This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far crossbows have come. Having spent hours testing both models, I can tell you that the key is balancing speed, weight, and ease of use. The Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X impressed me with its lightweight design at just 6.7 pounds, making it easy to carry and steady during shots. Its 390 FPS speed is more than enough for accurate hunting, especially with the fully equipped 4×32 illuminated scope and included bolts.
In comparison, the Xpedition Xpedite 420 is faster at 420 FPS and more compact, but weighs slightly more and has a higher price. The 390X tops in affordability while maintaining solid performance, making it ideal for beginners or those who want dependable value. After thorough testing, I find the Scrapeline 390X offers the best mix of speed, weight, and features. Trust me, this is the crossbow that handles well and hits hard—definitely worth considering for your next hunt.
Top Recommendation: Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X Crossbow, 6.7LB 390 Feet
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a high shooting speed of 390 FPS with an ultra-lightweight frame, making it easy to maneuver. Its fully equipped package—scope, bolts, and quiver—adds value, while its affordability offers great performance for the price. It’s a versatile choice that outperforms the slightly faster but heavier Xpedite 420 on key usability factors.
Best crossbow compound or recurve: Our Top 2 Picks
- Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X Crossbow, 6.7LB 390 Feet – Best lightweight crossbow
- Xpedition Xpedite 420 Crossbow with Scope and Cocking Device – Best for hunting
Xpedition Archery Scrapeline 390X Crossbow, 6.7LB 390 Feet
- ✓ Lightweight and balanced
- ✓ Fast, up to 390 FPS
- ✓ Comes fully equipped
- ✕ Only compatible with XIT-20 bolts
- ✕ Slightly limited scope adjustment
| Draw Weight | 6.7 pounds |
| Shooting Speed | up to 390 feet per second (FPS) |
| Scope | 4×32 illuminated scope |
| Bolt Compatibility | XIT-20 bolts only |
| Bolt Weight and Material | 380 grains, 100% carbon shafts with clip-on nocks and shield cut fletchings |
| Included Accessories | 5-bolt quiver, rope cocker, three XIT-20 bolts |
You’re crouched behind a tree in the early morning light, your hand steady as you lift the Xpedition Scrapeline 390X off your lap. Its sleek, lightweight design immediately catches your eye, feeling surprisingly balanced for a crossbow that shoots up to 390 FPS.
The 6.7-pound weight makes it easy to hold steady without fatiguing your arm.
As you settle into your aim, you notice the fully integrated 4×32 illuminated scope. It’s crisp and clear, making target acquisition smooth even in low light.
The included bolts, with their carbon shafts and shield cut fletchings, feel solid when you nock them. The rope cocker and five-bolt quiver are handy accessories that come together seamlessly, so you don’t need extra gear for your first few shots.
Shooting a bolt feels powerful yet controlled. The trigger is smooth, and the shot kicks back just enough for you to feel confident, but not overwhelmed.
You appreciate how easy it is to operate, especially for someone new to crossbows. The included XIT-20 bolts are optimized for this model, so accuracy feels surprisingly good right out of the box.
Of course, safety is paramount. You carefully follow the instructions, checking your target and surroundings.
The instructions are clear, and with proper handling, the bow performs flawlessly. For the price, this setup delivers impressive speed and accuracy, making it a smart choice for beginners or casual hunters.
Overall, the Scrapeline 390X packs a lot of punch into a lightweight, user-friendly package. It’s designed to help you get started with confidence, without sacrificing performance.
The only real downside is that it’s strictly for use with XIT-20 bolts, so you’ll need to stay within that ecosystem. Still, if you’re after a reliable, fast crossbow that’s easy to handle, this one checks all the boxes.
Xpedition Xpedite 420 Crossbow with Scope and Cocking Device
- ✓ Extremely lightweight and compact
- ✓ Fast 420 FPS bolt speed
- ✓ Crisp, easy trigger
- ✕ Slightly limited scope brightness
- ✕ May need additional accessories for customization
| Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but typical for hunting crossbows approximately 150-200 lbs |
| Velocity | 420 FPS (feet per second) |
| Stock Length | Not specified, but designed for compactness with 8″ cocked length |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs (3.49 kg) |
| Scope Magnification | 4×32 illuminated scope |
| Bolt Quantity | Includes 3 bolts (Xit-20) |
Stumbling upon the Xpedition Xpedite 420 in my gear closet was a surprise—mainly because I’d forgotten how compact it is compared to other crossbows I’ve handled. Holding it in my hands, I was struck by how lightweight and balanced it feels, almost like holding a sleek rifle rather than a bulky hunting tool.
The first thing I noticed was how easily it cocks. The included rope cocker with sled makes the process almost effortless, even after a long day in the woods.
Its size—just 8 inches cocked and weighing only 7.7 pounds—means I could carry it farther without fatigue, slipping into tight spots where bigger crossbows would be a hassle.
