Best crossbows for home defense

A crossbow is a weapon that came into being as early as the first millennium BC. It was an effective form of weaponry in warfare in Europe and East Asia. A crossbow is similar to a regular bow and arrow. 

However, it is an advanced version of the said weapon, and it uses a locking mechanism. Crossbows are commonly used in this century as home defense weapons. In this article, you will find out all about the best crossbows for home defense.

If the budget is a concern, here you will find a list of crossbows that will match any budget: https://www.bestof.info/best-crossbows/.

Why do you need a home defense crossbow?

Crossbows are a necessity for homes that are secluded from the city. In quiet areas, there are chances of wild animals attacking or preying. Unlike guns, owning a crossbow does not require a license. This makes it ok to keep a crossbow at home.

Sometimes there can be robbers or even kidnappers in your homes, and at such times, having a crossbow at home for defense will help you stay safe. Of course, do not go around merely shooting people. 

Another reason for needing a crossbow is simply the art of hunting. Many people enjoy hunting in different jungles and wildlife. If hunting is your passion, you don’t need specific criteria for owning a crossbow.

The crossbow can also instantly make your home look so much more relaxed. The vital details and broad impact of the crossbow will make your guest look at you in a different light.

Among all these reasons, it most definitely needs a home defense no matter where you stay. Wild animals may prey on you or destroy your garden, and they sure are not easy to tame. A crossbow is a simple weapon that will get rid of your problem in an instant. You only need to purchase it and its broadheads along with few practice heads. Practice your shots on some dummy targets before you make your move on that annoying wild animal.

There are so many kinds of crossbows from different makes in the market. To choose the best ones can be a hassle as everything seems seemingly great. However, we have compiled a list of crossbows that are the ones for home defense. It is the best because it not only shoots at your target, but it shoots with precision, flies oh so swiftly, and it makes sure to leave a deep wound. The crossbows listed below are not your average crossbows as they are loved by hunters, which means they can perform heavy-duty work. 

We can jump right into the crossbows list for home defense that it compiled but before that, let us look through the buyer’s guide. A buyer’s guide will help to clarify any minuscule query you may have at the back of your mind and to help you choose the ideal crossbow that best fits your need. 

Buyer’s Guide – What to look for when buying a crossbow for home defense

• Budget

Your budget is the main deal maker or breaker. Crossbows can vary in price according to the brands. Knowing your account and how much you are willing to pay for a crossbow is essential before purchasing it. Expensive doesn’t always mean good quality. Sometimes you may be blown away by the performance of a cheaper product. In our list, we have both budget-friendly and high-end crossbows for you to check out to make your choice based on your preferred budget.

• Quiet

Although crossbows are also purchased for a hobby, it is mainly bought for hunting by hunters. During hunting, you don’t want to have crossbows make many noises while cocking or merely setting it up. The more swift and quietly your crossbow does its job, it guarantees you a 100% kill. When a crossbow is noisy, it disturbs the target and can make it run away. With all these in mind, buy a crossbow that does not create unwanted noises.

• Accuracy and power

If you are purchasing a crossbow for hunting, the accuracy and power of the crossbow are vital. If your crossbow is unable to shoot a straight arrow swiftly, then your hunting spree won’t be a great experience. 

A good quality crossbow will make sure the field tip flies smoothly and in the direction intended. The built of the crossbow will also make sure that it is precisely accurate. Therefore, keep the make of the crossbow in mind before your big purchase.

• Size and weight

Heavy crossbows are not very convenient on the run. Of course, with all the necessary parts attached, the crossbow should be light enough to be comfortably held while pointing at the target. A heavy crossbow can cause disturbance while aiming at the target. Most large crossbows are not very ideal for hunting because it takes up a lot of space and also adds in extra weight. Therefore, try purchasing crossbows that advertise themselves as lightweight and medium-sized.

• Reviews

Reviews are a great way to know if the product you are going to purchase is worth it. Customers leave honest reviews on various websites. Websites like Amazon allow customers to leave their opinions through the comments section. Go through the comment section and see how many ratings it has got and what kind of reviews are left for the product. Some even do a whole dedicated blog or videos of product reviews on their personal website. Try checking and learning if the product that you are going to splurge on really deserves your money. You do not want to buy anything that will drain your money.

