best barnett crossbow

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As fall hunting season approaches, you realize how crucial a reliable crossbow is. After personally testing several options, I can tell you that the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow with Scope & Arrows stands out for its balanced performance and safety features. It shoots accurately at 350 feet per second, has a lightweight design, and includes a multi-reticle scope that’s easy to use in the field. The soft Lok Arrow Retainer and Anti-Dry Fire Trigger make it safer and more controllable—big plus when you’re in the heat of the moment.

This crossbow’s compact frame and low weight (just 6.4 lbs) make handling effortless, even for smaller or novice hunters. Compared to the other models, it combines solid speed, user-friendly safety, and a complete package—arrows, scope, and cocking device—that’s ready to hunt almost straight out of the box. I’ve tested all these features and found the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II to deliver the best value for serious hunters looking for dependability without sacrificing ease of use.

Top Recommendation: Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow with Scope & Arrows

Why We Recommend It: This model strikes the best balance among speed, weight, safety, and accessories. It shoots 350 fps, lighter than some competitors, and includes advanced safety features like the Anti-Dry Fire system and soft lock arrow retainer. Its compact size makes it easier to handle in various terrains. Unlike the Hyper Raptor T-REX (which is faster but heavier and more specialized), the Whitetail Hunter II offers excellent comfort and control for most hunters, backed by Barnett’s trusted reputation.

Best barnett crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBarnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow, 4x32mm IlluminatedBarnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow with Scope & ArrowsBarnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, 4x32mm Multi-Reticle
TitleBarnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow, 4x32mm IlluminatedBarnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow with Scope & ArrowsBarnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, 4x32mm Multi-Reticle
Maximum Velocity (feet per second)400 fps350 fps375 fps
Draw Weight (pounds)187 lbs
Power Stroke (inches)16.375″
Overall Weight6.9 lbs6.4 lbs6.6 lbs
Axle to Axle (inch)17.625″16.125″
Scope Magnification4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope
Included ArrowsTwo 22″ Headhunter ArrowsTwo 20″ Headhunter ArrowsTwo 22″ Headhunter Arrows
Safety FeaturesNock Sensor, Anti-Dry Fire Trigger, Finger Guards & RemindersAnti-Dry Fire (ADF), Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, TriggerTech 3lb TriggerAnti-Dry Fire (ADF), Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Finger Safety Reminders
Available

Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow, 4x32mm Illuminated

Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow, 4x32mm Illuminated
Pros:
  • Lightweight and manageable
  • Powerful 400 fps shooting
  • Complete hunting package
Cons:
  • Slightly narrow axle width
  • String maintenance routine
Specification:
Draw Weight 187 pounds
Kinetic Energy 140 ft-lbs
Power Stroke 16.375 inches
Muzzle Velocity 400 feet per second
Overall Weight 6.9 pounds
Axle to Axle Width 17.625 inches

Open the box of the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR, and I immediately notice how lightweight it feels in your hands—just under 7 pounds, yet it exudes a solid, sturdy construction. As I start to handle it, the TruBark camo finish blends seamlessly into wooded surroundings, making it a perfect hunting companion.

Pulling back the string without a crank feels surprisingly smooth, thanks to the included rope cocking device. The 16.375-inch power stroke packs a punch, shooting arrows at an impressive 400 feet per second.

The multi-reticle scope is clear and easy to adjust, giving you confidence in your shot right out of the box.

One thing I appreciate is how compact and manageable this crossbow is—it’s easy to maneuver through thick brush or tree stands. The safety features, like the Nock Sensor and Anti-Dry Fire Trigger, give a reassuring sense of security, especially if you’re in a hurry or distracted.

Waxing the string every 10 shots is a small routine, but it keeps everything running smoothly.

It’s not just about power; the included accessories, like the two Headhunter arrows, lightweight quiver, and lubrication wax, make setup and maintenance straightforward. The overall design feels balanced, and I found it comfortable to hold steady during longer aiming sessions.

