Best 20 Air Crossbows with Adjustable Power

Combining the excitement of archery with the precision of air firearms, air crossbows offer archers a versatile alternative to traditional bows. These modern weapons use compressed air to launch bolts, providing consistent performance and extended range compared to mechanical crossbows. Our comprehensive guide evaluates the top air crossbows available today, helping you choose the right equipment for your shooting needs and preferences.

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Reviews

Ravin R10 XK7 Camo Air Crossbow

As a versatile crossbow that’s earned high praise from both new and experienced users, the Ravin R10 delivers impressive accuracy with its top-tier Ravin arrows and 400 FPS speed. Its compact design makes it ideal for tree stands or ground blinds, while features like the built-in cocking mechanism and anti-dry fire safety add convenience and reliability. The Ravin-exclusive XK7 camo pattern helps you blend into hunting environments with its detailed North American-inspired design.

TenPoint Havoc RS440 Crossbow Package

The compact Havoc RS440 from TenPoint brings impressive performance to a surprisingly nimble 26.5-inch frame. Its 440 FPS shot speed and 172 foot-pound kinetic energy make it a formidable bow for any hunter, while the ACUslide cocking system and 3.5-pound trigger pull ensure smooth operation. Even with its size, the crossbow manages to adjust the length of pull by an inch, so it feels comfortable whether you’re shooting from the ground or a treestand.

Tenpoint Havoc RS440 Crossbow

With its 3.5x magnification and multi-color display, the Xero X1i scope makes it easy to spot game from a distance, while the single aiming point system takes the guesswork out of ranging. The crossbow’s micro-trac barrel and S1 trigger system significantly reduce sound and increase accuracy, making it a quiet choice for hunting. At just 18.8 pounds, it’s surprisingly light for its power, and the ACUslide system lets you cock and de-cock silently without any annoying clicks.

Ravin R10 Crossbow

The Ravin R10 Predator Camo combines exceptional accuracy with remarkable maneuverability, featuring a slim 6-inch profile when cocked. With a 400 FPS velocity and included 100-yard illuminated scope, it delivers rifle-like performance for both experienced hunters and new shooters. The crossbow’s quiet operation and built-in safety system make it a top choice for any outdoor adventure.

TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow Package

At just 6.4 pounds, the TenPoint Titan M1 packs a powerful punch with its 190-pound draw and 32.5-inch length. The included 3-arrow carbon quiver and TenPoint 3x scope make it a complete package for both new and experienced hunters. While some users report minor issues with durability, particularly with the cocking system and scope, the bow itself delivers impressive accuracy and speed.

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 Phantum Compact Crossbow

Combining portability with precision, the Barnett Phantum Series crossbow takes aim with its 3+1 shot capacity and pump-action design. The included fiber optic sight and 6 safety darts make it a serious contender in the world of suction dart competitions, while the free practice target lets you develop your skills in style. Built by the crossbow pioneers since 1962, this mini crossbow delivers the quality you’d expect from a trusted name in the industry.

Wicked Ridge Rampage XS Air Crossbow

Combining lightweight design with powerful performance, the Wicked Ridge Rampage XS delivers impressive speed and accuracy. Whether you’re a first-time hunter or experienced shooter, this American-made crossbow offers exceptional value with its crisp trigger and adjustable stock.

Bear x Desire XL Pistol Crossbow

The Bear X Desire XL delivers impressive performance with 175 FPS velocity, though some users note the plastic bolts can be problematic. The adjustable stock improves stability, and the self-cocking mechanism makes it accessible for shooters of all skill levels. While construction quality is mixed, many reviewers report satisfying accuracy and reliable performance for both casual practice and outdoor use.

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.

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.

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.

Ravin Crossbow R18

This compact crossbow packs an impressive punch in its diminutive frame, with a surprisingly hefty 13-inch kinetic energy rating belied by its 18-inch length sans stock. The included 3-dot reflex sight makes quick work of targets, while the cleverly designed detachable stock and built-in cocking mechanism make it a breeze to handle. Whether you’re hunting from a tree stand or need to schlep your rig into the backcountry, this crossbow checks all the boxes for modern bowhunting.

Bear x Desire RD Pistol Crossbow

This compact crossbow pairs impressive power with ease of use, perfect for both backyard fun and controlled hunting situations. The included red dot sight and decent arrow speeds make it surprisingly accurate for its size, though some users have noted challenges with the red dot’s precision and initial setup difficulty. Weighing just 1.9 pounds, it’s a surprisingly capable little package that packs more punch than you might expect from a 60-pound draw.

