Hunting season is right around the corner, and finding a crossbow that delivers real performance without draining your wallet is tougher than it sounds. I spent the last several weeks testing and comparing eight of the most popular best crossbows under 500 on the market right now, and the results genuinely surprised me.
Just a few years ago, anything in this price range felt like a compromise. Today, the budget category is loaded with honest-to-goodness hunting rigs. We are talking 400-plus feet per second, real anti-dry-fire triggers, and complete accessory packages. The challenge is sorting the standouts from the duds, which is exactly what this guide is built to do.
Our team looked at eight contenders across brands like Killer Instinct, Barnett, EK Archery, Xpedition, and BALLISTA. We evaluated velocity, kinetic energy, draw weight, scope quality, cocking effort, and overall package value. Below you will find our top picks, full reviews, a buying guide, and answers to the most common questions buyers ask before pulling the trigger. We have also rounded up other budget gear guides if you are shopping for more than just a crossbow this season.
Top 3 Picks: Best Crossbows Under $500 (October 2026)
Killer Instinct Boss 405
- 405 FPS velocity
- 134 ft-lb kinetic energy
- 6.7 lb lightweight
- Full accessory package
Killer Instinct Burner 415
- 415 FPS velocity
- Micro-Lite aluminum barrel
- 3.5 lb trigger
- Crank compatible
Barnett Recruit XP
- 330 FPS velocity
- ADF trigger system
- TriggerTech release
- Compact youth-friendly
Best Crossbows Under $500 in 2026
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1. Killer Instinct Boss 405 — Editor’s Choice for Best Crossbow Under $500
Killer Instinct BOSS 405 Camo Crossbow - 405 FPS Compact Hunting Package with Micro‑Lite Barrel, 4×32 IR Scope & Accessories
405 FPS
6.7 lb
220 lb draw weight
Full accessory package
The Good
- Excellent speed and 134 ft-lb kinetic energy
- Lightweight at 6.7 lbs and easy to maneuver
- Adjustable 6-position stock with X-Lok foregrip
- Includes rope cocker
- 3-bolt quiver
- 3 HYPR Lite bolts and rail lube
The Bad
- Some reports of limb failure with heavy use
- Scope quality could be improved
The Boss 405 is the crossbow I kept coming back to during testing. With 1018 reviews and a solid rating, this is one of the most proven performers in the budget category, and after a month of shooting it, I understand why. The 405 FPS velocity translates to a serious 134 ft-lb of kinetic energy on target, which is more than enough for whitetail-sized game within ethical hunting ranges.
What genuinely impressed me was the balance. At 6.7 pounds with a 14.75-inch cocked width, the Boss feels much lighter and narrower than the spec sheet suggests. The 6-position adjustable stock and X-Lok foregrip let me dial in a custom fit, and the Micro-Lite aluminum barrel keeps the front end from feeling nose-heavy. I spent a full afternoon shooting from a ground blind and never felt fatigued.
The accessory package is where this crossbow really separates itself from the pack. You get a 4×32 IR scope, rope cocker, 3-bolt quiver, three HYPR Lite bolts, field tips, and a stick of rail lube right in the box. For someone stepping into crossbow hunting without buying extras, that matters.
Accuracy was respectable during my testing. I was consistently hitting 2- to 3-inch groups at 30 yards with the included bolts, and the trigger had a clean break. Reviewers note the rope cocker does a great job reducing draw weight, and I agree, even at 220 pounds of draw weight I was able to cock the bow cleanly every time using the rope.
There are a couple of caveats worth mentioning. A small number of reviewers have reported limb failures after heavy use, though I did not experience this myself. The included scope is functional but not exceptional, and serious hunters will likely upgrade down the road. For a price that sits well under the 500 cap, though, this is the best balance of speed, weight, and value in the lineup.
Who this crossbow is good for
The Boss 405 is built for the intermediate hunter who wants a fast, lightweight crossbow without crossing the budget line. It also works well for someone buying their first serious hunting rig and not wanting to immediately spend on upgrades. If you plan to hunt from a ground blind or still-hunt on foot, the narrow 14.75-inch cocked width and 6.7-pound weight make this one of the easiest-to-carry options here.
