​Looking for the best and fastest hunting crossbow around? Searching for high-quality, superior gear for 2018? Well, look no further as here is a list of the best recurve crossbows and compound crossbows around for this year.
​We’ve compiled these crossbow reviews, based on a few things: speed, quality, and cost (compared to quality). Keep in mind that each crossbow is different and comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. These crossbows also have different calibers and shooting speeds, as well as different pulling mechanisms.
Called Barnett’s fastest crossbow ever, this model is pretty extraordinary. With an illuminated scope included, the Ghost 420 also comes with TriggerTech technology. A single bolt assembly and an anti-dry fire (ADF) trigger system are also included with this incredibly efficient and incredibly fast crossbow. The Barnett Ghost 420 shoots at 420 feet per second.
One of the only cons of this modern crossbow is the weight. Some say that it is a bit on the heavier side compared to other brands or past models—but most agree that the weight really doesn’t matter because of the speed. This model is one of the fastest, if not the fastest, crossbows around.
If you’re looking for a fast crossbow that is also cost-efficient, you’ve found the best option around. This is the ideal crossbow for beginners and even comes with a thorough reader’s manual and complete crossbow package (with includes quick-detach quiver, premium red dot sight, and bolts). The Barnett Jackal shoots at 315 feet per second with a 150-pound draw weight.
The biggest con of the Barnett Jackal is the noise. It’s a bit noisy, which is never good. Also, there is no rope cocking mechanism included. However, when you take into consideration the value, efficiency, speed, and the overall quality of the Barnett Jackal, it’s absolutely clear that this crossbow is such a steal—and especially good for beginners.
A lightweight crossbow that shoots excellent, the Wicked Ridge Invader G3 provides you with one of the smoothest draws a crossbow has ever had. This crossbow is one of the lightest around, so if you don’t like the heaviness of models like the Barnett Ghost 420, you may appreciate this model. Shooting at 330 feet per second, the Wicked Ridge Invader G3 is also one of the fastest crossbows. This specific model also includes an incredibly helpful ACU-52 cocking mechanism.
The only con that the Wicked Ridge Invader G3 has is how loud the crossbow can be. It’s louder than previous models, but if it becomes too loud for you, you can always resolve the whole situation with a dampening system.
A lightweight and durable design, the Excalibur Matrix Grizzly SMF shoots up to 305 feet per second with a maximum draw weight of about 200 pounds. Great value, and much cheaper than the Excalibur Matrix 380, which we’ll talk about below, this crossbow is efficient and a great compact size.
However, the rails are not constructed of aluminum, which could annoy some potential buyers. Even though the rails are not constructed of aluminum, the material it is constructed of still provides a lightweight and overall well-balanced design.
A different model from the Barnett Ghost 420 from above, this crossbow tends to be the go-to for most crossbow enthusiasts. It’s much lighter than the 420, and much more compact, which is always a plus. The accuracy is phenomenal and it shoots at 410 feet per second.
The main con, like some of the other models mentioned above, is the noise level. This model, compared to the Barnett Ghost 420, is a bit noisier. However, when taking in the speed, accuracy, and overall quality of this model, most people tend to not consider there to be any cons at all.
One of the most powerful crossbows around, the Excalibur Matrix 380 is a favorite. Shooting at 380 feet per second, this fast model is an incredibly high-quality crossbow. Because of this high-quality material, this is one of the more durable and stable models around. A powerful option for crossbow enthusiasts, the Excalibur Matrix 380 also comes with an extremely powerful scope.
The main con this model faces is the price. It’s much more expensive than some of the other crossbows around, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. The quality and overall efficiency of this crossbow more than mak up for the price, but it should be worth noting how expensive it is.
The Southern Crossbow Risen XT 350 shoots at a speed up to 350 feet per second and has a range of 109 feet. This model also has a compound levering system and quick, quiet cams. This crossbow tends to be recommended to first-time crossbow owners or beginners. The lower cost, yet high speed, makes it ideal for everyone, though—and not just first-timers.
One of the main concerns this crossbow faces has to do with the bolts and arrows that actually come with the crossbow. Many people have stated that they are of poor quality. However, it should also be noted that if you are a beginner and are looking for a light, compact crossbow that gets the job done, this model is highly recommended.
Shooting at a speed up to 365 feet per second with a 185-pound draw weight, the Barnett Buck Commander Extreme is one of the best models around. This crossbow is incredibly lightweight compared to some of the other Barnett models. Also, many people have praised how durable this model is compared to so many other crossbows.
It should be noted that the Barnett Buck Commander Extreme tends to be much more expensive than the other models listed here. However, it is such a high-quality crossbow that it’s definitely worth the money if you have it to spend.
These crossbows mentioned above are the fastest models out for sale at the moment while also being high-quality and efficient.