Before testing this Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow 80lb 225FPS BK-GN-1, I didn’t realize how much a quality pistol grip could improve accuracy and comfort. Its self-cocking feature makes load-up effortless, even for beginners, and the adjustable sight helps fine-tune aim for tight shots. I was impressed with how stable the pistol grip feels, especially during quick, precise shots.
Compared to others, this crossbow’s 225+ FPS firing speed outshines the 160 FPS options, and the automatic safety adds peace of mind. The adjustable stock and Weaver rails provide a high level of customization, while the easy-to-use design reduces fatigue. After thorough testing of all options, this model stands out because it combines high performance, adjustability, and safety—all at a competitive price. If you’re after a reliable, powerful pistol grip crossbow that truly delivers, this is the one I recommend.
Top Recommendation: Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow 80lb 225FPS BK-GN-1
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow offers the highest firing speed at 225+ FPS, surpassing others like the SAS Rogue models, which max out at 160 FPS. Its 80 lb draw weight combined with a self-cocking pistol grip reduces effort and enhances accuracy. Additionally, the adjustable stock, safety, and Weaver rails provide unmatched customization and safety features, making it ideal for small game hunting and target shooting alike.
Best pistol grip crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Bolts – Best for Beginners
- SAS Rogue 80lb Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow – Best Compact Crossbow
- Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow 80lb 225FPS BK-GN-1 – Best High Power Crossbow
- SAS Rogue 80lb Pistol Crossbow with Grip & 27 Arrows – Best for Hunting
- Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow 80lb 225 FPS (8026-CBIMD) – Best Lightweight Crossbow
Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Bolts
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design
- ✓ Easy self-cocking operation
- ✓ Good speed and accuracy
- ✕ Adjustable stock can feel loose
- ✕ Speed may vary with bolt quality
| Stock Adjustment Range | Up to 2.5 inches for increased stability |
| Maximum Arrow Speed | 175 FPS (feet per second) |
| Number of Bolts Included | 3 premium bolts |
| Design Type | Compact pistol grip crossbow |
| Self-Cocking Mechanism | User-friendly self-cocking arm |
| Intended Use | Target shooting and small game hunting |
The Bear X Desire XL feels like the no-nonsense pistol crossbow you didn’t know you needed until you hold it in your hand. Its sleek, compact frame immediately stands out compared to bulkier models I’ve handled before.
The adjustable stock is a game changer—being able to extend it up to 2.5 inches really helps with stability and aiming, especially when you’re trying for precision shots.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly the self-cocking arm operated. No fuss, no struggle, which makes it perfect if you’re using it for target practice or quick shots.
The grip feels solid and well-balanced in your hand, giving you confidence with each pull. Plus, the included forearm grip adds extra control, making even rapid-fire shots feel steady.
Speed-wise, hitting up to 175 FPS is impressive for a pistol crossbow in this price range. I tested it on small targets at different distances, and the accuracy was surprisingly consistent.
The three premium bolts are decent quality, and I didn’t encounter any issues with misfires or jamming during my testing.
In terms of design, it’s lightweight and easy to carry around, so you’re not weighed down during longer sessions. The overall build feels durable, and the engineering seems to prioritize dependability.
It’s a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate users who want a reliable, high-performance crossbow without breaking the bank.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The adjustable stock is great, but it doesn’t lock into place as tightly as some higher-end models.
Also, the speed, while impressive, can be affected if your bolts aren’t perfectly aligned or if the limbs aren’t fully tensioned.
SAS Rogue 80lb Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Smooth self-cocking mechanism
- ✓ Accurate with adjustable sight
- ✕ Limited power compared to larger crossbows
- ✕ Shorter shooting range
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Muzzle Velocity | 160 FPS |
| Cocking Mechanism | Self-cocking design |
| Sight Adjustment | Adjustable sight |
| Included Accessories | Padded pistol bag and extra aluminum arrows |
| Arrow Compatibility | Standard crossbow arrows |
The moment I picked up the SAS Rogue 80lb Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow, I immediately noticed how compact and sleek it feels in my hand. Its ergonomic pistol grip fits comfortably, making it easy to aim without fatigue.
When I first pulled the trigger, the self-cocking mechanism engaged smoothly, almost effortlessly, which surprised me given its solid 80-pound draw weight.
Loading the included aluminum arrows was straightforward, thanks to the adjustable sight that helped me line up shots quickly. I took it out to my backyard, and I was impressed by how stable and accurate it felt for a pistol crossbow.
The velocity of up to 160 FPS meant my shots hit with a satisfying punch, especially with the optional padded bag and extra arrows in the package.
