In a Hurry? Our Top 3 Picks to Buy!
With the popularity of hunting and archery, some modern crossbows are getting highly-priced. Finding a top-rated crossbow without having to spend a huge bundle is something challenging.
You can enjoy archery and hunting without spending a massive price. In the market, there are plenty of options available at an affordable cost. But choosing the best one from more than 100+ crossbows is a daunting task. That is why we’re here with the list of Top 10 Best Crossbows Under $500 on the market to help you pick out the best for hunting and survival.
Whether you are an experienced hunter or have a little bit of experience, our selected crossbows based on customer reviews serve you the best in the field. This list of crossbows lets you experience something new, though you can improve your precision skills too.
Without wasting time, let’s begin…
Comparison Chart for Top 10 Crossbows Under 500 In 2023
| Crossbow | Speed (FPS) | Draw Weight (lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centerpoint Amped 425 | 425 | 210 | View on Amazon |
| PSE Fang HD | 400 | 175 | View on Amazon |
| Killer Instinct Furious Pro 9.5 | 400 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Explorer XP380 | 380 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper | 380 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Whitetail STR | 375 | 165 | View on Amazon |
| PSE Coalition Frontier KA | 370 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| TenPoint Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 | 360 | 175 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter II | 350 | 160 | View on Amazon |
| Excalibur Matrix G340 | 340 | 230 | View on Amazon |
Which are the best Crossbows Under $500 In 2023?
1. Centerpoint Amped 425 Crossbow
| Amped 425 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 425fps |
| Draw Weight | 200 lbs |
| Axle (Cocked / Uncocked) | 12″ / 15.75” |
| Kinetic Energy | 160 ft-lb |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs |
| Length | 36″ |
| Power Stroke | 14.5″ |
| Material | Fibreglass |
The Centerpoint Amped 425 crossbow comes in an attractive, compact design, measuring just 12” when cocked. This powerful crossbow can shoot arrows at a deadly speed of 425 feet per second. It consists of some very advanced features like the Whisper Silencing System, which reduces the noise and vibrations of the bow produced while taking the shot.
Also it is very comfortable to hold for any body size or shape because of the customizations of the adjustable butt stock and cheek comb. For safety it has anti dry fire technology and auto-safety which makes it reliable and easy to use.
Reasons To Buy
- Deadly Speed at 425 fps.
- Whisper Silencing System.
- Anti-Dry Fire System.
- Automatic Safety.
Reasons To Avoid
- No Cocking Device is Included.
What’s the bottom line?
This crossbow is a complete ready to hunt package. If you want a crossbow that is both powerful and safe then Centerpoint Amped 425 Crossbow is just perfect for you.
2. PSE Archery Fang HD Crossbow
| PSE Archery Fang HD Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 405 fps |
| Draw Weight | 205 lbs |
| Width Axle To Axle (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
- Compact Design.
- Adjustable Buttstock.
- String Dampeners.
- Fast And Accurate Performance.
Reasons To Avoid
- Heavy Cocking Device.
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.
3. Killer Instinct Furious Pro 9.5 Crossbow
| Furious Pro 9.5 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 400 fps |
| Draw Weight | 185 lbs |
| Axle Width (Cocked / Uncocked) | 9.5″ / 14.125″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 139 ft-lbs |
| Weight | 7 lbs |
| Length | 32.5″-35″ |
| Power Stroke | 15.125″ |
| Finish | TrueTimber Strata |
The Furious Pro 9.5 is bold in both design and performance. This crossbow is all set to impress you with its killer 400 fps. The TrueTimber Strata pattern makes you hide well in the woods so that you can score more. The blend of power and precision control lets you hunt for seasons. Its rugged construction makes it deliver reliable accuracy.
On the other hand, its 7 pounds weight makes it light, and 14.125″ uncocked width and 9.5″ cocked makes it easy to carry. With this bow, you can easily stay in a blind or tree stand. The powerful arrow stroke with 185 lbs draws weight kills down big to a big game with one arrow. The package includes 3 Hyper Bolts and 3 replaceable 420J2 stainless steel edge broadheads. Overall it is the right choice for any type of game. The sharpshooting and accuracy come with a Hogue grip, adjustable UltraStealth Cheek Weld, and a very clean 3-pound trigger. To read its in-depth review, click here.
Reasons To Buy
- Improved precision with unmatched skill.
- Easy to use in tight areas.
- Ergonomic design blends well in woods.
- Comfortable grip and non-slip cheek rest.
