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10 Best Recurve Crossbows 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS Crossbow

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Draw Weight
Arrow Speed
Weight

Most important from
811 reviews

Draw Weight
The crossbow delivers lethal accuracy and speed, consistently shooting bolts that pass completely through targets at 30 yards.
Arrow Speed
The crossbow delivers lethal accuracy and speed, consistently shooting bolts that pass completely through targets at 30 yards.
Weight
The lightweight composite stock enhances handling and maneuverability without compromising power.
Noise Level
Noise and vibration suppression features contribute to a quiet shooting experience, beneficial for stealth hunting.
Ease of Assembly and Maintenance
Assembly and sighting in are straightforward, making it accessible even for beginners.

The Killer Instinct Lethal 405 FPS crossbow is designed for those looking for a powerful and quiet shooting experience. It boasts a strong draw weight of about 210 pounds and shoots arrows at a fast speed of 405 feet per second, making it suitable for serious target shooting or hunting. Despite its power, it remains relatively lightweight thanks to its ultra-light composite stock, allowing for easier handling and maneuverability in the field. The included custom rubber shock absorbers and string suppressors help keep noise and vibration low, which is a real plus for stealth during hunting.

The package comes well-equipped with a 4x32 scope, rope cocker, quiver, bolts, and rail lube, making it easier to assemble and maintain for beginners or casual users. The adjustable X-lock foregrip offers customization for comfortable handling. Size-wise, its dimensions are moderate, fitting well in most carrying setups without being too bulky.

One downside is that while the crossbow is light in terms of the stock, the overall package weight is over 5 kilograms due to included accessories, so carrying it for long periods may feel heavier than expected. Also, the scope is non-illuminated, which might be a limitation in low-light conditions. Some users might find the 34.5-inch draw length a bit long depending on their size and strength. This crossbow is a solid choice for those wanting a strong, fast, and quiet recurve crossbow with good accessories included, but be prepared for a bit of weight from the full package and consider lighting conditions when aiming.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Draw Weight
Arrow Speed
Weight

Most important from
811 reviews

Draw Weight
The crossbow delivers lethal accuracy and speed, consistently shooting bolts that pass completely through targets at 30 yards.
Arrow Speed
The crossbow delivers lethal accuracy and speed, consistently shooting bolts that pass completely through targets at 30 yards.
Weight
The lightweight composite stock enhances handling and maneuverability without compromising power.
Noise Level
Noise and vibration suppression features contribute to a quiet shooting experience, beneficial for stealth hunting.
Ease of Assembly and Maintenance
Assembly and sighting in are straightforward, making it accessible even for beginners.
#2

CenterPoint Archery C0007 Wrath 430X Crossbow

Rating
9.1
Arrow Speed
Weight
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
200 reviews

Arrow Speed
Extremely fast and hard-hitting, capable of delivering precise shots up to 50 yards.
Weight
Despite its weight, the crossbow's accuracy and speed make it a standout choice.
Size and Dimensions
Compact design with a narrow footprint, ideal for hunting blinds or tree stands.
Noise Level
The hand crank cooking mechanism is smooth and quiet, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Ease of Assembly and Maintenance
Easy assembly with well-written instructions; perfect for those mechanically inclined.

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.

Rating
9.1
Arrow Speed
Weight
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
200 reviews

Arrow Speed
Extremely fast and hard-hitting, capable of delivering precise shots up to 50 yards.
Weight
Despite its weight, the crossbow's accuracy and speed make it a standout choice.
Size and Dimensions
Compact design with a narrow footprint, ideal for hunting blinds or tree stands.
Noise Level
The hand crank cooking mechanism is smooth and quiet, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Ease of Assembly and Maintenance
Easy assembly with well-written instructions; perfect for those mechanically inclined.
#3

Excalibur Micro Extreme Crossbow Package

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.

Buying Guide for the Best Recurve Crossbows

Choosing the right recurve crossbow can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Recurve crossbows are known for their simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance. They are a great choice for both beginners and experienced archers. When selecting a recurve crossbow, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to focus on and how to navigate them.
Draw WeightDraw weight refers to the amount of force required to pull back the string of the crossbow. This spec is important because it affects the power and speed of your shot. Draw weights can range from around 75 pounds to over 200 pounds. For beginners or those with less upper body strength, a lower draw weight (75-125 pounds) is recommended as it is easier to handle. Intermediate users might prefer a draw weight between 125-175 pounds for a balance of power and manageability. Advanced users or those hunting larger game may opt for a draw weight above 175 pounds for maximum power and penetration. Consider your physical strength and the type of game you plan to hunt when choosing the draw weight.
Arrow SpeedArrow speed, measured in feet per second (FPS), indicates how fast the arrow travels when shot from the crossbow. This is important for accuracy and effectiveness, especially in hunting scenarios. Arrow speeds typically range from 200 FPS to over 400 FPS. For target practice or small game hunting, a speed of 200-300 FPS is usually sufficient. For larger game or longer distance shooting, speeds of 300-400 FPS or higher are preferable. Your choice should be guided by the type of shooting you plan to do and the distance you expect to cover.
WeightThe weight of the crossbow itself is a crucial factor for comfort and ease of use. Crossbows can weigh anywhere from 5 to 10 pounds or more. Lighter crossbows (5-7 pounds) are easier to carry and maneuver, making them ideal for beginners or those who plan to move around a lot while hunting. Heavier crossbows (8-10 pounds) can offer more stability and may be preferred by experienced users who prioritize accuracy over mobility. Consider how long you will be carrying the crossbow and your ability to handle its weight comfortably.
Size and DimensionsThe size and dimensions of a recurve crossbow, including its length and width, affect its portability and ease of use. A more compact crossbow is easier to handle in tight spaces and can be more convenient for transportation. However, larger crossbows may offer better stability and accuracy. If you plan to hunt in dense woods or need to carry your crossbow over long distances, a more compact model might be best. For stationary shooting or open field hunting, a larger crossbow could be advantageous.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a crossbow when fired can be a critical factor, especially for hunters. Quieter crossbows are less likely to startle game, giving you a better chance of a successful shot. Noise levels can vary based on the design and materials used in the crossbow. If stealth is important to you, look for crossbows that are specifically designed to minimize noise, often featuring dampeners or silencers. For target practice, noise level may be less of a concern.
Ease of Assembly and MaintenanceRecurve crossbows are generally simpler to assemble and maintain compared to compound crossbows. However, the ease of assembly and maintenance can still vary between models. Look for crossbows that come with clear instructions and require minimal tools for assembly. Maintenance should also be straightforward, with easy access to parts that need regular care, such as the string and limbs. If you are new to crossbows, choosing a model known for its ease of use can save you time and frustration.

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