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Best Hunting Binoculars For The Money in 2022

By Shane 3 Comments

Upland Optics Perception HD BinocularsThe usefulness of binoculars is often overlooked by novice hunters, but those with a bit more experience know just how important good optics are in the field. Never underestimate a quality pair of hunting binoculars, and do your research to avoid purchasing just another pair of cheap binoculars.

In this guide we lay out our picks for the top binoculars in a few different categories, and arm you with a few tricks to pick the best pair for your needs and your budget.

Best Binoculars for Hunting Deer

If your family is like mine, then deer hunting is what it’s all about. Deer hunting, though, can be challenging, whether deep in the woods or in a wide open field. Knowing your hunting terrain preference will allow you to choose a pair of binoculars with a larger field of view or more magnification.

Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm Hunting Binoculars Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Quality: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Value: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

If you want a pair of binoculars built specifically for hunters, look no further than the Perception HDs from Upland Optics.

These are a great all-around choice when it comes to hunting whitetail, or any other species of deer. The optics are high quality, but the product itself isn’t so outrageously expensive that you would be nervous carrying it around in the woods. Quality is important, but I certainly don’t want to hunt with a pair of binoculars that cost as much as a used car!

10x42mm is an ideal size and magnification for hunting binoculars. They are small enough that they can easily be carried around the neck all day long, which is key for spot and stalk hunting big game. Despite their portable size, the magnification is strong enough to allow you to spot deer from miles away.

For a young company, Upland Optics has churned out some great products in recent years. Many products have been praised by hunters, as well as earned endorsements from industry sites like OpticsDen.com.

Best 10×42 Binoculars for Hunting

Vortex Optics Viper HD 10×42 Binoculars Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Quality: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Value: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

Vortex Optics Viper HD 10x42 Roof Prism BinocularThe Upland binoculars mentioned above offer great quality at a manageable cost, but if you have a slightly higher budget, check out the Viper HD binoculars. While these have a mid-level price, they deliver top of the line features at a lower cost than other products with comparable features.

These binoculars are typically sold at about double the price of the Upland pair above. The exact price varies from one store to the next, so we suggest comparing prices for the best deal.

Viper HD binoculars are fog proof and waterproof. The lenses also offer increased brightness and light transmission, which makes a noticeable difference in the quality and detail of the images, especially in low-light.

The best feature of this set of impressive hunting binoculars is the included lifetime warranty guarantee. That alone is worth the higher price tag of this model.

Best 8×42 Binoculars for Hunting

Nikon MONARCH5 8 x 42 Binocular Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5) Quality: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5) Value: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)
Overall: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)

best 8x42 hunting binocularsWhile the 10×42 style is one most commonly used by hunters, it is not an ideal choice for everyone. 8×42 style binoculars are best for hunters who do most of their hunting in heavily wooded areas. These are also a good choice for hunters who are looking for the the most lightweight option. With that in mind, our recommendation for the best 8×42 hunting binocular for the money is the Nikon MONARCH5.

The Nikon MONARCH5 is affordable and offers all the basic features hunters look for in an 8×42 binoc. The image is clear and sharp, which is more than you would except from a lightweight and affordable pair of binoculars. Even better, these binocs were designed for extreme use and extreme weather — they are fog proof, waterproof, and have a rubber armored body that is extremely durable and provides a non-slip grip for any occasion.

When comparing prices locally and online this name seems to vary significantly from one shop to the next, so make sure to shop around to find the best price.

Best Compact Hunting Binoculars

Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Compact Roof Prism Binocular Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Quality: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5) Value: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)
Overall: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

If you find that space is usually limited on your hunting trips, consider purchasing compact binoculars. These are smaller and weigh less than a full-size model. Of these, my favorite model is the Bushnell H2O Compact Binocular.

Although small and affordable, these binocs are still waterproof and fog proof, which are two of the most important features in hunting optics. They also have a good non-slip grip, but before jumping to buy these cheap hunting binoculars, know that the compact style has more differences from full-size versions than just weight and size. The lenses are small in diameter due to the smaller size of the frames, which means that the image will be less bright than a similar, full-size model.

If you’re willing to make some trade-offs for your budget, these are a great lightweight and inexpensive option.