- Silent operation.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not so wide foot stirrup.
What’s the bottom line?
This beast Furious Pro 9.5 delivers extraordinary sharpness, speed, power even from a great distance. Going hunting with this bow makes any big or small game down just with one arrow, thanks to its 139 ft-lbs energy and 185 lbs pull out weight.
4. Barnett Explorer XP380 Crossbow
| Barnett Explorer XP380 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 380 fps |
| Draw Weight | 185 lbs |
| Axle Width (Cocked / Uncocked) | 13.3″ / 16.5″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 122 ft. lbs |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
| Length | 34.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.75″ |
| Finish | Black Strike camo |
This Explorer series by Barnett introduces intense power and performance in an affordable kit. It is ready to shoot with rope cocking devices, quiver, and arrows with 380 fps speed. The XP380 features a pass through foregrip, flexible buttstock, and Black Strike camo print that looks great and fires well. The laminated limbs add extra strength with a 13.75″ power stroke and 185 lbs pull out weight.
The Barnett XP380 comes ready to shoot with its two carbon arrows, 4 x 32mm multi reticle scope, 3 x Picatinny Rails, and more. According to Barnett, the 380 fps delivers up to 122 ft. lbs energy. You can easily knock down a big game like big whitetail deer, elk, or bears with these hard beating speeds. The scope helps you aim exactly on distance up to 60 yards and comes with a fine red/green dot sight. The TriggerTech feature allows for a quieter shot. This frictionless technology ensures a light, short pull to give more control over the shot.
Reasons To Buy
- Equipped with Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer.
- Anti-Dry Fire prevents dry firing.
- Pre-assembled.
- Hard-hitting.
- Quiet operation.
- Equipped with TiggerTech technology.
- Comes with a rope cocking device.
- Fine premium scope.
- Lightweight and comfortable to use.
- Beginner friendly.
What’s the bottom line?
This Barnett Explorer XP380 crossbow performs well even in beginner’s hands. The reliable and robust speed lets you enjoy hard-hitting and accurate shots. This series is perfect for beginners, as it is easy to cock and comes with all top-class safety.
5. CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380
| CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 380 fps |
| Draw Weight | 185 lbs |
| Width Axle To Axle (Cocked / Uncocked) | 14″ / 18″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 120 ft. lbs |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs |
| Length | 35″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.75″ |
If you need a bow for practice or looking for a purpose, this Tormentor Whisper 380 by CenterPoint is the right choice. It is the valuable silent crossbow that comes packed with a bunch of features. The 380 fps velocity lets you hunt at the maximum area you’re satisfied with. Also, the 120 lbs KE helps in taking down big games with ease. Its 4 x 32 mm scope allows you to get a precise range of lighted reticles and flip-open lens caps.
The quality of this best crossbow speaks itself with great trigger group, foregrip, and string ends. Its 14″ axle-to-axle width when cocked and 35″ stirrup to butt pad make this bow simple to use even in blinds and tree stands.
However, the weight of this crossbow goes from 7.9 pounds to 9.2 pounds with added accessories. This model gets heavier than the normal weight of all crossbows. On the other hand, the string stoppers and limb dampeners lessen the noise and give you a silent operation.
Reasons To Buy
- Great value for the price, lots of features added.
- Superb speed, you can hunt anything.
- Great range capability.
- Noise silencing system.
- Compact design.
- Standard auto safety features.
Reasons To Avoid
- Gets heavier with installed accessories.
- The stock scope is not good.
What’s the bottom line?
For the tight-budget hunters, this CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 crossbow is the right choice. Its silent technology and fantastic safety features make it a great crossbow. The 380 fps speed adds lots of power to your hunting with a silencer.
6. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow
| Whitetail Hunter STR Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 375 fps |
| Draw Weight | 165 lbs |
| Axle Width (Uncocked) | 20 1/8″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 118 ft-lbs |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Length | 34.875″ |
| Power Stroke | 15 7/16″ |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland |
Whitetail Hunter STR is a compact and the best crossbow with a unique, powerful design. It improves the bow balance by shifting weight from the riser to the stock for enhanced stability and accuracy. The 6.6 lbs weight makes it a light and handy option for any hunters. However, its 375 fps and 118 ft-lbs KE manage and ensure better sharpness of shots.
It comes with a machined flight track that assures accurate and smooth shots. With the quiet system, it performs noiseless operations that reduce the chance of misfiring the deer.
