Best 400 FPS Crossbows: Our Top 19 Picks for High-Speed Action

400 fps crossbows represent the pinnacle of modern bowhunting technology, delivering unparalleled speed and penetration power. This comprehensive guide evaluates the top crossbows capable of launching arrows at or exceeding 400 feet per second, comparing their performance, durability, and value to help you make an informed choice.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we receive compensation from qualified purchases

Reviews

Tenpoint Crossbow Viper S400

The Viper S400 is a compact forward-draw crossbow that packs impressive speed into a manageable package. Weighing just 7.5 pounds, it shoots 400 feet per second from its 11-inch power stroke. The ACUslide cocking system makes it incredibly easy to load and safe to operate, letting you stop at any point during the draw. The included Rangemaster Pro scope delivers reliable performance, though some users have noted it doesn’t perform as advertised with their preferred bolt setup.

Bear x Constrictor Pro Crossbow

This compact crossbow measures a mere 8.125 inches wide when cocked and 12 inches at its widest point uncocked, making it surprisingly nimble for its power. The ambidextrous design features an impressive 175-pound draw weight, while the rotationally symmetric quiver mounts 360 degrees to accommodate any shooting orientation.

Centerpoint HELLION 400 Crossbow Scope

At just 1 lb, this compact crossbow packs a powerful punch at 400 feet per second with its 185 lb draw weight. The intuitive folding stirrup and adjustable buttstock make it a breeze to shoot, while the included 4x32mm illuminated scope gives you plenty of precision at longer distances. With its sleek 8-inch cocked size and robust aluminum construction, the Centerpoint Hellion 400 delivers impressive performance in a surprisingly manageable package.

Centerpoint CP400 Crossbow Package

The CP400 combines premium materials like CNC-machined aluminum with a silky-smooth silent crank for easy cocking. Its 6-inch width and 400 FPS performance make it a surprisingly manageable option in the crossbow world. The included carbon arrows and illuminated scope transform it into a capable long-range hunting tool, though some might find the trigger pull a bit hefty.

Wicked Ridge NXT 400 Crossbow Package

The Wicked Ridge NXT 400 cuts an impressive figure in the crossbow world, measuring a slim 6 inches axle-to-axle when cocked. Built tough in the USA, this powerful bow handles like a dream with its smooth T5 trigger and Vector Quad cable system that keeps your arrows flying straight. It’s also surprisingly lightweight at just 16.6 ounces, making it a pleasure to carry into the woods.

Excalibur Suppressor 400 TD Crossbow

This compact crossbow packs an impressive punch with its 400 FPS velocity and 325-lb draw weight. The included illuminated scope and quiet SDS silencing system make it a practical choice for hunters who value both precision and stealth. Whether you’re a seasoned crossbow user or new to the sport, the Excalibur Micro suppressor delivers reliable performance in a lightweight, easy-to-handle package.

Bear x Konflict 405 Crossbow

The Konflict 405 combines impressive speed with thoughtful design features like an ambidextrous layout and adjustable stock. At just 7.5 pounds, it’s surprisingly nimble for a crossbow that chews through arrows at 405 FPS. Whether you’re a first-time shooter or an experienced hunter upgrading, this Bear crossbow delivers the performance and durability you’d expect from the brand.

Killer Instinct 1002 Crossbow

The Killer Instinct Rush 400 delivers impressive power with its 400 fps velocity and 118 ft. lbs. of energy. The included crank cocking system makes it simple to load and shoot quickly, while the precision trigger system ensures clean breaks for tight groups. The lightweight aluminum barrel and silent cocking mechanism combine for a versatile hunting crossbow that handles well in various shooting situations.

Wicked Ridge Invader 400 Crossbow

The Wicked Ridge Invader 400 crossbow packs impressive power into a surprisingly compact frame, measuring just 15 inches when cocked. It’s built for serious hunting with 400 FPS speed and 132 ft-lbs of kinetic energy, but its smooth pull and lightweight design make it manageable for all-day use. The included TenPoint_scope and ACUdraw cocking system make it a complete package for both new and experienced hunters.

Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Crossbow

This hunting crossbow combines a sleek 9-inch width with impressive 400 FPS speed, featuring Wicked Ridge’s ACUdraw system for smooth cocking and consistent accuracy. The included scope and carbon arrows make it a complete package suitable for both beginners and experienced hunters who appreciate American manufacturing quality. While some users report excellent performance, others have experienced issues like string serving failure and limb cracking, making regular maintenance crucial for reliability.

Wicked Ridge M-370 ACUdraw Crossbow

Weighing just 15.45 ounces, the Wicked Ridge M-370 can be surprisingly unwieldy, especially for longer shots where its front-heavy design forces younger users to prop it up with a shooting rail or bipod. The crossbow’s narrow 9.5-inch width and 370 fps speed make it nimble in tight spaces, though the included multi-line scope’s factory settings need significant fine-tuning— users report multiple clicks of adjustment at both ends of the scope’s band to hit targets. While reliable for beginners who can master its quirky cocking mechanism, experienced shooters might find the otherwise straightforward design lacks the polish of other American-made crossbows in the same category.

Tenpoint Vengent S440 Crossbow Package Graphite

The Tenpoint Vengent S440 delivers impressive accuracy and power with its fast shooting speeds and well-engineered design. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to crossbow shooting, this well-reviewed bow handles like a dream once you get the hang of its intuitive cocking system. While it has minor drawbacks like occasional loose scope mounts and noisy safety features, the overwhelming satisfaction from users speaks to its solid performance and reliable build quality.

Bruin Ambush 425 Crossbow Package

The Bruin Ambush 425 brings serious performance to the crossbow table, packing 425 fps power in a design that caters to shooters of all sizes. Its adjustable buttstock and reliable anti-dry fire trigger system make it a joy to shoot, while the included ball-bearing retention spring ensures every bolt clicks home safely. Available in stealthy Prym1 Blackout and Woodlands camo, this crossbow delivers accurate, quiet performance that’s earned it top ratings from hunters who know what they’re talking about.

Barnett Hyper Raptor Crossbow

The Barnett Hyper Raptor combines impressive velocity with surprisingly manageable size, shooting 20-pound diameter arrows at 410 fps while maintaining a sleek 7.3-inch axle-to-axle width when cocked. The step-through riser and Raptor limbs deliver smooth performance, though some users have experienced issues with the cocking mechanism requiring precise setup. Overall, reviews praise its compact design, fast shooting speed, and Barnett’s responsive customer service, making it a solid choice despite minor drawbacks.

Bear x Intense Crossbow Package

This compact hunting crossbow measures just 10 inches wide when cocked and packs impressive power with its 12.7-inch draw stroke delivering arrows at 400 feet per second. Available in two camouflage patterns, it comes ready to hunt with Bear X TrueX arrows, an illuminated scope, and a 4-arrow quiver.

Wicked Ridge Invader M1 ACUdraw Crossbow

The Wicked Ridge Invader 400 M1 ACUdraw crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy with its powerful 190 pound draw weight and 390 FPS velocity. Its compact 14-inch width makes it incredibly portable, and the intuitive ACUdraw system reduces cocking effort to just 5 pounds for smooth, effortless operation. The crossbow comes complete with everything you need – including a 70-yard scope, matching arrows, and quiver – giving you a turnkey hunting system that’s built for both precision and reliability.

Barnett Crossbow ExplorerXP400

The Barnett Explorer XP400 combines lightning-fast 400 FPS performance with a smooth TriggerTech release system for incredibly accurate shots. Built for both beginners and experienced hunters, this versatile crossbow handles like a dream with its lightweight design and adjustable stock. Whether you’re mastering the basics or chasing big game, this reliable rig delivers the precision you need to make every shot count.

Killer Instinct Lethal 405 Crossbow Package

The Killer Instinct Lethal 405 Hunting Crossbow Pro Package combines impressive raw power with thoughtful design elements that make it surprisingly comfortable to shoot. It delivers consistent performance with its 210-pound draw weight and 405 FPS velocity, though some users find the included scope could be more premium. The package includes essential accessories like a rope cocker, 3 carbon bolts with field tips, and a quality 4x32mm scope, making it a solid value proposition for hunters who want reliable results without breaking the bank.

