10 Best Lightweight Crossbow 2025 in the United States

The Wicked Ridge Commander M1 is a lightweight crossbow weighing just 5.8 pounds, making it very easy to carry and maneuver, especially for hunters who need mobility in tight spaces. Its narrow 9.5-inch width helps reduce the chance of accidentally hitting limbs or other objects when aiming from a blind or stand. The crossbow shoots arrows at a speed of 380 feet per second, offering solid power for most hunting needs.

One standout feature is the built-in ACUdraw cocking device, which lowers the effort needed to draw the bow to about 5 pounds, a big help for those who want to avoid strain or forget to bring a separate cocking tool. It comes with a 4x multi-line scope, pre-sighted at 20 yards, which supports accurate aiming up to 50 yards—good for beginner or intermediate users. Noise levels aren’t explicitly mentioned, but the compact design usually helps keep noise down during shots. This model includes three high-quality carbon arrows and a quiver, adding convenience right out of the box. The crossbow is ambidextrous and American-made, giving assurance of quality and reliability.

Some might find 380 FPS less powerful compared to heavier crossbows designed for longer-range shots or bigger game. Also, the scope’s fixed 4x magnification may limit versatility in very close or very distant shooting scenarios. The Commander M1 is well suited for hunters or target shooters who want a highly portable, easy-to-use crossbow with solid accuracy and built-in convenience features, especially those valuing light weight and compact size over maximum power.

The TenPoint Turbo X Crossbow in Vektra color stands out as a strong choice for anyone seeking a lightweight yet powerful crossbow. Weighing only about 6.9 pounds, it’s easy to carry and handle, making it ideal for hunters or archery enthusiasts who prioritize mobility. It shoots arrows at a very fast speed of 415 feet per second, which helps in achieving greater accuracy and range. Speaking of accuracy, the included 100-yard RangeMaster scope with variable speed illumination (red and green settings) makes aiming clear even in low light, adding confidence to your shots.

The crossbow’s trigger mechanism is designed for safety and performance, featuring the new S2 trigger with a dry-fire inhibitor that prevents accidental firing and eliminates trigger creep for a smooth pull. Cocking and de-cocking the bow is also user-friendly thanks to the ACUslide system, which works silently and safely, reducing noise and risk during use. This is beneficial for stealth. Durability is solid with a traditional two-cable bow assembly and aluminum construction, balancing strength and lightness. The size is manageable at 37 x 17 x 11 inches, fitting well in most gear setups. While it doesn’t have night vision compatibility, the crossbow is suitable for all-season use and comes with a limited lifetime warranty, pointing to confidence in its build quality.

Considering its lightweight design, fast arrow speed, and advanced safety and aiming features, the TenPoint Turbo X presents itself as a compelling option for users looking for a high-performance crossbow.

The CenterPoint Archery Sniper Elite 385 Crossbow stands out in the lightweight-crossbow category due to its high arrow speed of 385 feet per second (FPS) and a powerful draw weight of 185 pounds. These features make it a strong performer in terms of power and accuracy. Its fully adjustable stock and foregrip allow for a customized fit, enhancing comfort and control for shooters. The quad limbs with a precision-machined cam system further contribute to its accuracy and reliability, while the integrated string suppressors and limb dampeners ensure a quieter shot with reduced vibrations, which is a significant benefit in hunting scenarios where noise can spook game.

Weighing 12 pounds, this crossbow leans towards the heavier side within the lightweight category, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing portability. However, the durable aluminum and composite construction provides robustness without overly compromising on weight. The crossbow's dimensions (34 x 11 x 5 inches) make it reasonably compact and easy to maneuver in the field. It comes equipped with a 4x32mm scope, which is a decent addition for aiming accuracy, though not top-of-the-line.

The package includes useful accessories like a quiver and arrows, adding value. This crossbow is well-suited for both amateur and seasoned archers looking for a powerful, adjustable, and relatively quiet option. Potential drawbacks include its somewhat higher weight and the need for users to ensure the draw weight is manageable.