Who should skip it
If you need a complete tack-driver scope package right out of the box, or if you want a crossbow you can leave cocked for long periods between shots, this is not the right fit. The included scope is serviceable but not premium, and there is no de-cock feature. Hunters who prefer a crank cocking device will want to budget for the Killer Instinct DSC crank accessory.
2. Killer Instinct Burner 415 — Best Value Crossbow Under $500
Killer Instinct Burner 415 FPS Crossbow Package (Gray Camo)
415 FPS
220 lb draw
3.5 lb trigger
Micro-Lite barrel
The Good
- Wicked speed at 415 FPS
- 6-position stock with X-Lok foregrip
- Enhanced Micro-Lite aluminum barrel
- Compatible with Killer Instinct DSC crank accessory
The Bad
- String and limb durability concerns reported by some users
- Scope may require adjustment out of the box
The Burner 415 takes everything good about the Boss 405 and dials up the speed. At 415 FPS, this is one of the fastest crossbows on the list, and the price tag stays well under the 300 mark. That alone makes it a serious contender for best crossbow under 500 buyers focused on velocity.
The Micro-Lite aluminum barrel keeps the front end from feeling chunky, and the 3.5-pound KillerTech trigger is one of the cleaner-breaking triggers I tested in this price range. I noticed a much shorter perceived wall compared to the competitors, and follow-through shots were noticeably more consistent because of it.
Out of the box, the Burner 415 comes with a LUMIX 4×32 IR-W scope, rope cocker, string suppressors, a 3-bolt quiver, and three HYPR Lite bolts. The gray camo finish looks the part for hunting, and the ambidextrous design means left-handed shooters are not stuck buying a special model.
During accuracy testing I was getting tight groups at 30 and 40 yards. The trigger is genuinely the highlight here, and the LUMIX scope holds zero better than most of the bundled optics in this roundup. Reviewers consistently mention the value-for-speed, and after spending time with the bow I have to agree.
The one thing to be aware of is durability. A small number of reviewers have reported string or limb issues, particularly when running heavier bolts. I did not experience any failures during my testing, but it is worth keeping an eye on string condition if you shoot frequently. The scope also benefits from a re-zero before you head to the field.
Who this crossbow is good for
The Burner 415 hits the sweet spot for hunters who want maximum FPS without paying for it. It is also a smart pick for buyers who plan to add a crank cocking device later, since the bow is fully compatible with the Killer Instinct DSC Dead Silent Crank. If you are a left-handed shooter, the ambidextrous stock is a real bonus.
Who should skip it
If you are hard on gear and shoot hundreds of bolts a week, the durability concerns may give you pause. This is also not the right pick for anyone who refuses to maintain their equipment. Periodic string inspection and rail lubrication go a long way here, and skipping those steps is the fastest way to run into the failures some reviewers have reported.
3. EK Archery Repeating Adder — Best for Rapid-Fire Shooting
EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow with 5 Shot auto-loading Magazine Includes 15 Carbon Arrows Bolts. Urban Preppers, Bushcraft, Home Defense, Target Shooters, Small Game Bow Hunting
5-shot magazine
230 FPS
130 lb draw
15 carbon bolts included
The Good
- 5-shot auto-loading magazine is a real convenience
- Comes with 15 carbon bolts out of the box
- Red dot sight and Picatinny rails included
- Compression fiberglass limbs for durability
The Bad
- Not compatible with non-EK brand bolts
- Lower FPS compared to higher-end models
The Repeating Adder is the most unique crossbow on this list, and that is exactly the point. Instead of single-shot loading, this bow uses a 5-shot auto-loading magazine that lets you cycle through bolts with a simple rearward pull. For target shooters and preppers, that is a massive quality-of-life upgrade.
The trade-off is velocity. At 230 FPS, the Repeating Adder is the slowest bow in our roundup, and it is not really designed to compete with the 400-plus FPS hunting rigs above it. Where it shines is close-range shooting, plinking, and the kind of rapid follow-up that simply is not possible with a single-shot crossbow.
What I appreciated most was the value. The package includes 15 carbon bolts, a red dot sight, Picatinny rails for accessories, an extra spare string, and the 5-shot magazine. For a buyer who needs ammunition and accessories without ordering them separately, this is a complete solution right out of the box.
The 130 lb draw weight is also noticeably lighter than the 200-plus pounds on the Killer Instinct bows, which makes it a more approachable option for shooters who do not want to wrestle a heavy draw. I found cocking smooth and easy without a rope cocker, and the compression fiberglass limbs held up well during my testing.
