Yes! It is possible to get a great crossbow at $200 or less!
Whether you’re an avid hunter, a target-shooting enthusiast, or a newcomer to the world of crossbows, finding a reliable and affordable option can be a daunting task. Compared to pricier counterparts, cheaper crossbows often affect the durability, maybe minus some of the upscale features like adjustability, draw speed, Kinetic energy, or extra attachments.
To find the absolute best crossbows under $200, we have searched through most of the available models at this price range and tested by ourselves. We understand that quality need not come at an exorbitant price, and our aim is to provide you with options that strike a perfect balance between performance and affordability.
Each crossbow in this guide has been thoroughly assessed for its build quality, accuracy, safety features, and overall user experience. We also consider the maneuverability across different types of environments, daylight, and night around the wild. With that in mind, we found 7 models that come from well-known brands, including CenterPoint, Barnett and Killer Instinct.
Best Crossbows under $200 in 2023
Take a look at our ranking of the best crossbows under 200 dollars in 2023.
- Barnett BAR78089 Wildcat Camo – Best Overall
- CenterPoint Tyro 4X Crossbow – Personal Choice
- K EXCLUSIVE Avalanche Anaconda – Ultimate Crossbow Kit
- SA Sports 647 Empire Fever Pro – Ambidextrous Auto Safety
- XtremepowerUS Camouflage – Best Hunting Crossbow Under $200
- Barnett Jackal 78404 – Deadly Powerful Crossbow
- Killer Instinct Lethal MSCKI-1000 – Complete Package Under $200
1. Barnett BAR78089 Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow
Barnett has been the most trusted name in crossbow industries since 1952, and Barnett Wildcat Camo Recurve Crossbow in Strike with a complete hunting accessory package under 200 dollars, released in 2021. It comes mostly assembled, the user just needs to assemble the three bolts.
It is easy to shoot and very accurate for long-range shooting. Although the velocity is 250 fps, it performs well for consistent shots to improve your accuracy level. The 195lb draw weight is much higher than the most similar price range crossbow models on the market.
It features Soft Lok floating bristle arrow retainer which keeps it safe from dry-firing. It has 53 Ft Lbs kinetic energy, which is enough to drown small and big games and everything in between. It is lightweight but sturdy, making it easy to move by beginners. And with a total weight of only 4.4 pounds, this inexpensive crossbow can be easily carried in all bow-compatible backpacks.
The package includes 4×32 millimeters multi-reticle scope (super sweet), two 18″ durable aluminum arrows, lightweight side-mount quiver and Lube Wax. However, the issues we have found with the included quiver. It only mounts parallel to the stock.
Also, the package doesn’t include the cocking rope, which means the extra 20 dollars or less needs to be added. Otherwise, you will be very pleased with the Barnett Wildcat Camo.
What we liked:
- Provide high-performance shooting experience
- Well made and easy to use
- Built in high safety design
- It features an auto-safety mechanism
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Easy to assemble
What we didn’t like:
- This is a beginner crossbow, not recommended for pro hunters
- Fairly hard to cock
2. CenterPoint Tyro 4X Recurve Crossbow
With the CenterPoint Tyro 4X, you’re actually paying for a complete crossbow – at a price that can’t be beaten. This model comes with a 4×32 mm scope, 4 16-inch arrows, quiver, rope cocker and rail lube. And with the 420-grain bolts, it produces up to 245 fps velocities. This is enough to take down a deer.
This top-rated budget crossbow weighs less than 5 pounds, making it easy to carry. With 175 draw weight, It has all the functions of a high-end crossbow. It is thick enough in the smaller part areas for a non-abusive person to hold up.
CenterPoint Tyro 4X crossbow has an automatic safety feature, it will engage when you cock the crossbow. And when you’re ready to fire, flip the safety off. However, it is an entry-level X-bow, designed for small and medium games, and not recommended for big game hunting. It can also be good to practice target shooting.
The stock is able to be used by left-handed or right-handed individuals, giving the beginner an excellent sense of whether or not they are interested in using a crossbow. It is also pretty easy to adjust the power settings. For this, you should follow the instructions which are easy to read.
