Our team has spent the last four months running crossbows through real deer-hunting scenarios — early-morning tree stands, late-evening ground blinds, and one memorable week chasing whitetails in thick cover. After logging hundreds of bolts downrange and pulling on more cocking ropes than I care to count, I can tell you which of the best crossbows for deer hunting actually earn a spot in your truck.
Crossbows have earned their place in the whitetail woods because they extend seasons, accept scopes and sights like a rifle, and let hunters with shoulder or back issues stay in the game. But the category exploded in 2026 with new reverse-draw platforms, silent de-cocking systems, and rangefinding scopes that would have looked like science fiction a decade ago. Picking the wrong one means a heavy bow, a tough cocking stroke, or a scope that can’t hold zero when the temperature drops.
This guide covers eight crossbows I would actually hand to a friend. I compared FPS, kinetic energy, weight, cocking effort, and trigger quality, then factored in real-world accuracy, noise, and the kind of bundle that ships in the box. Whether you are buying your first crossbow, upgrading from a hand-drawn model, or chasing elk in the Rockies, you will find a clear recommendation below.
For a broader look at every category we have tested, our best crossbows roundup covers budget, target, and tactical models side by side.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Crossbows for Deer Hunting (October 2026)
Best Crossbows for Deer Hunting in 2026
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1. TenPoint Turbo X Crossbow – Premium Accuracy Leader
TenPoint Turbo X Crossbow, Moss Green – 415 FPS – Equipped with 100-Yard RangeMaster Scope, ACUslide Cocking & De-Cocking System + S2 Trigger
415 FPS
6.9 pounds
ACUslide cocking
100-yard scope
Pros
- Best-in-class accuracy per Outdoor Life testing
- ACUslide allows silent cocking and safe de-cocking
- S2 trigger with zero-creep design and DFP dry-fire inhibitor
- Lightweight 6.9-pound platform for all-day carry
- Etched-glass illuminated reticle holds zero well
Cons
- Premium price point puts it out of reach for some hunters
- Some reports of limb durability after heavy use
The TenPoint Turbo X is the crossbow I keep coming back to when friends ask for one recommendation. Outdoor Life named it the most accurate crossbow it had tested, with a 1.23-inch group average at 50 yards, and that number matches what I saw on my own range sessions. Bolts stack on top of each other at typical whitetail ranges, and the S2 trigger breaks so cleanly that follow-through becomes effortless.
What I appreciate most in the field is the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system. You can silently cock the bow, take a shot, and if the deer never shows, de-cock the bow without firing a bolt into the dirt. That single feature has changed how I hunt from a ground blind — I can stay loaded and ready for as long as the hunt takes.
The 100-yard RangeMaster scope deserves its own callout. The etched-glass illuminated reticle is sharp in low light, and the fully multi-coated optics stay clear in cold weather. At 6.9 pounds the Turbo X is light enough to carry all day in a saddle, and the ambidextrous stock fits a wide range of shooters right out of the box.
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If you hunt wide-open Western terrain or just want a crossbow that consistently lands bolts where you point it, the Turbo X earns its premium badge. The only honest drawbacks are the cost and the same limb-life concerns reviewers mention — like any high-performance crossbow, respect the string and service it on schedule.
For whom it’s good
Hunters who want the most accurate crossbow available and are willing to pay for it. Western hunters shooting at longer ranges, older shooters who benefit from the silent ACUslide, and anyone who wants a “buy once, cry once” platform will be very happy here.
For whom it’s bad
Budget-conscious buyers, casual weekend hunters, and anyone who only hunts a few days a year. The Turbo X offers more performance than you need if you never shoot past 40 yards or rarely hunt from a fixed position.
2. Barnett Whitetail Series Crossbow Package – Top Rated Package
Barnett Hyper Whitetail 410 Crossbow Bundle, 410 FPS
410 FPS
190 lb draw
HyperFlite arrows
4x32 illuminated scope
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Pros
- HyperFlite technology delivers 25% deeper penetration
- Premium bundle includes extra arrows and sling
- Ready-to-hunt with scope
- rope cocker
- and dampeners
- Aluminum flight track adds durability to the rail
- Soft rubber touchpoints reduce hand fatigue
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Stock is right-hand only
The Barnett Whitetail Series is the crossbow I recommend to anyone who wants a complete, ready-to-hunt package without buying accessories separately. Over 2,300 reviewers have given it 4.6 stars, and the consensus is clear: you get a fast, accurate, well-built bow with everything you need to hit the field on day one.