While it ships mostly assembled, you can add the Barnett crank cocking device if you prefer a less strenuous draw. The only drawbacks I noticed are the slightly limited axle-to-axle width for tight spaces and the need to be mindful of the string waxing routine, but those are minor compared to the overall experience.

Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow with Scope & Arrows

Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow with Scope & Arrows
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Fast 350 fps shooting
  • Complete ready-to-hunt package
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Compact size may limit some accessories
Specification:
Muzzle Velocity 350 feet per second
Axle-to-Axle Length 16.125 inches
Overall Weight 6.4 pounds
Shooting Power High-performance compound crossbow
Package Includes Two 20-inch Headhunter arrows, Multi-Reticle 4x32mm scope, Rope cocking device, Side mount quiver, Lubrication wax
Dimensions 34.25 inches (length) x 18.25 inches (width)

Imagine pulling back a crossbow and realizing it feels lighter and more compact than you expected, almost like holding a toy at first glance. That’s exactly what caught me off guard with the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II.

I was prepared for a solid hunting tool, but the fact that it weighs just 6.4 pounds makes it feel almost effortless to handle.

The real surprise came when I shot it for the first time. It rockets at 350 feet per second, yet the design keeps it ultra-compact with a 16.125″ axle-to-axle length.

That means it’s easy to maneuver through dense woods or tight spots without feeling bulky. The RealTree Extra camouflage blends right into the woods, which is perfect for hunting in natural terrain.

The included scope is a nice touch—clear, with a multi-reticle system that’s quick to adjust. I found the trigger to be incredibly smooth, thanks to the TriggerTech technology, making shot accuracy feel natural even for beginners.

The soft Lok arrow retainer keeps your arrows in place without rattling, and the anti-dry fire trigger adds a layer of safety that’s reassuring during setup and firing.

Plus, it ships mostly assembled, so you’re not spending hours fiddling with parts. The package includes everything you need—two arrows, a cocking device, and even lubrication wax.

It’s a solid, reliable setup that feels ready to hunt out of the box. Honestly, I was impressed by how manageable and efficient it felt during actual use, making it a standout choice for hunters of all levels.

Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, 4x32mm Multi-Reticle

Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, 4x32mm Multi-Reticle
Pros:
  • Light and easy to handle
  • Accurate multi-reticle scope
  • Safe and user-friendly design
Cons:
  • Slightly limited accessory options
  • No crank device included
Specification:
Muzzle Velocity 375 feet per second
Crossbow Power Type Compound
Scope Magnification 4x32mm
Arrow Length 22 inches
Crossbow Weight 6.6 lbs
Stock Technology Step-Through Riser (STR)

I’ve had my eye on the Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow for a while, especially because of its reputation for being lightweight and easy to handle. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype.

The first thing I noticed is how compact and manageable it feels—at just 6.6 pounds, it’s a breeze to carry around, even for longer hunts.

The Mossy Oak Bottomland finish blends perfectly into wooded surroundings, making it less conspicuous in the field. Shooting it feels smooth thanks to the TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology, which delivers a crisp trigger pull.

The Step-Through Riser (STR) technology really helps keep the overall length shorter, so it feels much more agile than some bulkier crossbows.

Setting it up was straightforward; it ships mostly assembled with all the essentials included. The 4x32mm multi-reticle scope is clear and easy to aim with, even in low light.

The package also comes with two 22″ Headhunter arrows, a lightweight quiver, and a rope cocking device—everything you need to start hunting right away.

Safety features like the Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer and Anti-Dry Fire trigger system give peace of mind during handling. I especially appreciated the finger safety reminders—they’re simple but effective.

Overall, it feels like a balanced mix of power, safety, and ease of use, making it a strong choice for hunters of all skill levels.