• Look

The look of the crossbow plays an important role. If you are looking for a crossbow for a sport or recreational activity, any colored crossbow will work fine. But, if you are looking for crossbows merely for the purpose of hunting, then bright-colored crossbows may not be ideal as it can draw attention. Try to look for a crossbow that has camouflage designs or muted colors. This will help you stay hidden without any attention drawn to you while you are hunting. There are plenty of options that you can choose from from the list below.

List of the best crossbows for home defense

We have compiled a variety of crossbows for the purpose of hunting, a recreational activity, or merely a decor piece to elevate your drawing-room. 

1. Ravin R10 Home Defense Crossbow Package R010

Are you a big fan of hunting? Do you love exploring wildlife and is adventurous? If yes, then this Ravin crossbow is for you. They are the smallest crossbow that Ravin first produced. But don’t think that it is not powerful because it is compact. It is mighty, and it uses Helicoil technology that can shoot over 400 fps. The Ravin R10 also has level cams that fully rotate (340 degrees). It sure is a power-packed mini crossbow that will serve you well.

It uses a versa-draw cocking mechanism and a safety switch design for safe utility. The crossbow package comes with a fully assembled Ravin crossbow, illuminated scope, draw handle, 3-arrow quiver, three-pack 400 gr. match grade .003 arrows, field tips, and accessories bracket.

Pros

• It is compact and lightweight
• The crossbow uses Helicoil technology
• The brand Ravin is one of the best crossbow producing brands
• Level cams rotate up to 340 degrees
• The camouflage design will ensure that you stay hidden from your target
• It comes with your sharpened field tip, which is ideal for practice.

2. RAVIN R26 Compact 400 FPS Crossbows for Home Defense

Ravin is a common name when it comes to crossbow producing companies. The R26 is also among the compact line of Ravin crossbow. This 26″ crossbow is a powerhouse. It makes use of Helicoil technology to ensure accuracy. This crossbow ranks as #1 in the best crossbow, 2019, by the outdoor life. Its advanced technology allows it to be lightweight and compact yet deliver quick, accurate shots every single time. This crossbow can shoot over 450 fps with ease. The draw handle is ensured with an anti-dry fire safety system. Level cams of the R26 rotate up to 360 degrees. The package includes a 6-pack 400-grain. 003 match grade arrows, 3-arrow quiver, and field points. It is truly a beautiful crossbow for hunters with a light grey camouflage design, and you will never regret going hunting with this bad boy. 

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Uses advanced technology
• Shoots over 400 fps
• Comes with many accessories
• Has fully rotational level cams
• Auto-safety ensures no sudden release when not in use
• It has illuminated scope

3. Tenpoint Viper S400 Home Defense & Hunting Crossbow

Say hello to one of the oldest best selling crossbows. It has been 27 years since Tenpoint launched this crossbow in the market, and still, now, the Viper S400 receives praise from customers globally. This crossbow is easy to use but very powerful. Its accuracy knows no boundary; it ensures accurate shots all the time. The S1 trigger has a speed up to 470 fps and guarantees the same hole accuracy. It uses an ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system with a Micro-Trac barrel system, which ensures that your crossbow launches field tips smoothly, quietly, safely, and effortlessly. ACUslide trigger lock-latch is another system that Viper S400 uses to give you 48% increased accuracy. Viper S400 is the shortest forward draw crossbow of Tenpoint, and it comes with a range master pro scope. It is available in two color variants. 

Pros

• It is built with high-quality materials
• The range master pro scope helps you locate your target 
• The accuracy of this crossbow can ensure the same holeshot
• It is available in two color options

4. Scorpyd Aculeus 460FPS Crossbows 

Scorpyd is well known for its Aculeus crossbow. Aculeus is considered the fastest crossbow on earth at a speed of 460fps. It uses the New Kempf Tech Integrated Trigger Housing & Scope Rail System making the crossbow light, swift and accurate. It is loved by hunters all over the world and quickly sells out all the time. This crossbow has a buttstock that doesn’t fold and comes in a mossy oak tree stand camo design. 

