10 Best Pistol Crossbows 2025 in the United States

The 125lbs Mini Striker Repeating Pistol Crossbow is a compact and powerful option for anyone interested in a portable crossbow for practice, home defense, or small game hunting. Its draw weight of 125 pounds offers strong shooting power, capable of driving bolts at speeds up to 300 feet-per-second, which is fast enough to penetrate half-inch plywood. This makes it quite effective for its size. Weighing just about 3 pounds and made from durable alloy steel, aluminum, and nylon, it’s lightweight and easy to carry, even inside a standard backpack, which is great for mobility.

One standout feature is its repeating design with a 6-bolt magazine and an integrated crank, allowing you to shoot an arrow roughly every 2 seconds. This semi-automatic capability is rare in pistol-style crossbows and can make target practice more fun and efficient. The compact size also helps with handling and transport. Users should follow standard crossbow safety precautions when operating this powerful weapon.

The crossbow supports multiple accessories including a detachable buttstock, red dot sight, and a 22mm under rail for additional attachments, improving customization and aiming precision. The included bolts are practice bolts, which might require replacement with hunting-specific broadheads for hunting purposes. This mini Striker crossbow is suitable for beginners and enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, fast, and powerful pistol-crossbow with semi-automatic shooting. Its ease of cocking via crank and included accessories add to its appeal.

The Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow is a compact and user-friendly option for enthusiasts interested in hunting, tactical, or military sports. With a draw weight of 60 pounds and bolt speeds reaching up to 175 FPS, it offers good power and speed for its category. The adjustable stock, extending up to 2.5 inches, enhances stability which can be especially useful for improving accuracy.

The self-cocking arm and forearm grip make it easier to use, particularly for beginners or those who may struggle with traditional cocking methods. Additionally, the inclusion of three premium bolts is a nice touch, providing everything needed to get started right away. Weighing in at about 1.32 kilograms and featuring a compact design, it is fairly portable and easy to handle.

The crossbow is made from a combination of plastic and metal, which contributes to its lightweight nature but may raise concerns about long-term durability. The 30-day warranty period is quite short, which might not inspire confidence in the product's longevity. For those who prioritize ease of use and portability, this model is a worthwhile consideration, though those needing more robust construction or extended warranty terms may want to look elsewhere.

The BALLISTA BAT Compound Mini Crossbow is designed for those who are interested in hunting, fishing, and target shooting. With a draw weight of 130 lbs and a bolt speed of 300 fps, this crossbow offers both power and speed, making it suitable for various applications, especially hunting small game or engaging in target practice. Its compact size of 16 x 5 inches and lightweight of just 2.46 lbs make it incredibly portable, allowing you to easily carry it in a backpack without feeling fatigued.

One of the standout features is the quick and silent loading capability, which takes only about 3 seconds. This is a significant advantage for users who prefer stealth while hunting. Additionally, the aluminum material ensures durability, while the ambidextrous design allows it to be used comfortably by both right and left-handed individuals.

The BAT crossbow excels in several areas, though there are a few drawbacks to consider. The power, while impressive, may be challenging for beginners to handle effectively. The 130 lbs draw weight requires some strength and might not be ideal for all users, especially those new to crossbows. Also, despite its compact design, the smaller size may limit the stability offered during shooting, which can affect accuracy. It includes three practice bolts, which is a nice addition for users to get started with, but additional bolts and accessories may be needed for extended use.