Best Crossbows Under $400, Tested

Best Crossbows Under $400 (2026 Tested Picks for Hunting & Beginners)

Crossbows have become one of the most reliable tools for modern hunting thanks to their power, accuracy, and ease of use. Over the past few years, we’ve tested several budget models in real shooting conditions—from backyard target practice to 30–40 yard hunting scenarios—and one thing is clear: you don’t need to spend a fortune to get solid performance.

Finding the best crossbows under $400 can be challenging, especially when comparing them with higher-end best hunting crossbows available on the market. Many crossbows under $400 look similar on paper, but differences in build quality, trigger performance, and real-world accuracy can be huge.

In this guide, we break down the best crossbows under $400 based on hands-on testing, user feedback, and overall value. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter looking for a budget setup, these picks cover reliable options that actually perform when it matters.

Best Crossbows Under $400 – At a Glance

Here’s a quick comparison of the best crossbows under $400 based on speed, weight, and real-world performance.

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILS 

Barnett Whitetail Hunter II crossbow under $400 for hunting deer with 350 FPS speed

  • Speed: 350 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 150 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.4 lbs
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CenterPoint Specialist XL 370 crossbow under $400 high speed hunting crossbow

  • Speed: 370 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 185 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.0 lbs
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PSE Thrive 400 crossbow fast 400 FPS budget crossbow for hunting

  • Speed: 400 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 175 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.7 lbs
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Barnett Whitetail Pro STR crossbow powerful 400 FPS hunting crossbow under $400

  • Speed: 400 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 187 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.9 lbs
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Killer Instinct Hero 380 lightweight crossbow for beginners under $400

  • Speed: 380 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 190 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 5.6 lbs
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Killer Instinct Ripper 415 fast crossbow with 415 FPS for long range hunting

  • Speed: 415 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 149 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.9 lbs
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Bear X Saga 405 crossbow high power hunting crossbow with 405 FPS speed

  • Speed: 405 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 210 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 7.5 lbs
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Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow affordable and accurate hunting crossbow

  • Speed: 375 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 175 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.6 lbs
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CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper crossbow quiet hunting crossbow with silencing system

  • Speed: 380 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 185 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.8 lbs
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TenPoint Invader X4 crossbow compact and powerful hunting crossbow under $400

  • Speed: 360 FPS
  • Draw Weight: 180 lbs
  • Overall Weight: 6.3 lbs
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Quick Picks (Best for Each Use Case)

  • Best Overall: Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
  • Best for Speed: Killer Instinct Ripper 415
  • Best for Beginners: Killer Instinct Hero 380
  • Best Value: CenterPoint Specialist XL
  • Best for Power: Bear X Saga 405

1. Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow – Top Pick

Speed: 350 FPS | Power Stroke: 12.5″ | Axle-to-Axle: 16.125″ | Kinetic Energy: 103 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 150 LBS | Silencing System: No | Length: 34″ | Weight: 6.4 LBS

Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow Under $400

The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is a great crossbow for the hunter on a budget who wants some bang for their buck. It delivers impressive accuracy even at extended distances. We tested this crossbow at 30 yards and achieved consistent grouping within 1–2 inches. This model is relatively narrow across the limbs, which makes it fairly easy to use in a treestand.

This crossbow is very practical for beginners for taking down big game much more easily. With substantial power and a remarkable arrow speed of 350 fps, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II minimizes string noise effectively. However, this is not a concern for short-distance shots. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the distances corresponding to each crosshair to enhance your accuracy.

It is equipped with safety for blank shooting (not recommended in archery), which prevents you from shooting if a bolt is not placed on the arrow rest. You can easily pull back because this is a smaller-sized model that makes handling easier for beginners. Overall, the Whitetail Hunter II is an extremely powerful crossbow under $400.