Best Binoculars with a Rangefinder

Leica 10×42 Geovid HD-B Laser Range Finding Binocular Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Quality: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Value: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)
Overall: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)

Leica Geovid 10 x 42 HD Laser Rangefinder BinocularsFor those interested in design and technology, consider a quality pair of hunting binoculars with a rangefinder. Having hunting binocs with a built-in laser rangefinder really takes your hunting game to a whole new level. These are not cheap, but our favorite model is the Leica Geovid HD-B Binocular.

These binocs have so many quality features it’s hard to find any faults! Features include:

  • fog proof
  • waterproof
  • non-slip grip rubber housing
  • thermometer
  • barometer
  • inclinometer
  • 2000-yard laser rangefinder
  • integrated ballistics computer

Although attractive, take into consideration how many of these features will actually be useful for you when you’re hunting. These binoculars might make you the envy of all your hunting buddies, but there is a hefty price-tag to match!

More Great Binocular Options

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x 42mm Hunting Binoculars Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Quality: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Value: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

best deer hunting binocularsIf your hunting expeditions often bring you to big fields or mountains, then the Legend Ultra HD will likely be a good fit.

They have great magnification (of course this isn’t as important as a bow hunter), they are lightweight, the exterior has a camo design, and the lenses have a nice coating that repels water when you’re caught in the rain. In fact, the entire body is waterproof!

The Legend Ultra HD is made by Bushnell, a brand known for creating high quality optics gear. These binocs are consistently one of the top rated hunting products on the market and have received many impressive customer reviews on Amazon.

Vanguard Spirit XF Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5) Quality: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Value: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)
Overall: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)

Vanguard Spirit XF Binoculars reviewHaving never used any Vanguard optics before, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the relatively inexpensive Spirit XF binoculars. I was surprised to find that they perform very well; they don’t fog up in the rain, fit comfortably in your hands for an easy grip, have good image clarity and field of view, and most importantly, are budget friendly.

These are an all around “safe bet” for quality and budget.

 

Vortex Optics Diamondback Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Quality: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Value: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

Vortex Optics Diamondback 10x42 Roof Prism Binocular reviewThe Diamondback is a great option for both quality and budget. Although a bit heavier than some of the more compact options, these binoculars are waterproof and fog proof, have good clarity, and come with a rainguard.

These binos are versatile and durable, making them a good option for most hunting conditions.

They also come with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer, which is an incredible deal for the low price.

Steiner Predator Binoculars Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5) Quality: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5) Value: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)
Overall: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)

Steiner Predator Binoculars reviewIf you do a lot of hunting at dusk or dawn, you will want something that works well in low-light scenarios. The Steiner Predator binos are a great option for hunting in dim conditions. They are ultra lightweight (although slightly larger in frame size), have good clarity and durability, and perform excellently in low-light conditions.

Their low-light performance makes them seem like they were custom made for hunters! That have an affordable price and do well out in the field.

Why Use Binoculars for Hunting?

Any experienced hunter will likely tell you the benefits of hunting with binoculars. When you’re up in a deer stand looking for your next kill, a good pair of binocs vastly improves your chances of spotting one. Quality binoculars allow you to see distant animals and surroundings with precision not possible to the naked eye. Unquestionably, binoculars are one of the most powerful tools in a hunter’s arsenal.

Hunting Binoculars Shopping Guide

Ideally, purchasing a pair of binoculars will be a lifetime investment. Most models are made to be durable, and short of dropping them, it will be hard to ever really wear a pair out. With lifetime use in mind, it is important to put a lot of thought into which model to buy and which features will help the most for your style of hunting.

For hunting game, one of the first priorities should be looking for models that perform well in low-light conditions. Deer and other game are typically most active at dusk and dawn, which means often working with limited visibility. Typically, models with objective lenses in the 42-50mm range provide the best results in dim light.

The level of magnification you will need from your binocs varies from one hunter to the next as it depends mostly on the type of hunting terrain. For turkey and deer hunting in woods and open fields, a 7x or 8x magnification is ideal. This will come in use when scanning tree lines and fields; as any hunter who has managed to snag a trophy buck can tell you, they like to hang back at the tree lines further away from the herd.

For hunters who tend to stay in open areas where the game don’t have a lot of cover, a 10x magnification helps to have great views at a further distance. However, I suggest not going much above 10x. Unless you are using a tripod to keep the binoculars steady, you will get a bit of image degradation from binocs 11x or above.