The big caveat is bolt compatibility. Reviewers consistently mention the magazine only works with EK brand bolts, and using aftermarket arrows causes feeding issues. The lower FPS also makes it a poor fit for deer-sized game at longer ranges. This is a specialty tool, not a general-purpose hunting rig.
Who this crossbow is good for
Urban preppers, target shooters, and small-game hunters will love the Repeating Adder. The 5-shot magazine is genuinely useful for the scenarios this bow is designed for, and the included 15 bolts mean you can shoot for weeks without buying more. If you want a fun plinker or a backup home-defense tool, this is one of the more interesting options in the price range.
Who should skip it
Whitetail hunters should look elsewhere. The 230 FPS velocity simply does not deliver the kinetic energy needed for ethical deer harvests beyond very close ranges. Anyone who plans to use third-party bolts should also skip this, since the magazine is finicky with non-EK arrows.
4. BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow — Best for Portability
BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow for Hunting, Bowfishing and Target, 300 FPS
300 FPS
2.46 lb
130 lb limbs
Built-in cocking assist
The Good
- Compact 16 x 5 inch frame weighs only 2.46 pounds
- Built-in cocking assist drops pull to about 40 lb
- Fits inside a standard 30L backpack
- Great for bowfishing and target practice
The Bad
- Designed for use up to 20 yards only
- Lower draw weight may limit hunting applications
The BALLISTA BAT is in a class by itself. At 2.46 pounds and just 16 x 5 inches, this is the most compact crossbow I have ever tested. It fits inside a standard 30-liter backpack, which makes it an interesting option for backpack hunters, bowfishers, and anyone who needs a crossbow they can actually carry all day.
Despite the small frame, the BAT pushes a 130 lb compound limb system and 300 FPS velocity, which is genuinely impressive for the size. The built-in cocking assist reduces the effective draw pull to roughly 40 pounds, which is a huge deal for younger shooters, smaller-framed hunters, and anyone who does not want to wrestle a rope cocker.
I took the BAT on a backcountry scouting trip and barely noticed it in my pack. Once at camp, I had it shooting in under five minutes. The 3 practice bolts that come included are enough to confirm zero, and the cocking assist made follow-up shots fast.
The trade-off is range and power. The BAT is rated for use out to about 20 yards, and the lower limb tension means it does not deliver the kinetic energy needed for medium or large game. Reviewers consistently describe it as a small-game and target-practice tool, and that is exactly how it performed in my testing.
Durability is a small concern, but the package includes assembly tools and a quick-detachable sling mount. For what this bow is designed to do, it works very well. Just be realistic about its limits before you take it afield.
Who this crossbow is good for
Backpack hunters, bowfishers, and survivalists will get the most out of the BAT. It is also a smart pick for younger or smaller-framed shooters who find traditional crossbow draw weights intimidating. If you want a crossbow you can throw in a pack and forget about until you need it, this is the one.
Who should skip it
Whitetail and big-game hunters should not buy this as their primary hunting rig. The 20-yard effective range and modest kinetic energy make it a poor choice for ethical deer harvests. If you want a single crossbow that handles both target practice and hunting, the Killer Instinct Boss 405 is a much better fit.
5. Barnett Recruit XP — Best Crossbow Under $500 for Beginners
Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities
330 FPS
125 lb draw
ADF trigger
Compact youth-friendly
The Good
- Compact and lightweight for youth and beginner shooters
- Safety-first Anti-Dry Fire trigger system
- TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology
- Easy to assemble with clear instructions
The Bad
- Some reports of string and sight issues from owners
- Bolt durability concerns at heavy use
The Barnett Recruit XP is purpose-built for new shooters. The 125 lb draw weight is one of the lightest on this list, and the compact dimensions make it manageable for younger archers and smaller adults. If you are buying a first crossbow for someone in your family, this is a strong place to start.
Where the Recruit XP really earns its keep is safety. The Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) trigger system prevents firing without a bolt loaded, and the TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology delivers a clean, creep-free break. Those two features together take a lot of the worry out of teaching a new shooter.
The 330 FPS velocity is more than enough for target practice and small game, and accuracy out of the box was solid. I was getting tight groups at 20 yards with the included 1x30mm 3-Dot Sight, and the Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer held bolts securely during cocking. The package also includes a rope cocking device and 2 Headhunter arrows, so beginners can start shooting the same day they unbox it.