Steambow AR-6 Stinger II Compact Crossbow

Weighing just over two pounds, the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II packs serious stopping power behind its magazine-fed six-shot capacity. The ambidextrous grip and adjustable length make it super comfortable whether you’re right- or left-handed, while the Picatinny rails let you add your own sights and accessories. The glass-infused polymer construction feels really solid when you’re pumping it back for that 35-pound draw, and the fiber optic sights really help you align your shot in low light. The 150 fps velocity and 7 ft/lb muzzle energy translate to an impressive amount of kinetic force when you’re scoring hits at 75 feet.

Barnett Phantum Mini Crossbow

Made by the trusted brand Barnett since 1962, this crossbow is specifically designed for young archers, with a pump-action mechanism that makes it easy to load. The included fiber optic sight helps kids learn to aim properly, while the suction cup safety darts ensure they’re always shooting without risk of injury. With its 3+1 dart capacity and 30-foot shooting range, the crossbow combines real archery fun with essential safety features, making it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor use.

Tenpoint Nitro 505 Crossbow

With its powerful 521 FPS performance and quiet operation, the Nitro 505 delivers pinpoint accuracy for ethical hunting. The EVO-X scope system and 20-inch barrel engineering combine for a smooth shooting experience with quick target acquisition. The crossbow’s 19.8-pound weight and well-considered design details, like the silent acuslide cocking mechanism, make it a pleasure to handle for extended shooting sessions.

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

Air crossbows represent an innovative fusion of traditional archery and modern air gun technology, offering enthusiasts a unique shooting experience. Understanding their key features and considerations is essential for selecting the right equipment.

Power and Performance

Power is defined by the crossbow’s foot-pounds (ft-lbs) rating, which determines its stopping power and range. Higher ft-lbs enable penetration of thicker materials and greater distance. Consider your intended use: hunting requires higher power for effective shots, while competition may prioritize accuracy over raw power.

Trigger Mechanism

The trigger system’s consistency and reset distance significantly impact shot execution. Modern crossbows feature adjustable triggers with crisp, clean breaks. A shorter reset distance allows rapid follow-up shots, while consistent trigger pull weight prevents jerky releases. Look for triggers with options for customization and smooth performance.

Scope and Sight Options

Accurate shooting at distance requires reliable sighting equipment. Opt for a scope with clear, crisp optics and appropriate magnification for your shooting environment. Red dot sights offer quick target acquisition and are less affected by environmental factors. Consider the brightness, size, and parallax adjustment of your chosen sight system.

Storage and Transportation

Proper crossbow maintenance and transportation are crucial for longevity and safety. Look for models with reversible stocks that allow for both right- and left-handed shooting. The crossbow should include a padded carrying case with secure straps and padding to protect both the crossbow and its components during transport.

FAQ

What is an air crossbow?

An air crossbow combines the shooting mechanism of a crossbow with a spring-loaded air system. It uses compressed air to power its shots, typically launching lightweight bolts or darts.

The air system allows for consistent power delivery and easier operation compared to traditional crossbows. Many models include adjustable power settings and scopes for precision shooting.

How does an air crossbow differ from a traditional crossbow?

Unlike traditional crossbows, which use a complex draw mechanism, air crossbows rely on compressed air. This makes them simpler to operate and maintain but limits their power output.

Traditional crossbows use a recurve or compound design to store energy, while air crossbows typically employ a spring-loaded mechanism. This difference affects their power delivery and maintenance requirements.

What are the main components of an air crossbow?

The primary components include the barrel, air reservoir, trigger mechanism, and bolt carrier. The barrel guides the projectile, while the air reservoir stores compressed air.

The trigger mechanism controls the release of air, and the bolt carrier holds the projectile. Many models also include sights, scopes, and adjustable power systems.

What maintenance is required for an air crossbow?

Regular cleaning of the barrel and air reservoir ensures optimal performance. The trigger mechanism should be lubricated periodically to maintain smooth operation.

The bolt carrier and other moving parts should be checked for wear, and the entire system should be inspected for any damage before each use.

What accessories are recommended for an air crossbow?

A protective case and carrying strap are essential for transporting the crossbow safely. A cleaning kit and lubricant are recommended for regular maintenance.

Scope mounts, additional bolts, and a rest for precise shooting are useful accessories that enhance the crossbow’s versatility.

How accurate are air crossbows?

Most air crossbows offer good accuracy, with groups typically ranging from 1-3 inches at 20 yards. Factors like air pressure, weather conditions, and shooter skill affect performance.

Many models include adjustable sights or scopes that allow users to fine-tune their setup for better accuracy.

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