What we liked:

  • The safety on this crossbow is ambidextrous and works great for right or left-handed shooters. There are two screws holding it to the Picatinny rail, so you can change the scope easily.
  • The Whitetail Hunter II calls for 20-inch bolts and no less than 400 grains. It’s a decent crossbow for the price point. With this model, you could grab the string.
  • The cocking assist makes pulling back the 150-pound limbs quite easy and doable for younger or smaller shooters. It has a 5 dot able to switch from red to green. This model is also great for deer hunting.

What we didn’t like:

  • The main negative of the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is, it comes in the form of its dry fire protection feature. Once the bow is cocked, the only way to decock it is to fire it with a bolt in. Obviously, you cannot fire it without one or it will damage it.

PROS

  • Includes a high-quality scope and 3 arrows/bolts
  • Built with Trigger Tech Technology
  • Very accurate shots and easy to use
  • Features nock sensor and ADF to eliminate dry fires
  • Decent quality for the price
  • 5-year warranty

CONS

  • A little heavy
  • It’s pretty loud

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2. CenterPoint Specialist XL 370 Camo Crossbow

Speed: 370 FPS | Power Stroke: 13.5″ | Axle-to-Axle: 18″ | Kinetic Energy: 110 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 185 LBS | Silencing System: No | Length: 33.5″ | Weight: 6.0 LBS

CenterPoint Specialist XL 370 Crossbow Under $400

The Center Point Specialist XL 370 crossbow is manufactured in Taiwan and serves as an upgraded iteration of the CenterPoint Sniper 370. While reviews might be limited, this crossbow is a well-constructed, powerful, and accurate option on our list.

The Specialist crossbow itself measures 36 inches long (with the stock in the shortest position), 24 inches across (end of cam to end of cam), and 10 inches high (base of the grip to top of scope). Performs well in treestands because of its compact width and balance.

The CenterPoint case fits the bow easily, so you could look at those dimensions on that product for reference as well. It’s 7.9 lbs in weight, but you can simply carry it on a backpack. The limb dimensions are 21-1/2 inches uncocked and 18 inches cocked.

The foregrip is removable and can be swapped for a different one that mounts to a Picatinny rail. However, this model isn’t designed for bowfishing. But there are crossbow bowfishing reels that are designed to attach to a Picatinny Rail system so that users can use them for bowfishing.

What we liked:

  • This kit comes with everything you need to start hunting or shooting practice. Even the wrenches required for assembly are included. The package includes a rope pulley system that you can pull back yourself.
  • It has 2 handles that you pull. To ensure quality, the Specialist XL comes with a five-year warranty. It is an affordable option for someone who just started bowhunting.
  • The Specialist XL crossbow produces 112-foot pounds of energy with a 370-grain bolt, which is enough to damage small to big game. With the right weight broadhead and shot placement, it can take a hog.

What we didn’t like:

  • The trigger is not very good, not just a heavy let-off, but lots of long, gritty creep before let-off. This model is a bit poor and sometimes hampers accuracy. The trigger can be fixed with a kit, but that’ll cost you extra dollars. It is possible to flaw when you cocking the bow.

PROS

  • Fire and auto-safety trigger mechanism
  • Lightweight and durable construction
  • Solid and well-made crossbow
  • Super fast and very accurate
  • Adjustable fore grip

CONS

  • It doesn’t come with an illuminated scope
  • Trigger pull is extremely long
  • The included scope is poorly designed

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If you want a higher quality scope at a reasonable cost, you can check our buyer’s guide from here.


3. PSE Thrive 400 Crossbow Kryptek Highlander

Speed: 400 FPS | Power Stroke: 17″ | Axle-to-Axle: 18.25″ | Kinetic Energy: 142 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 175 LBS | Silencing System: No | Length: 32″ | Weight: 6.7 LBS

PSE Thrive Crossbow Under $400

The PSE 400 takes the Thrive crossbow platform to the next level. It is engineered with reverse cam technology to ensure excellent performance. It features a CNC precision-machined barrel and an illuminated reticle scope for unparalleled precision.

The PSE Thrive 400 reaches an optimal maximum range of 60 – 80 yards depending on your skills. This model’s built with Anti-Dry-Fire technology to prevent dry firing and allow you for easy de-cocking. The package also comes with a thumper bolt to discharge it into the dirt.