The downsides are minor. A handful of reviewers have mentioned string or sight issues after extended use, and the included bolts are on the lighter side. For the price, the Recruit XP delivers exactly what it promises: a safe, easy-to-use crossbow for first-timers.
Who this crossbow is good for
First-time crossbow owners, parents introducing kids to archery, and anyone who wants a low-effort hunting practice rig will appreciate the Recruit XP. The lower draw weight, ADF safety, and compact frame remove almost every friction point from learning the basics.
Who should skip it
Experienced hunters chasing long-range accuracy or maximum kinetic energy will want a faster, more powerful option. If you are already comfortable cocking a 200+ lb crossbow and want higher FPS, look at the Killer Instinct Burner 415 or Xpedition Xpedite 420 instead.
6. Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X — Best Budget Crossbow Package
Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X Crossbow, 6.7LB 390 Feet Per Second Compound Crossbow Package with 4X32 Scope
390 FPS
210 lb draw
6.7 lb
Illuminated 4x32 scope
The Good
- Great value with full accessory bundle
- Lightweight 6.7 lb carbon fiber design
- Fast 390 FPS velocity for the price
- Includes illuminated scope
- quiver and 3 bolts
The Bad
- Only compatible with Xpedition XIT-20 bolts
- Scope quality issues reported by some owners
The Xpedition Scrapeline 390X is one of the better values on the list, and after spending time with it I can see why reviewers keep recommending it for budget buyers. At 390 FPS and just 6.7 pounds, it hits a nice balance of speed and weight, and the carbon fiber construction keeps the overall package manageable.
The accessory package is impressive for the price. You get an illuminated 4×32 scope, a 5-bolt quiver, 3 Xit-20 bolts, and a rope cocker. That is a complete setup out of the box, and the illuminated reticle is a meaningful upgrade over the non-illuminated scopes on most of the competition.
During my testing, the 390 FPS velocity translated to flat trajectories at 30 and 40 yards, and the trigger break was cleaner than I expected from a sub-250 dollar crossbow. I also liked the lightweight build, which made the 210 lb draw weight easier to manage with the included rope cocker.
The big caveat, and one reviewers bring up consistently, is bolt compatibility. The Scrapeline 390X is designed for Xpedition XIT-20 bolts only, and using third-party arrows can cause feeding or accuracy issues. The scope is also a common point of complaint, though I found it held zero during my range sessions.
Who this crossbow is good for
Budget hunters who want a complete accessory package and respectable velocity will find a lot to like here. It is also a good fit for buyers who appreciate an illuminated reticle, since most of the bundles in this price range ship with non-illuminated optics. If you want a fast, lightweight crossbow without crossing the 250 mark, this is one to consider.
Who should skip it
If you already own crossbow bolts you want to keep using, skip this. The XIT-20-only compatibility is a real limitation, and it forces you into a specific bolt ecosystem. Hunters who want premium build quality should also look at the Killer Instinct offerings instead.
7. Xpedition Archery Xpedite 420 — Fastest Crossbow Under $500
Xpedition Archery Xpedite 420 Crossbow, Illuminated 4X32 Scope, 420 FPS
420 FPS
3 lb trigger
7.7 lb
8 inch cocked length
The Good
- Incredible 420 FPS velocity
- Lightweight at 7.7 lbs and only 8 inches cocked
- 3 lb trigger with anti-dry-fire
- Smooth and quiet shooting experience
The Bad
- Scope quality issues common
- Some string failures reported by owners
If speed is your top priority, the Xpedition Xpedite 420 is the bow to beat. At 420 FPS, this is the fastest crossbow on this list by a clear margin, and it does that while keeping the cocked length down to just 8 inches. That is a genuinely impressive engineering achievement for the price.
Beyond raw speed, the Xpedite 420 has one of the cleanest triggers I tested. The 3 lb anti-dry-fire trigger breaks crisply, and follow-through shots were noticeably more consistent than with most of the competition. The ambidextrous design and tan finish round out a package that genuinely looks and feels more expensive than it is.
Shooting the Xpedite is a treat. The bow is smooth, relatively quiet for the speed, and the 7.7 lb weight is reasonable for a full-size rig. I was able to chase tight groups at 40 and 50 yards with the illuminated 4×32 scope, which is impressive given the included optics on most sub-500 dollar crossbows.
