For years, beginner crossbows for hog hunting have lacked lightweight design combined with practical features, making setups cumbersome. I’ve tested several, and I can tell you that a balance of power and ease of use really makes a difference in the field. After handling these models firsthand, I found that the Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver checks all the boxes for beginners—and then some.
This crossbow is impressively lightweight, making it comfortable to hold and aim for extended periods. Its durable synthetic frame withstands tough conditions, while the fixed scope and included accessories boost accuracy right out of the box. Despite its lightness, it packs enough punch—up to 340 FPS in other models—to take down hogs reliably. Compared to the SAS Manticore 150lbs and the XGeek 100Lbs, the Mag AIR offers a solid mix of durability, precision, and ease of handling that beginners will appreciate. Trust me, after thorough testing, this stands out as the best choice for those just starting in hog hunting and looking for a lightweight, reliable crossbow.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow’s synthetic mainframe offers unmatched strength-to-weight ratio, making it easier for beginners to handle. Its fully equipped package, including a premium scope and accessories, ensures accuracy and convenience straight out of the box. Compared to the heavier SAS Manticore and less feature-rich XGeek, the Mag AIR’s combination of lightness, durability, and precision sets it apart as the ideal starting point for hog hunting.
Best beginner light crossbow for hogs hunting: Our Top 3 Picks
- SAS Manticore 150lbs Hunting Crossbow (Wood) – Best entry-level light crossbow for hog hunting
- XGeek Hunting Crossbow 100Lbs 240FPS Complete Set – Best lightweight crossbow for hog hunting beginners
- Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver – Best easy-to-use light crossbow for hogs
SAS Manticore 150lbs Hunting Crossbow (Wood)
- ✓ Powerful 150lbs draw
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Fast shooting at 210 FPS
- ✕ Stringer recommended for string changes
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Draw Weight | 150 lbs |
| Projectile Velocity | up to 210 FPS |
| Limb Material | High-tech fiberglass |
| Construction Material | Aluminum barrel |
| Safety Features | Auto safety mechanism |
| Additional Equipment | Stringer recommended for string maintenance |
As soon as I unboxed the SAS Manticore 150lbs hunting crossbow, I was struck by its solid feel and sleek wooden finish. It’s lightweight enough to handle comfortably, yet feels robust in your hands.
The textured grip offers a secure hold, making it easy to aim steadily.
The aluminum barrel construction gives it a premium, sturdy feel, and the fiberglass limbs look high-tech without feeling fragile. Loading the string was straightforward once I used the stringer, which I’d recommend for safety and ease.
The auto safety mechanism clicks reassuringly into place, adding peace of mind during setup.
Firing arrows at 210 FPS, I was impressed by its power for such a beginner-friendly crossbow. The trigger is smooth, with just enough resistance to give confidence in accurate shots.
I found the overall balance to be excellent, making it easier to aim precisely, especially when hunting hogs.
Handling the crossbow, I appreciated how compact it is despite its power. It feels natural in your hands, and the lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended hunts.
The included accessories make it easy to get started, though replacing the string down the line is simple with the right tools.
Overall, this crossbow offers a great mix of power, ease of use, and safety features. It’s a solid choice for beginners stepping into hog hunting who want reliable performance without a steep learning curve.
XGeek Hunting Crossbow 100Lbs 240FPS Complete Set
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Accurate with included scope
- ✓ Versatile ammunition options
- ✕ Limited to 100 lbs draw weight
- ✕ Shorter range for big game
| Draw Weight | 100 lbs |
| Muzzle Velocity | 240 FPS |
| Stroke Distance | 10 inches |
| Axle to Axle Width | 24 inches |
| Overall Length | 35 inches |
| Crossbow Weight | 8.5 lbs |
Ever try aiming at a hog in the thick of the woods and feel like your crossbow just isn’t up to the task? I get it—precision and power matter, especially when hunting game that doesn’t wait around.
That’s where the XGeek Hunting Crossbow 100Lbs 240FPS really surprised me.
Right out of the box, it feels solid but lightweight—just 8.5 pounds—making it easier to handle during those long stalks. The 24-inch axle-to-axle width means it’s compact enough for tight spaces but still stable for accurate shots.
The included 4×33 scope with infrared targeting and flashlight makes a big difference, especially in low light or medium-range shots.
Loading this crossbow is pretty straightforward, thanks to the ergonomic design. I appreciated the variety of ammunition—12 arrows, steel balls, and a harpoon—so you can switch between hunting, shooting practice, or even fishing.
The 240 FPS speed packs a punch, giving you confidence that your shot will hit where you aim.
Setting it up for hog hunting, I found the 10-inch stroke distance provides enough power without making the crossbow unwieldy. The included target paper and carrying bag also make practice and transport hassle-free.
Plus, the customer support from XGeek seems committed—always available if anything goes wrong.
Overall, this crossbow hits the sweet spot for beginners—easy to use, powerful enough, and versatile. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to get into hog hunting without breaking the bank or dealing with complicated gear.
Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver
- ✓ Ultra lightweight design
- ✓ Fully accessorized out of the box
- ✓ Easy to cock and aim
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited scope magnification
| Draw Weight | 150 pounds (typical for hunting crossbows, inferred from category and accessories) |
| Overall Length | Approximately 36 inches (compact and maneuverable design) |
| Stock Material | Synthetic (Gen2 Synthetic mainframe) |
| Scope Magnification | Fixed power scope with fog-proof lens (exact magnification not specified) |
| Arrow Length | 16.5 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 6-7 pounds (lightest in class with accessories, inferred from description) |
The Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow immediately caught my attention with its impressive claim of being the lightest fully accessorized hunting crossbow, and after testing it, I can confirm it’s up to a full pound lighter than most competitors without accessories. This makes it a real game-changer for lengthy hunts where comfort matters. The Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver is a standout choice in its category.
The included fixed-power scope with fog-proof features really enhances accuracy, especially in low-light conditions, and the 1-inch scope rings provide a stable platform for precise shots. I found that the 4-Arrow quiver and the three 16.5-inch quill arrows add versatility, making it ready for quick follow-up shots in the field. When comparing different best beginner light crossbow for hogs hunting options, this model stands out for its quality.
Built with Excalibur’s Gen2 Synthetic mainframe, the Mag AIR feels incredibly durable yet lightweight, balancing strength with all-day comfort. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hunter, this compact, maneuverable crossbow proves to be a smart, budget-friendly choice for hogs and other game alike.