10 Top Best Recurve Crossbows For Deer Hunting 2023 – Reviews & Complete Buying Guide

Ancient people used to hunt animals for food, whereas the modern generation treats hunting more like a thrilling recreational sport.

In contrast to the old hand-made artilleries, today’s advanced weaponry has made this activity much easier.

While you can be a rookie or an expert archer, having the best recurve crossbows for deer hunting makes your skills more effective.

There are hundreds of quality recurve crossbows available from different makers.

Best Recurve Crossbows 2022

However, the main question is, which one do you need or which one would suit you the most?

To provide you with some proper answers, we have selected the top 10 recurve crossbows you can purchase for hunting purposes.

The selection process was done based on many criteria like weight, speed, design, price, and many more.

If you don’t have enough time to go through the whole list, you can check out the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package as it is the best one among all the options.

From the price tag to the speed of the shot, everything about this recurve crossbow is simply outstanding.

Now, let’s check the other crossbows from the list.


10 Best Recurve Crossbows For Deer Hunting Reviews 2023


Related Guide: short draw length compound bow

1. Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package

Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package
Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package

The first entry in this list of best recurve crossbows for deer hunting is the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package.

This whole package can be the perfect choice for a beginner or an experienced hunter to level up their hunting game!

Features
  • Construction: This Barnett Jackal Crossbow is built with quality materials to ensure a robust and balanced performance for a lengthy period. This lightweight crossbow with efficient features helps you to aim the bow and draw the arrow with ease.
  • Total Package: This package has all the necessary equipment you need to set up for a crossbow. After receiving the purchase, just assemble all the parts within 10 minutes following the instruction guide.
  • Power & Accuracy: With the 3.5 pounds trigger pull, you can take 10-12 strokes once you set your target. Professional shooters can shoot with accuracy at the speed of 315 fps. Due to the easy aiming ability, beginners can practice target hitting from 30-50 yards away.

PROS

  • An affordable model for beginners.
  • Sufficient kinetic energy.
  • An all-inclusive package with the necessary gears.
  • Automatic safety features stop dry firing. 

CONS

  • There is no rope cocking tool.

Related Guide: best replacement bowstrings

2. Ace Martial Arts Supply Tactical Crossbow

2. Ace Martial Arts Supply Tactical Crossbow
Ace Martial Arts Supply Tactical Crossbow

If you are an experienced archer and want a good quality to recurve crossbow at a decent price, the Ace Martial Arts Tactical Crossbow can be a great choice for you.

This cost-effective crossbow pistol hits the target with accuracy, making your hunting a successful one.

Features
  • Lightweight: The crossbow is lightweight and easy to carry around. You can hold it for a long time without any physical stress. You can use this crossbow pistol for both hunting and target practice.
  • Sturdy material: While the body is built with strong and high-quality plastic materials, the bow is made of fiberglass. This robust construction is durable enough to serve you for several years.
  • Easy to Load: This tactical crossbow with an 80-Pound draw weight that you can use to hit your target easily. The self-locking system helps the crossbow to load with ease. This item also comes with one string and 3 aluminum arrows.

PROS

  • Durable and easy to use.
  • Affordable price.
  • Easy assemblage.
  • Small and lightweight.

CONS

  • Not suitable for beginner archers.

3. BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR

BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR
BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR

Barnett is a well-known name when it comes to standard shooting equipment. This whitetail hunter crossbow can be a great addition to your deer hunting trip.  

Features
  • All-inclusive Package: This whitetail hunter comes in an all-inclusive package along with a scope, lube wax, rope cocking tool, quiver, two arrows. You can instantly start hunting with this assembled crossbow once you receive it!
  • Speed: With a speed rate of 315 fps, you can shoot the arrow right at your target with accuracy. The multi-reticle scope also aids you to hit your target at the right spot. This STR crossbow is lightweight with a compact design, so you don’t have to think twice to move it along.
  • Anti-dry Fire System: Accidental firing with an empty crossbow is harmful to the bow assemble. This anti-dry firing feature prevents the bow from firing without an arrow, ensuring a longer life span.

PROS

  • Durable construction.
  • Value for money product.
  • Anti-dry firing mechanism.
  • Adjustable sight.