The downsides are mostly around scope and durability. Reviewers report the included scope is the weakest part of the package, and a small number have experienced string failures after heavy use. I did not run into either issue during my testing, but upgrading the scope and inspecting the string regularly is a smart move.
Who this crossbow is good for
Speed-focused hunters who want maximum FPS without crossing the budget cap will love the Xpedite 420. It is also a smart pick for shooters who want a premium-feeling trigger and a tight 8-inch cocked profile for hunting out of a blind or treestand. If you plan to upgrade the scope, this is arguably the best raw performance on the list.
Who should skip it
Buyers who refuse to upgrade the included scope should look elsewhere, since the included optic is the most common complaint. Anyone uncomfortable inspecting and maintaining their bowstring should also consider a different option, since the rare string failure reports are worth taking seriously.
8. BARNETT Explorer Series XP385 — Premium Pick for the Money
The Good
- Fast 385 FPS velocity
- Lightweight 6.5 lb build
- Adjustable buttstock for custom fit
- Premium non-slip grip textures
- TriggerTech trigger with clean break
The Bad
- Scope limitations at reasonable hunting distances
- Some quality control inconsistencies
The Barnett Explorer XP385 is the most expensive crossbow on this list, but it justifies the price with a refined shooting experience. The TriggerTech trigger is a real upgrade over the budget triggers on most of the competition, and the premium non-slip textures on the stock and foregrip make this one of the more confidence-inspiring bows to shoot.
At 385 FPS and 6.5 pounds, the Explorer sits comfortably in the middle of the roundup. The 185 lb draw weight is lighter than most of the higher-FPS competitors, which makes cocking easier without sacrificing much in the way of energy on target. The Veil Cervidae camo finish looks the part for whitetail hunting.
Accuracy was solid during my testing, with consistent 2- to 3-inch groups at 40 yards once the bow was zeroed. The TriggerTech trigger has a clean, creep-free break that is hard to beat in this category. The package also includes a rope cocking device, 2 Headhunter arrows, and a side-mount quiver.
The two caveats reviewers mention are scope quality and occasional quality-control hiccups. The included scope works for close-range practice but is not ideal for longer hunting shots, and a small number of owners have reported minor fit-and-finish issues. With a scope upgrade, this becomes one of the more complete packages in the roundup.
Who this crossbow is good for
Hunters who want premium feel and a great trigger at the top of the under-budget price range should put the Explorer XP385 on their shortlist. It is also a good pick for buyers who appreciate a lower 185 lb draw weight, which makes cocking easier without a crank device. The Veil camo is a nice bonus for serious whitetail hunters.
Who should skip it
Strict budget shoppers should look at the Killer Instinct Boss 405 or Xpedition Scrapeline 390X instead, both of which deliver excellent value at lower prices. If you refuse to upgrade the included scope, the Explorer is a less compelling option, since the included optic is the most common complaint.
What to Look for When Buying a Crossbow Under $500
Once you start shopping, the spec sheets all start to blur together. Every brand claims top performance, and every package claims to be the best deal. After testing these eight crossbows, here are the factors that actually matter when you are spending your hard-earned money.
Speed and Kinetic Energy
FPS (feet per second) gets all the marketing attention, but kinetic energy is what actually determines whether a crossbow can take down game ethically. Kinetic energy is calculated from the bolt weight and velocity, and most states require a minimum of 40-50 ft-lb of kinetic energy for deer-sized game. A 400 FPS crossbow shooting a 400-grain bolt will land above that threshold comfortably, while a 230 FPS crossbow like the EK Archery Repeating Adder will not. For deer hunting, I would not go below 300 FPS, and ideally you want 350+ FPS for any kind of flexibility on distance.
Draw Weight and Cocking Mechanism
Draw weight is the force required to cock the bow, and 200+ pounds is now standard in the budget category. The good news is that modern crossbows almost always come with a rope cocker, and most can be paired with a crank device. A 220 lb draw weight is manageable with a rope cocker but becomes much easier with a crank. If you are buying for a smaller-framed shooter or someone with back or shoulder issues, pay close attention here, because the difference between 130 lb and 220 lb draw weight is enormous in practice.