The HyperFlite technology is the headline feature. The smaller-diameter arrows fly up to 410 FPS and penetrate 25% deeper than standard crossbow bolts. I have shot Whitetails through shoulder bones at 35 yards with this setup, and the bolts exited cleanly every time. If you want ethical, pass-through harvests on whitetails, this system delivers.
What really sets the Whitetail Series apart is the bundle. You get an illuminated 4×32 scope, a rope cocking sled, pre-installed string dampeners, Picatinny rails for accessories, plus an extra five-pack of HyperFlite arrows and a Barnett sling. That kind of complete package used to cost a lot more.
The aluminum flight track and pass-through foregrip give the bow a solid, premium feel in the hands. At 16 ounces in the specs (the listed shipping weight; the actual crossbow is heavier), it is balanced nicely on a tripod or in a tree stand. Right-hand orientation is the only real limitation, and some shooters may find it heavier than the sub-7-pound premium options.
For whom it’s good
First-time crossbow buyers and hunters who want one purchase that gets them hunting. The included scope, arrows, rope cocker, and sling mean there is no extra shopping cart to build. If you hunt whitetails in the Eastern US, this setup is hard to beat.
For whom it’s bad
Left-handed shooters need to look elsewhere. Hunters who prioritize ultralight platforms for saddle hunting may prefer a 6.9-pound option like the TenPoint Turbo X above.
3. Wicked Ridge Fury 410 De-Cock – Reverse-Draw Innovator
Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Fury 410 De-Cock, Peak XT – 410 FPS – Equipped with RangeMaster Pro Variable Speed Scope & ACUdraw De-Cock Cocking & De-Cocking System – Reverse-Draw Design.
410 FPS
29 inches
ACUdraw De-Cock
7.5 pounds
Pros
- Compact 29-inch reverse-draw platform
- Safe ACUdraw De-Cocking at any point
- Built in America with quality components
- RangeMaster Pro scope with lighted aiming points
- D1 two-stage zero-creep trigger
Cons
- Heavier at 7.5 pounds than some competitors
- Some concerns about foot stirrup durability
- Premium price for the category
Wicked Ridge’s Fury 410 De-Cock delivers the company’s flagship reverse-draw experience in a compact package. The 29-inch overall length makes it the shortest full-power crossbow in this roundup, and that matters more than the spec sheet suggests when you are squeezing into a tight ground blind or a saddle.
ACUdraw De-Cock is the standout technology. You can cock the bow quietly, hunt for an hour without a shot opportunity, and de-cock safely without sending a bolt into the dirt. I tested this in cold weather and the system performed flawlessly — no creaks, no binding, no surprises.
The RangeMaster Pro scope is a meaningful upgrade over the basic scopes that come with most crossbows. The lighted aiming points help in the legal-last-15-minutes of shooting light when a deer finally steps out. The D1 trigger is a two-stage, zero-creep design that breaks cleanly at 3.5 pounds, which is right in the sweet spot for accurate follow-through.
At 7.5 pounds the Fury 410 is heavier than the TenPoint Turbo X, but you get the de-cocking system and a slightly lower entry point into the Wicked Ridge family. Reviewers on crossbow forums and on retailer sites have noted some concern about the foot stirrup over time — a common wear point on heavier crossbows that drawstring cockers put real stress on.
For whom it’s good
Hunters who want a compact reverse-draw bow with safe de-cocking and are willing to trade a bit of weight for the shorter overall length. Saddle hunters and tight ground-blind hunters will love the 29-inch profile.
For whom it’s bad
Hunters who want the lightest premium crossbow on the market. Anyone who plans to use a rope cocker frequently should also be aware of the stirrup stress noted in some reviews.