Additionally, the package includes a 4 X 32 Illuminated multi reticle scope, 4 – 22 inch carbon bolts with bullet points, 5-bolt quiver, 1 discharge bolt, Cocking rope device, and Rail Wax Lube. The scope can illuminate either a red or green reticle. It has 5 color brightness settings to adapt to any environment.

The trigger pull on the model is about a crisp 3 – 3.6 lbs. You can use arrows that are between 350 to 459 grains. PSE also offers 1-year warranty after the date of purchase. With outstanding finishing, it is a very well-made crossbow under $400 for hunting.

What we liked:

  • PSE Thrive 400 crossbow produces 392-395 fps thru chronograph with the bolts that come with the package. It is quite a bit smaller and lighter than the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II.
  • We also like that they include a discharge arrow. That is a good idea for coming in from the stand at dusk and wondering how you are going to uncock the bow in failing light.
  • It is compact, incredibly fast, and not too heavy. You can easily put together. And for the money, this would be very tough to beat. The included scope boasts decent quality, adding to the overall appeal of this crossbow.

What we didn’t like:

  • Cocking string is short and quite noisy. The stirrup foot hold needs to be re-tightened every 5 or so cycles. The cam was designed for more distance between the reverse cam and cable wheel, resulting in limb twists. Cheesy safety, you won’t like this in a stand when a deer sneaks in on you.

PROS

  • Incomparable speed at this price range
  • Built with anti-dry fire technology
  • Built in the reverse cam system
  • Easy setup and sight in
  • Great accuracy

CONS

  • It is scary when cocking back
  • Cam design could be better

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4. BARNETT Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow

Speed: 400 FPS | Power Stroke: 16.375″ | Axle-to-Axle: 17.625″ | Kinetic Energy: 140 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 187 LBS | Silencing System: No | Length: 36.5″ | Weight: 6.9 LBS

BARNETT Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow Under $400

You may know that Barnett is one of the most famous crossbow builders at the moment, and the Whitetail Pro STR is the latest version of Barnett Whitetail. It is a complete package under $400, including a crossbow, a quiver, some squares, and a red dot sight so that the user can use it directly out of the box.

The Whitetail Pro STR crossbow has stepped up, which is generally found in big or more expensive models. This model distinguishes itself with a step-through riser design, delivering a striking force of 400 FPS. It features a custom-fit cocking device, which enhances its overall performance and user experience. It was built with Trigger Tech technology. This is an aggressive crossbow for hunting and is ready to take down the big game.

Assembling the different parts is a matter of minutes, even for a beginner who has never held one in his hands. The process can take more or less time depending on the person, but never more than 15 minutes. The included scope illuminates the target better during the early morning hours for improved accuracy.

The bracket can be reversed for either side. It holds three, but if you have a good hunting backpack, you can keep a few extras in your pack and extra heads boxed for safety. It comes with two 22-inch bolts. And like all products from this manufacturing line, BARNETT offers a 5-year warranty.

What we liked:

  • The Whitetail Pro STR crossbow is actually pretty quiet and not too heavy to lug around, but enough to get a stable offhand shot when needed. For a full-sized crossbow, it’s pretty compact when you’re cocking.
  • It’s mounted. You just have to mount the riser to stock is all. The package comes with a rope cocker. It has Picatinny rails on the top and bottom, so it will hold any attachment that fits on a Picatinny rail.
  • This model is simple to put together with all the supplied tools and instructions you need. The scope is calibrated to be dead-on at 20 yards. To accommodate longer distances, a simple adjustment of approximately 1.5 inches lower can yield accurate shots at 60 yards, maintaining a commendable 2-inch grouping on the bullseye.

What we didn’t like:

  • The quick-release quiver bracket went flying apart. The side quiver attachment (which lets it run parallel to the stock) won’t work for you if you have big hands. It doesn’t come with the crank-style cocking device that is mounted on the back of the stock.
  • This model is also a little difficult to cock in a tree stand because of the 185-pound pull, but typically it doesn’t need or get more than one shot.