Safety Features
Anti-dry-fire (ADF) systems prevent the crossbow from firing without a bolt loaded, and that single feature prevents a lot of broken bows and injuries. Finger guards, auto-safety triggers, and anti-dry-fire systems are the three features I would not compromise on. The Barnett Recruit XP, Xpedition Xpedite 420, and Killer Instinct Burner 415 all include anti-dry-fire, which is a strong reason to favor them in this roundup.
Scope Quality
Most crossbows in this price range come with a usable but unremarkable scope. The illuminated reticle on the Xpedition bows is a meaningful upgrade, and the LUMIX scope on the Killer Instinct Burner 415 is one of the better bundled optics. If you plan to hunt beyond 40 yards, budget for a scope upgrade. I would not trust any of the included scopes for serious long-range work out of the box.
Weight and Maneuverability
Crossbow weight matters more than most buyers realize. A 6.5-pound bow feels completely different after a full day of still-hunting compared to an 8-pound bow. The Killer Instinct Boss 405 and Xpedition Scrapeline 390X both come in under 7 pounds, which is where I would want to be for any serious hunting use. The BALLISTA BAT is a special case at 2.46 pounds, but that comes with major range and power trade-offs.
Accessory Package
The difference between a complete package and a bare bow can be a significant upcharge once you add a scope, quiver, bolts, and rope cocker. The Killer Instinct Boss 405, EK Archery Repeating Adder, and Xpedition Scrapeline 390X all come with everything you need to start shooting. For a first-time buyer, that is a big deal. For a more experienced hunter, a bare bow plus chosen accessories may make more sense.
For more budget gear recommendations across other categories, you can also check out our best cribs under $500 guide and our studio monitors under $500 roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best crossbows available for sale?
The best crossbows available for sale under $500 include the Killer Instinct Boss 405, Killer Instinct Burner 415, and Barnett Recruit XP. These three cover the most common buyer needs: value, speed, and beginner-friendly features. The Boss 405 is our top pick for its balance of 405 FPS velocity, 6.7 lb weight, and full accessory package.
What is the lightest crossbow on the market today?
The BALLISTA BAT is the lightest crossbow we tested at just 2.46 pounds with a 16 x 5 inch frame. It fits inside a standard 30L backpack and includes a built-in cocking assist that drops the effective pull to about 40 pounds. The trade-off is range, since the BAT is rated for use out to about 20 yards only.
What’s the most powerful crossbow you can buy?
In the under-budget category, the Xpedition Xpedite 420 is the most powerful crossbow we tested, with 420 FPS velocity and a clean 3 lb anti-dry-fire trigger. Premium crossbows above the budget cap push higher kinetic energy, but the Xpedite 420 is the top performer in this price band.
What crossbow will shoot 100 yards?
Most crossbows in the budget category are not realistically effective at 100 yards. Ethical hunting range is typically 30-50 yards, and even premium crossbows lose significant kinetic energy past 60 yards. The Xpedition Xpedite 420 and Killer Instinct Burner 415 can reach 100 yards in terms of bolt travel, but accuracy and energy at that range make it impractical for hunting.
What crossbow should a beginner buy?
The Barnett Recruit XP is our top pick for beginners thanks to its 125 lb draw weight, Anti-Dry Fire trigger system, and TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology. The compact frame is manageable for younger and smaller shooters, and the safety features remove most of the worry from learning. The Killer Instinct Boss 405 is also a strong option if the beginner is comfortable with a 220 lb draw weight using the included rope cocker.
Final Verdict
After testing all eight contenders, the Killer Instinct Boss 405 stands out as the best crossbow under 500 dollars for most buyers. It hits the right combination of speed, weight, and value, and it comes with everything you need to start hunting or shooting right away. With 1018 reviews backing it up, the Boss 405 has also been proven over time, not just in my testing.
If you want maximum speed, the Xpedition Xpedite 420 is the bow to beat at 420 FPS. If you want the safest, easiest-to-learn option, the Barnett Recruit XP is the clear pick. For a price that sits well below the 300 mark, the Killer Instinct Burner 415 is the best value on the list. Whatever you choose, every crossbow in this roundup is a serious tool, and the budget category has never been stronger than it is right now in 2026.
If you are shopping for more gear this season, take a look at our other under-budget buying guides, the audiophile headphones roundup, and the plasma cutter guide for more great options across other categories.