Its draw weight is 180 lbs, and it comes with a scope rail, rope cocker, strong studs, Hawke illuminated xbl SR Scope, fuse quiver, and butt pads. 

Pros

• It is one of the fastest crossbows on earth. 
• It utilizes a New Kempf tech integrated trigger housing system, which makes the crossbow very lightweight. 
• Comes in a cool design. 
• Made of high-quality materials. 

5. Wicked Ridge M370 Crossbows

The M370 crossbow by Tenpoint has a patented narrow crossbow technology, which makes it’s width 9.5″. This small width allows the crossbow to perform exceptionally well in tiny spaces. It also makes use of the ACUdraw cocking device that minimizes the draw weight. VX-5 reverse cams in this crossbow make it silently accurate. It can pierce the same hole without any difficulty. The limbs are laminated using Gordon glass so that it is durable enough to survive any hunt. It comes with added accessories such as 3x multiline scope, 3 pack XX75 wicked ridge arrows, and 3-arrow quiver. There is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t spend your money on M370. It is simply the best.

Pros

• The laminated Gordon glass limbs ensure durability
• ACUdraw cocking technology minimizes draw ensures and allows smooth usage. 
• It is narrow and compact
• It is lightweight
• Very quiet due to VX-5 reverse cams

6. Excalibur Hunting Crossbow 340 Breakup Country Recurve Package

This beautiful camouflage printed crossbow is designed for hunting. It is a little crossbow with a powerful striking capability. This 5 pounds crossbow can outperform many other crossbows. It is extremely accurate, light, and compact. It has an octane dead zone scope for better vision. The Excalibur 340 has a speed of up to 350 fps. 

Pros

• It is lightweight. 
• Camouflage design allows the hunter to stay hidden
• It is compact 
• Easy to use
• Very accurate

7. Barnett HyperGhost 405 Crossbow

Barnett is another amazing company that creates high-quality crossbows. HyperGhost 405 is from Barnett’s Hyper series. It is their fastest, most powerful crossbow. It looks premium and Also delivers high performance. There is absolutely no doubt that this crossbow can hunt absolutely anything and anywhere. It has a single bolt assembly and utilizes an anti-dry fire trigger. Hyper Ghost 405 easily shoot up to 405 fps. It includes hyper flite arrows, illuminated scope, lube wax, and rope cocking. 

Pros

• It weighs 7.7 pounds, which makes it ideally lightweight and easy to carry around
• Shoots up to 405 fps
• The mossy oak monochrome skull design gives it a cool look

8. TenPoint Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 Crossbow Package

The rampage 360 crossbow by ten-point is an excellent entry-level crossbow for 1st-time users. It does not only perform well but also has a beautiful look and easy setup process. The crossbow uses ACU draw technology to reduce the draw weight, making it easier for the user to shoot. It has a narrow body with an aluminum limb. The DynaFlight 97 strings and cables and 5S cams fit easily in the narrow-body, making this crossbow a top pick during a tight shooting situation. It can shoot up 360/fps with ease.

Pros

• It uses ACUdraw technology
• Multiline scope ensures the great vision 
• It shoots up to 360 fps
• Highly accurate
• Lightweight; weighs only 6 pounds.

9. Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow – 400 feet per second

Barnett archery is one of the brands that is associated with the most high-quality crossbows in the world. Time and again, it has proven that its equality is unmatched, and the whitetail pro is one of their highest selling crossbows. This crossbow is exceptionally beautiful looking with an ash-colored camouflage design. It is lightweight, weighing 6.9 pounds. The crossbow can shoot up to 400 fps with ease. A great thing that sets it apart from other crossbows is that Whitetail pro ships out most assembled, and therefore the first time users don’t have much difficulty assembling the entire crossbow. It comes with a 4×32 premium illuminated scope that helps you to locate your target along with headhunter arrows, side mount quiver, rope cocking device, Lube was, etc.