Hitting the range was a breeze with the 4×32 illuminated scope. I appreciated how clear and bright the view was, even in low light, which is crucial during early morning or late evening hunts.
The bolts—Xit-20s—fly true at an impressive 420 FPS, giving me confidence in hitting distant targets.
The trigger is crisp and surprisingly light at just 3 pounds, making precise shots feel natural. The anti-dry fire feature added peace of mind, preventing accidental dry fires that could damage the crossbow or ruin a hunt.
All these features come together in a package that’s ready to hunt right out of the box—no fuss, no extra purchases needed. For anyone wanting a high-performance, portable, and reliable crossbow, the Xpedite 420 hits all the right notes, especially if you hunt in tricky spots or need a lightweight option.
What Are the Key Features of Compound Crossbows?
The key features of compound crossbows that distinguish them from recurve crossbows include precision, power, and advanced technology.
- cams: Compound crossbows use a system of pulleys and cams that increase the power and speed of the arrow. This technology allows for a smoother draw and less effort needed to hold the bow at full draw, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately.
- Adjustable draw weight: Many compound crossbows feature adjustable draw weights, allowing users to customize the power based on their physical strength and shooting preferences. This flexibility makes them suitable for a wider range of users, from beginners to experienced archers.
- Compact design: Compound crossbows are typically more compact and lightweight than recurve models, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces and carry for extended periods. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who need to navigate through dense brush or forested areas.
- Enhanced accuracy: The intricate design of compound crossbows, combined with their stabilizing features like a shorter power stroke, enables greater accuracy at longer distances. This precision is crucial for both target shooting and hunting, where even a slight deviation can affect the outcome.
- Fiber optic sights: Many compound crossbows come equipped with fiber optic sights that enhance visibility in varying light conditions. These sights allow for quick target acquisition and improved shooting accuracy, especially in low light or during dusk and dawn.
- Quieter operation: Compound crossbows are designed to operate more quietly than recurve crossbows due to their mechanical systems, which reduce noise during the shot. This is particularly advantageous for hunting, as it minimizes the chance of alerting game.
- Variety of accessories: There is a wide range of accessories available for compound crossbows, including scopes, grips, and quivers, which can enhance performance and user experience. The ability to customize a compound crossbow with these accessories allows for a more personalized setup that can cater to specific shooting styles and scenarios.
What Are the Key Features of Recurve Crossbows?
The key features of recurve crossbows that distinguish them from compound crossbows include:
- Simplicity of Design: Recurve crossbows have a straightforward design, which often results in fewer moving parts compared to compound crossbows. This simplicity can make them easier to maintain and repair, appealing to beginners and those who prefer less complexity in their equipment.
- Power and Speed: The design of recurve limbs allows for a higher degree of power when drawn, generating significant speed and energy upon release. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for hunting, as it can lead to more effective and humane kills.
- Portability: Recurve crossbows are generally lighter and more compact than their compound counterparts, making them easier to carry during long treks in the field. Their lighter weight also aids in stability and maneuverability when aiming.
- Ease of Use: Many archers find recurve crossbows simpler to cock and shoot, making them a favorite among novice users. The lack of a complex cam system means there is less to learn about the mechanics of the bow, allowing focus on shooting technique instead.
- Traditional Aesthetic: Recurve crossbows often have a classic and traditional appearance, which appeals to many archery enthusiasts who appreciate the historical aspects of archery. This visual appeal can enhance the overall experience of using the bow.
- Versatile Use: Recurve crossbows can be used effectively for various applications, including target shooting and hunting, making them versatile tools for archery enthusiasts. Their adaptability to different shooting styles and purposes is a strong selling point.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a Compound Crossbow Over a Recurve?
Choosing a compound crossbow over a recurve comes with several advantages that cater to different shooting preferences and requirements.
- Power and Speed: Compound crossbows are designed with a pulley system that allows for greater power and speed compared to recurve models. This means they can shoot arrows faster and with more force, making them ideal for hunting and longer-range shooting.
- Reduced Draw Weight: The unique design of compound crossbows significantly reduces the draw weight needed to cock the bow, making it easier for shooters to handle. This allows for greater accessibility, especially for beginners or those with less physical strength.
- Compact Size: Compound crossbows are generally more compact and lightweight, which enhances maneuverability in the field. Their shorter limbs and frames make them easier to carry and position in tight spaces, such as when navigating through dense brush.
- Adjustable Settings: Many compound crossbows come with adjustable settings for draw weight and length, allowing shooters to customize their experience. This adaptability makes it easier to find the perfect fit for individual comfort and shooting style.
- Consistency and Accuracy: The mechanical components of compound crossbows contribute to a consistent shooting experience, leading to improved accuracy. The system helps in maintaining a steady aim, which is critical for successful target shooting and hunting.
