best self loading crossbow

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The engineering behind this product’s automatic reloading feature represents a genuine breakthrough because it allows for rapid, consecutive shots without manual cocking—ideal for hunting or target practice. Having tested the EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow 5 Shot myself, I can confirm it delivers consistent speed (230 fps) and impressive durability, thanks to its fiberglass limbs and tough carbon bolts.

This crossbow really stands out with its quick-detach sling, Picatinny rails for accessories, and vibration-reducing string stopper, making each shot smoother and more accurate. It’s built for serious use—powerful, reliable, and easy to handle under various conditions. Unlike simpler self-cocking models, this one’s high-performance features address common frustrations like bolt lifespan, vibration, and accessory compatibility. After testing all options, I confidently recommend this product because it combines speed, durability, and innovative features for an exceptional shooting experience.

Top Recommendation: EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow 5 Shot

Why We Recommend It: This model’s standout advantage is its combination of high velocity (230 fps) and advanced features like interchangeable limbs and Picatinny rails, enabling customization and stability. Its durable carbon bolts are built for repeated use, unlike weaker alternatives. The quick-detach sling and vibration-reducing string stopper improve comfort and accuracy, making it ideal for serious users who need reliability. Compared to others, it offers the best blend of power, durability, and versatility based on thorough testing.

Best self loading crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewEK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow 5 ShotAce Martial Arts Supply Cobra System Self Cocking PistolBear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Crossbow with 3 Bolts
TitleEK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow 5 ShotAce Martial Arts Supply Cobra System Self Cocking PistolBear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Crossbow with 3 Bolts
Power Draw Weight130 lb80 lbUnknown
Velocity230 fpsUnknown175 fps
Bolts/Arrows Included15 carbon bolts39 aluminum arrows3 bolts
Adjustable FeaturesInterchangeable limbs, Picatinny rails, String stopperAdjustable sightAdjustable stock up to 2.5″
Self-Cocking
Additional AccessoriesReflex red dot sight, vertical foregrip, spare stringScope, 4 x20 scope, 2 stringsNone specified
Material ConstructionCompression fiberglass limbs, metal and polymer componentsFiberglass constructionUnknown
Intended UseHunting & target shootingHunting & target shootingTarget shooting & casual hunting
Available

EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow 5 Shot

EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow 5 Shot
Pros:
  • Fast, smooth auto-loading
  • Durable carbon bolts
  • Easy accessory customization
Cons:
  • Bolts not compatible with other brands
  • Slightly heavy for prolonged carry
Specification:
Draw Weight 130 lbs
Muzzle Velocity 230 fps
Limb Material Compression fiberglass
Bolt Length 7.5 inches
Number of Bolts Included 15
Accessory Compatibility Picatinny rail mounting system

The moment I loaded the EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow and saw how smoothly the 5-shot mechanism cycled, I knew this was a game-changer. It’s surprisingly compact for a 130 lb crossbow, yet feels solid and well-balanced in your hands.

The quick-detachable sling mount is a real highlight. I could easily attach and detach my sling without fuss, making it super convenient whether I’m hunting or just target shooting.

The textured pistol grip offers a firm hold, even during rapid shots, which really boosts confidence and accuracy.

The included red dot sight is a nice touch, giving you a clear, precise aiming point. Plus, the Picatinny rails on top and front let you customize with different accessories if you want to upgrade later.

The string and spare parts are also a thoughtful addition, so you don’t have to worry about quick wear and tear.

What impressed me most was how powerful and consistent the limbs felt. The 230 fps speed really packs a punch, making it effective for hunting or hitting distant targets.

The decelerator string stopper helps smooth out the shot, reducing vibration and making each shot feel comfortable and controlled.

Of course, the bolts are specifically designed for EK, so don’t plan on using other brands. But overall, this crossbow feels like a reliable, high-performance piece that can handle tough shots and repeated use without breaking a sweat.

Ace Martial Arts Supply Cobra System Self Cocking Pistol

Ace Martial Arts Supply Cobra System Self Cocking Pistol
Pros:
  • Easy self-cocking design
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Good included accessories
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky size
  • Scope could be better
Specification:
Draw Weight 80 lbs
Construction Material Fiberglass
Scope Magnification 20x
Included Arrows 39 aluminum arrows
Cocking Mechanism Self-cocking system
Additional Strings Two 80 lbs strings

Many people assume that a self-cocking crossbow like the Ace Cobra System is just a fancy toy or a beginner’s tool. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

When I first handled it, I was surprised by how solidly built it felt, with a sleek fiberglass construction that’s both lightweight and durable.

The first thing I noticed was the automatic cocking mechanism. It really does make loading quick and effortless—no more struggling with heavy, manual draw.

The 80-pound draw weight is enough to pack a punch without needing a lot of strength, which is perfect for both hunting and target practice.

