Top 5 Cheap Crossbows for Deer Hunting

Looking for a the best cheap crossbows for deer hunting? In this article we break down and recommend the top 5 affordable crossbows for hunting.

Over the years, crossbow hunting has been on the ascent, continuously uprooting the traditional bows and bolts. It is a weapon fixed across wooden support and helps in drawing and releasing the string. There are many different types of crossbow available on the market, and all of them have different features and functionalities.

Not everyone can afford an expensive crossbow so to make it convenient for you we have listed down the top 5 cheap crossbows. Now you can enjoy the hunting in the lesser amount. Animals you can hunt with a crossbow include elk, cougars, moose, bear, deer, etc.

If you are looking for something more on the recreational side e also recommend checking out are article on the Best Cheap Crossbows.

Though the crossbow hunting is a fast means of hunting down the predators, you still need to be careful while buying one because there are many important things to look for before buying. For this, we have a buying guide below which will clear your mind before the purchase. 

 

How much is draw weight is required for hunting deer with a crossbow?

It seems like a pretty simple question but has immense importance. Draw weight determines the arrow energy. It is the amount of force needed to draw the crossbow back to its locked position. Now the next thing to keep in consideration is that the different crossbows have different draw weight.

The minimum draw weight is usually 40 pounds/ lbs, which can effectively kill a deer. For the bigger game like elk or moose, it needs to be at least 60-65 lbs. less than 40 pounds will result in missed opportunities, and you won’t be able to enjoy a hunting trip.

 

Cheap Crossbows for Deer Hunting – Buying Guide:

 

1. Mounted Scope

Before you get to the mounting scope, you need to buy a pair of scope rings. There are a lot of alternatives to look over when you’re picking a scope, ordinarily going from zero to five. You’ll additionally have the option to look over changed reticles, which help you to point appropriately at your objective, the most well known are either red dots.

Moreover, there are many other factors to look for, like the range, accuracy, and size. The smaller games require scopes which work best at short or mid-range distances. It ensures that the animal will be hit.

The crossbow scope should easily fit the crossbow snugly so that the hunter can easily hunt. Now, you have to decide whether you want a scope for long-range or short. 

 

2. Weight distribution

When you are looking for a perfect crossbow for yourself, comfort should be one of the main considerations. The one which has heavy padding and feels comfortable when worn on the shoulder is the best fit. The padding helps in evenly distributing the weight. However, it is your choice, but this will help you in hunting for a long time without feeling any burden. Larger the pad, more the comfort! This is guaranteed.  

 

3. Arrow Velocity

 In the early days, people used to think that the slow arrow is more accurate. But it is not true today.  Crossbow Bolts speed is still very important for the overall success. Fat arrows fly flatter.

It depends on you what kind of speed you would prefer. Generally people prefer the speed of 285 to 290 fps, but still, there are hunters who won’t go less than 300 fps. The arrow velocity also depends upon its weight. If the arrow is heavier it is going to develop more kinetic energy.

 

4. Accessories

As you have decided to be the part of crossbow hunters you need to buy some extras. You can buy as many as you can if you are a professional, but the basics are scope, broadheads, target, case, and a cooking device.

 

5. Quick-release mechanism

Now a fair decision is needed on the critical moment. You really need to familiarize yourself with the crossbow and check that is it smooths enough for you. As every crossbow is different from another and work in different manners, the same goes for the quick releases. They don’t work in the same fashion. So focus and get the one which best suits and comforts you.

 

6. Appearance

This is more of a personal preference than anything else. Most of the people love to have a unique thing, and some don’t really care about the appearance but prefer the quality and working. Though the appearance won’t define your hunting success but it can really help in boosting your confidence. Go for the one which melts your heart. Most people prefer black, as it looks classy. Rest is all your choice. And that matters.

 

Crossbows for Deer Hunting – Product Reviews:

 

1.      Barnett Hunter II Whitetail

When we talk about crossbows Barnett does not disappoint with its products. Likewise, the Whitetail Hunter II crossbow especially caters the need of mid-level shooters.

The pleasing design allows it to stand out in comparison with other crossbows. Also, it is one of the most compact crossbows you can ever get to see.

Features

• Shoots arrows at 350 FPS
• Stainless steel materials utilized
• Overall lightweight build
• Kinetic energy of 120-foot pounds
• 4×32 scope for long-distance target
• Ergonomic pistol grip

Overview

The Barnett whitetail hunter 2 is not like the ordinary crossbows available in the market. However, its skeleton-like construction makes this crossbow highly maneuverable and easy to handle. Both the ergonomic pistol grip and foregrip aids in tackling the bow effortlessly in the field.

The power of the crossbow is quite an exceptional feature. It sends arrow with the unbelievable speed of around 350 feet per second. The kinetic energy of 150 lbs helps the arrow to fly as fast as possible.

It is built up with the anti-dry fire technology to make sure it does not hurt anyone in the surrounding.

The Barnett whitetail hunter II comes up with the variety of accessories including lube wax, quiver and rope cock device.

Our rating

The Barnett Whitetail II is the game-changer because of its trigger tech technology. This crossbow is the appropriate option for you if you consider its price level. In addition to this, this permits the shooters enough power and confidence to win any North American game. There is also the headhunter of 20 inch that just not kills it within seconds but penetrates through the game.

One of the best features of this whitetail crossbow is its stainless steel components. It in turns not only makes it robust but also elongates its durability.

 

2.      CenterPoint Whisper 380 Tormentor

Behind this unique Whisper Tormentor 380 crossbow, there is a popular brand named Crosman. It has captured the eyes of the crossbow users because of the maximum hunt range of up to 60 yards. It ensures the shooter to make the shot as quietly as possible with the silencing feature.