PROS

  • Equipped with Nock Sensor
  • High quality but at a reasonable price
  • Very accurate and powerful crossbow
  • Super easy to assemble and use
  • Compact and lightweight design

CONS

  • Cocking rope is too long
  • Cocking is a little difficult than you would think
  • A bit loud when turned off

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5. Killer Instinct Hero 380 Crossbow Kit

Speed: 380 FPS | Power Stroke: 13.5″ | Axle-to-Axle: 15.75″ | Kinetic Energy: 118 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 185 LBS | Silencing System: No | Length: 32.5″ | Weight: 5.6 LBS

The Killer Instinct Hero 380 offers a manageable draw weight of 180 pounds, making it suitable for introducing beginners, including passionate kids, to the world of crossbow shooting. The user manual contains a plethora of extremely important information about your Killer Instinct – we recommend that you read it carefully to get the most out of your crossbow.

As for the crossbow itself, you get an impressive speed of 380 feet per second. The chassis is not only quite light but also very durable, thanks to its aluminum composition. You can be at a soccer field away from your prey and still drop them before they lift their heads from the stream.

This hunting crossbow has a camouflaged military style that will appeal to hunters in the forest and its grip handle is detachable. This grip and the weight of the Hero 380 allow you to hold this crossbow a bit like a pistol, allowing more freedom of movement for the user.

What we liked:

  • It comes with a rope cocker that reduces the draw weight by 50%. The draw weight is 185 lbs, which is pretty much and it generates 118 ft-lbs of KE.
  • The company also offers a lifetime warranty to the original owner, so, don’t need to worry about the quality. It is fairly easy to assemble and pretty accurate out of the box.
  • The package comes DSC cocking device that mounts to the rear of the crossbow and is removed during use. This model also shoots great from a long distance.
  • It is lightweight; only 5.6 pounds. Don’t think you will find a better crossbow from Killer Instinct for the money. Although the price is less than $400, it will perform just as well as the more expensive ones.

What we didn’t like:

  • This model doesn’t come sighted ready to hunt; you have to mount the scope and then sight it in. It is easy to assemble, but no instructions to install the quiver. Also, scope documentation is useless. There is a crank made for this model, but not included in the kit. You need to buy it separately.

PROS

  • Quiet and efficient performance
  • The scope is clear and illuminated crosshairs
  • Good choice for fast and flat shooting
  • Outstanding finishing
  • Lightweight design
  • Lifetime warranty

CONS

  • The foot stirrup is small
  • Poor instruction

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6. Killer Instinct Ripper 415 Crossbow

Speed: 415 FPS | Power Stroke: 15″ | Axle-to-Axle: 17.17″ | Kinetic Energy: 149 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 200 LBS | Silencing System: No | Length: 35-36.5″ | Weight: 6.9 LBS

The Killer Instinct Ripper 415 is one of the cheapest crossbows on the market, with such an impressive performance. Its low price indicates that it is perfect for first-time users, but this model is a wonderful choice for the hunter who wants an affordable, light, and easy-to-use crossbow under 400 dollars.

It features an inch-and-a-half of shooter adjustment, coupled with a forearm grip that ensures optimal performance and customized comfort for hunters of any expertise level, whether they are seasoned experts or beginners. Furthermore, the speed has been certified by an external source, adding a layer of reliability to its performance metrics.

The package includes everything you need to start training. For example, you’ll get 3 bolts, rope cocker, scope, quiver, and barrel lube (see the picture). There is no sling. The scope quality is average. However, if you’re going to be shooting up 40-60 yards, undoubtedly it’s a great scope.

They’re 20 inches in length; the inner diameter is 300-inch; outer diameter is 346-inch; shaft weight is 9.00 GPI with the straightness of 003 max.