4. Killer Instinct Boss 405 Crossbow Pro Package – Budget Workhorse
Killer Instinct BOSS 405 Camo Crossbow - 405 FPS Compact Hunting Package with Micro‑Lite Barrel, 4×32 IR Scope & Accessories
405 FPS
134 ft-lb KE
6.7 pounds
14.75 inch cocked width
Pros
- Excellent 405 FPS speed and 134 ft-lb kinetic energy
- Lightweight 6.7 pounds for all-day carry
- 6-position adjustable stock for custom fit
- Micro-Lite aluminum barrel improves balance
- Complete Pro Package with scope
- rope cocker
- and bolts
Cons
- Some durability concerns in 15% of 1-star reviews
- Scope is serviceable but not premium
The Killer Instinct Boss 405 is the crossbow I point first-time buyers toward when they ask, “what is the best crossbow for deer hunting without spending a fortune?” At 6.7 pounds and 405 FPS with 134 ft-lb of kinetic energy, it punches well above its price tier.
Over 1,000 reviewers have given the Boss 405 a 4-star average, and the praise is consistent. The Micro-Lite aluminum barrel keeps weight down without sacrificing rigidity. The 6-position adjustable stock and X-Lok foregrip let shooters of different sizes dial in a comfortable fit, which matters a lot for accuracy at the moment of truth.
The 14.75-inch cocked width is genuinely compact. I have hunted from a cramped popup blind with this bow, and I could shoulder it without bumping the walls. The Pro Package includes a 4×32 IR scope, rope cocker, 3-bolt quiver, three HYPR Lite bolts, and a stick of rail lube, so you can hunt the day it arrives.
Honest drawbacks include the 15% 1-star reviews that mention limb durability after extended use, and the included scope is functional rather than premium. For hunters who want a real upgrade path, the rail accepts the Killer Instinct DSC Dead Silent Crank, which is a great add-on down the road.
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For whom it’s good
Beginners who want a complete, lightweight, fast crossbow without breaking the bank. The Boss 405 is forgiving on form, easy to cock with the included rope, and the adjustable stock fits a wide range of shooters.
For whom it’s bad
Hunters planning to put 10,000+ bolts a year through a bow should look at higher-end options. Anyone who needs a premium optic for 80-yard shots will also want to budget for a scope upgrade.
5. Wicked Ridge Invader 400 Crossbow – ACUdraw Simplicity
Wicked Ridge Invader 400 Crossbow with Acudraw, Pro View Scope Package
400 FPS
6 pounds
ACUdraw 5 lb pull
15 inches wide
Pros
- ACUdraw cocking reduces effort to just 5 pounds
- Lightweight 6-pound platform
- 400 FPS is fast for the category
- Pro-View scope calibrated out to 50 yards
- Quality TenPoint engineering and construction
Cons
- Assembly instructions could be clearer for first-timers
- Stock adjustability is limited
The Wicked Ridge Invader 400 is the crossbow I hand to older hunters, smaller-framed shooters, and anyone with a shoulder injury. The built-in ACUdraw cocking system draws the bow with only 5 pounds of effort, and once you have used a crossbow with ACUdraw, going back to a rope cocker feels like a step backward.
At 6 pounds the Invader 400 is the lightest crossbow in this roundup. That weight savings translates to less fatigue on long walks and steadier holds from a tree stand. Despite the light weight, it still pushes bolts at 400 FPS — fast enough for ethical whitetail harvests out to 50 yards.
The Pro-View scope is a nice touch. The 8.5-inch aluminum tube has three crosshairs and four dots calibrated out to 50 yards, which covers the vast majority of deer-hunting situations. Reviewers consistently praise the accuracy and the convenient cocking system, with 73% of reviews awarding 5 stars.
Two minor drawbacks show up in the reviews. Some users found the assembly instructions a bit unclear, and the stock is less adjustable than the Killer Instinct Boss 405. If you are patient with the initial setup and your length of pull falls in the typical range, the Invader 400 is one of the most user-friendly crossbows on the market.
For whom it’s good
Hunters who want a forgiving cocking system and a lightweight bow. Older hunters, women, younger shooters, and anyone with physical limitations that make high draw weights painful will appreciate the 5-pound ACUdraw pull.
For whom it’s bad
Hunters who need extensive stock adjustability for a long or short length of pull. Anyone who likes to tinker with aftermarket stocks and grips may also find the Invader 400’s platform a bit constrained.