Steambow AR-6 Stinger II

With its compact design and affordable price point, the AR-6 Stinger II proves surprisingly capable for its class, delivering respectable velocity and decent power for its 10.2 ft/lb muzzle energy. The ambidextrous grip and adjustable length make it manageable to assemble and comfortable to shoot, though new users might find it challenging at first. Overall, it strikes a nice balance between performance and portability, making it a popular choice for both casual shooters and indoor enthusiasts.

Buyer’s Guide

When choosing a 400 fps crossbow, several key factors determine performance, accuracy, and reliability. Understanding these aspects helps you select equipment that matches your skill level and hunting needs.

Crossbow Design and Configuration

Modern 400 fps crossbows combine lightweight carbon fiber limbs with efficient trigger mechanisms. The draw weight ranges from 180 to 250 lbs. , providing enough power for both varmint control and big-game hunting. Look for designs that balance speed with durability, as higher velocity crossbows require stronger components.

Trigger System and Shooting Mechanics

The shooting mechanism directly affects bolt velocity and consistency. Look for crossbows with let-off triggers that return 60% or more of stored energy, reducing trigger force to 2-3 pounds. Precision triggers with adjustable sights offer better control and repetition, crucial for achieving 400 fps performance.

Barrel and Bolt Compatibility

The barrel’s inner diameter and length dictate bolt selection. Standard 400 fps crossbows use 7mm diameter bolts, with effective range extending to 100 yards. Choose barrels at least 27 inches long for stable projectile flight, and consider sights or stabilizers that don’t interfere with bolt clearance.

Maintenance and Field Reliability

Proper maintenance ensures consistent performance at 400 fps. Look for crossbows with separate fore and aft rail systems that ease string replacement and lubrication. The scope rail should remain accessible for quick adjustments, while storage features protect the firing mechanism during transport.

FAQ

What makes a crossbow 400 FPS?

A crossbow shooting at 400 FPS generates this velocity through a combination of a powerful draw weight and efficient energy transfer from the bow to the arrow. The bow stores potential energy when drawn and releases it almost instantaneously, propelling the arrow forward at high speeds.

Most 400 FPS crossbows achieve this velocity through lightweight materials in the riser (the main body of the crossbow) and optimized design elements that reduce energy loss during the shot cycle.

How reliable are 400 FPS crossbows?

400 FPS crossbows are generally very reliable when properly maintained. Their consistent power and precise tuning make them predictable in performance. Most manufacturers include detailed maintenance instructions to help users keep their crossbows functioning at peak efficiency.

The higher velocity of 400 FPS crossbows requires more attention to arrow selection and proper setup. Using appropriate ammunition and following recommended setup procedures helps maintain consistent accuracy and lifespan of the equipment.

What’s the difference between 350 FPS and 400 FPS?

While both 350 FPS and 400 FPS crossbows are very fast, the additional 50 FPS gives 400 FPS crossbows a noticeable edge in power and penetration. The faster velocity also means the arrow spends less time in the air, which can be crucial for long-range shots.

The increased velocity comes at the cost of slightly higher recoil and the need for more precise tuning. 400 FPS crossbows typically require higher draw weights and more sophisticated mechanisms to maintain their speed consistently.

Are 400 FPS crossbows legal everywhere?

Legal regulations vary by location, but 400 FPS crossbows are generally legal, falling under airgun regulations rather than traditional firearm laws. Check local hunting regulations and airgun restrictions before purchasing.

Many jurisdictions cap maximum velocities for crossbows, with 400 FPS often being the upper limit. Always verify legal requirements in your area before choosing a 400 FPS crossbow.

What types of hunting are 400 FPS crossbows best suited for?

400 FPS crossbows excel in situations where you need both power and precision. They’re ideal for deer hunting, where their high velocity helps ensure clean, quick kills at typical hunting ranges.

Their accuracy and speed make them particularly effective for situations requiring quick follow-up shots or when hunting in environments with dense cover, where a fast follow-up shot is crucial.

How much do 400 FPS crossbows typically cost?

Entry-level 400 FPS crossbows often start around $1,000, offering basic features and performance. Mid-range models, with better build quality and additional features, typically cost between $1,200 and $1,800.

High-end 400 FPS crossbows, featuring premium materials and advanced features, can cost upwards of $2,500. The price difference usually reflects the build quality, materials used, and included features of the crossbow.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we receive compensation from qualified purchases