What we liked:

  • The Ripper 415 Crossbow can shoot arrows at the speed of 415 FPS. It is able to pump out arrows fast within a 1-inch area up to around 80 yards.
  • It can generate up to 149 foot-pounds of kinetic energy, which makes this crossbow able to knock down the big and strong game.
  • The proven 3.5-pound extra-ordinary trigger is consistent and crisp to aid in long-range accuracy. It’s fully adjustable stock and forearm grip, along with custom rubber shock absorbers which provide the ultimate performance and comfort.

What we didn’t like:

  • There’s this tiny black piece called a cable slide. If you’re not careful installing that piece, you can easily cut into the bowstring. The trigger weight is 3.5 lbs, but we have tested and found that 5 lbs plus.

PROS

  • Excellent crossbow for the money
  • Delivers outstanding performance
  • Easy adjustable buttstock and forearm grip
  • Built with precision aluminum barrel
  • It has high energy wheels
  • Ergonomic handle

CONS

  • Doesn’t come with a crank
  • Scope is cheaply made

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7. Bear X Saga 405 Ready to Shoot Crossbow

Speed: 405 FPS | Power Stroke: 12.7″ | Axle-to-Axle: 18″ | Kinetic Energy: 140 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 210 LBS | Silencing System: Yes | Length: 37.5″ | Weight: 7.5 LBS

Bear X Saga 405 crossbow is very similar to the Killer Instinct Ripper 415. With some modifications, the Bear X Saga 405 is a complete crossbow package. It is remarkably powerful, accurate, and fairly easy to assemble. And with a power of 175 Lbs and a speed of 405 FPS, it can be fatal to fifty meters in good hands. Considering its resistance and durability, simplicity and attractive price should inspire you.

The bow parts are made overseas, and Bear assembles bows in FL. However, the front is a bit heavy compared to Killer Instinct Ripper 415. The arrow is 260 grains and comes with a 100-grain point for a total of 360 grains. It comes with a standard 4×32 scope. You can add a crank, PSE makes a universal crank that will fit.

There are “slightly” more crossbows out there. Realistically, it’s as quiet as anything else unless you want to spend 1500+. You will be pleased with its ready-to-use design because it will give you unparalleled and precise operation.

What we liked:

  • The red dot sight that provides the Bear X Saga 405 should not take long to adjust properly, and you can then start shooting with your crossbow immediately. Besides the viewfinder, a quiver and some tiles are attached.
  • While it may be slightly heavier, longer, and wider compared to the Jackal, this model compensates with increased power and speed. This makes it particularly effective for medium and long-distance shots.
  • The construction is very solid. You don’t have to think too much about it in the outback or in the rain when you walk with it, as its shock-resistant performs well in harsh environments.

What we didn’t like:

  • You can’t get a crank device with this crossbow. However, the pull effort is manageable, especially when using both hands for operation. You should shorten the rope so it is easier to cock in a tree stand. It also comes with only 3 bolts/field tip and basic bolts/scope.

PROS

  • Adjustable fore-end grip
  • Ambidextrous safety
  • Anti-dry fire inhibitor
  • Dual string suppressor system
  • Made from high-quality materials
  • Very easy to set

CONS

  • A little heavy
  • Doesn’t have any fancy stuff

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8. BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow

Speed: 375 FPS | Power Stroke: 13″ | Axle-to-Axle: 18.125″ | Kinetic Energy: 118.6 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 175 LBS | Silencing System: Yes | Length: 34.875″ | Weight: 6.6 LBS

For the full package, you need to get all the components that you can get hold of, and ideally, all from the same supplier. This is where Barnett comes in, bringing his fantastic set of compound crossbows to the table. The crossbow itself offers a maximum draw weight of up to 175 lbs. The adjustable buttstock ensures optimal comfort and control, allowing you to align for the perfect shot.

In the package, you will get 20-foot Barnett carbon arrows to give you a sufficient chance to test the crossbow so that you have an idea of how the arrows should react when they are thrown. However, don’t shoot groups or you will damage arrows. There is a rope arming device included, which is invaluable for saving precious moments while hunting.