The only thing bad we found was that the Picatinny rail was set too high from the factory. Otherwise, it’s for sure worth $200 and would be great for beginner hunters. It is strong enough to pull it back by hand, but with the rope, they could defiantly.
What we liked:
- Very accurate in the field
- Easily adjustable stroke
- Included scope outstanding quality
- Compact and small
- Very powerful
What we didn’t like:
- It is not easy to cock without one
- There is no hand crank
3. K EXCLUSIVE Avalanche Anaconda Recurve Crossbow
Recurve crossbows are ideal for both small and big game hunts around the wild, and one of the top-rated affordable products in this category is the K EXCLUSIVE Avalanche Anaconda. With a weight of about 5 pounds, this is the perfect recurve crossbow kit that includes everything you need.
It 18 1/2” power stroke delivers arrow speeds of up to 245 fps. The slim and compact size easily fits in your bow hunting backpack and under small places, even if you don’t have a bow-compatible pack. The 175-lb draw weight hit your target precisely and accurately, by using the included red-dot scope. It has a tough composite stock that is 33” from the foot claw to the end of the stock.
K EXCLUSIVE Avalanche Anaconda model also required less tuning and maintenance. Although the instructions are a little frustrating, it is easy to put together and string. The bolts that come with the package are decent. Another advantage of using this model is that it is a lot less noisy than all the other crossbows in this round-up.
If you are looking for an entry-level hunting crossbow kit under $200, then look no further. The package includes four 16” aluminum bolts, wax, a stringer, a sling, a quiver, and a cocking rope. It is also easy to assemble.
However, the only complaint that we have found, the quiver does not quite fit right. Also, the directions and pictures for assembly are not good enough for beginners.
What we liked:
- Great power and built quality
- Excellent red dot scope
- Doesn’t make any noise
- Very comfortable to handle
- Complete package
What we didn’t like:
- Images in the assembly instructions are very poor
- Plastic Head inserts come out easily
4. SA Sports 647 Empire Fever Pro Crossbow Package
SA Sports is an established brand, well-known for its high-quality hunting gear, especially bow. But this is a cheap addition from SA Sports, which confused us the first time when they sent us for testing. However, it performs as well as its competitors like the Barnett Wildcat Camo. At the end of the test of Texas hunting, we were really satisfied with the SA Sports Empire Fever Pro crossbow.
The Empire Fever Pro Package includes everything that hunters need for a successful hunting trip. Compared to the price, it is an excellent option for someone who has an interest in a new recurve crossbow. It is also ideal for both beginners and pros.
With 240 FPS of speed, and featuring 50 foot-pounds of kinetic energy, it will work well for small to medium-sized games. However, it won’t be suitable for big games unless you upgrade the bolts. So, if you want to hunt for larger animals like elk, then you’ll need to invest a little extra in upgrading the bolts.
The included 4×32 Scope helps you to zero in the bow from various distances. Although the Scope isn’t the most advanced one we’ve reviewed, it will work well, especially if you are already relatively familiar with crossbows or have experience with how to balance.
You’ll be surprised that the SA Sports Empire Fever Pro crossbow has excellent safety features. They have included an ambidextrous Auto-Safety mechanism that we have generally found model price up to 300 dollars. However, it didn’t work well after around 50-70 shots; the string decreased.
What we liked:
- Great safety features
- Portable and comfortable
- Newly designed back stock
- Good weight and feel
- Not the most powerful, but quiet and reliable
What we didn’t like:
- Bolts are not durable
- Trigger should be improved
5. XtremepowerUS Camouflage Compound Crossbow
If you’re looking for a high-quality compound crossbow under 200 dollars that won’t let you down during the hunt, then look no further than the XtremepowerUS Camouflage. With a sleek camouflage design, the XtremepowerUS crossbow is ever best for hunting. It not only performs and lasts well but also looks great too.