Since you’ll likely be out in unpredictable weather conditions, make sure your binoculars can handle the events of Mother Nature. I find that a good roof prism binocular performs best when you’re dealing with impact and high moisture situations. Most roof prism models are both weatherproof and fog proof, which is a nice bonus.

If you are looking to buy your first pair of binoculars, I can provide some of my own personal opinions and experiences to help guide your decision making. For your first set, you might want to go for the cheapest option, and purchase a low-end pair of binoculars for beginners. Take my word for it and resist this urge. Of course, don’t spend more than you can comfortably afford, but in my opinion you should expect to spend at least $100 on binoculars for them to perform well for many hunting seasons to come.

When you start shopping, as you maybe have already noticed, there are a lot of different brands and models on the market. Additionally, there are a lot of different features available, some better for things like bird watching while others are better for hunting.

Some features to consider for hunting binoculars include:

  • magnification
  • wide field of view
  • weight
  • waterproof body
  • fog proof lenses
  • coated lenses

While this is not a full list of all the features available, a product that includes even a few of them will suffice. If you are on a tight budget, start thinking about where you can make trade-offs among these features to find affordable hunting binoculars that won’t set you back too much.

Filed Under: Hunting

The Best Rangefinders for your Outdoor Excursions in 2022

By Tomas Leave a Comment

We always hear how binoculars, riflescopes, and spotting scopes are the premier optics to be taken into the outdoors, regardless if you’re hunting or backpacking. You may not know it, but the rangefinder has proven to be a trustworthy device integral to the success of outdoor adventures. The good thing is, rangefinders don’t add much to your overall weight, so you can take them with you just about anywhere for any trip duration.

You can see rangefinders being used in golf, hunting, and birding among other activities. They’ll give you the range to a specific target in either feet, meters, or even miles. For hunters and birders specifically, this is extremely important in identifying animals and species.

Let’s take a look at the best rangefinders on the market today:

Best Choice

Upland Optics Perception 1000

If you’re looking for a trusty rangefinder that will get you exact measurements with no questions asked, then consider the Upland Optics Perception 1000. This laser rangefinder is as simple as it gets yet has many satisfied customers.

We are accustomed to seeing rangefinders take unusual and complex shapes that just seem unnecessary. The Perception 1000 has checkered grips that are easy to hold. Two buttons along the top control power and distance measurement. It’s as simple as that.

As an added bonus, it has 6x zoom and its two different measurements allow you to get accurate ranges on different terrain and vegetation.

For Hunting

Nikon Forestry Pro

The Forestry Pro is small but innovative device that can prove useful to hunters tracking game on rough or uneven terrain. When the terrain isn’t flat, every meter matters when factoring in the drop of a bullet. Thankfully, the Forestry Pro has you covered no matter what your position is.

The noticeable difference between the Forestry Pro and other rangefinders is an LCD display on the side showing you horizontal distance, height, angle, and vertical separation. When looking through the eyepiece, you’ll get the usual range to the target.

Bushnell Hunting Series Elite

The Bushnell Elite outclasses many rangefinders on the market with its 1760 yard range. Most rangefinders’ lasers only extend out to about 1000 yards or less.

The Elite also has a couple of minor modes that factor in wind (separate wind meter adapter needed) or the arc of a bullet. The latter feature you can coordinate with an iOS or android app to analyze up to three different types of bullet curves. For the hardcore and determined hunter tracking elusive game, this feature is pretty much a necessity.

For Bow Hunting

Halo XL450-7

The Halo XL450-7 is an odd looking rangefinder, the design of which allows you to grip the optic comfortably. The XL450-7 is equipped with a couple of different modes to compensate for emerging or fading light. You can hold down the ranging button to get a constant readout. The big advantage is that the XL450-7 is far cheaper than most long-range devices. The XL450-7 itself has a maximum range of 450 yards and has angle compensation, so you can be sure your shorter range shots are going to be on target.

Simmons 801600 Volt 600

When it comes to bow hunting, you may not need the optic with the most powerful optic that extends beyond a thousand yards. The Volt 600 is accurate to less than or equal to a yard and can switch between yards or meters mode.

The Volt 600 is a very simple laser rangefinder that is ideal for pinpoint the range of closer targets, hence why its preferable for bow hunting. It also has a 4x magnification for an even closer look at game.