Features

• 14-inch axle to axle cocked width
• Riser made of aluminum
• Narrow and compact structure
• Draw weight is approx 185 lbs
• Powerful crossbow with 380-400 FPS
• Whisper silence innovation

Overview

First off, the brand takes care of this crossbow design to make it distinct from others. In this regard, there is a use of black and camo shades to help it look appealing and sturdy.

In order to use this in tree stands and blinds it combines with cock at 14 inches axle to axle width.

The main quality of this whisper crossbow is the 380 fps along with the 120 lbs of Kinetic energy. However, the kinetic energy is of moderate level enough for drawing out immense game.

On the other hand, this 35.5-inch crossbow is of extended length. Despite this, it is quite handy and easy to tackle.

Our rating

The best feature is you can hunt in any weather condition. The camouflage design has stock with the padded grip of rubber to make it durable yet convenient.

In our view, it is the safest crossbow which appears with the auto safety trigger system. This allows you to adjust the security to the one spot each time it is charged.

It features two sections namely limb and stock section with limbs strapped already. The good news is it has the trouble-free assembly which takes hardly 10 minutes.

Lastly, if your budget is tight then you can opt for whisper 380 crossbow.

 

3.      SA Sports 306119

In our list of the best crossbow for deer hunting, there is a prominent name of SA sports 306119.  It is due to the reason; it proves to be suitable for people who seem enthusiastic about hunting. Moreover, for the production of enough power, it offers stealth with other top-notch features.

Features

• Draw weight of 175 lbs.
• Comprises of multi-range 4×32 scope
• Integrated full barrel
• Proceed at the speed of 360 FPS
• Machine-made of aluminum
• Comes with versatile Strings stopper

Overview

The SA sports empire Beowulf impresses the hunters not only with its look. However, because of firing a shot at the speed of 360 FPS, this kinetic energy has the ability to power each shot to target long distances.

There is the inclusion of one of the best multi-range 4×32 scope for giving a satisfying performance every time.

For making it effortless for beginners’ usage, the presence of CNC machined cam will draw 175 lbs of weight.

This crossbow features rope cock which does not only reduce the weight in half. However, it is for preventing any possible incident. Other than this, the anti-dry fire trigger also ensures your complete safety.

Our rating

Buying the Empire Beowulf can be your best decision as you get quality, power, accuracy, and speed in this crossbow. Also, the feature that makes it extraordinary is the noise suppression device for enjoyable hunting experience.

With this crossbow, you do not have to worry about missing any shot. As the adjustable Picatinny mount foregrip is there to give you complete relief from this issue.

Apart from this, in the construction of the entire tool aluminum material has used. It does not only make it durable but also suitable for beginners.

 

4.      Karnage Apocalypse

The Karnage makes its name in the crossbow manufacturing industry because of its superior performance and affordability. The Karnage Apocalypse crossbow is the newest innovation. This beast seems to have no competition with other crossbows as the fire speed is at 370 feet per second. In this way, it can be considered as one of the fastest crossbows on the market.

Features

• Full draw axle to axle of 14 inches
• Multi cross 4×32 scope with eyepiece
• Powerful fire shot at speed 360 FPS
• Draw weight of almost 175 lbs
• Highest level of downrange precision
• High-velocity Kinetic energy of 111 ft-lbs

Overview

The Karnage crossbow package shows up with everything a shooter requires to start off with hunting activity. The design is of camouflage shade that takes the hunter to a different level.

 Mostly all the crossbows exhaust the hunters because of the heavyweight and make tackling difficult. On the contrary, with the 7.5 pounds, this is the lightest crossbow which makes the hunting experience worthwhile.

In addition to this, there are also carbon-coated bolts in this Karnage crossbow which refer to as K20 bolts. The package includes 3 k20 bolts that let you use quivers to get hold. It allows the shooter to target too long distances and field executive.

Our Rating

Of course, every shooter needs a crossbow that does not only have superior workmanship but also comes within budget. This high-end tool by Karnage is comparatively less expensive and well balanced.

 

5.      Leader Accessories Crossbow 

You need to be careful before buying the good crossbow in limited budget. Leader accessories will never disappoint you in this. You have reached the right place for the right crossbow. Let’s just look at the features which will drive you crazy.

Features

• Shoots arrow at 325 fps
• It has an anti-dry fire mechanism
• Has a power stroke of 10.5-inch
• Overall lightweight build with the arrow tip weight of 125 grains
• Has 4 pieces of 16 aluminum arrow, wax, stringer, padded sling, quiver, cooking rope
• The crossbow is with 3-red-dotted sight scope

Overview

Leader accessories crossbow package is definitely not an ordinary one. It is easy to cook and un-cook. It has a 3-red-dot scope which can help you point well at your target. The padded sling helps the hunter to carry it on the back without any difficulty. The power stroke of 10.5″ helps in the quick and easy hit. Moreover, its arrow tip weight helps the arrow to fly faster in the air and hit the target on point. The overall package of the leader is all a capable hunter demands. Best served and delivered.

Our rating

Leader accessories crossbow package is one of the best options if you consider its price level. With the arrow speed of 325 fps, it gives enough courage to the shooter with a large success rate. Its lightweight helps the hunter to carry it for long with ease. One of the best features is the anti-dry fire mechanism, which helps in easy de-cooking and prevents dry firing.

 

Conclusion

To sum it all up, you now have a list of top 5 cheap crossbows for deer hunting which can help you in good hunting. Start saving up a reasonable amount of money and buy any of the above crossbows. I am pretty sure it will be worth spending money.

Do you agree with us? Have you ever tried any one of these? If yes, then come and share your views regarding this in the comment section. If you have any queries, feel free to ask. We will love to help and hear you out.

Live. Laugh. Hunt!