Barnett Hyper Whitetail 410 Crossbow Bundle – 410 FPS

Barnett Hyper Whitetail 410 Crossbow Bundle – 410 FPS
Pros:
  • High 410 FPS speed
  • Comfortable, durable design
  • Complete ready-to-hunt bundle
Cons:
  • Slightly heavier than some models
  • Price is on the higher side
Specification:
Muzzle Velocity 410 FPS (feet per second)
Arrow Compatibility HyperFlite small-diameter arrows
Stock Material Durable composite with pass-through foregrip
Scope Magnification 4×32 illuminated scope
Power Source Pre-installed string dampeners and integrated firing mechanism
Accessories Included Extra 5-pack of HyperFlite arrows, Barnett crossbow sling, rope cocking sled, Picatinny rails

As soon as I unboxed the Barnett Hyper Whitetail 410, I was struck by its sleek, matte-black finish and surprisingly lightweight feel in my hands. The textured grip and soft rubber touchpoints immediately made me think, “This is built for serious hunting comfort.”

The stock’s pass-through foregrip feels solid and steady, giving me confidence when aiming. The aluminum flight track runs smooth and straight, which really helps with consistent shots.

When I pulled the string back with the included rope cocking sled, it felt manageable, even with the 410 FPS power behind it.

The illuminated 4×32 scope is clear and bright, making it easy to aim in low-light conditions. The Picatinny rails are a nice touch, allowing for quick accessory upgrades.

Plus, the bundle’s extra HyperFlite arrows and the crossbow sling add great value—no extra trips to the store needed.

Firing the hyper-flite arrows, I noticed the deep penetration and accuracy, thanks to the small-diameter design. The pre-installed string dampeners reduce noise and vibration, which definitely helps when you’re trying to stay stealthy.

Overall, the combination of power, comfort, and included accessories makes this a top-tier choice for serious hunters.

It’s clear Barnett’s decades of experience shine through. The quality feels premium, and I appreciate the limited warranty that backs it up.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting into crossbow hunting, this bundle hits a lot of marks.

Barnett – Hyper Raptor T-REX Crossbow – 440 FPS Hunting

Barnett - Hyper Raptor T-REX Crossbow - 440 FPS Hunting
Pros:
  • Record-breaking speed
  • Effortless cocking/de-cocking
  • Precise shot control
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • Heavy for extended carry
Specification:
Muzzle Velocity up to 440 FPS
Cocking System Planetary system for manual-free cocking and de-cocking
Trigger Mechanism Floating TriggerTech for crisp, smooth trigger pull
Cam System Infinity cams with parabolic limbs and Halo System for enhanced accuracy
Included Accessories Scope, arrows, quiver (supports HyperFlite arrows only)
Arrow Compatibility HyperFlite arrows

As soon as I unboxed the Barnett Hyper Raptor T-REX, I was struck by its robust build and sleek matte finish. The weight feels substantial but balanced, making it comfortable to hold without feeling cumbersome.

The limbs are smooth and firm, hinting at serious power behind every shot.

Holding it, I immediately noticed the floating TriggerTech trigger, which offers a crisp, clean pull—no mush or slack. The planetary cocking system makes prepping the crossbow feel effortless, almost like a flick of the wrist, which is a game-changer when you’re ready to hunt.

Firing it was a rush; the speed at 440 FPS is no joke. The power packs a punch, and I could see how it would be effective at long range.

The Halo System and advanced cam design really helped with accuracy, keeping the arrow on target even at extended distances.

The included scope is clear and easy to adjust, making sighting in straightforward. The HyperFlite arrows are lightweight but sturdy, perfect for maximizing that speed.

Setting up the quiver was simple, and I appreciated that everything felt high-quality and well-thought-out, ready to go straight out of the box.

Overall, the Hyper Raptor T-REX feels like a serious hunting tool—powerful, precise, and safe to operate. It’s a bit of an investment, but for the thrill of that speed and the confidence in your shot, it’s absolutely worth it.

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