For Golf

TecTecTec VPRO500

You’re likely to see the TecTecTec VPRO500 on just about every rangefinder buying guide on the web. Why is the VPRO500 so popular? As a laser range finder, it has a constant ranging function over a 540-yard maximum range.

When looking through the lens display, you’ll get the distance, measurement, and even battery level. The VPRO500 keeps the interface simple and doesn’t try to overload your eyes with too much information. Its outer shell is built to last and resist water.

Nikon Coolshot 20

The Nikon Coolshot is as simple as it gets for a golf rangefinder. While other devices are high priced, the Coolshot remains stagnant at just below $200. It’s small and easy to use, with the power button allowing for an 8-second interval where you can range multiple targets.

The Coolshot is so small it can fit in your pocket or any other holster around your body. If you’re looking to take this on any outdoor excursion besides golfing, it certainly holds it out with superior laser ranging.

Precision Pro Golf NX7

The NX7 by Precision Pro Golf is one of the most activity focused rangefinders we’ve seen. It’s one of the smaller rangefinders we’ve seen thus far and comes with its equally compact carrying case.

The first feature is pulse vibration which makes shakes the device when you’re locked onto your target. This technology also prevents the rangefinder from scanning what’s behind the target. It also compensates for slopes on the course. when viewing a target.

For ArcherLaser Rangefinder, Fnova Digital Hunting Range Finder Ranging 5-600 Yards, +/- 1 Yard Accuracy, 6X Magnification Lens with Distance and Speed Measurement for Racing, Archery, Engineering Survey

Fnova 600S

The 600s by Fnova is a popular and lesser-known rangefinder that has the same abilities as some of the other bigger brand names. It is a laser device that calculates distance in meters and speed in kilometers per hour for constant ranging.

This device is ideal for archery because it has a maximum range of 600 yards and a 6x magnification. That power should be enough to put you in good shooting range with any sort of bow. On another note, it’s remarkably cheap compared to other brands.

LaserWorksLaserWorks 600m Solar Power Laser Rangefinder for Hunting Golf,Fog measurement,Waterproof (Camouflage)

This rangefinder LaserWorks has certainly flown under the radar and is certainly worth taking note of. First and foremost, its initial customers are appreciative of its low price despite the versatility of its laser. It can lock on to flagpoles on a golf course, take note of speeds, and even penetrate light fog.

Perhaps its most notable feature is that it has a solar power option on top of the backup battery. This feature can be of great use if you’re planning to go on a long trip in harsh conditions. Furthermore, the rangefinder will turn itself off after 15-seconds of inactivity to conserve power.

Leupold RX-850i

The RX-850i by Leupold is an elongated rangefinder with a single button for power and ranging functions. Despite its shape and size, the RX-850i is surprisingly waterproof and durable with a tough outer shell.Leupold RX-850i TBR with DNA Digital Laser Rangefinder, Black/Grey

This rangefinder has an inclinometer that calculates ballistic range to your target in MOA or mil adjustment. This function works for both firearms and bows/crossbows. You can also hold down the function button to scan over time. Overall, the laser is accurate is accurate to within 1/10th of a yard. Especially for arrows, that small of a measurement is crucial. Best for the Money

Vortex Optics RangerVortex Optics Ranger Rangefinder 1800

Despite the price, the Ranger is one of the most popular rangefinders on the market. With a maximum range of about 1800 yards, it’s the most powerful on our list. Apart from the constant ranging feature, the Ranger compensates for targets at the very edge of its range and at high angles.

The internal display is red can has a couple of different brightness level to compensate for your surroundings and light level. The Ranger also comes with a belt clip for easy attachments to your gear or clothing.

What to look for in a Rangefinder

Perhaps the first thing you should make note of is the maximum range of a rangefinder’s laser. If it’s in the 500-600 yard mark, it would probably be good for bow hunting and archery, while more powerful devices are preferable for firearm hunting.

Does your optic have angle compensations? Sometimes some companies classify this ability under certain names, but anything that displays the angle or possible curve of a ballistic object is close enough.

Some rangefinders have smart features such as lock on and constant ranging will enable you to keep track of your target regardless if you move or it moves.

