The ideal beginner crossbow offers smooth cocking, manageable draw weight, clear scope sighting, and dependable performance without overwhelming complexity.
In 2026, accessible packages like the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package and the Barnett Explorer XP stand out for ease of use, package value, and smooth operation.
Whether your priority is range, ease of cocking, or ready-to-shoot convenience, this list highlights the Best Beginner Crossbows to get you started with confidence.
Top 6 Best Crossbows for Beginners
1. Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package (Quiver, 3 – 20-Inch Arrows and Premium Red Dot Sight)
An affordable and reliable choice, the Barnett Jackal is perfect for those new to crossbows. It comes with a red dot sight, a quiver, and arrows, making it a ready-to-use package.
Specifications:
- Speed: 315 FPS
- Draw Weight: 150 lbs
- Power Stroke: 12 inches
- Weight: 7.7 lbs
Pros:
✔️ Budget-friendly starter crossbow
✔️ Lightweight and ergonomic design
✔️ Comes with essential accessories
Cons:
❌ Louder than some higher-end models
❌ No built-in crank system
2. BARNETT CROSSBOWS Explorer XP Crossbow Package with Carbon Arrows, Quiver, Rope Cocking Device
The Barnett XP 380 is a compact crossbow with impressive speed and power. It’s great for those who want a balance between affordability and performance.
Specifications:
- Speed: 380 FPS
- Draw Weight: 185 lbs
- Power Stroke: 13.75 inches
- Weight: 6.3 lbs
Pros:
✔️ Fast and powerful for a beginner crossbow
✔️ Includes a crank cocking device
✔️ Easy to assemble and sight in
Cons:
❌ Slightly heavier than other beginner models
❌ String may need frequent waxing
3. Wicked Ridge by TenPoint Raider 400 De-Cock Crossbow, Peak XT – 400 FPS – Includes ACUdraw De-Cock, Lighted 3X Pro-View Scope & Three Match 400 Carbon Alpha-Nock Arrows
A high-performance yet beginner-friendly option, the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 offers speed, safety, and reliability.
Specifications:
- Speed: 400 FPS
- Draw Weight: 185 lbs
- Power Stroke: 13.5 inches
- Weight: 6 lbs
Pros:
✔️ T4 trigger system for smooth shots
✔️ ACUdraw system for effortless cocking
✔️ Extremely accurate
Cons:
❌ Slightly higher price range for beginners
❌ Bolts need frequent retightening
4. Excalibur 308 Short Banshee
A great choice for those who prefer a recurve crossbow, the Excalibur 308 Short Banshee is simple to maintain and use.
Specifications:
- Speed: 308 FPS
- Draw Weight: 254 lbs
- Power Stroke: 11.3 inches
- Weight: 5.4 lbs
Pros:
✔️ Recurve design means fewer maintenance issues
✔️ Compact and lightweight
✔️ Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
❌ Slower speed compared to compound crossbows
❌ Requires more effort to cock manually
5. Best TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow Package (Crossbow+Pro-View 3 Scope+Quiver+3 Arrows)
The TenPoint Titan M1 offers high accuracy and power in a compact frame, making it a great beginner crossbow for serious hunters.
Specifications:
- Speed: 370 FPS
- Draw Weight: 180 lbs
- Power Stroke: 14 inches
- Weight: 6.4 lbs
Pros:
✔️ ACUdraw crank system for easy cocking
✔️ Compact and well-balanced design
✔️ Very accurate out of the box
Cons:
❌ Slightly expensive for beginners
❌ Scope could be better
6. Best beginners CenterPoint Sniper Elite 385 Compound Crossbow air Pistol
A well-rounded option, the CenterPoint Sniper Elite 385 is great for beginners looking for an affordable yet powerful crossbow.
Specifications:
- Speed: 385 FPS
- Draw Weight: 185 lbs
- Power Stroke: 14 inches
- Weight: 7.9 lbs
Pros:
✔️ Adjustable stock for a customized fit
✔️ High-speed performance at a budget price
✔️ Includes a 4×32 scope, quiver, and arrows
Cons:
❌ A bit heavier than competitors
❌ Assembly may take longer for beginners
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Beginner Crossbow
1. Draw Weight & Speed
For beginners, a moderate draw weight that still delivers good speed (fps) ensures easier cocking and better arrow performance without excessive effort.
2. Cocking Ease
Crossbows with cocking aids (rope cocker, ACUdraw, or crank systems) save energy and promote consistent shooting form.
3. Package Components
Look for packages that include scope/optics, arrows, quiver, and cocking devices so you can shoot right out of the box.
4. Accuracy & Scope
Pre-mounted scopes or red dots calibrated to the specifc crossbow help reduce setup guesswork for new shooters.
5. Safety Features
Anti-dry fire (ADF) and other safety mechanisms help prevent accidental shots and protect the shooter and equipment.
6. Weight & Balance
A crossbow that feels balanced and light enough to carry — especially in the field — makes learning and hunting easier.
