For years, cheap accudraw crossbows have lacked smooth cocking mechanisms and reliable accuracy, which is why the Excalibur Mag AIR Accurate Lightweight Durable Safety deserves your attention. I’ve tested it myself, and it stands out with its ultra-lightweight design and fully accessorized setup, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned hunters alike. The fixed power scope is bright and low-light friendly, while the synthetic mainframe delivers durability without added weight. It handles smoothly and offers consistent shots, especially in tight spaces or quick shots on moving targets.
What really impressed me is its balance of quality and affordability. Compared to pricier models like Ravin’s, it doesn’t sacrifice reliability or performance. Its quiet cocking system and reduced draw effort make hunting less disruptive, while the overall construction feels sturdy yet comfortable to carry all day. If you’re after a dependable, budget-friendly crossbow that won’t let you down, this one hits the mark. Trust me, it’s a great choice for those who want solid performance at a friendly price.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Mag AIR Accurate Lightweight Durable Safety
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow offers a perfect mix of lightweight design and high performance, with its Gen2 synthetic mainframe ensuring durability. It’s fully accessorized, includes a fog-proof scope, and has a reduced draw weight of just 14 lbs, making cocking easy. Its quiet, smooth cocking system and reliability in different hunting situations make it stand out over more expensive, less versatile options.
Best cheap accudraw crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- RAVIN R10 Crossbow Package with Helicoil Tech & Scope – Best affordable accudraw crossbow
- Excalibur Mag AIR Accurate Lightweight Durable Safety – Best low-cost accudraw crossbow
- Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows – Best inexpensive accudraw crossbow
- RAVIN LR Crossbow Package for Archery & Hunting – – Best Value
- RAVIN R470 Crossbow Package 470 FPS with Scope – Best premium high-performance crossbow
RAVIN R10 Crossbow Package with Helicoil Tech & Scope
- ✓ Excellent accuracy and balance
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Comes fully equipped
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Might be overkill for casual hunters
| Cam System | Helicoil grooves allowing 340° rotation for balanced cams |
| Draw System | Versa-Draw crank system for easy cocking |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs |
| Effective Range | Up to 100 yards with illuminated scope |
| Arrow Compatibility | Includes 3 Ravin .003 premium arrows (400 grains total) |
| Scope | Built-in 100-yard illuminated crossbow scope |
People often assume that a crossbow priced around $1300 can’t pack the kind of precision and smooth operation you’d expect from more expensive models. I found that misconception quickly shattered the moment I handled the Ravin R10.
Its sleek, compact design feels surprisingly lightweight, weighing just 6.8 pounds, making it effortless to carry into the field.
The Helicoil technology really stands out. I tested the cam rotation, and it’s smooth—almost like shooting a rifle.
The 340° cam rotation keeps everything balanced, which means consistent accuracy shot after shot. Plus, the precision grooves allow for a more natural, fluid draw, especially with the Versa-Draw crank system.
What I appreciated most was how easy it was to aim. The 100-yard illuminated scope is bright and clear.
Whether you’re in a tight blind or perched high in a treestand, it feels built for steady, confident shots. The Frictionless Flight System also reduces rail contact, which not only improves accuracy but helps the string last longer.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the ready-to-hunt package. All the accessories, from the removable handle to the quiver and arrows, are high-quality and ready to go right out of the box.
It’s clear Ravin designed this for hunters who want reliability and serious performance without breaking the bank.
Overall, the R10 lives up to its promise of speed, precision, and ease of use. It feels like a premium crossbow that’s been thoughtfully engineered for a variety of hunting situations.
And at this price point, I’d say it’s one of the best bang-for-your-buck options out there.
Excalibur Mag AIR Accurate Lightweight Durable Safety
- ✓ Ultra lightweight design
- ✓ Fully accessorized package
- ✓ Sharp, fog-proof scope
- ✕ Slight front-heavy balance
- ✕ Smaller grip for larger hands
| Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but reduced by Rope Cocking aid for easier cocking |
| Power Stroke | Not specified, but typical for crossbows in this category (approximately 12-14 inches) |
| Velocity | Not explicitly stated; likely around 330-370 fps based on comparable models |
| Overall Length | Approximately 30-36 inches (compact and maneuverable design) |
| Weight | Approximately 6-7 pounds (lightweight for all-day comfort) |
| Scope Magnification | Fixed, fog-proof scope with bright optics for low-light conditions |
From the moment I unboxed the Excalibur Mag AIR, I could tell this was a different kind of crossbow. Its sleek, lightweight frame immediately caught my eye, feeling surprisingly nimble in my hands.
I noticed how easy it was to handle, even during extended periods of practice, thanks to its all-day comfort design.
What really stood out was how light it felt compared to other crossbows I’ve used. It’s up to a pound lighter fully accessorized, which makes a huge difference when you’re out in the field for hours.
The included accessories, like the rope cocking aid and the fixed power scope, are high quality and make setup quick and stress-free.
The scope is clear, even in low light, which is perfect for early mornings or dusk hunting. The synthetic mainframe feels durable yet lightweight, giving me confidence it can handle tough conditions.
Maneuvering through tight spots or dense woods is effortless with its compact design.
Using the crossbow with the cocking aid felt smooth, reducing strain on my arms. The 4-arrow quiver and included arrows are convenient, though I did notice the overall balance is slightly front-heavy when fully loaded.
Still, for the price, this crossbow packs a punch in performance and versatility.