Filed Under: Hunting

Pick Up The Best Crossbow For The Money in 2022

By Shane 5 Comments

When hunting, I personally prefer using a bow to a rifle. The skill and precision necessary to hunt with a bow make it a practice many hunters enjoy, and a hobby with endless room to grow. If you’re considering buying a crossbow for the first time, or if you’re looking to upgrade an entry-level crossbow to something a bit nicer, here are my reviews and picks of the top crossbows on the market to help you make a decision.

Best Crossbow Over 400 fps

Barnett Ghost 420 CRT Crossbow Package Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Quality: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5) Value: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)
Overall: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

If you are searching for the top contender in velocity, look no further than the Barnett Ghost 420 CRT Crossbow. This beast of a crossbow boasts an impressive 420 feet per second.

The Barnett Ghost 420 CRT Crossbow has a 185 lb. draw wait and comes as part of a complete package with all necessary parts included. Along with the bow comes a premium illuminated scope, a talon sling, a rope cocking device, 3 arrows, and a quiver.

If you have been looking into the Ghost 360 and want to understand the differences between that and the Ghost 420, here is what you need to know:

The Ghost 420 is both faster and lighter than the 360 model. You’ll have to compare current prices to determine which one is cheaper at the moment. Both models have Barnett’s awesome Carbonlite Riser Technology (CRT), which shifts the balance point away from the riser and back to the shoulder of the shooter. The speed and weight are the two major differences between the two.

The Ghost 420 is among the fastest bows on the market, has a 5-to-1 safety factor, and the perfect balance of weight and speed. If you’re still not convinced, see how other crossbow sites have endorsed it here.

Best High-End Crossbow

TenPoint Venom Crossbow with ACUdraw Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Quality: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5) Value: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

TenPoint Venom Crossbow with ACUdrawAmong the best crossbows that money can buy is the Venom by TenPoint. This is definitely a high end crossbow with high end features to match.

This bow has amazing speed — up to 372 feet per second. It is very lightweight, only 6.5 pounds, and extremely compact. The TenPoint Venom Crossbow with ACUdraw features a narrow XLT type front end design and cocks down to axle-to-axle 13.5 inches. The total length is 34.6 inches.

You can feel the accuracy of this bow when shooting. Resetting the bows is fast and easy thanks to the ACUdraw (crank) system. There is some assembly required, although it is minimal and will likely take less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Instructions are included and are easy to follow.

It can also be purchased in a kit with a six-pack of Pro Elite carbon fiber arrow, the RangeMaster Pro Scope, quiver, multi mount bracket, and bow jax. It is clear with this bow that you get what you pay for.

If you’re interested, but thrown off by the price, check out this budget-friendly alternative: TenPoint Stealth FX4 Crossbow Package.

Best Hunting Crossbow Under $1000

Carbon Express Intercept Axon Crossbow Kit Review

Outdoorsman Time rating:

Performance: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Quality: 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5) Value: 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Overall: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

With a hard budget of $1,000, The Carbon Express Intercept Axon crossbow is an impressive piece of gear. This bow has an AR-inspired design and is currently the only completely customizable crossbow on the market.

When you buy this crossbow you will also get top-of-the-line accessories to fit any shooting style or situation. The bow is made using premium alloy cam sets and tunable synthetic strings and cables for optimum precision. Also, the Maxima Blue Streak bolts deliver ultimate speed, flatter trajectory, and durability with BuffTuff Plus carbon weave and Dual Spine Weight Forward technology for strength and greater down-range shot placement.

This Carbon Express crossbow gives you optimal performance, features a 4×32 lighted scope, has excellent accuracy, and shoots 360 feet per second. Other notable specs include: 122 ft.-lb. of kinetic energy, 175 lb. draw weight, and 13.5” power stroke. Included in this kit are 3 Maxima Blue Streak bolts, Quick Detach Quiver, Rope Cocker, 4×32 Glass Etched Lighted Scope with Red/Green illumination and dimmer for varying light conditions, Rail Lubricant, and 3 Practice Points.

  • Patent-pending Picatinny design platform accommodates most military and commercial spec AR parts; 29″ of rail enables unlimited customization
  • Highly adjustable for a customized lenth-of-pull fit for better repeat performance and overall accuracy
  • Compact design for shooting in tight spots (13.5″ axle to axle cocked), for increased accuracy and overall handling in a treestand or ground blind
  • Anti-Dry-Fire: All-metal trigger and safety provide consistent performance. The safety is designed for left or right handed shooters.