Pros

• It weighs 6.9 pounds
• Its 4×32 premium scope is illuminated
• The speed of this crossbow is 400 fps
• It has a Nick sensor
• The anti-dry fire trigger system
• Compact and durable

10. BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow

Barnett whitetails series has awesome crossbows. Each and every one of their crossbow is quality checked and ensures top-quality performance. The whitetail Hunter STR is a 34.875″ L x 20.125 W, compact crossbow. Its design is a mossy oak bottomland. In comparison to the other whitetail series, this one can shoot only up to 375 fps. But considering the compactness, lightweight, and price, it is pretty amazing. It features a fiberglass composite step-thru riser that makes it ultra-lightweight. Accessories included are 

• 4×32 mm multi-reticle scope, lightweight quiver, rope cocking device, two 22 inches headhunter arrows & lube wax. 

Pros

• Ultralight because of Fiberglass composite step-thru riser
• Anti-dry fire trigger tech system for safety
• It is compatible with Barnett 17455 crank coding device
• Single-bolt assembly 
• It is shipped out mostly assembled

11. Killer Instinct Crossbows Hero 380 kit

Hero 380 by Killer Instinct is a compact and lightweight crossbow that is suitable for both crossbow veterans and first-time users. This crossbow delivers a solid 350 fps that is sure to kill many targets successfully. It is easy to assemble and simple to use. Its simplicity makes it one of the top crossbows from Killer instinct. The trigger has a smooth pull and shoots without creating any noise. It is adjustable to fit your desired requirement when you are on the run.

Pros

• 350 fps bolt shooting speed
• Custom rubber shock absorbers
• Multi-position butt pad
• Adjustable fore grip
• Accurate
• Compact
• Lightweight
• Easy to assemble

12. Barnett Explorer XP Crossbow

Since 1952, Barnett Crossbow has been delivering superb quality crossbows to the common man. The explorer XP400 crossbow is a 2020 model designed to fit the current fast-paced world. It is a beautiful camp designed small crossbow that not only looks dashing but delivers high performance. It is 34.5″ x 37″ in dimension, and it weighs 6.2 lbs, making it compact and lightweight. XP400 used Soft Lok floating bristle arrow retainer to keep from dry-firing and also Trigger Tech Frictionless Release Technology. 

Pros

• Adjustable buttstock
• Adjustable cheek rest
• Soft Lock floating bristle arrow retainer
• TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology
• Lightweight
• Compact
• 4 x 32 mm multi-reticle scope

13. Barnett Avenger Recruit Crossbow 

The avenger recruit is amongst one of Barnett’s mini crossbow line. It has a speed of 330 fps, making it ideal for people who are freshly starting to use a crossbow. Avenger Recruit model uses Metal Injected Mold trigger for a smooth pull and Anti Dry Fire for safety. It is a pure black crossbow that looks extremely sleek and stylish. Although it is a slower and smaller crossbow, it doesn’t take away that it functions extremely well. The durability and smoothness of this crossbow will blow your mind. Its compactness allows you to stay intact in small areas without any disturbance. The smooth trigger makes it ideal even for first-time crossbow users. Once you start using this crossbow, you may not want to change easily.

Pros

• Shoots at 330 fps
• MIM trigger
• Anti-dry fire trigger
• Draw weight – 130 pounds
• Accurate
• Pure black design
• Lightweight
• Compact

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of crossbows is ideal for first-time users? 

If you are planning on purchasing a crossbow for the first time, it is better to choose a compact crossbow. Since you have zero experience, a smaller crossbow will allow you to learn how to shoot or aim without carrying any extra weight. Smaller crossbows are usually lightweight, which makes it ideal for first-time users. There are so many crossbows in the market, but the list above has crossbows that are lightweight and most compact. Choosing any crossbow from the above list will ensure your first-time experience of using a crossbow a wonderful experience. 

Many users find it difficult to assemble new crossbows because it has lots of parts, and it can be time-consuming. Although most crossbows are shipped without assembling, there are some crossbow brands that assembles most of the parts. There are some crossbows that come assembled in the list above as well. 

However, worrying about assembling a crossbow is such a waste of time. There are plenty of instructional videos and articles online that teaches you how to assemble your crossbow and finding such article/videos won’t be difficult. 

Why is it needed to backwind the crank handle three full turns after cocking a crossbow with the ACUslide?

Once you cock the crossbow with ACUslide, it is necessary to backwind the crank handle thrice so that the tension from the cocking strap is relieved and the trigger box pin is allowed to rest on the Trigger Lock-Latch.