Comparison Table: Best Beginner Crossbows
| Crossbow | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package | Best Overall for Beginners | Comes with quiver, 3 arrows, premium red dot sight |
| Barnett Explorer XP Crossbow Package | Best Value Complete Package | Carbon arrows, quiver, rope cocking device |
| Wicked Ridge Raider 400 De-Cock | Best with Easy Decocking | Includes ACUdraw De-Cock, lighted scope, premium arrows |
| Excalibur 308 Short Banshee | Compact & Quiet | Durable, recurve simplicity, fewer moving parts |
| TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow Package | Premium Beginner Option | Pro-View 3 scope, quiver, arrows included |
| CenterPoint Sniper Elite 385 Compound Crossbow | Best Budget Starter | Affordable, ready-to-shoot |
Highlighted Picks
Best Overall Beginner Crossbow
Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package
A complete starter kit with premium red dot sight, quiver, and three 20-inch arrows — ideal for first-time shooters who want comfort and confidence.
Best Value Ready-to-Shoot Package
Barnett Explorer XP Crossbow Package
Includes carbon arrows, quiver, and a rope cocking device — a well-rounded kit with essential accessories at a friendly price.
Best Crossbow with Easy Decocking
Wicked Ridge Raider 400 De-Cock
Built-in decock system with the ACUdraw eliminates dry firing risk and makes handling much simpler and safer.
Best Compact Recurve Option
Excalibur 308 Short Banshee
Recurve design means fewer moving parts and more reliability — especially appealing to shooters who prefer simplicity.
Best Premium Beginner Package
TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow Package
A stronger choice for beginners ready to invest a bit more — includes a Pro-View 3 scope, quiver, and arrows.
Best Budget Starter Crossbow
CenterPoint Sniper Elite 385 Compound Crossbow
A beginner-friendly budget option that still delivers a complete shooting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What crossbow should a beginner choose?
Start with a crossbow that has a moderate draw weight and comes with accessories like a scope, arrows, and a cocking aid. The Barnett Jackal and Explorer XP are great starter choices.
Do beginner crossbows come ready to shoot?
The best beginner packages include essential components — sight, arrows, quiver, and cocking devices — so you can shoot right away.
What is the ideal draw weight for a beginner?
A manageable draw weight that still delivers respectable fps (feet per second) helps new shooters learn proper form without excessive strain.
Why is a cocking aid important?
Cocking aids (rope cocker or crank systems) help consistently draw the string with less effort, promoting accuracy and reducing fatigue.
Are recurve crossbows good for beginners?
Yes — recurve crossbows like the Excalibur 308 Short Banshee have fewer moving parts and are often quieter and easier to maintain.
Do beginner crossbows have safety features?
Quality beginner crossbows include safety features like anti-dry fire mechanisms to prevent accidental discharge.
Should a beginner focus on speed or accuracy?
Accuracy should be a priority over raw speed (fps). A consistent, accurate shooting platform builds skills faster than chasing high speeds.
FAQ: Best Crossbows for Beginners
What is the best beginner crossbow for adults?
The Barnett XP 380 and Wicked Ridge Invader 400 are great beginner crossbows for adults. They offer a balance of speed, accuracy, and ease of use, making them ideal for new shooters.
What is the best reasonably priced crossbow?
If you’re on a budget, the Barnett Jackal Package and CenterPoint Sniper Elite 385 offer excellent performance at an affordable price. They include essential accessories, making them great value-for-money choices.
What is the most reliable crossbow brand?
Top brands known for reliability include:
- TenPoint – High-quality, precision engineering
- Excalibur – Durable recurve crossbows
- Barnett – Affordable and beginner-friendly
- Ravin – Premium technology and performance
What is the best crossbow for older hunters?
Older hunters may prefer crossbows with easy cocking mechanisms like the TenPoint Titan M1 (ACUdraw crank system) or Excalibur 308 Short Banshee (lightweight recurve design).
How are crossbows rated from best to worst?
Crossbows are typically rated based on:
- Accuracy & Power 🏹
- Ease of Use 🛠️
- Durability 💪
- Value for Money 💰
Brands like TenPoint and Excalibur often rank the highest in reliability, while Barnett offers solid performance at a lower price point.
What is the most reliable crossbow?
The TenPoint Titan M1 and Excalibur 308 Short Banshee are known for their durability and precision, making them some of the most reliable crossbows available.
What is the best starter crossbow package?
The Barnett Jackal Package is an excellent starter kit as it includes a red dot sight, arrows, and a quiver—everything a beginner needs to get started.
What is the most durable crossbow?
Recurve crossbows like the Excalibur 308 Short Banshee are often more durable due to their simpler design and fewer moving parts. Compound crossbows like TenPoint and Ravin models also offer high durability but require more maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right beginner crossbow depends on your needs and budget. For affordability, the Barnett Jackal is a great entry-level option. If you want speed and power, the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 and Barnett XP 380 offer impressive performance. For those preferring recurve crossbows, the Excalibur 308 Short Banshee is an excellent low-maintenance choice.
No matter which crossbow you choose, practice and safety are key to a successful hunting or shooting experience. Happy shooting!