With all of these impressive features it is worth mentioning that this bow does feel a little clunkier than others. That being said, it also has a lot of raw power.

Best Crossbows at an Affordable Price

using crossbow
Here at Outdoorsman Time, we know that not every outdoorsman has the budget for a top of the line crossbow. But just because you need to watch your spending, doesn’t mean you have to end up with a crappy product. We believe that you deserve the best crossbow that money can buy (within your budget). With that in mind, we have selected what we believe to be the top crossbows in different price categories to help you find affordable, high quality gear. Keep in mind that the more expensive models typically include more features and deliver better performance, and it could be beneficial to spend a bit more to make the most of your purchase.

Take a look at which bows fit your budget:

    • best crossbow under $200
    • best crossbow under $300
    • best crossbow under $500
  • best crossbow under $1000

Below, you’ll find reviews of some of our favorite crossbows for deer hunting. Take a moment to give this a read if you’re comparing models so you can add some new hunting gear to your stash.

Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow Kit Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5) Quality: 4.3 out of 5 stars (4.3 / 5) Value: 4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5)
Overall: 4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5)

Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow KitA super affordable crossbow, and an especially good option for kids or teens, is the Arrow Precision Inferno Fury Crossbow Kit. The draw weight is pretty low, just 175 pounds, and it is a very lightweight model. It shoots at 235 feet per second, which is a respectable velocity, although not as fast as the higher-end crossbows.

This kit comes with everything you need from an affordable crossbow package — a 175 lb. recurve crossbow, premium 3-dot multi range red dot, quick detach quiver with 4 arrows, padded shoulder sling, adjustable weaver style scope mount, and an ambidextrous auto safety. It also brings an ambidextrous rear stock, and all assembly tools needed.

Here’s a look at the specs:

  • Draw weight: 175 pounds
  • Speed: 235 feet per second
  • Weight: 4.84 pounds
  • Length (without foot stirrup): 31 inches
  • Width, limb tip to limb tip: 27 inches
  • String length: 26.5 inches
  • Limb: compression fiberglass
  • Rear stock: lightweight composite
  • Truck/barrel: aluminum
  • Suggested arrow: 16-inch 2219, 20-inch Carbon

Overall, this crossbow is lightweight and easy to hold, and a great affordable option for beginners.

Barnett Recruit Terrain Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5) Quality: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Value: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)
Overall: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

This crossbow is currently the best selling bow on the market, and for good reason. It is made by one of the top brands and is a high quality piece of hunting gear. The Barnett Recruit Terrain has a velocity of 330 feet per second, which is pretty impressive for the price.

The draw weight on this bow is lower than the Arrow Precision Inferno Fury listed above, at just 140 pounds. The sleek military-style stock is ultra lightweight and the trigger pull is very smooth. There is also comfortable hand placement, thanks to the divided foregrip.

What makes this crossbow such a great buy is that you get some of the same features and power of a higher priced bow at a budget price. Plus, this is a complete package providing all the essentials — simply open the package and you’re ready to hunt. It comes with a quick-detach quiver, bolts, and a premium red dot sight.

Here’s a quick glance at the specs:

  • Velocity: 330 feet per second
  • Draw weight: 140 pounds
  • Energy: 91.9 foot pounds
  • Power stroke: 12 inches
  • Arrow length: 20 inches
  • Dimensions: 34.25″L x 18.25″W
  • Weight: 6.4 pounds

This is a very powerful crossbow, so if you’re using low quality targets, they won’t last very long before being torn to shreds. Expect lots of raw power and excellent precision; I don’t think you will be disappointed, especially for the price!

Barnett Whitetail Hunter Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5) Quality: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Value: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)
Overall: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

This is another great bow choice from Barnett, especially if you’re looking for a good, compact crossbow. Despite its small size, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow packs a powerful punch. This bow fires at a speed of 350 feet per second.

It has a 175 pound draw weight, which is a bit more than the Barnett bow listed above. This bow is also known for its safety features. It has an impressive five-to-one safety factor and Crosswire string and cable system with high energy whiplash cams for faster, quieter shots.

The bow has a new Anti-Dry Fire (ADF), Metal Injection Molding (MIM) trigger system with easy 3-pound trigger pull, and has a unique crank attachment built into the lightweight stock, which allows for easy installation of an optional cranking device. Overall, this is a complete package of everything you need to take out hunting on day one. It comes with 4×32 scope, rope cocking device, quiver, arrows, and lube wax.