The barrel is made of high-grade aluminum material which ensures high durability in bad weather. It also has anti-dry fire and auto-cocked trigger mechanisms for safety protection. It is user-friendly and practical for cocking a crossbow effortlessly and accurately.
The included carrying bag helps you to easily carry and maneuver in the field. The 180 lbs draw weight allows you to discreetly shoot in woodland areas with ease, no matter what your skill level is. It will deliver arrow with a high velocity of up to 300 fps. It is straightforward to operate. making it suitable for both beginners and experienced.
However, it doesn’t come with a scope. And the minor issue we found, it does not have any way to apply add-ons or accessories, like a sling or a horizontal quiver to keep your bolts. It’s also the heaviest model on this list (9 pounds), which makes it difficult to carry around, especially when your hunting destination is long.
If these issues are not a big deal for you, the XtremepowerUS Compound Crossbow is evidently a great all-around performer that will give you consistently precise shots against all kinds of small to large-sized games.
What we liked:
- Very functional and well made
- Arrow speeds up to 300 fps
- Comes with a carrying bag
- Practical and user-friendly design
What we didn’t like:
- It’s big and heavy, you need big muscles to hold this thing.
- Not recommended for women
6. Barnett 78404 Jackal Crossbow Package
To avoid making you confused, Barnett Jackal Crossbow was first released in 2011. Because of its affordable price (although not a very high-quality crossbow), it is still the best crossbow for beginner hunters.
It is a good entry-level crossbow for all ages both men and women shooters, and the performance is acceptable for both hunting and target shooting. It comes with all the safety features you would expect from a hunting crossbow, which are essential while staying in the field.
It is an economical and complete package for hunting. It also requires low maintenance, making it the best choice for those just joining the sports.
The trigger is perfect and features an anti-dry fire system. It will deliver accurate shots for short to mid-range distances, but not long. And with 95 ft. lbs. kinetic energy, it should allow you to adequately hunt big game animals like deer, elk and moose, and is plenty of power for smaller animals.
It features a lightweight aluminum rail that is designed to last for years. Its robust build ensures longevity and reliability even in demanding hunting conditions. It features a sleek and durable design and looks pretty sharp. The camo and black color scheme are also good for hunting.
However, the red dot scope is entry-level. You can shoot accurately between 10 and 40 yards, more or less. Also, the package doesn’t include a rope cocking device. To make your X-bow more consistent and accurate, you need to buy a rope cocking device from Barnett. This bow is also a little loud but not noticeable for hunting.
What we liked:
- Smooth trigger pull
- Complete crossbow package
- Safe and reliable design
- Easy to assemble with included tools
- Fast and shoots very accurately
What we didn’t like:
- A little loud when fired
- Poorly written assembly instruction
- No cocking aid
7. Killer Instinct Lethal 405 – MSCKI-1000 Pro Crossbow
Saving the best for last, our final recommendation on this top 7 list is a true standout in quiet performance. The Killer Instinct Lethal 405 not only delivers high speed but also hard hit. It is a dirt-cheap crossbow; it comes with a lightweight frame and adjustable X-Lok foregrip. The X-Lok foregrip protects your fingers from getting in between the path of the strings and the Dead Silent Kit reduces the amount of sound and vibrations. With a 210-pound draw weight, the Lethal 405 crossbow shoots arrows at 405 feet per second.
This package includes a 4×32 non-illuminated scope. Even the crossbow is fully equipped with almost every accessory you might need/want on a crossbow (Foot-Stirrup, Rope Cocker, Dead Silent Kit, 3-Bolt Quiver, 3 x Premium 20-inch Arrows, and a stick of Rail Lube), making it a great choice for beginners crossbow hunters or people with a smaller budget.
The over-molded grip is rubberized and feels very nice and comfortable. It is not only lightweight but also pretty compact. The total weight, including accessories, is 7.2 pounds. The built-in materials however cheap, so it probably won’t last as long as those crossbows though.
The total length is 34.5 inches and the width is 18.75 inches uncocked and 14.75 inches cocked. The Lethal 405 crossbow comes with a standard 3.5-pound trigger pull.