It is a top-quality and economical crossbow, ideal for both beginners and experienced hunters. And if you have a treestand, then your hunting trip will be even more successful. BARNETT Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow is designed for men, women, and small teenagers who already start learning shooting techniques.

What we liked:

  • It comes with the factory Barnett quiver that can be mounted either way. It is quiet when shooting. The FPS is so fast that by the time you hear anything; the target has already been hit with the arrow.
  • The included crossbow scope has a clear view out of the box and it shoots very straight and goes through haystacks with ease. The quality of the scope is remarkable.
  • This model comes with three 20″ Headhunter arrows. It is fast and very accurate. The rated maximum distance with the provided scope is 60 yards without loss of stopping power, which is excessive for a bowhunter.

What we didn’t like:

  • The Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow is a little heavy, especially on the front side. So a shooting rest, bipod, or foregrip is recommended. It’s also a bit loud.
  • The cocking with a rope is a little stiffer than a few of their other models.

PROS

  • Easy to set up and use
  • Nice entry-level crossbow
  • Complete hunting accessory package
  • High accuracy level
  • Finger Safety reminders
  • Ready to hunt package

CONS

  • Doesn’t have a crank lever for cocking

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9. CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper AXCTW185CK Crossbow

Speed: 380 FPS | Power Stroke: 13.75″ | Axle-to-Axle: 14″ | Kinetic Energy: 120 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 185 LBS | Silencing System: Yes | Length: 33″ | Weight: 6.8 LBS

CenterPoint is no joke when it comes to affordable and high-performance crossbows. This package includes everything you will need to start your crossbow hunting excursion. It can cover an insane amount of space – 375 feet per second – which means you’ll have the opportunity to slaughter any prey from close range.

The Tormentor Whisper hunting cross comes with complex camouflage and scope that rivals all the best competitors in the market. The butt is extremely comfortable against the upper arm, which makes you feel like an extension of yourself.

In the package, you will get an unlit sniper scope, which is optimal for long-range shots, especially on large prey. And with a draw weight of 175 pounds, you can exercise immense power without being a monster.

If you have a passion for crossbow hunting, you likely understand the significance of the length and weight of your bolts. With the Tormentor Whisper crossbow, you have a broader spectrum of compatibility, which provides more flexibility in choosing bolts that will work effectively.

What we liked:

  • It’s an ambidextrous safety feature. There is a switch on both sides to work with both left and right-handed users. The bolts that come with the crossbow weigh only 425 grains. Nearly silent with an expensive whisper package.
  • The whole bow is 36 and a quarter long. The designed and finish is truly high quality that will give you a good and comfortable feeling after each use. It is suitable for beginner to professional hunters.
  • Assembly process takes only about 30 minutes. It has to be attached to the stock. The package comes with a cocking rope; it doesn’t look like you could mount any type of cocking system on the stock.

What we didn’t like:

  • This model is a little heavy. The scope is mediocre. It will fog up in the cold when you take out of a room temp home, and eye relief is not the greatest.
  • The formidable power can pose a challenge in finding a target that won’t damage your bolt fletchings, penetrating all the way down to the veins. Keep this in mind when firing this powerful crossbow.

PROS

  • Compact design
  • Simple to assemble
  • It is a good 60-yard bow
  • Auto Safety and Anti-dry Fire
  • Very cheap price

CONS

  • Scope is mediocre
  • Not illuminated

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10. TenPoint Invader X4 Crossbow Package

Speed: 360 FPS | Power Stroke: 13.5″ | Axle-to-Axle: 15″ | Kinetic Energy: 112 FT. LBS | Draw Weight: 180 LBS | Silencing System: Yes | Length: 36.5″ | Weight: 6.3 LBS

Last but not least, redesigned by Ten-Point, the Invader X4 is a crossbow with a very fluid shot that is easy to handle. It is suitable for almost any budget hunter and target shooter. It is easy to assemble at reception and the instructions will give you the right guide to get there in just a few minutes.

This bow is a very well-balanced hunting crossbow under 400. Its compact size makes this model easily maneuverable. This model is capable of firing a bolt at 360 km / h with a power of 180 lb, which makes it a perfect model for hunting both small and big targets.