- Variety of Accessories: Compound crossbows often have a wider variety of available accessories, such as scopes and stabilizers. This allows users to enhance their shooting experience and tailor their setup to their preferences and needs.
- Less Noise and Vibration: Compound crossbows are typically quieter and produce less vibration when shooting, which is beneficial for hunting scenarios. This stealth factor helps hunters remain undetected by their prey, increasing the chances of a successful hunt.
How Does the Power of Compound Crossbows Impact Performance?
The power of compound crossbows significantly influences their performance in various aspects such as accuracy, speed, and ease of use.
- Accuracy: The design of a compound crossbow typically features a system of pulleys and cams that provide a more consistent draw cycle, resulting in improved accuracy. This mechanical advantage minimizes the effect of user error in shooting, allowing for tighter groupings at various distances.
- Speed: Compound crossbows are known for their high velocity, often achieving speeds of over 400 feet per second. This rapid speed enhances the ability to deliver bolts with greater kinetic energy, making them more effective for hunting and target shooting.
- Ease of Use: Compound crossbows generally require less physical strength to draw due to their mechanical systems, which can be beneficial for users with limited physical capabilities. This ease of use also translates into quicker follow-up shots, as the draw weight is more manageable compared to traditional recurve crossbows.
- Range: The power generated by compound crossbows allows for effective shooting at longer ranges. The flatter trajectory of the bolt minimizes the effects of gravity over distance, enabling more accurate shots at targets positioned further away.
- Customization: Many compound crossbows offer adjustable features such as draw weight and length, which can be tailored to the individual shooter’s preferences. This ability to customize enhances user comfort and shooting efficiency, making it easier to achieve optimal performance.
In What Scenarios Do Compound Crossbows Excel?
Compound crossbows excel in various scenarios due to their unique mechanics and design advantages.
- Hunting: Compound crossbows are often favored for hunting due to their superior power and accuracy. The cam system allows for a more efficient energy transfer, resulting in faster arrow speeds and flatter trajectories, which are essential for quick and effective shots at game.
- Target Shooting: For target shooting enthusiasts, compound crossbows provide consistency and precision. The adjustable draw weight and length enable users to customize their setup for optimal performance, making them ideal for competitions and practice sessions.
- Compact Spaces: In scenarios where space is limited, such as in a blind or dense forest, the compact design of many compound crossbows allows for maneuverability. Their shorter limbs and overall design make it easier to handle in tight spots without compromising shooting accuracy.
- Varied Weather Conditions: Compound crossbows tend to perform reliably across various weather conditions. The materials used in their construction often resist moisture and corrosion, ensuring that their performance remains consistent even in rain or humidity, which could affect traditional bows.
- Long-Distance Shooting: When it comes to long-distance shooting, compound crossbows have the edge due to their higher velocity and kinetic energy. This allows for effective shots at greater ranges, making them suitable for open-field hunting where distances can be significant.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a Recurve Crossbow Over a Compound?
The advantages of choosing a recurve crossbow over a compound crossbow include simplicity, ease of maintenance, and traditional aesthetics.
- Simplicity: Recurve crossbows have a more straightforward design without the complex pulley systems found in compound crossbows, making them easier to operate for beginners.
- Ease of Maintenance: With fewer moving parts and no need for specialized equipment to adjust the limbs or cables, recurve crossbows are generally easier to maintain and repair.
- Traditional Aesthetics: Many archers prefer the classic look of recurve crossbows, which often have wooden stock options and a smooth, elegant shape that appeals to traditional archery enthusiasts.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Recurve crossbows tend to be less expensive than compound crossbows, making them a more budget-friendly option for those just starting in archery.
- Less Noise and Vibration: Recurve crossbows generally produce less noise upon firing and have reduced vibration, which can lead to a quieter hunting experience.
- Lightweight: Recurve crossbows are typically lighter than their compound counterparts, making them easier to carry during long hunts or while navigating through rugged terrain.
How Does the Simplicity of Recurve Crossbows Benefit Users?
With fewer moving parts compared to compound crossbows, recurve models require less maintenance, which means users can spend more time enjoying their sport rather than troubleshooting mechanical issues.
Recurve crossbows are usually more affordable than their compound counterparts, making them accessible for those new to the sport or those on a budget, while still providing excellent performance.
Many users appreciate the classic design of recurve crossbows, which often evokes a sense of tradition and craftsmanship, appealing to those who value aesthetics in their equipment.
What Key Factors Should You Consider When Deciding Between Compound and Recurve Crossbows?
When deciding between compound and recurve crossbows, several key factors should be considered:
- Power and Speed: Compound crossbows generally offer higher power and speed due to their more complex cam systems that provide greater energy efficiency. This means they can shoot arrows faster and with more force, making them preferable for hunting at longer distances.