CONS

  • The optic needs improvement.

Related Guide: best ground blind for bowhunting

4. Snake Eye Tactical Crossbow

Snake Eye Tactical Crossbow
Snake Eye Tactical Crossbow

If you are looking for a recurve crossbow that you can use for small hunting games, the Snake eye tactical crossbow is hands down the most suitable one for you.

Features
  • Sleek Design: Built with metal, this recurve crossbow exhibits a smart and sophisticated look despite being one of the most inexpensive bows. Carry this mini crossbow without feeling any pressure on your hand!
  • 80-Pound Draw Weight: With a draw weight of 40 LBS and 6.8 inches power stroke, you can hit your target with maximum precision.
  • Self-Cocking System: You don’t have to raise the trigger with each shot because this handy crossbow has a self-cocking system. The 160 FPS speed range makes sure you can hit a target that is 18 yards away. A perfect crossbow for archery practice or chasing small animals. 

PROS

  • Budget-friendly crossbow.
  • Easy cocking system.
  • Mostly accurate shots.
  • Quality structure.

CONS

  • Changing the strings can be a bit difficult.

5. SA Sports 647 Crossbow Package

SA Sports 647 Crossbow Package
SA Sports 647 Crossbow Package

The next entry in our list of best recurve crossbows for deer hunting is the Empire Fever Pro crossbow package from SA Sports.

With this crossbow, you can get all the regular features at a fairly reasonable expense.

Features
  • Low-Weight Structure: The limbs of this crossbow are made with fiberglass, increasing the portability and balance as well. The slightly enlarged forearm makes it easier to hold when you are shooting with this one.
  • Optical Quality: the multi-reticle scope has an anti-fog layer to give you a proper view in the foggy environment. Due to the less production of vibration, this crossbow doesn’t make much sound while in use.
  • Ambidextrous: This recurve crossbow can be used by both left-handed and right-handed archers. The ani-dry firing system prevents any unintentional trigger for safety purposes. Assemble this bow within 15 minutes before the hunting trip, and you are good to go!

PROS

  • An economy crossbow.
  • Lightweight and easy to assemble.
  • Quickly detachable quiver.
  • All-in-one set.

CONS

  • Poor trigger mechanism.

Related Guide: Top Rated Hunting Rain Gear

6. CenterPoint Camo- Crossbow Package

CenterPoint Camo- Crossbow Package
CenterPoint Camo- Crossbow Package

If you get irritated with the sound a crossbow makes, and want one that has the silencing mechanism, then we have the perfect recommendation for you! The CenterPoint camo-crossbow package has all the tools to give you a soundless shooting experience.

Features
  • Build Quality: This top-notch tormentor whisper crossbow is made with high-quality aluminum, giving it a robust structure and longer life. Due to the narrow axle to axle cocked width, you can use this crossbow in tree stands and blinds with ease.
  • Whisper Silencing System: This recurve crossbow stays very quiet while in use. The spider silencers and the limb dampeners make sure the vibration and noise remain to a minimum amount. 
  • Easy assembly: This easy-to-set-up crossbow takes only 10 minutes to get ready for the hunting session! The rubber-padded grips provide comfort when you are holding it for a long time.

PROS

  • High projectile rate.
  • It shoots up to 380-400 FPS.
  • Ten-minute assemble process.
  • Very quiet operation.

CONS

  • This one is a bit heavier.

7. Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow

Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow

As we have mentioned before, Barnett crossbows never fail to amaze us with their strong and powerful performance. From the look to the arrow speed, the whitetail hunter II delivers exactly what it promises.  

Features
  • Robust Structure: Like all other Barnett products, this whitetail hunter II crossbow is made with quality materials as well. The stainless steel body increases durability and shooting efficiency. This crossbow is on the lighter side and easily carried.
  • Camouflage Pattern: This crossbow comes with a high-definition camo design where lucrative patterns are blended within. This outlook helps to conceal itself when you are hunting outdoors.
  • TriggerTech Assembly: The friction-less release tech creates a free-floating roller to ensure a lighter and smoother trigger. The anti-dry fire and nock sensors assure a safe shooting session. The gun case has heavy-duty latches to ensure bump-free travel. 

