10 Best Pistol Crossbows 2025 in the United States

The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow stands out in the pistol-crossbow category as an excellent choice for both novice and experienced hunters. One of its main strengths is its impressive velocity, shooting bolts at 350 feet per second, which can enhance your hunting experience by improving accuracy and range. The crossbow weighs just 6.4 lbs and has compact dimensions, making it easy to handle and carry during long hunting trips.

Safety features are robust, including an Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System and a Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, ensuring that users can operate it with confidence. The TriggerTech technology provides a smooth release, which is vital for maintaining focus during a shot.

Included in the package are essential accessories like a 4x32 multi-reticle scope and two Headhunter arrows, making it a ready-to-hunt package straight out of the box. This comprehensive set is great for those who want to have everything they need without additional purchases. However, a drawback is the draw weight of 165 pounds, which might be challenging for some users, particularly those who are new to crossbows or have limited upper body strength. Additionally, while the materials used are lightweight, they may not be as durable as heavier alternatives, which could affect longevity under rough conditions.

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.

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.