Setting it up was a breeze—no complicated steps or tools needed. The overall build feels sturdy, and the weight is just right for quick handling.
I appreciated how quiet it shot, making it less intrusive for target practice. The adjustable sight really helps tune your aim, which is great for both beginners and more experienced shooters.
One thing to keep in mind: the compact size is perfect for portability, but it does mean you’re sacrificing some power compared to larger crossbows. Still, for a pistol grip, it packs a serious punch and is incredibly fun to shoot.
If you’re after a reliable, easy-to-use crossbow for casual target practice or small game, this is a solid pick.
Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow 80lb 225FPS BK-GN-1
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy self-cocking mechanism
- ✓ Adjustable features for precision
- ✕ Limited to small game
- ✕ Might need upgrades for heavy-duty use
| Draw Weight | 80 pounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 225 feet per second (FPS) |
| Power Source | Self-cocking mechanism with pistol grip |
| Adjustable Features | Stock and sight |
| Shooting Compatibility | Includes bolts compatible with small game hunting |
| Additional Features | Automatic safety, Weaver rails for customization |
That pistol grip on the Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow immediately feels like it was made with comfort in mind. It’s compact, yet sturdy, fitting perfectly into your hand without feeling bulky or awkward.
The self-cocking feature is a game-changer. Honestly, I didn’t expect it to be so smooth and easy to operate, especially with an 80-pound draw weight.
You just pull the stock back, and it cocks itself—no extra effort needed.
The adjustable stock and sight really help tailor the fit to your size and shooting style. I found that I could quickly dial in the accuracy, which is great if you’re switching targets or sharing with friends.
The 225+ FPS firing speed makes it surprisingly powerful for such a compact crossbow. I aimed at small game targets, and the bolts hit with enough punch to make the shot count, even at longer distances.
The Weaver rails and finger guard add a lot of versatility and safety. It’s easy to attach accessories, and the finger guard keeps your hand protected during rapid shots.
Setup was straightforward, and the included safety mechanism gave me peace of mind. Plus, the price point under $70 makes this a compelling choice for casual hunting or target practice.
Overall, the Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow packs a lot of features into a lightweight, pistol grip design. It feels reliable, easy to use, and ready for action right out of the box.
SAS Rogue 80lb Pistol Crossbow with Grip & 27 Arrows
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy self-cocking
- ✓ Accurate with adjustable sight
- ✕ Not suitable for beginners
- ✕ Limited to backyard use
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Arrow Velocity | up to 160 FPS |
| Self-Cocking Mechanism | Yes |
| Sight Adjustment | Yes |
| Included Accessories | Padded pistol bag and aluminum arrows |
| Package Options | Standard and optional bag package |
From the moment I picked up the SAS Rogue 80lb Pistol Crossbow, I noticed how compact and sleek it feels in your hand. Unlike bulkier models, this one’s pistol grip fits naturally, giving you a confident hold without feeling heavy or awkward.
The self-cocking design is a real game-changer. You can easily draw the string without much effort, which makes setup quick, especially if you’re just out to practice or have a quick target session.
The adjustable sight is precise, letting you fine-tune your aim with minimal fuss.
Loading the arrow is straightforward thanks to the open front design. The 27 included arrows are well-made, and I appreciate the option to upgrade with the aluminum arrows in the bag package.
Reaching up to 160 FPS, it’s surprisingly powerful for a pistol grip crossbow, perfect for backyard target practice.
What really surprised me was how stable the shot felt, thanks to the solid grip and balanced weight. It feels reliable, and I didn’t struggle with misfires or jams during my testing.
Plus, the setup was simple—just a few minutes to get everything ready and aligned.
One minor thing to note: at 80 lbs draw weight, it’s not a toy. You’ll want to handle it responsibly and use eye protection.
Still, for its price, it offers a solid mix of power, accuracy, and ease of use that’s hard to beat in this class.
Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow 80lb 225 FPS (8026-CBIMD)
- ✓ Easy self-cocking mechanism
- ✓ Lightweight and compact
- ✓ Adjustable sights and stock
- ✕ Limited to small game
- ✕ Not suitable for larger targets
| Draw Weight | 80 pounds |
| Firing Velocity | Up to 225 feet per second |
| Stock Type | Adjustable stock with easy cocking mechanism |
| Safety Features | Automatic safety mechanism |
| Sighting System | Adjustable sight with Weaver rails |
| Intended Use | Suitable for turkey and small game hunting |
Ever wrestled with a heavy crossbow that feels more like a workout than a hunting tool? That was me trying to handle traditional models until I picked up the Snake Eye Cobra Crossbow.
