10 Best Recurve Crossbows 2026 in the United States

The CenterPoint Archery C0007 Wrath 430X Crossbow is an impressive piece of equipment designed for those looking for a powerful and compact crossbow. With a draw weight of 200 pounds and an arrow speed of 430 fps, it is highly capable of delivering swift and accurate shots. The inclusion of a silent crank and dry fire prevention technology ensures a quieter and safer shooting experience, which can be crucial for hunters looking to remain undetected in the field.

The CNC-machined aluminum rails and cams contribute to its durability and smooth operation, while the full bearing cam system adds more energy into each shot despite its compact design. Its dimensions (9 inches cocked) make it highly maneuverable, yet the crossbow weighs 9 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for extended use. Assembly and maintenance are made easier with the provided rail lube and the user-friendly design.

The package also includes a 4.32 illuminated scope and three 20-inch arrows, providing good value for money. However, some users might find the crossbow's weight and the need for regular maintenance a bit cumbersome. This crossbow is well-suited for both seasoned hunters and enthusiasts looking for a reliable and compact tool in their archery endeavors.

The Excalibur Micro Extreme Crossbow is a solid choice for hunting and target practice. It features a lightweight and compact design, with a draw weight of 12 pounds and a draw length of 13 inches, making it easier to handle and maneuver. The crossbow includes CeaseFire technology that enhances safety by ensuring it won't fire unless an arrow is loaded correctly. This is complemented by the Rhino Nock which provides an audible click when an arrow is securely in place. The ambidextrous cheekpiece is a thoughtful addition, allowing both right- and left-handed users to shoot comfortably.

It also comes with a high-quality match-grade trigger, which improves precision thanks to its light pull weight and clean break, emulating the feel of a high-end rifle trigger. Included accessories like the Dead Zone Scope with multi-coated lenses, scope rings, quivers, arrows, and field points provide everything you need for a successful outing. The Dead Zone Scope also offers an adjustable speed dial, accommodating arrow speeds between 300 FPS to 410 FPS, which is a great range for various hunting needs.

On the downside, at a package weight of 5.17 kilograms, it is heavier than some other models, which might affect portability. Additionally, some users might find the assembly and maintenance a bit challenging without prior experience. However, the high-quality build and lifetime warranty provide peace of mind for long-term use. In summary, the Excalibur Micro Extreme Crossbow is well-suited for those looking for a reliable and safe crossbow with excellent accuracy and a comprehensive set of accessories.

The Excalibur Matrix GRZ 2 is a solid choice for hunting enthusiasts looking for a lightweight yet powerful recurve crossbow. With a 200-pound draw weight, it offers strong shooting power, which helps deliver fast and effective arrow speeds suitable for medium to large game. Weighing just 5.5 pounds and measuring about 33 inches long, it’s fairly compact and easy to carry through the woods without feeling bulky or heavy. The included 18-inch arrows and a power stroke of 11.2 inches contribute to good accuracy and penetration.

One of the standout features is its quiet operation, typical of recurve crossbows, which is great for minimizing noise during hunting. The package comes ready to use with a fixed-power scope, rope cocking aid, quiver, and arrows, making assembly and maintenance straightforward even for beginners. The ambidextrous design suits both right- and left-handed shooters. While it’s easy to handle and maintain, this model doesn’t have advanced noise dampening or a broader customization range found in some newer compound crossbows. The included fixed-power scope lacks variable zoom options, and some users might find the 200-pound draw weight challenging to cock without the rope cocking aid.