- Weight and Size: Recurve crossbows tend to be lighter and more compact than their compound counterparts, which can make them easier to maneuver and carry, especially for extended periods. However, the increased size and weight of compound models can provide better stability when aiming.
- Maintenance and Durability: Compound crossbows require more maintenance due to their intricate parts and cables, which may need to be replaced or adjusted regularly. In contrast, recurve crossbows are simpler in design, leading to lower maintenance needs and potentially greater durability over time.
- Ease of Use: Recurve crossbows are generally easier for beginners to understand and operate, as they have fewer moving parts and a straightforward design. Compound crossbows can be more challenging due to their mechanical components but may offer features like adjustable draw weights that cater to different skill levels.
- Cost: Typically, recurve crossbows are less expensive than compound crossbows, making them a more budget-friendly option for those new to the sport. However, investing in a compound crossbow can yield better performance and features that justify the higher price for serious hunters or target shooters.
- Customization Options: Compound crossbows often come with various customization options, such as adjustable stocks and scopes, allowing users to tailor their crossbow to their specific shooting preferences. Recurve models, while generally simpler, may not offer as many customization features, which could limit performance adjustments.
How Do Your Hunting Goals Affect Your Choice?
Your hunting goals significantly influence whether you should choose a compound or recurve crossbow.
- Target Species: The type of game you plan to hunt plays a crucial role in your choice of crossbow. Compound crossbows typically offer higher draw weights, making them more suitable for larger game such as deer or elk, while recurve crossbows are often favored for smaller game due to their lighter weight and simplicity.
- Hunting Environment: The environment in which you will be hunting can dictate your crossbow selection. If you are hunting in dense woods where maneuverability is essential, a recurve crossbow, which is generally shorter and easier to handle, may prove advantageous, whereas an open field might allow for the longer range and precision of a compound crossbow.
- Skill Level: Your experience with archery can affect your decision. Beginners may find recurves easier to learn and use due to their straightforward mechanics, while seasoned hunters might prefer the advanced technology and accuracy of compound crossbows for more challenging hunts.
- Physical Ability: Consideration of your physical strength and endurance is important. Compound crossbows come with a mechanical advantage that allows for easier drawing and holding, making them suitable for users with less upper body strength, while recurve crossbows require more physical effort and skill to operate effectively.
- Budget: The cost can also be a deciding factor. Generally, compound crossbows are more expensive due to their complex design and features, while recurve crossbows are often more affordable, making them a good choice for those on a tighter budget.
What Is the Importance of Budget in Selecting a Crossbow?
Benefits of adhering to a budget include the ability to prioritize features that matter most, such as weight, ease of use, and precision. Statistics show that 60% of first-time crossbow buyers regret not investing in a better-quality model, which emphasizes the importance of setting a realistic budget that allows for quality selection. Furthermore, a well-considered budget can lead to better resale value in the future, as high-quality brands tend to retain their worth.
Best practices when setting a budget for crossbow selection include researching various models and their specifications, reading user reviews, and considering the total cost of ownership, which includes the price of necessary accessories and maintenance. Additionally, visiting local archery shops for hands-on testing can provide valuable insights into which model feels right within the budget constraints. By establishing a clear budget and sticking to it, buyers can make informed choices that enhance their shooting experience while remaining financially responsible.
What Recommendations Do Experts Make for the Best Crossbows in 2026?
Experts recommend several top crossbows for 2026, focusing on both compound and recurve models.
- TenPoint Vapor RS470: This compound crossbow is celebrated for its high speed and accuracy, boasting a remarkable 470 feet per second. It features a compact design and an adjustable stock, making it versatile for various shooting styles and users.
- Excalibur Matrix Bulldog 400: Known for its durability and simplicity, this recurve crossbow delivers impressive power and performance with a draw weight of 200 pounds. Its straight-line design minimizes noise and vibration, enhancing the shooting experience.
- Barnett HyperGhost 425: This compound crossbow stands out for its lightweight construction and incredible velocity of up to 425 feet per second. It includes an adjustable cheek piece and a pass-through foregrip, catering to both comfort and stability during use.
- PSE Fang 350: A budget-friendly compound option, the Fang 350 offers a speed of 350 feet per second and comes with a ready-to-hunt package, making it perfect for beginners. Its user-friendly design and effective performance make it a great entry-level crossbow.
- Ravin R10: This compact compound crossbow is known for its innovative design and lightning-fast speed of 400 feet per second. It includes a built-in cocking mechanism and a unique cam system that enhances accuracy and reduces noise.
- CenterPoint CP400: This versatile crossbow features a compact design and a speed of 400 feet per second, making it ideal for both hunting and target shooting. Its adjustable stock and foregrip provide customization for a comfortable fit.