It also has built-in safety features like an anti-dry fire and an automatic engaging safety switch. With a power stroke of 14.5 inches and 134 foot-pounds of kinetic energy, this device is very accurate and powerful to hit all types of games (from small to large).
The included rope-cocking device reduces the draw weight by up to 50% if used properly. However, it takes quite a bit of effort to rope-cock this crossbow due to its high draw weight.
What we liked:
- Designed for quick hard shooting
- Lightweight composite stock
- Custom rubber shock absorbers reduce noise & vibration
- Extremely accurate and powerful
- Great for both target practice and hunting
What we didn’t like:
- Doesn’t include a carrying case or bag
- A bit difficult to cock for beginners
- Assembly instructions are not good
Best Cheap Crossbows Buyer’s Guide
You can easily find the most suitable model in your budget by following these key points.
- Velocity: For a cheap crossbow, the minimum speed with which the arrow should move is 250 FPS. Large game hunters should prefer to speed up to 300 fps to kill the prey without a problem. For the best results, you can do some analysis of the size and strength of the bolts.
- Draw Weight: Draw weight is the power of the crossbow that is required to pull the arrow before the flight. Generally, the higher draw weight forces the arrow faster than the lower ones. Draw weight varies between 75 to 250 pounds among different types of crossbows.
- Noise: Having a good crossbow usually means that it doesn’t bother wild animals but hits the aim as silently as possible. On the market, most of the quietest crossbows come from recurve style with parallel limbs. If you need a crossbow for hunting, you can get this type of bow. Also, some models have dead silent kits.
- Weight: Weight is another factor, and it is considered to be important but it also depends on the user how handles the bow. Light crossbows are easy to carry around woods, but they aren’t steady when shooting. The best thing to consider is your own physical limitations. For example, women or beginners should consider the lightness of the bow.
- Manufacturer: All technical products vary not only by type but also by company. It is important that the manufacturers include the manual with the package that helps you not only assemble the parts of the bow but also improve your shooting technique. Finding the best manufacturer on the market is not hard, you can read various reviews to discover the lawful brands.
- Materials: Most crossbows are made of three types of materials metal, wood and plastic. Choose a crossbow made of metal that ensures dependability and durability if you want to get a high-quality weapon for long time use. Because the plastic parts can break down after only several uses.
FAQs
Are crossbows under $200 suitable for hunting?
Yes, many crossbows in this price range are well-suited for hunting purposes. They often feature adequate draw weights and velocities for hunting small to medium-sized game.
Do cheap crossbows come with any warranties?
Warranty coverage varies by manufacturer and model. We recommend you review the product details and contact the manufacturer or seller for specific warranty information.
Can I use a crossbow under $200 for competitive archery or target shooting?
Absolutely. Many crossbows in this price range are accurate and reliable, making them suitable for target shooting, competitive archery, and recreational use.
Can I upgrade accessories on a crossbow under $200?
Yes, all crossbows in our guide come with customizable features and attachment points (such as Picatinny rails). You can upgrade accessories like scopes, quivers, and grips to enhance your shooting experience.
Are there any recommended safety precautions for using a cheap crossbow?
Yes, always follow basic safety guidelines such as keeping your fingers away from the trigger until you’re ready to shoot, ensuring a clear and safe target, and never dry-firing the crossbow. Additionally, wearing appropriate safety gear is essential.
Final Thought
We selected these best inexpensive crossbows from brands that have consistently performed well for us in the past. We look for ease of use in everything from the intuitiveness of the controls to how easy it is to change carry, set up, or replace the part.
It doesn’t matter how much you want to pay, $200 or $2000, all crossbows have some strengths and weaknesses. If the goal of users is hunting, additional features such as cocking aids, arrow tracks, and scopes should be taken into consideration. So, the best crossbows under $200 with the best performance are now available just with a click. Even if you did not find a suitable model from this list, you have significant ideas on how to choose the best model in this price range.
Read our buyer’s guides on different price ranges to find the right crossbow for you.