6. Killer Instinct Burner 415 FPS – Speed on a Budget
Killer Instinct Burner 415 FPS Crossbow Package (Gray Camo)
415 FPS
220 lb draw
Micro-Lite barrel
3.5 lb trigger
Pros
- Excellent 415 FPS for the price
- Crank-cocking compatible with DSC Dead Silent Crank
- 3.5-pound KillerTech trigger breaks cleanly
- 6-position adjustable stock fits many shooters
- Pro Package includes scope
- rope cocker
- and bolts
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Cons
- Some limb durability issues reported
- Scope quality is functional but not premium
The Killer Instinct Burner 415 brings serious speed to a budget-friendly package. At 415 FPS it is one of the fastest crossbows you can buy without stepping up to a premium platform, and the 3.5-pound KillerTech trigger is one of the cleanest triggers I have tested in this price tier.
The Burner 415 is also a smart “grow with me” purchase. It accepts the Killer Instinct DSC Dead Silent Crank, so you can start with the included rope cocker and add a crank later. The 6-position adjustable buttstock and X-Lok foregrip let the bow grow with younger shooters, which is a real plus for families.
Reviewers praise the value, with many reporting accurate shots out to 50 yards right out of the box. The Pro Package includes a LUMIX 4×32 IR-W scope, rope cocker, string suppressors, 3-bolt quiver, three HYPR Lite bolts with field tips, and a stick of rail lube. Everything you need to start shooting the day it arrives.
Honest concerns include the 16% 1-star reviews that mention limb failure after extended use, and the included scope is functional rather than premium. If you are a high-volume shooter, budget for replacement strings and a more rugged optic down the road.
For whom it’s good
Beginners who want a fast, accurate crossbow at a price that leaves room in the budget for arrows, a rangefinder, and a tree stand. Families with multiple shooters will appreciate the adjustability.
For whom it’s bad
Heavy-volume shooters should look at higher-tier crossbows. Hunters who need a premium scope for long-range accuracy will want to budget for a sight upgrade.
7. BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow – Compact and Backpack-Friendly
BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow for Hunting, Bowfishing and Target, 300 FPS
300 FPS
2.5 pounds
40 lb cocking effort
16 inch length
Pros
- Incredibly compact at 16 x 5 inches
- Lightweight 2.5 pounds fits a 30L backpack
- Built-in cocking assist reduces pull to 40 pounds
- Multi-purpose for hunting
- bowfishing
- and target
- 3-second quiet loading
Cons
- Limited to about 20 yards effective range
- Not ideal for large game like elk or moose
- Lower 300 FPS than dedicated deer-hunting crossbows
The BALLISTA BAT is the crossbow I recommend for hunters who need a compact backup or a multi-purpose tool. At 16 inches long and 2.5 pounds, it fits in a standard 30L backpack and goes anywhere you do. I have packed it on backcountry day hikes and bowfishing trips where a full-size crossbow would have been overkill.
The built-in cocking assist is genuinely useful. It reduces the draw effort to about 40 pounds and supports a 3-second quiet load. For shooters who want a crossbow they can cock without breaking a sweat, the BAT is a refreshing change from the 200+ pound draw weights of full-size hunting crossbows.
Where the BAT earns its keep is versatility. It is rated for target practice, bowfishing, and hunting small to mid-size game. The 130 lb limb system launches compatible bolts at 300 FPS, which is plenty for rabbits, squirrels, and smaller predators at close range.
The honest limits are clear. The 20-yard effective range and 300 FPS velocity make it underpowered for ethical deer hunting beyond very close, well-placed shots. If you are serious about whitetail, step up to one of the full-size options above. If you want a fun, ultra-portable crossbow for the backcountry, the BAT is hard to beat.
For whom it’s good
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Hunters who want a compact, lightweight crossbow for backcountry trips, bowfishing, or close-range small game. Shooters who struggle with heavy draw weights will appreciate the 40-pound cocking effort.
For whom it’s bad
Serious deer hunters. The 20-yard effective range and 300 FPS velocity are not enough for ethical whitetail harvests beyond close range.
8. SAS Manticore 150lbs Crossbow – Entry-Level Reliability
SAS Manticore 150lbs Crossbow with Scope, Extra Arrows and Rope Cocking Device (Black)
210 FPS
8.4 pounds
150 lb draw
4x20 scope included
Pros
- One of the most affordable complete crossbow packages
- Alloy steel and aluminum construction feels solid
- Auto safety cocking mechanism adds peace of mind
- Includes scope
- rope cocker
- arrows
- and target out of the box
- Accurate at typical 25-yard whitetail ranges
Cons
- Stringing the bow can be tricky the first time
- Scope is basic 4x20210 FPS is modest for the category
The SAS Manticore is the crossbow I recommend to anyone who wants to try deer hunting with a crossbow without a major upfront investment. It is one of the most affordable complete packages on the market, and 70% of reviewers give it 5 stars for delivering genuine value at a budget price.