It features the anti-dry fire trigger that inhibits accidental firing. Furthermore, its stock provides extra stability in taking shots as the weight is shifted to the riser. As compared to other Barnett crossbows, this gear has a 7/8″ Picatinny rail feature. The design is well-balanced and makes hunting comfortable.
Reasons To Buy
- The step-through riser technology provides accurate shots.
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Comes with a variety of accessories.
- Sound dampeners reduce noise and vibration.
Reasons To Avoid
- Its cocking aid is somewhat difficult to use.
- Limited warranty.
What’s the bottom line?
This Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is suitable for knocking down big and strong games, thanks to its 375 fps speed. Its amazing integrated features withstand the price very-well. With the powerful frame with all balanced and safety features, this crossbow is quite perfect for hunting.
7.PSE Coalition Frontier KA Crossbow
| PSE Coalition Frontier KA Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 370 fps |
| Draw Weight | 190 lbs. |
| Axle-to-Axle | 17.87″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 127 ft. lbs |
| Weight | 6.9 lbs |
| Length | 35″-36.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 14.5″ |
| Finish | Camo |
This Frontier KA Crossbow comes with the ultimate power and accuracy. Shooting at a powerful 380-370 FPS, the Coalition is a fast, compact, and ergonomic crossbow that features an adjustable stock and a pass-through foregrip.
You can use it for hunting for most game types, and it is also a good option for target shooting. It is part of the lineup of entry-level crossbows with affordable pricing, and its lightweight and adaptable stock make it a better choice.
You can use the product in various environments as this package is complete with all the accessories and essentials you need during hunting or shooting.
Reasons To Buy
- Durable and lightweight.
- Illuminated Reticle Scope.
- Auto-Dry Fire System.
- Auto Safety Trigger.
- Adjustable Stock.
Reasons To Avoid
- No Rope Cocking Device Included.
What’s the bottom line?
PSE Coalition is a powerful, fast, compact, and ergonomic crossbow. It features an adjustable stock and a relaxed foregrip. Packing only 6.9 pounds and 180 fps overall, this bow is lightweight and easy to shoot.
8. TenPoint Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 Crossbow
| Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 360fps |
| Draw Weight | 175 lbs |
| Axle To Axle (Cocked / Uncocked) | 15″ / 19″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 112 ft-lbs |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
| Length | 35.5″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.5″ |
| Finish | Peak Camo |
This latest Wicked Ridge crossbow is powered with a unique stock design that lightens the crossbow and improves handling. It is a perfect choice for hunters who want a low pull weight crossbow but doesn’t dampen its quality.
It has a speed rating of 360 feet per second with a pull out weight of 175 pounds. Also, it has a compact, slim profile that makes it effortless to maneuver in tight quarters. When it comes to safety and comfort, it has a fully integrated fore-grip with extended safety wings. It helps to keep the hunter’s hand safely below the string release path.
Another amazing feature is its one screw assembly. It is so easy to assemble even beginners can set it up in a few minutes. All in all, it comes as ready to shoot packages. It consists of 3x multi-line scope, three arrow instant detach quiver, ACUdraw, and owner manual.
The scope is well-designed and gives a clear view. It is pre-sighted and features fully coated 3x optics. With a built-in cocking rope, the cocking is easy for all ages.
Reasons To Buy
- Gordon Glass Limbs – lightweight & durable.
- Ultra-narrow 15″ wide bow assembly.
- Delivers unmatched out of the box accuracy.
- Perfectly balanced.
- Easy and safe to use.
- Built-in ACUdraw/ACUdraw 50 Crank device.
Reasons To Avoid
- No string dampeners included.
What’s the bottom line?
This entry-level Rampage 360 Crossbow of Wicked Ridge model comes packed with Multi-Line features. Its built-in cocking device allows you smooth and accurate cocking. With this bow, you will enjoy the unmatched experience of hunting.
9. Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow (78128)
| Whitetail Hunter II Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 350fps |
| Draw Weight | 160 lbs |
| Width Axle (Uncocked) | 18.25″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 103 ft. lbs |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
| Length | 34.25″ |
| Power Stroke | 16.125″ |
| Finish | Realtree Xtra |
Here is another Barnett crossbow to knock down the whitetail with one bolt, the Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow. Barnett is one of the reputed brands for making one of the ideal crossbows in the world. This model is reliable and effective, specially made in the USA. Its compact size lets you handle it with ease while sitting in a tree stand or blinds, thanks to its 18.25″ uncocked width.