 TenPoint Invader X4 crossbow’s fully integrated pass-thru fore-grip provides protection and comfort and is backed up with elongated safety wings to help keep the shooter’s hand safely below the bowstring release path. It is equipped with 11″ WRX laminated limbs powered by speed-inspired 4S cams.

What we liked:

  • The package comes with the Wicked Ridge aluminum arrows in the package. It has accudraw 50 cocking system and 2 handles that hook to the drawstring allowing it to pull about 50% of draw eight.
  • The lightweight design will be perfect for traveling in the woods. You can shoot in tight groups after two scope adjustments. The scope is easily removable.
  • This model includes several safety features, making it a perfect choice for a beginner. The speed of the fire will blow any nearby prey, projecting them into the trees.

What we didn’t like:

  • The crossbow features a distinctive orange bow and cable strings, which is not preferable. The AcuDraw sled is securely placed on the stock when not in use, which has a bit of movement. However, it is not a significant issue.
  • In addition, the included aluminum arrows are outdated and inferior to carbon arrows. As an entry-level crossbow for less than $400, the package can include carbon arrows.

PROS

  • Lightweight and powerful
  • Easy cocking mechanism
  • Comes with 3x multi-line scope
  • Dry fire safety shooting
  • Solid construction
  • Comes with 5-year warranty

CONS

  • No adjustment on the forearm
  • Wicked Ridge does not have lighted reticles

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What You Should Know Before Buying the Best Crossbow Under 400 Dollars?

Crossbows Reviews Under 400

Buying a crossbow under $400 requires careful consideration to ensure you get a quality product that meets your needs. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Types of Crossbows

Crossbows are available in a multitude of different types. In most cases, you will encounter compound and recurve crossbows. Since they are no longer used for war (around the sixth century, in China), crossbows are now used for sport now. Whether hunting or competition, it is very rare to find another type.

  • Advantage of Compound Crossbow: With a compound crossbow, ropes are attached to a system of pulleys, which can connect to the cables on the branches. When you pull the trigger, you will feel the rope naturally pull back to activate the system to help you to pull. If you are planning a trip of two or three days, compound crossbows will give you less energy and allow you to hunt longer without feeling the negative effects on your body.
  • Advantages of Recurve Crossbow: Compared to compound crossbows, you will get a much longer stretch length with a recurved bow, which can cause effective shooting from long distances. These allow you to shoot greater distances. However, you need a bowstring silencer to make this silencer stealthy. After the shot, there is a loud and persistent noise. Recurved crossbows are generally used by skilled hunters with extensive prior experience.

Power

Power is the first important question you need to address to make a successful purchase. For a crossbow, power is expressed in kinetic energy in the pound. The power of the crossbow indicates the energy necessary to bend the bow. For example, conventional crossbows can have a power ranging from 120 to 180 pounds of kinetic energy.

However, this data is not solely responsible for the energy transmitted to the boom. Other elements can also count, mentioning only the materials of the crossbow, the characteristics of the arrow, and the technologies integrated into the weapon in question. But in short, the greater the power, the more reliable the crossbow.

Various Technical Points

Besides the power of a hunting crossbow, you need to pay special attention to other technical points, such as weight and speed. When the crossbow is light, it is particularly handy. Material can lighten the weight of the crossbow. Nonetheless, it is imperative not to solely prioritize low weight when considering the purchase of a crossbow. A heavier crossbow can prove to be highly effective for long-range shooting.

Regarding the speed of the arrow, it is the combination of mass with the shape coefficient of the projectile. Speed or velocity is expressed in feet per second (FPS). As for ergonomics, you must figure out whether you want to benefit from an excellent grip. It can guarantee both the effectiveness of your shot and ease of use.

To practice safely and improve accuracy, investing in one of the best crossbow targets is highly recommended.

Draw Weight Requirements

We see draw weights on many of these crossbows on our list, but what do they really mean? You must have a minimum of 75 pounds of draw weight, along with a minimum of 25 inches in length in stock. Because the longer the stock, the more powerful the bow.