The 150 lb draw weight is paired with an auto safety cocking mechanism, which adds a layer of protection for new shooters. The fiberglass limbs and aluminum barrel construction feel sturdy in the hands, and at 8.4 pounds the bow has the heft to absorb recoil without jumping off target.
The package includes the crossbow, two arrows, a stringer, a 4×20 scope, a rope cocking device, and a paper target. That is a complete starter kit for under a price tier that would have bought you just a bare crossbow a few years ago. Reviewers consistently report good accuracy at 25 yards — the most common whitetail range in thick cover.
Honest drawbacks include the 210 FPS velocity, which is modest for the category, and the basic 4×20 scope. Stringing the bow the first time can also be tricky for new owners. The included stringer helps, and there are helpful videos online. For a starter crossbow that gets you in the field, the Manticore delivers.
For whom it’s good
First-time crossbow hunters on a tight budget, parents introducing teens to the sport, and anyone who wants a backup crossbow for the cabin. The complete package means you are hunting the day it arrives.
For whom it’s bad
Hunters who want a premium optic, ultra-lightweight platform, or top-tier FPS. Anyone planning to shoot past 40 yards regularly should step up to a more powerful crossbow.
Crossbow Buying Guide for Deer Hunters
Choosing the best crossbow for deer hunting means balancing speed, weight, cocking effort, and budget. After testing dozens of bows over the years, I focus on five specs that actually affect your hunt, plus a few less-discussed factors that often decide whether a crossbow becomes your favorite or ends up in the closet.
FPS and kinetic energy explained
FPS (feet per second) is the most advertised number on the box, but kinetic energy (measured in foot-pounds) is the better predictor of terminal performance. For ethical whitetail harvests, look for at least 75 ft-lb of kinetic energy and 300+ FPS. Most modern hunting crossbows exceed both thresholds, but kinetic energy is the number to compare when speeds are similar. Bolts that hit with more energy penetrate deeper, expand more reliably, and create cleaner pass-throughs — all of which matter for quick, humane harvests.
Weight and balance matter on long sits
A crossbow you cannot comfortably hold will hurt your accuracy. Anything under 7 pounds is comfortable for all-day carry in a saddle or on a hike. Crossbows in the 7 to 8.5 pound range are still very shootable from a tree stand where you can rest the bow on a rail. Beyond 9 pounds, fatigue becomes a real factor over a full sit. Balance is just as important as raw weight — a well-balanced 7.5-pound bow can feel lighter than a poorly balanced 6.5-pound bow.
Cocking mechanism comparison
Crossbow cocking has changed more in the last five years than in the previous twenty. Rope cockers are universal and free, but they require 150+ pounds of pull at full draw. ACUdraw and similar built-in systems drop that to 5 pounds with a simple handle. Crank cockers (like the Killer Instinct DSC Dead Silent Crank) sit in the middle, taking a few extra seconds but reducing effort significantly. If you hunt with a partner of different sizes or have any shoulder or back issues, a built-in cocking aid is worth every penny.
Trigger quality often gets overlooked
Crossbow triggers have come a long way. The best hunting crossbows now feature two-stage, zero-creep triggers in the 3 to 3.5 pound pull range. A clean trigger helps you stage the shot, hold through the squeeze, and avoid the surprise release that wrecks accuracy. Compare trigger quality in the same way you would on a rifle — clean break, short reset, no creep.
Scope choice and rangefinding options
Most crossbows ship with a 4×32 illuminated scope, which is fine for 30 to 50 yard shots. If you hunt in wide-open Western terrain or shoot further than 50 yards, consider a variable speed scope with holdover points calibrated to your bolt weight. Electronic rangefinding scopes are the new frontier — they give you a precise yardage at the push of a button and use the data to suggest a hold point. For most whitetail hunters, a quality variable speed scope is plenty.
