10 Best Lightweight Crossbow 2025 in the United States

The TenPoint Flatline 460 Crossbow stands out in the lightweight crossbow category, primarily due to its impressive arrow speed of 460 FPS, making it one of the fastest compact crossbows available. This speed, along with a compact design (26.5 inches long and 7.5 inches wide), is ideal for hunters looking for maneuverability without sacrificing performance.

One of the main strengths of this crossbow is its high-quality EVO-X Marksman Elite Scope, which allows for accurate shooting at long distances up to 100 yards. The scope's features, such as external target turrets for windage and elevation adjustments, enhance usability in various hunting conditions. Additionally, the S1 Trigger offers a crisp, precise pull, which contributes to accuracy.

The inclusion of the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system is another highlight. It enables silent cocking, which is crucial for staying stealthy in the field, and provides safe de-cocking, reducing the risk of injury or accidental discharge. While it is lightweight at 3.5 pounds, users should be aware of the crossbow's overall size and may find it bulky to carry for extended periods. The TenPoint Flatline 460 is a great choice for serious hunters who want a blend of speed, accuracy, and safety features in a lightweight crossbow, though its compact design might not suit everyone’s preference for portability.

The TenPoint Venom X is a standout in the lightweight crossbow category, weighing just 6.9 pounds, making it one of the lightest options currently available. With an impressive draw weight of 215 pounds and arrow speed reaching up to 390 FPS, it offers high performance for hunters seeking speed and power. Its compact size of 39 x 17 x 11 inches allows for easier maneuverability in tight spots, making it suitable for various hunting environments.

One of the key features is the ACUslide system, which provides silent cocking and safe de-cocking, adding to user safety and convenience. This ensures that users can operate the crossbow quietly, which is essential for hunting. The inclusion of a Pro-View 400 scope enhances long-range accuracy, paired with strong polymer scope struts that promise durability and stability.

The S1 trigger, known for its zero-creep design, significantly contributes to accurate shooting, appealing to both experienced and novice shooters. Additionally, the crossbow arrives fully assembled and pre-sighted, making it user-friendly for those who may not be familiar with assembly processes. While it excels in performance and ease of use, it might not be the best choice for those looking for a heavier, more robust crossbow that can handle extreme conditions. Some users might find the price point a bit high for their budget, though it does come with good features that justify the cost.

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.