PROS

  • Easy to maneuver.
  • High-definition camo pattern.
  • Accurate shots.
  • High kinetic energy.

CONS

  • The scope is not adjustable.

8. Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow

Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow
Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow

Wondering why another Barnett crossbow is in the best recurve crossbows for deer hunting list? Well, considering the excellent shooting you can do with this one, you shouldn’t be surprised at all.

Features
  • All-in-one Package: This whitetail pro STR crossbow kit has all the essentials like scope, quiver, arrow, lube wax, rope cocking tool. Built with aluminum materials, you can shoot with this crossbow to hit your target without any error.
  • Noiseless Operation: A simple click sound is enough to alert your target of the danger. Hence, this crossbow kit comes with string dampeners to decrease the vibration and sound when you fire an arrow. The TruBark camo pattern also gives it a unique outlook.
  • Safety Features: The dry fire inhibitor prevents unplanned shooting that can harm the archer. The safety switch also makes sure the crossbow is unlocked manually after cocking.

PROS

  • Pro step-through riser technology for accurate shots.
  • It has dampeners to reduce sound.
  • The fastest crossbow with 400 fps speed.
  • It comes with many accessories.

CONS

  • Very expensive.

9. Wildgame Innovations XR250 Crossbow

Wildgame Innovations XR250 Crossbow
Wildgame Innovations XR250 Crossbow

If you are looking for a crossbow specially designed for women, the Wildgame innovations XR250 crossbow is the one you should check out.

Features
  • High-end Built: This sleek-looking crossbow is built with premium quality components, giving it a sturdy form that you can use for a long time. Due to its lightweight nature, you won’t feel any discomfort even after long hours of holding it.
  • Shot Accuracy: The slotted magnesium with the cast barrel of this unique crossbow provides excellent accuracy while you are hunting.
  • Easy Assembly: This crossbow comes with a quiver, arrows, red dot light, rope cocking device that are easy to assemble if you follow the installation guide. You can also adjust the brightness of the crossbow scope.

PROS

  • The price is within budget.
  • Well-constructed crossbow.
  • Durable and lightweight.
  • Adjustable brightness option.

CONS

  • Bolts are of poor quality.

10. Barnett Outdoors BCR Recurve Crossbow Package

Barnett Outdoors BCR Recurve Crossbow Package
Barnett Outdoors BCR Recurve Crossbow Package

Are you new at hunting? As a beginner, you need a crossbow that is easy to handle and shoot with ease. And this Barnett BCR crossbow package is going to serve your purpose flawlessly.

Features
  • Lightweight Structure: With a draw weight of 150 pounds, this crossbow is one of the lightest ones weighing only 4.5 pounds. The standard features of this bow make it easier for a beginner to practice shooting, regardless of age.
  • Metal Injected Mold: The MIM feature ensures a tighter tolerance, so you can pull the trigger smoothly without jerking. The ani-dry firing trigger prevents you from shooting the crossbow when there is no arrow inside.
  • Adjustable Butt Pad: The fully flexible butt pad allows you to get comfortable while shooting. The red dot scope and the lightweight composite stock of this bow help you to aim perfectly at your target.

PROS

  • An in-built crank is available.
  • Large thumb hole.
  • Flexible butt pad.
  • Can shoot targets 20 yards away.

CONS

  • Not suitable for serious hunting.

How To Buy The Best Recurve Crossbows For Deer Hunting?

How To Buy The Best Recurve Crossbows

Recurve crossbow usually comes with simple yet effective features. If you know what to check before buying one for you, the whole hunting session would be more enjoyable without any doubt.

Draw weight

Draw weight is basically the force that you need to draw the bow. It is a significant point to check out before buying a recurve crossbow.

The higher the draw weight is, the faster the arrow speed would be.

For a medium-level hunting game, the draw weight of your recurve crossbow should be 150 pounds minimum, with a velocity close to the 300 fps mark.

Energy and velocity

The recurve crossbows usually curve away from the bowman at each limb’s edge. Thus, decreasing the gap between the bow and the string.

This helps the crossbow string to go far before stopping and shooting the arrow. 300 ft. per second is a good speed range for a mid-level game.

Size and weight

A compound crossbow is built with a narrow frame due to the attached pulley system to the limbs.