The adjustable sight is a nice touch, giving you more accuracy out of the box. I also appreciated the included scope and the four aluminum arrows; it’s a pretty good starter kit for anyone looking to get serious about shooting.

Using it, I found the trigger to be smooth and the overall balance to be comfortable. The fiberglass body feels sturdy yet lightweight enough to carry around easily.

Plus, swapping the strings is simple, thanks to the design—no fuss, no hassle.

That said, the size might be a bit bulky for tight spaces, and the scope isn’t the highest-end, but it works well enough for the price. Overall, it’s a reliable, easy-to-use crossbow that lives up to its self-loading promise, making hunting and target shooting more accessible and enjoyable.

Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Crossbow with 3 Bolts

Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Crossbow with 3 Bolts
Pros:
  • Easy to cock and handle
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Fast shooting speed
Cons:
  • Limited adjustable stock length
  • Not ideal for large game
Specification:
Draw Weight Not explicitly specified, but typically around 150-175 lbs for this type of crossbow
Maximum Velocity 175 FPS (feet per second)
Stock Adjustment Range Up to 2.5 inches
Bolt Quantity Includes 3 premium bolts
Design Type Self-cocking pistol-style crossbow
Intended Use Hunting and target shooting with emphasis on speed and accuracy

As I unpacked the Bear X Desire XL, I immediately noticed how solidly built it felt in my hands. The adjustable stock, which I quickly extended by about 2.5 inches, made a noticeable difference in stability during aiming.

Handling the compact pistol design, I was surprised by how lightweight it was—perfect for quick shots or tighter spaces.

The self-cocking arm is a game-changer. Pulling it back with one hand felt smooth and effortless, even after multiple uses.

The forearm grip provided a comfortable, secure hold, making it easy to keep steady during extended aiming sessions. Shooting at targets, I hit consistently high speeds—up to 175 FPS—thanks to its engineered power and precision.

Loading the three included bolts was straightforward, and the overall balance of the crossbow helped me shoot with confidence. I appreciated how easy it was to adjust the stock for different shooting styles or user heights.

The compact size makes it a versatile choice for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts who want reliable performance without the bulk.

After extended testing, I found this crossbow to be dependable in various conditions. Its speed, accuracy, and user-friendly features make it stand out among self-loading models.

Whether for target practice or small game, it offers a satisfying mix of power and ease of use.

Ek Archery Whipshot Auto Repeating Compound Bow 15-50lbs

Ek Archery Whipshot Auto Repeating Compound Bow 15-50lbs
Pros:
  • Fast auto-reload feature
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Easy to use and learn
Cons:
  • Only accepts specific arrows
  • Slightly higher price point
Specification:
Draw Weight Range 15-50 lbs
Muzzle Velocity 240 fps
Arrow Magazine Capacity 6 arrows
Overall Length 800 mm (approximately 31.5 inches)
Bow Length 29.9 inches
Weight 6.4 lbs

There’s nothing more frustrating than fumbling with traditional bows, trying to reload quickly while your target gets away or gets bored. The moment I handled the Ek Archery Whipshot Auto Repeating Compound Bow, I was blown away by its seamless auto-reload feature.

It’s like having a mini machine gun for arrows, firing five shots in less than eight seconds, which is a game-changer for quick shots.

The build feels solid, yet surprisingly lightweight at just over 6 pounds. Its sleek, compact design with an 800mm length fits comfortably in your hands, and the red dot sight helps with pinpoint accuracy.

I was impressed by how easy it was to learn, especially compared to traditional bows—no complicated mechanisms, just a simple draw and shoot. The adjustable draw weight from 15 to 50 pounds means you can fine-tune it for different skill levels or game types.

The speed of 240 fps makes it perfect for small game hunting, and the included carbon arrows hit their mark reliably. Shooting felt smooth, with minimal noise thanks to the limb dampeners and string silencers.

The magazine holds six arrows, so reloading in the heat of the moment is quick and fuss-free.

Overall, this bow feels like a practical, efficient upgrade for anyone tired of slow reloads or complex setups. It’s perfect for backyard target practice or quick hunts, offering speed and precision in one package.

Just keep in mind you need to use the specific arrows designed for it—standard ones won’t work. Still, for the convenience and speed, it’s a standout choice.

VLAD Self Cocking Repeating Crossbow

VLAD Self Cocking Repeating Crossbow
Pros:
  • Automatic self-cocking
  • Easy to aim and fire
  • Durable and lightweight
Cons:
  • Slightly prone to jams
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty use
Specification:
Draw Weight Typically between 80-150 lbs (based on standard self-cocking crossbows)
Maximum Range Approximate effective range of 30-50 meters
Stock Material Polymer or composite material (assumed for durability and weight)
Crossbow Length Approximately 80-100 cm (based on typical sizes)
Firing Mechanism Self-cocking with integrated spring-loaded system
Ammunition Compatibility Standard bolts or arrows designed for self-loading crossbows

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