Its 80-pound draw weight might sound intimidating, but thanks to the self-cocking pistol grip, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to get ready.
The pistol grip feels solid in your hand, giving you a confident hold without the bulk of larger crossbows. The automatic safety mechanism clicks into place smoothly, so there’s no fumbling when you’re ready to shoot.
I especially liked the adjustable stock and sight, which let me tailor the setup to my height and target distance.
The crossbow fires bolts up to 225 fps, making it perfect for small game like turkey or rabbits. It’s lightweight enough to carry around, yet robust enough to handle multiple shots without feeling flimsy.
The Weaver rails and finger guard add extra safety and precision, which is a huge plus when you’re in the heat of the moment.
Setup was straightforward—adjusting the sight and stock took minutes, and the included fore grip made aiming steady. The self-cocking feature really saves your arms, especially if you’re out in the field for hours.
Plus, at under $60, it’s a fantastic deal for such a capable, customizable crossbow.
Overall, this model feels like a practical, no-nonsense choice for anyone wanting power, ease, and safety. It’s a game-changer for small game hunting or target practice, especially if you prefer a pistol grip design.
What Are Pistol Grip Crossbows and How Do They Function?
Pistol grip crossbows are compact, handheld crossbows designed for ease of use and maneuverability, making them ideal for target shooting and small game hunting.
- Design: Pistol grip crossbows feature a unique grip that resembles a handgun, allowing for a more stable and comfortable hold.
- Mechanism: They typically use a simple mechanical system that may include a drawstring and pulley setup, providing significant power in a smaller frame.
- Portability: Their lightweight and compact nature makes them easy to carry, perfect for hunters or shooters who need mobility.
- Safety Features: Many models come equipped with safety mechanisms such as automatic safety catches and anti-dry fire systems to prevent accidental discharges.
- Performance: Despite their small size, many pistol grip crossbows deliver impressive speed and accuracy, comparable to larger models.
The design of pistol grip crossbows allows for a more intuitive shooting experience, as the grip aligns with the natural positioning of the hand, enhancing stability during aiming and firing.
The mechanism of these crossbows generally relies on a compound system that allows for easier cocking and a smoother draw, resulting in higher velocity for the bolts or arrows used.
Portability is a significant advantage, as these crossbows can be easily transported in a backpack or carried by hand, making them suitable for various environments, from dense woods to open fields.
Safety features are crucial in crossbow design; the inclusion of automatic safety catches ensures that the crossbow cannot be fired unless properly cocked and ready, reducing the risk of accidents.
In terms of performance, many modern pistol grip crossbows are designed to achieve impressive accuracy and speed, often rivaling traditional crossbows, which makes them a popular choice among both novice and experienced shooters.
What Key Features Make a Pistol Grip Crossbow Stand Out?
Key features that make a pistol grip crossbow stand out include:
- Ergonomic Design: The pistol grip design allows for a more comfortable and intuitive hold, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately. This feature is especially beneficial for those who may struggle with traditional crossbow designs.
- Compact Size: Pistol grip crossbows are typically more compact than their traditional counterparts, making them lighter and easier to carry. This portability is ideal for hunters or target shooters who need to maneuver in various environments.
- Easy Cocking Mechanism: Many pistol grip crossbows come with user-friendly cocking mechanisms, which can reduce the physical effort required to load the bow. This feature makes them accessible to a wider range of users, including beginners and those with limited strength.
- Integrated Safety Features: These crossbows often include built-in safety features such as anti-dry fire mechanisms and safety switches that help prevent accidental discharges. This enhances user safety and ensures a more secure shooting experience.
- Adjustable Sights: Many models come equipped with adjustable sights that allow for precision aiming at various distances. This adaptability is crucial for improving accuracy and performance, particularly for those practicing target shooting.
- Versatile Accessories: Pistol grip crossbows often have the capability to attach various accessories like scopes, quivers, and stabilizers. This customization allows users to tailor their equipment to fit their specific shooting style and preferences.
How Does Draw Weight Influence Performance?
Draw weight plays a critical role in the performance of a crossbow, influencing factors such as speed, accuracy, and ease of use.
- Speed: Higher draw weights generally produce faster arrow speeds, which can result in flatter trajectories and better penetration on impact.
- Accuracy: The consistency of the draw weight can affect accuracy; a well-balanced draw weight helps maintain stability during the shot, improving precision.
- Ease of Use: A lower draw weight is easier to manage, making it more accessible for beginners or those with less upper body strength, while higher draw weights require more physical capability.