Here’s a quick look at the specs:

  • Velocity: 350 feet per second
  • Draw weight: 150 pounds
  • Energy: 103 foot pounds
  • Power stroke: 12 inches
  • Arrow length: 20 inches
  • Dimensions: 34.25″L x 18.25″W
  • Weight: 6.4 pounds

Bottom line: this Barnett crossbow is extremely accurate, powerful, easy to use, and surprisingly quiet. I think you will have a lot of fun hunting with this one.

 

Barnett Ghost 385 CRT Rev Cam Crossbow Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Quality: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5) Value: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)
Overall: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)

Barnett 78230 Ghost 385 CRT Rev Cam CrossbowIf you have a little more money available in your budget, then you will definitely want to take a look at this impressive Barnett crossbow. It is the perfect combination of power, precision, and affordability.

This Barnett Ghost 385 CRT Rev Cam Crossbow has a velocity of 385 feet per second. You might notice that this model is a good three inches shorter than most crossbows on the market right now, but with the reverse cam technology it still packs a powerful punch. The CarbonLite Riser technology means that the bow’s center of gravity is shifted toward the shooter, giving them more balance and maneuverability.

Here’s a quick look at the specs:

  • Anti Dry Fire Trigger Safety System makes it reliable in all conditions
  • Finger guard and pass-through fore grip
  • 43-percent lighter riser with Patented Carbon Riser Technology
  • Allows for the integration of a crank cocking device
  • 185 pound draw weight

This one can also be purchased in a package complete with a quiver, bolts, and scope. Although it initially comes with just a three arrow quiver, you can upgrade to a five arrow quiver for a little more money if you feel necessary.

PSE Fang 350 Crossbow Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Quality: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5) Value: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)
Overall: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

PSE FANG 350 Crossbows reviewOne of the noteworthy qualities of the PSE Fang is that it is designed to accommodate most military and commercial spec AR parts. That makes this a versatile piece of gear that you will love using.

This is a high performance crossbow that has both high accuracy and awesome power at a low price. The velocity is an impressive 345 feet per second. This bow is also part of a complete package and the kit includes a lot more for the money than the ones you see listed up above. With this package you will receive: bolts, Quick Detach Quiver, Rope Cocker, and a removable 4×32 scope.

Here’s a quick glance at its specs:

  • Patent-pending Picatinny design platform accommodates most military and commercial spec AR parts; 29″ of rail enables unlimited customization
  • Highly adjustable for a customized lenth-of-pull fit for better repeat performance and overall accuracy.
  • Compact design for shooting in tight spots (13.5″ axle to axle cocked) for increased accuracy and overall handling in a treestand or ground blind
  • Anti-Dry-Fire: All-metal trigger and safety provide consistent performance. The safety is designed for left or right handed shooters.
  • 122 ft.-lb. of kinetic energy; 175 lbs. draw weight; 13.5” power stroke

One of the most impressive features is the SilenTech Coating, which is a rubber-like exterior finish that reduces vibration and dampens sound on crossbows for quieter hunting in the field.

Tenpoint Stealth SS Crossbow Package Review

Outdoorsman Time Rating:

Performance: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5) Quality: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5) Value: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)
Overall: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)

Tenpoint C13019-6621 Stealth SS PkgThe Tenpoint C13019-6621 Stealth SS Pkg is an excellent option from one of the top brands. Tenpoint makes some of the finest crossbows for the money, and right now this model is my favorite of the affordable Tenpoint crossbows on the market.

The total weight of this crossbow is just 6.8 pounds and it is currently the shortest and most compact bow that Tenpoint makes. Since this is a package, you also get a 3x Pro View 2 Scope with seven eighth-inch rings and an ACUDraw 50 cocking mechanism, 3 Carbon Pro Elite arrows with practice points, a 3 arrow quiver, side mount bracket and extended Dovetail mount. That’s pretty much everything you need to take this bow out hunting.

I think you’ll find that this compact crossbow from Tenpoint packs a lot of power into it’s small size. It has near complete accuracy right out of the box. This crossbow is smooth and easy to use which makes it a good crossbow for kids and teens.

Filed Under: Hunting

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