But the recurve crossbow frame is wider to bear the weight of the bow stack on the back.

This makes it more convenient to hold the recurve crossbow for long periods.

You will get a sense of steadiness and get a better chance at hitting the bull’s eye.

Power stroke

The power stroke is the distance between the string’s lifted and the resting point. The speed of the bolt depends on the power stroke’s length.

For an energetic and faster shot, you should get a crossbow with a longer power stroke.

Noise

When you shoot an arrow using a recurve crossbow, the released energy during the firing creates vibrations that turn into noise.

This sound can easily spoil your hunting experience because then your target will be alert.

It is better to look for a model with a string repressing mechanism and anti-vibration technology to subdue the sound.

Trigger

Some hunters may think light triggers to pull creep-less weight are easy to use, while others prefer triggers with creep and heavy pull.

Some crossbows may have a blend of these two methods. Hence, choose a crossbow that comes with a suitable trigger for your handling. 

Arrow Track

crossbow Arrow Track

The arrow track or barrel is the physical form that makes sure you can launch an arrow successfully.

This should be precise to ensure the shot accuracy of the arrow downrange. Don’t forget to check the arrow track if you want to get the best bowing result.

Scope

crossbows Scope

When you are shooting an arrow at your target, the scope feature of the crossbow helps it to focus on a specific point.

Better buy a crossbow that comes with multiple reticles for the perfect shot aimed from different distances.

You can also go for illuminated reticles for a better view in dark conditions.

Accessories

While using a recurve crossbow, you will need accessories like arrows, scope, quivers, cocking aids, etc.

Most crossbow packages are packed with these tools, whereas in some cases you need to buy them separately.

For the best result, try to use all these gears from the same company.

However, you can purchase a crossbow storing bag better for your suitability.

Warranty

You never know how long your crossbow can perform. To make sure your money is not being wasted on something broken, go for a crossbow that comes with a warranty.

This way, if any part of the crossbow wears out within the standardized time limit, you can replace them without paying extra money.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is actually a recurve crossbow?

A recurve crossbow is a type of bow with a longer draw length, allowing you to shoot the bow with more velocity.

Due to the strength and speed of the shot, this tool is a great option for hunting sessions. You can set it up and change the bowstring easily as well.

When should I change the strings of my recurve crossbow?

Most manufacturers suggest that you should change the crossbow strings every few years.

But the main deciding factor is the amount of usage of the crossbow. With each use, the crossbow string’s quality deteriorates.

If you find speed loss while shooting or wear and tear in the strings, it is high time to replace them.

How can I store a recurve crossbow?

Properly storing the recurve crossbow is very important if you want it to last long.

To maintain the shooting capacity, you must make sure the crossbow is safe from pollutants, dust, grime, moisture, and mildew.

First, take out the crossbow strings when you are storing them for a long period. Hang the crossbow on a robust hook from the foot strap.

If you are putting it away for a prolonged time, make sure to buy a storage bag or case for your crossbow.

Never forget to lubricate the parts, especially the trigger and the surrounding area.

In case you have no storage bag for it, use a sock to cover the scope. This way dust won’t be able to scratch the crossbow.

How to silence a recurve crossbow?

You can follow some simple ways to make sure the recurve crossbow stays quiet. The first and most effective way is to tighten all the pins and clips.

Wobbly parts are responsible for vibration that ultimately results in sounds.

Adding string silence, limb dampener, and other anti-vibration accessories will muffle your crossbow sounds.  

How accurate can be a recurve crossbow?

Recurve crossbows are pretty accurate when it comes to hitting the target. You can strike straight at the sight point using this crossbow.

These bows usually have a simple design with fewer movable parts.

The tension created from the string pulls the limbs naturally with a balanced force, and the bow cams also stay in tune with it.

Final Words

You can be a pro at hunting, but having many years of experience, you would know how crucial your crossbow is for your hunt session. 

If you have the best recurve crossbows for deer hunting available at your hand, the chances of hitting your target are maximized to a great extent.

Hence, you need to invest your money in the right one.


We have included all the features, common queries, buying guides, etc. to help you make an error-free decision.

And once you have found the best recurve crossbow for you, don’t wait up and purchase your one without wasting any time! 

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