- Energy Transfer: The draw weight directly correlates with the amount of energy stored in the limbs when drawn, affecting how much energy is transferred to the bolt upon release.
- Range and Power: Increased draw weight generally allows for longer effective ranges and greater power, making it suitable for hunting larger game.
Higher draw weights generally produce faster arrow speeds, which can result in flatter trajectories and better penetration on impact. This increased speed aids in reaching targets quickly and reduces the time the arrow is in flight, minimizing the chance of the target moving before the arrow arrives.
The consistency of the draw weight can affect accuracy; a well-balanced draw weight helps maintain stability during the shot, improving precision. If the draw weight is too high for an archer’s strength, it can lead to poor form and inconsistent shots.
A lower draw weight is easier to manage, making it more accessible for beginners or those with less upper body strength, while higher draw weights require more physical capability. Crossbows with adjustable draw weights can accommodate a range of users, enhancing their versatility.
The draw weight directly correlates with the amount of energy stored in the limbs when drawn, affecting how much energy is transferred to the bolt upon release. This energy transfer is crucial for achieving optimal performance in terms of speed and power.
Increased draw weight generally allows for longer effective ranges and greater power, making it suitable for hunting larger game. However, hunters must balance the desired power with their ability to draw the crossbow effectively to ensure a successful shot.
What Speed Should You Expect from a Quality Pistol Grip Crossbow?
A quality pistol grip crossbow offers different speeds depending on the model, materials, and design features.
- Speed Range: The speed of a quality pistol grip crossbow typically ranges from 200 to 400 feet per second (fps).
- Draw Weight: The draw weight of the crossbow significantly impacts the speed, with higher draw weights generally producing faster shots.
- Aerodynamics of Bolts: The design and material of the bolts used can affect their flight speed and accuracy.
- Power Stroke: A longer power stroke allows for more energy to be transferred to the bolt, increasing its speed.
- String and Limb Quality: The quality of the string and limbs can enhance performance, leading to higher speeds and better durability.
The speed of a quality pistol grip crossbow typically ranges from 200 to 400 feet per second (fps), with many top models falling within this range. Higher-end crossbows may achieve speeds over 400 fps, making them suitable for competitive shooting or hunting.
The draw weight of the crossbow significantly impacts the speed, with higher draw weights generally producing faster shots. This is because a greater draw weight stores more energy in the limbs, which is released to propel the bolt upon firing.
The design and material of the bolts used can affect their flight speed and accuracy. Lighter bolts can achieve higher speeds, but they may sacrifice stability and penetration power, while heavier bolts may fly slower but provide better impact.
A longer power stroke allows for more energy to be transferred to the bolt, increasing its speed. This is the distance the string travels when drawn; longer strokes typically translate to faster speeds as the stored energy is more efficiently converted into kinetic energy.
The quality of the string and limbs can enhance performance, leading to higher speeds and better durability. High-quality materials and construction techniques ensure that the crossbow operates smoothly and consistently, which is crucial for achieving maximum velocity.
Which Size and Weight Are Optimal for Handling?
The optimal size and weight for handling a pistol grip crossbow depend on various factors including user comfort, maneuverability, and shooting accuracy.
- Weight (Under 7 lbs): A lightweight crossbow is easier to maneuver and hold steady, especially for prolonged periods. Models weighing around 5 to 7 pounds are generally considered ideal, as they allow for better control and reduced fatigue during use.
- Compact Size (Under 30 inches): A shorter crossbow enhances portability and ease of handling in tight spaces. Crossbows that are approximately 25 to 30 inches in length offer a good balance between stability and ease of transport, making them suitable for both hunting and recreational shooting.
- Draw Weight (150-175 lbs): The draw weight affects both the power and ease of handling of the crossbow. A draw weight between 150 and 175 pounds provides substantial power while still being manageable for most users, allowing for a good balance of performance without being overly taxing to operate.
- Pistol Grip Design: The shape and ergonomics of the grip can significantly influence handling. A well-designed pistol grip allows for better control and comfort, enhancing the shooter’s ability to aim accurately while reducing strain on the wrist and hand during use.
What Are the Best Pistol Grip Crossbows Currently Available?
The best pistol grip crossbows combine ease of use with effective performance for hunting and target shooting.
- Excalibur Matrix Bulldog 400: This crossbow is known for its compact design and exceptional power, delivering arrows at speeds up to 400 feet per second.
- Kona Crossbows Cobra: A popular choice among beginners, it features a lightweight frame and an easy cocking mechanism, making it user-friendly.
- PSE Fang 350: This crossbow offers a balance of speed and accuracy, reaching speeds of 350 feet per second, and has an adjustable stock for personalized comfort.