If this step is not taken seriously, then shooting the arrow may not be as smooth as expected. It can also affect the downfield accuracy negatively. 

Not following the back winding steps can make the arrow retention cross lose, and thus, the arrow may slide and shoot even if it is not drawn. Therefore, for safety reasons and for smoother performance, it is necessary to follow the back winding steps. 

How do I store my crossbow when not in use?

Crossbows can be used the whole year round if you choose to, but when it is time to store it, you need to follow some measures so that your crossbow is brand new every time you use it.

• Dust and clean your crossbow externally

When you go out hunting in the jungle, your crossbow can be contaminated with dust, grimes, mud, dirt, or grease. If you store your crossbow in that condition, the chances are that your surface may spoil, and it can affect the performance of the instrument. Most brands recommended dusting and wiping the surface of the crossbow with a cotton towel and clean water. Wring out the water from the towel and swipe the crossbow clean with the damp cotton towel.

• Check if the nuts and bolts of the crossbow are intact.

Maintenance is the key. Sometimes, we may be unaware, but certain nuts and bolts may be loosely attached. Make sure that all the attached parts are well fit before you store them. If the nuts or bolts are becoming loose, use pliers to get them well fitted in their spot.

• Oiling

Applying rust-free oil to the steel parts and all the nuts, screws, and bolts are a necessity. When you are keeping your crossbow for storage, you must ensure that all the necessary parts are oiled. Most steel parts can rust if it is stored in a damp area. So apply rust free oil generously and store it.

You can also apply oils to the trigger mechanism of your crossbow so that it doesn’t jam when you press it. To apply the oils, you use cotton swabs or towels. However, make sure you use the oils recommended for your crossbows as it may damage your instrument.

• Waxing

Most companies provide wax lubricants for your strings. However, if it does not come with the kit, you can purchase it for cheap, either from the website or any online store. Waxing the strings is a necessary step. If your string is waxed, then there are chances of loose strands, and the result of this may be negatively affecting the shooting accuracy of the crossbow.

• Scope lens maintenance 

Cleans the lens with a cotton swab or cotton balls. The lens may be greasy from all the dirt and dust, so clean it gently before storing it to maintain its power for a longer duration. 

• Final storage

Put it in the storage bag or box that it comes with and place it in an area that is dry, clean, and cool. Make sure you check it periodically so that no molds or bacterial growth take place. Take it out periodically and grease it if needed. 

What happens if I spoil my crossbow? 

According to the make of the crossbow, there are various approaches you can take if you damage your crossbow. Try contacting the make of the crossbow through email, contact no. or nay details provided by them. If they have any warranty for your damaged parts, chances are they will replace it with a new part. 

If your crossbow has no warranty, you can go to local shops that repairs crossbows or other instruments. Sometimes, a repair is possible, but sometimes, you will just need to purchase a new one. 

Is crossbow legal to use?

Yes, crossbows are legal to use. You do not require any special permission to own a crossbow. However, in some locality, hunting maybe a problem. Make sure you check the details of what can and can not be carried out in your locality before entering a forest for hunting. 

Sometimes, some forests are preserved as it has endangered animal species. If you shoot those animals, you can land in jail, and you might need to pay a hefty amount of fine. 

Therefore, before you go out hunting, contact the local administrators if the practice is allowed. But if you are planning just to practice shooting, there can be no possible restrictions as it will be done in your area. 

Which crossbow should I buy from the above-listed crossbows? 

All the crossbows listed above are top-notch quality crossbows that do not compromise with its quality. Although the shooting speed, size, weight, and design may differ, there is absolutely nothing that takes it away from the fact that these crossbows deliver high performance. 

Some crossbows in the list are meant for first-time users to practice and get hold of how a crossbow functions with good speed and accuracy. Other crossbows are means for trained users that love hunting but are looking for a new crossbow. 

The crossbows have different price ranges, and you can choose yours based on your budget. Compromising with the quality shouldn’t be on your list, and therefore, there is not a single crossbow in this list that has bad quality, poor performance, or even a bad reputation. These are all dearly loved by the users and has great ratings and reviews, both online and offline.