In the article we will be reviewing the Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow. The Recruit is a great starter crossbow for any level hunter.
In an era where almost everyone is using firearms, some of us like to try the traditional method. For hunting, a multitude of weapons is present for your use. But even if you can’t afford a firearm, crossbows are sure to have your back.
For more crossbow options, see our Crossbow Guide.
- 330 feet per second. Draw weight: 140 lbs Kinetic energy: 91.9 ft lbs
- Overall weight 6.4 lbs | axle to axle 16.125 | dimensions 34.25L x 18.25W
- Ships mostly assembled. Anti-Vibration Foot Stirrup
- Trigger Tech Technology with 3lb zero-creep release. All stainless steel components. Nock sensor and adf eliminate dry fires
- Includes: 4x32 scope, rope cocking device, light weight quiver, two 20 inch Headhunter arrows, lube wax (we suggest you lube strings every 10 shots).Crank Cocking Device Compatible
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A majority of the population considers crossbows as being backward, old-fashioned, and outdated. Of course, with just a piece of wood and string, there isn’t much you can do. But modern crossbows have actually added some of the elements that firearms can have. These include scopes, target ranges, and precise shooting.
Crossbows are best as they allow the young hunter to get a basic sense of the way hunting works. Then they can opt for a heavier duty rifle or hunting gun. As an ambush hunter myself, I find that crossbows are easier to use. They aren’t even that strictly regulated, unlike firearms.
But which crossbow should you buy? I had no clue until I compared the Barnett Tactical Compound to other models. It proved to be ten times faster, stronger, and more accurate. Below, I have listed the specific features of the Barnett, along with a few buying tips.
Draw Weight
An important factor to always keep in mind is the draw weight of the crossbow. Draw weight is the net weight that will be on the rear side of the string of the crossbow. This is important as it has an effect on the velocity of the arrow and the general feel of the bow.
Having a draw weight that is beyond a certain limit can make it harder to load. Be sure to get a decent amount of draw weight. But don’t overdo it. Some crossbows even have a cocking aid that makes it easier to cock your bow. Avail the feature wherever you can.
Arrow Velocity
Arrow velocity is just what it sounds like. The speed at which your arrow is released from the crossbow impacts force and fatality. Higher velocity is almost always appreciated. However, the extra speed can sometimes come at a cost.
Too much velocity requires a higher draw weight. This can make the bow heavier and bigger to use. So I would recommend looking for a crossbow with moderate velocity. Higher speeds make shots more accurate and can even uplift long-range shooting. The choice is in your hands, but I recommend going for moderate velocity.
About The Barnett Tactical Compound
This is one of those exclusive crossbows manufactured by Barnett. Barnett has a great reputation as being one of the world’s largest supplier of premium crossbows. At present, it stands as the globe’s number one crossbow manufacturer. With the Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow you can know that your money is going in the right place.
Barnett’s crossbows, and especially the bows, are made with high precision machine designing. The process is quite complicated, but the result is simple. A tactical crossbow that you can count on. It pairs well with Barnett dynamic arrows and their accessories.
- Arrow velocity is 330 ft per second. This is moderate and does not add much draw weight in the long run.
- Draw weight of only 130 pounds. Very easy to hold, pull, and release.
- Comes with a quiver included. The quiver can hold up to 3 arrows at a time. Great for shooting on ranges or on plains.
- This model also comes with a device specialized for rope cocking. This makes it exceptionally easier to reload and release.
- The entire crossbow measures about 20 inches from one axle to the other. Great flexibility and shooting distance.
- The entire crossbow measures about 20 inches from one axle to the other. Great flexibility and shooting distance.
- Comes with an included talon sling.
- The best part about the Barnett Tactical is that it even comes with its own scope. The scope is a 4x32 model, and it helps with shooting accuracy.
- Barnett has its own unique crosswire cable system.
Overview
As stated, the Barnett includes a 4x32 shooting scope. The scope will help in target locking and will improve your shooting accuracy by a ton. Of course, your accuracy also depends on your skills. But I’ve always found that with the right equipment, improvement can be made.



This crossbow also features a talon sling which makes it easier to carry. This is important, as the weight can sometimes tire out your hands. A rope cocking system is also included with the Barnett. This makes reloading a lot easier.
I would recommend the Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow for hunters and shooters. It’s best for long-distance shooting and for hunting animals. It gives a very accurate shot, especially with the included scope and the arrow velocity. It’s also best for use with other Barnett products.
Results
As of now, I’d say that the Barnett crossbow is an excellent hunter’s choice. It features an arrow velocity of 330 ft/s. This is the highest that I have seen among most other crossbows. The increased velocity makes the shooting more accurate and precise.
Apart from that, there’s a crosswire cable system. This is the best system for bowstrings. Most people tend to have issues with the bowstrings and their reliability. With the Crosswire, the risk of missing a shot is lowered.
The Barnett Tactical Compound shoots within a grouping of 3.5 inches at 46 meters (50 yards). This means that it will not become any less accurate over time. Even at high velocities and long distances, the Barnett doesn’t fail you.
What Others Say
As for the other customers, a majority of them praise the Barnett Tactical Compound. They pointed out that the crossbow was accurate, fast, and user-friendly. They also said that the overall quality was superb.
They ran into a few problems, though. The first issue was that the draw weight was not the highest among the other models they saw. The second was that the 4x32 shooting scope wasn’t the best.
Still, a majority of them loved the Barnett and recommended it for other users. And as someone who has had the Barnett experience firsthand, I recommend it too.
Buying Advice
As for actually buying the crossbow, new and used models can be purchase under $1,000. If you want a used one, it will cost you no more than $700. Sites like Amazon have great deals. The quality and efficiency of the product makes it worth the price.
In Conclusion:
So to conclude, the Barnett Tactical Compound is an excellent choice for the average hunter. The Barnett ranks higher than most other crossbows. It is twice as fast, durable, and easy to use. I personally loved the design of the Barnett. It made for a great hunting companion.
If you find any issues with the Barnett, don’t forget to always look on the bright side. As a general, I would suggest that you should learn crossbow hunting. Trust me, you won’t regret it.