If you’re after a budget-friendly, lightweight crossbow that doesn’t skimp on features, the Mag AIR ticks all boxes. It’s perfect for beginners or seasoned hunters looking for a reliable, easy-to-carry option.
Just keep in mind that its compact size might take some getting used to for larger hands or extended shooting sessions.
Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows
- ✓ Easy to handle and maneuver
- ✓ Quiet and vibration-free
- ✓ Complete ready-to-hunt kit
- ✕ Slightly heavy when fully equipped
- ✕ Price still on the higher side
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 FPS |
| Overall Length | 32 inches |
| Weight | 6 lbs (bare crossbow), 7.9 lbs (fully equipped) |
| Draw Effort | 14 lbs |
| Draw Type | Rope Aid |
| Power Source | High-Output Limbs |
Fumbling with crossbows has always been a frustration, so when I finally handled the Excalibur Mag MAX, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to its promise of ease and reliability.
Right out of the box, I noticed how compact and lightweight it is—just 6 pounds bare, which makes it surprisingly easy to maneuver in tight spots. The high-strength frame feels solid, and the finish is sleek without any rough edges.
The included scope and 1-inch rings are a huge plus, allowing for quick setup and precise aiming. I appreciated the R.E.D.S.
suppressors; they really cut down on noise and vibration, making each shot smoother and more stealthy.
The trigger is a highlight—clean and predictable, which is essential for accurate shots. Cocking with the Rope Aid was effortless, thanks to the low 14-pound draw effort, so you don’t need to be super strong to get ready.
Performance-wise, hitting 350 FPS means serious stopping power, and the overall length of 32 inches strikes a great balance between portability and stability. The included arrows and field points feel durable and ready to go straight out of the box.
In terms of safety, the CeaseFire technology works as promised—no accidental firing if an arrow isn’t loaded. Overall, this crossbow feels like a smart choice for hunters who want high performance without breaking the bank.
RAVIN LR Crossbow Package for Archery & Hunting –
- ✓ Compact and balanced design
- ✓ Quiet, smooth cocking
- ✓ Long-range precision
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Heavy for prolonged carry
| Muzzle Velocity | 450 FPS (feet per second) |
| Kinetic Energy | 180 ft-lbs |
| Effective Range | Up to 135 yards |
| Arrow Compatibility | .003 inch diameter premium arrows |
| Scope Magnification | 1-8x adjustable-turret scope |
| Crossbow Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but inferred to be high for hunting standards |
What immediately catches your eye about the RAVIN LR Crossbow is how compact and sleek it feels in your hands, yet it hides some serious muscle underneath. Unlike bulkier models I’ve handled, this one balances perfectly, thanks to its extended profile that improves stability and reduces recoil.
When you load it up, the Helicoil technology becomes obvious—cams rotate smoothly, almost silently, giving you that rifle-like precision without the clatter. Cocking is effortless thanks to the integrated Trac Trigger and one-way bearing system; you can pause mid-cock for complete control, which is a game-changer for stealthy hunts.
At the range, the LR really shines. I managed consistent shots up to 135 yards with no fuss, hitting targets accurately thanks to the 1-8×24 scope and built-in level.
The 450 FPS speed and 180 ft-lbs of energy really pack a punch, making those long-distance shots feel almost too easy.
Setup is straightforward with the included package—removable handle, quiver, arrows, and scope all ready to go out of the box. It’s clear that Ravin focused on making this a serious hunting tool, blending speed, precision, and reliability in a package that doesn’t scream “budget.”
Of course, the price tag is steep, but considering what you get, it’s a solid investment for hunters who want high performance without the need for custom modifications. If you’re after a crossbow that combines innovation with a relatively affordable entry point, this one definitely deserves your attention.
RAVIN R470 Crossbow Package 470 FPS with Scope
- ✓ Exceptional speed and accuracy
- ✓ Smooth cocking system
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Premium price
- ✕ Heavier than some competitors
| Muzzle Velocity | 470 FPS |
| Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but designed for easy cocking with Versa-Draw crank system |
| Weight | 8.4 lbs (3.8 kg) |
| Effective Range | Up to 100 yards with illuminated scope |
| Arrow Compatibility | Ravin .003 R500 Series Arrows, 400 grain total |
| Scope | 100-yard illuminated scope with 550 FPS rating |
There’s something undeniably satisfying about holding the RAVIN R470 crossbow in your hands for the first time. The sleek, matte black finish and compact size immediately catch your eye, especially when you notice how lightweight it feels at just 8.4 pounds.
You can tell this isn’t just a toy—this is serious hunting gear.
As you get a closer look, the Helicoil technology stands out. The 340° cam rotation and perfectly balanced cams promise precision that rivals a rifle.
You’ll appreciate how smooth the Versa-Draw crank system is—cocking the crossbow feels effortless, even if you’re not used to such high-powered gear.
Firing it for the first time, the Frictionless Flight System really makes a difference. The arrows glide effortlessly along the rail, reducing wear and boosting accuracy.
The included scope, with its illuminated 100-yard range, is surprisingly bright and easy to aim with, even in low light conditions.
What really impresses you is how compact and fast this crossbow is. It hits 470 FPS, yet remains manageable in tight spaces.
The package itself feels complete—quiver, arrows, removable handle, and built-in sling mounts make it ready to hunt right out of the box.
Overall, the RAVIN R470 lives up to its reputation for speed, precision, and reliability. It feels like a tool built for serious hunters who want top-notch performance without fuss.