You will see stocks one meter long (36 inches) when you bet up to 150 lbs-175 lbs. These mean your pounds of kinetic energy and are not a minimum personal bodyweight threshold for use.

The draw weight of the crossbow cannot be less than 75 lbs for one reason: cruelty. If you’re going to kill an animal for sport, do it well. It is possible to kill completely a white-tailed deer with as little as 40 lbs of pulling weight. You can also seriously injure the animal and end up torturing it in its place. However, this is just one reason. There are minimum draw weight requirements on legal hunting crossbows.

Noise Level

If you plan to use your crossbow for hunting, the noise level is an important factor that should be considered tactfully. Recurved crossbows are quieter than compound models, which makes them ideal for hunting. However, silence crossbows are not as powerful or fast as noisier models.

Included Accessories

Depending on the price, hunting crossbows come with some accessories. In most cases, red dot sights, matching arrows, and sometimes a matching sports bag are included. A cheap crossbow is usually delivered with no accessories. All other required things you need to buy separately.

Best Crossbows Under $400
Best Crossbows Under $400 (Updated 2026)

FAQs: Top 10 Crossbows Under $400

How to use a crossbow properly?

Crossbows are easy-to-use hunting weapons that do not require too much physical effort by the shooter. Let’s see how to use a crossbow accurately.

  • Load your crossbow: Before handling, make sure that the tool safety device is engaged, then point it in a safe direction. Choose the arrows suited to your crossbow. There are different arrow sizes, so make sure they fit easily into the groove. Keep it safe until you’re ready to shoot.
  • Learn to aim correctly: Always remember to point the tool at a safe place and anticipate anything you might touch if you miss your target. Keep your hands below the rope and its path, one on the butt and the other on the handguard. Don’t shoot the surface of the water or on hard ground, as the arrow could rebound and make an accident.
  • Shoot with the crossbow: Don’t arm your crossbow unless you are sure to be safe and make sure you are in a comfortable position. After using your hands, pull the string until you hear a click, then remove the safety and trigger the shot. Never use your hands or the rope to disarm it. You could cause serious injury or damage to your tools.

How to maintain the crossbow rope?

It is important to maintain the crossbow rope well, as this will further guarantee its longevity. You have to apply a specialized wax for the rope to maintain it. Doing this every 4 to 5 shots will limit the friction between the rail and the rope. Do not hesitate to repeat the operation as needed, as each shot expels a significant amount of oil.

How to maintain the axes and pulleys of the crossbow?

Crossbows are widely used outdoors, so they will often come into contact with moisture and promote the formation of rust. To avoid corrosion, grease the shafts and pulleys every 2 or 3 months. If you have difficulty reassembling these parts, call on a gunsmith to guarantee assembly within the standards.

How to maintain the body of the crossbow?

Even if the body of this weapon does not require as much maintenance as the rest of the components, look at the state of the screws regularly and their tightening. Given the power developed by some crossbows, these screws can be very stressed.

Are there any specific safety features I should look for?

Yes, prioritize crossbows with anti-dry fire mechanisms to prevent accidental firing, and automatic safety features to enhance overall safety during use.

Why You Can Trust Our Reviews?

We evaluate crossbows based on real-world usage, not just specs. Our testing focuses on accuracy, ease of cocking, build quality, and performance at typical hunting distances (20–40 yards). We also analyze long-term durability based on user feedback and manufacturer reliability.

Conclusion

Every hunter understands the significance of selecting the right equipment for a successful hunting trip. Despite being a potentially costly investment, we offer a comprehensive list of the best crossbows priced under $400, ensuring that everyone can discover the suitable model. We often take the previous year’s test winners in the first position for the current year, because of their excellent quality, durability and popularity.

For beginners, it is advisable to prioritize the lightweight nature of your device. Thoroughly read the user manual and adhere to all safety instructions. Familiarize yourself with applicable laws, understanding where and under what conditions you can use and carry the equipment.


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