced models. You can expect a good velocity under this price range. Also, look for additional accessories within the package. Barnett recruit is also high-grade budget model under $200.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to aim well at the crossbow?
The first step before shooting the bow is loading the weapon. Some models delivered with separate accessories, or some come as ready to hunt. Read the manual carefully to know the steps to cock the crossbow safely.
After cocking a bow, you can load an arrow.
- Hold the arrow at the front as close as possible to the point.
- Make sure that your hand and fingers stay well away from the rope path.
- Once the target is aimed, pull the trigger and keep the target aligned in your line of sight.
2. How to maintain the crossbow rope?
It is important to maintain the crossbow rope well. Apply specialized wax for the rope to retain it. This limits the friction between the rail and the string. It is recommended to do this every 4 to 5 shots.
3. What is the difference between recurve crossbow and compound crossbow?
Recurve crossbow has longer limbs and a long barrel to offer a long power stroke. On the other side, the compound crossbow can fire an arrow at much higher velocities as its mechanism allows for great tension in limbs.