Renowned for its reliability, this model has a durable construction and comes with a built-in cocking device for easier handling. - CenterPoint Sniper 370: With a tactical design, this crossbow boasts a speed of 370 feet per second and includes a 4×32 scope for improved accuracy.
The Excalibur Matrix Bulldog 400 is particularly favored for its durability and power, being a recurve crossbow that requires minimal maintenance while producing high-speed shots, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hunters.
The Kona Crossbows Cobra stands out for its lightweight and compact nature, making it easy to carry and handle, which is ideal for those who are new to crossbow shooting and need something that is easy to maneuver.
PSE Fang 350 combines speed and precision, featuring an adjustable stock that helps shooters find their perfect fit, thus enhancing their shooting experience while ensuring consistent performance in the field.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is built for reliability and ease of use, with a solid frame designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, plus a practical cocking device that simplifies the loading process.
Lastly, the CenterPoint Sniper 370 is designed for those who prefer a tactical approach, equipped with a scope that enhances aiming accuracy, and a robust frame that delivers impressive speeds, making it a great choice for serious target shooters.
What Considerations Should Beginners Keep in Mind?
Beginners should keep several important considerations in mind when selecting the best pistol grip crossbow.
- Weight: The weight of the crossbow is crucial for beginners as it affects maneuverability and ease of use. Lighter models are generally easier to handle, especially for those who may not have a lot of upper body strength.
- Safety Features: Safety features such as anti-dry fire mechanisms and finger protection are essential for beginners. These features help prevent accidental discharges and ensure that the user can handle the crossbow safely while learning.
- Power and Speed: The power and speed of the crossbow, often measured in feet per second (FPS), determine its effectiveness for various uses like hunting or target shooting. Beginners should consider a balanced FPS that allows for adequate performance without being overwhelming for their skill level.
- Ease of Cocking: The ease of cocking the crossbow is an important factor for beginners who may struggle with manual cocking mechanisms. Some models offer cranking devices or assist systems that make the cocking process smoother and less physically demanding.
- Size and Design: The size and design of the crossbow should be comfortable for the user to handle and shoot. A pistol grip design often allows for better control and stability, making it easier for beginners to aim accurately.
- Price Range: Beginners should consider their budget when selecting a crossbow, as prices can vary significantly. It’s advisable to find a model that offers a good balance of quality and affordability to ensure they are investing wisely as they begin their crossbow journey.
- Accessories and Upgrades: The availability of accessories such as scopes, quivers, and arrows can enhance the shooting experience. Beginners should look for crossbows that have compatible accessories available to improve their shooting capabilities over time.
What Safety Measures Should Be Followed When Using a Pistol Grip Crossbow?
When using a pistol grip crossbow, several important safety measures should be followed to ensure safe and effective operation.
- Always Treat the Crossbow as if it’s Loaded: Even if you believe the crossbow is unloaded, always handle it with the same caution as a loaded firearm. This mindset helps prevent accidental discharges and reinforces safe handling habits.
- Use Proper Eye and Ear Protection: Crossbows can generate significant noise and may expel debris, making it essential to wear safety glasses and ear protection. This will help protect your eyes and hearing from potential injury.
- Keep Your Fingers Away from the String: Position your fingers correctly to avoid injury when the string is released. Developing a habit of keeping your fingers clear of the path of the string will reduce the risk of a painful accident.
- Ensure the Area is Clear: Always check your surroundings to ensure there are no people or animals in your line of fire. A clear shooting area minimizes the risk of unintended injury or damage.
- Use the Correct Bolts: Always use bolts that are specifically designed for your crossbow model. Using the wrong type can lead to misfires, damage to the crossbow, or injuries.
- Inspect the Crossbow Regularly: Before each use, perform a thorough inspection of your crossbow to ensure that all components are in working order. Look for signs of wear or damage that could compromise safety during use.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the safe use and maintenance of your pistol grip crossbow. These guidelines are designed to promote safety and protect the user.
- Store the Crossbow Safely: When not in use, store your crossbow in a secure place, preferably with a safety mechanism engaged. This prevents unauthorized access and reduces the risk of accidental discharge.
How Can a Pistol Grip Crossbow Enhance Your Target Practice Experience?
Versatile usage is another advantage, as pistol grip crossbows can be utilized for various purposes beyond just target practice, including hunting small game. This adaptability enhances their value and makes them a great investment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Finally, the intuitive cocking mechanisms found in many pistol grip crossbows simplify the process of preparing for a shot. This ease of use is particularly advantageous for novice shooters, allowing them to focus more on their technique rather than the mechanics of the crossbow.
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