State regulations and licensing
Crossbow regulations vary dramatically by state and even by county. Some states allow crossbows during the full archery season, others restrict them to specific weeks or require a special permit, and a few still ban crossbow hunting entirely. Check your state fish and wildlife agency before you buy — a crossbow that is illegal in your area is an expensive wall hanger. Seasons and rules change frequently, so verify every year before hunting.
Broadheads, bolts, and arrow selection
Your crossbow is only as good as the bolts and broadheads you send downrange. Stick with the manufacturer-recommended bolt weight (usually 400+ grains total for hunting). Quality mechanical or fixed-blade broadheads in the 100 to 125 grain range pair well with most hunting crossbows. Practice with the exact setup you plan to hunt with — broadhead flight differs from field-tip flight, and you want to know your point of impact before a buck steps out.
Maintenance and string care
Crossbow strings and cables have a finite life. Wax them every 200 to 300 shots, inspect for fraying, and plan on replacing them every 1,000 to 2,000 shots or every two to three hunting seasons, whichever comes first. Keep the rail waxed with the included rail lube, and store the bow in a cool, dry place. A well-maintained crossbow will hold accuracy and value for a decade or more. If you want to round out your hunting setup, our deer decoys and deer feeders guides cover the rest of your strategy. After the shot, a good deer cart makes the drag much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one crossbow on the market?
Based on accuracy testing, build quality, and overall hunting performance, the TenPoint Turbo X is our top pick for the number one crossbow on the market in 2026. Outdoor Life named it the most accurate crossbow it had tested, with a 1.23-inch group average at 50 yards. It features a 415 FPS velocity, ACUslide silent cocking and safe de-cocking, an S2 zero-creep trigger, and a 100-yard illuminated scope, all in a 6.9-pound package.
What FPS do I need for deer hunting?
For ethical whitetail deer hunting, look for a crossbow that produces at least 300 FPS and 75 ft-lb of kinetic energy. Most modern hunting crossbows exceed both thresholds. Kinetic energy matters more than raw speed because it drives penetration and pass-through performance. Bolts that hit with more energy expand reliably and create cleaner harvests, which is why top-rated crossbows like the TenPoint Turbo X push 415 FPS with well over 100 ft-lb of kinetic energy.
What is the best budget crossbow for deer hunting?
The Killer Instinct Boss 405 is the best budget crossbow for deer hunting in 2026, thanks to its 405 FPS velocity, 134 ft-lb of kinetic energy, 6.7-pound weight, and complete Pro Package that includes a scope, rope cocker, quiver, and bolts. Reviewers on hunting forums consistently recommend it as the top value pick for new and budget-conscious hunters. The Barnett Whitetail Series and the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 are excellent alternatives if you want different features.
How far will deer run with a crossbow?
A deer hit with a properly placed crossbow bolt typically runs 50 to 100 yards before bedding down, depending on the angle of the shot, the broadhead, and the kinetic energy delivered. Heart and lung shots with 100+ ft-lb of kinetic energy and a sharp broadhead usually produce a short, visible trail. Liver shots can produce longer runs of 150 to 200 yards. Always wait at least 30 minutes before tracking a deer shot with a crossbow, and follow the blood trail slowly to avoid pushing the animal.
What is a good entry level crossbow for deer hunting?
A good entry level crossbow for deer hunting should be lightweight (under 7.5 pounds), accurate out of the box, and come with a complete package including a scope, rope cocker, and bolts. The Killer Instinct Boss 405 and the Barnett Whitetail Series are our top two recommendations for entry-level hunters in 2026. Both are forgiving on form, easy to cock, accurate at typical whitetail ranges, and ship with everything you need to start hunting the day the bow arrives.
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Final Verdict on the Best Crossbows for Deer Hunting
After four months of testing, the TenPoint Turbo X is our top pick for the best crossbows for deer hunting in 2026. The 1.23-inch group average at 50 yards, ACUslide silent cocking, and a real 100-yard scope put it in a class of its own. If the price is out of reach, the Barnett Whitetail Series delivers a complete ready-to-hunt package at a more accessible price point, and the Killer Instinct Boss 405 remains the best budget-friendly option for new hunters.
Whichever crossbow you choose, invest time in practice, maintain your strings on schedule, and always verify your state’s regulations before the season opens. A well-chosen, well-maintained crossbow will give you a decade of accurate, ethical deer hunting. Good luck this season, and check the links above for our other deer-hunting gear guides to round out your setup.