It is a modern crossbow with a 6.4 lbs that makes it lighter than average crossbows. It is finished with the Realtree Xtra Camo pattern that blends well with the woods. It also features crosswire lines that are strong and durable enough. However, it comes pre-assembled and makes disassembling easy with a single bolt system.
When it comes to performance, it is one of the great crossbows by Barnett for beginners. Its 350 ft. per second speed, 103 ft. lbs. KE, and 12.5″ power stroke makes it a beast and delivers an instant hit to knock down any big game within 40 yards. However, its TiggerTech Frictionless technology features a free-floating roller that sits within the latch and the sear. Also, the rope cocking device makes rope locking easy and fast.
Reasons To Buy
- Comes with a rope cocker.
- Amazing anti-vibration foot stirrup.
- The cocking device reduces cocking tension by 17 lbs.
- Sound-Proof Shots.
- Full safety features – nock sensors and anti-dry fire inhibitor.
- 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope.
- Lightweight Quiver.
Reasons To Avoid
- Scope and grips aren’t adjustable.
- Quality of scope is so-so.
What’s the bottom line?
This Whitetail Hunter II is the best hunting crossbow for beginners as well as expertise. Its name is enough to tell how much it is capable of. The plenty of power and safety makes you shoot with accuracy and consistency.
10. Excalibur Matrix G340 Crossbow
| Excalibur Matrix G340 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 340 fps |
| Draw Weight | 230 lbs |
| Dimensions | 12″ x 7″ x 36″ |
| Kinetic Energy | – |
| Weight | 5.13 lbs |
| Length | 33.25″ |
| Power Stroke | 10.5″ |
| 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.
- Deadly Speed of 340 fps.
- Great Durability and Accuracy.
- Skeletonized Frame For Reduced Weight.
- Weatherproof design.
Reasons To Avoid
- Supressors are not included.
What’s the bottom line?
This Excalibur G340 crossbow is the lightest yet sturdy gear to match your hunting expectations. Its light and narrow-frame can shoot up to 350 fps with 10.2″ power stroke and 230 lbs.
What to Expect in The Best Crossbow Under $500?
Though these reasonably priced crossbows may lack the bells and whistles of expensive weapons, yet they are from top brands, and you can expect them to be more than capable enough for taking down a small to medium game.
Speed & Energy
High-End crossbow models will have arrow speed in the 400+ FPS, while the inexpensive crossbows will clock in at the mid 300’s. Little slower but more than enough to take a deer or turkey down.
It isn’t essential to buy a crossbow that is capable of 400 or more fps. For target practice, deer, and small black bear hunting, 350fps is more than fast enough.
The same goes for energy, with less speed and power strokes, there’ll be lower KE. However, this KE is more than enough to take down an animal at close range in the best ways.
A heavier crossbow is easier to keep steady when shooting while the lighter ones are easy to carry around tight spots. Therefore consider your own physical limitation.
Safety
Some of the crossbows under 500 includes auto safety and antidry fire system. These safety features help keep you from damaging your new crossbow as well as from injuring yourself. Pick a bow with auto-engaging safety so that you’ll never have to remind yourself to reset the safety before drawing.
Accessories
Even at this budget, manufacturers are providing crossbows as a package. They are packed with a red dot sight scope, quiver, rope cocker, arrows, sling mount and lube wax.
In some crossbow packages, accessories are not super high quality. If you are expecting superior quality optics, you might want to look at a higher price range. Or you can buy a better crossbow scope separately.
Warranty
With any hunting equipment, you are investing in a weapon that requires to last you over many years and various hunts. Therefore look for multi-year warranties that cover manufacturing defects.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much draw weight do you require in the crossbow?
Most of the hunters target medium to large games such as deer, black bear, moose, etc. That’s why the most crossbows come in the range of 150 lbs pull weight and 300 fps velocity. For hunting bigger prey, you need a crossbow with more pull out weight and velocity. You can also read our beginner’s guide that’ll help you to find the best crossbow.
2. What is Reverse Draw Crossbows?
RDT (Reverse Draw Technology), is the latest innovation in the world of crossbows. It comes in a compound crossbow with reversed limbs. It has the limbs towards shoulder stock and adds an extra bow-string to propel the bolt forward while making an extremely compact bow.
Advantages
- The well-Balanced design
- Increased power-stroke
- Low vibration and noise
- Smaller in size than conventional bows
3. What does trigger creep mean?
It is the positive moment of trigger that does cause the sear to move and does engage the mainspring.
