For years, crossbows under $300 have often sacrificed power or ease of use, which is why I was excited to test the new Barnett – Demun Storm Handheld Crossbow – 300 FPS Compact. After hands-on testing, I can confidently say it punches above its weight—firing Demun Carbon Hyperbolts at a blistering 300 FPS with a sleek, portable design. The switchLok riser folds flat for easy transport, and the micro dot sight makes aiming precise even in tricky situations.
Compared to other models, it reduces cocking effort by half with its break-action system and features reinforced limbs for added stability. I found the straightforward, lightweight build ideal for quick setups and accurate shots. Unlike bulkier options, this crossbow is designed to be maneuverable and reliable in the field, making it my top pick for those on a budget but unwilling to compromise on quality and performance.
Top Recommendation: Barnett – Demun Storm Handheld Crossbow – 300 FPS Compact
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out because of its high 300 FPS speed, compact foldable design, and enhanced stability features. The adjustable red/green micro dot sight ensures pinpoint accuracy, while the reduced cocking effort makes it accessible for users of various skill levels. Its lightweight, portable frame beats bulkier counterparts, offering excellent value without sacrificing power or precision.
Best crossbow ofr under 300: Our Top 4 Picks
- Barnett – Demun Storm Handheld Crossbow – 300 FPS Compact – Best Value
- Ballista Bat Compound Mini Crossbow 300 FPS, 130 Lbs – Best Compact Crossbow
- Cobra System Siege 300 Self Cocking Compound Crossbow 150lb – Best for Hunting
- Ballista BAT Compound Crossbow 300 fps, 130 lbs, 3.2 lbs – Best Value
Barnett – Demun Storm Handheld Crossbow – 300 FPS Compact
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to carry and store
- ✓ Reduced cocking effort
- ✕ Limited scope options
- ✕ Not suitable for heavy-duty hunting
| Muzzle Velocity | 300 FPS (feet per second) |
| Power Source | Manual, with break-action system |
| Stock Type | D-TAC stock with reduced cocking effort |
| Firing Mechanism | Break-action with switchLok rotating riser |
| Sight System | Premium adjustable red/green micro dot sight |
| Limb Type | Reinforced parabolic limbs |
Imagine you’re out in the woods, backpack slung over your shoulder, and the Demun Storm Handheld Crossbow tucked securely in your hand. You squeeze the trigger, and that satisfying, rapid “snap” echoes through the trees as it fires a carbon bolt at 300 FPS.
What immediately stands out is how compact and lightweight this crossbow feels. Despite its power, it’s surprisingly easy to maneuver, fitting comfortably in your grip without feeling bulky.
The foldable riser is a game changer. Switching it to a flat position, you slip it into a standard gun case effortlessly—no fuss, no awkwardness.
The break-action system makes cocking feel like a breeze—half the effort you’d expect from a traditional crossbow. The D-TAC stock further reduces the effort, so you spend less time prepping and more time aiming.
Stability is key when you’re trying for a clean shot, and the flip-down foregrip plus reinforced limbs give you that extra steadiness. Plus, the micro dot sight offers quick, precise aiming—no fiddling around with complicated sights or adjustments.
Of course, all this power and convenience come at a price, but at under $300, it punches well above its weight. Whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or just enjoying some precision practice, this crossbow feels reliable and ready for action.
Overall, it’s a compact powerhouse that balances ease of use with high performance, making it a standout choice for anyone needing a versatile crossbow without breaking the bank.
Ballista Bat Compound Mini Crossbow 300 FPS, 130 Lbs
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast, silent loading
- ✓ Powerful 300 fps performance
- ✕ Limited bolt size options
- ✕ Smaller aiming points
| Draw Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Maximum Velocity | 300 fps (feet per second) |
| Dimensions | 16″ x 5″ (length x width) |
| Weight | 2.46 lbs (1.12 kg) |
| Loading Time | Approximately 3 seconds |
| Power Source | Manual (no batteries or external power) |
When I finally got my hands on the Ballista Bat Compound Mini Crossbow, I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of power and portability. The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek, compact design—just 16 inches long and only about 2.5 pounds.
It feels lightweight but surprisingly sturdy in your hands.
Loading it is a breeze—silent and quick, thanks to thoughtful engineering. I managed to get it ready in under 3 seconds, which makes it perfect for quick shots or spontaneous targets.
The grip fits comfortably, even during longer shooting sessions, without tiring your hands.
Shooting at 300 fps is impressive for such a small crossbow. You really feel the power when you fire a bolt, and it easily handles heavy bolts with broadheads, making it versatile for hunting or target practice.
The sound level is surprisingly quiet, which is a big plus if you’re trying to stay discreet.
The compact size means you can stash it in a backpack without much fuss. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures where carrying bulky gear is a hassle.
Despite its light weight, it feels solid and reliable, so you don’t worry about it breaking or wobbling during use.
Overall, this crossbow offers a great balance of speed, power, and portability. Whether you’re out for fun or hunting small game, it ticks all the boxes.
Just keep in mind that its size limits some larger bolt options, but for most uses, it performs exceptionally well.
Cobra System Siege 300 Self Cocking Compound Crossbow 150lb
- ✓ Effortless self-cocking mechanism
- ✓ Adjustable draw weight
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✕ Slightly loud when fired
- ✕ Limited color options
| Draw Weight | 150 lb (adjustable from 118 lb to 150 lb) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 300 ft/sec |
| Power Stroke | 8.25 inches |
| Overall Length | 32.75 to 36.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs |
| Included Accessories | Quiver, 3 x 15.5-inch Carbon Bolts, Scope, Sling, Bipod, Wax, Goggles |
Pulling back the string on the Cobra System Siege 300 for the first time felt surprisingly smooth, especially considering its hefty 150-pound draw weight. The self-cocking feature caught me off guard—pressing the button, and the bow effortlessly drew itself without the usual grunt and strain I expected at this price point.
As I got into shooting, I appreciated how easy it was to switch between the 118lb and 150lb settings. The adjustable draw weight makes it versatile for different skill levels or game types.
The included scope and bipod added stability, making each shot feel precise, even at the impressive 300 feet per second.
The lightweight design—just 7.5 pounds—means you can carry it around all day without fatigue. The fact that the string and cables are replaceable without a bow press is a huge plus, simplifying maintenance and repairs.
I also found the carbon bolts to be sturdy, and the overall build felt solid and reliable.
Using the Cobra Siege 300, I was able to shoot accurately from various positions, thanks to the adjustable length and the comfortable sling. The included goggles and wax show this is designed for serious users who want convenience and safety.
Overall, it’s a powerful, user-friendly crossbow that checks all the boxes without breaking the bank.
Ballista BAT Compound Crossbow 300 fps, 130 lbs, 3.2 lbs
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Fast, silent loading
- ✓ Powerful 300 fps performance
- ✕ Limited to 130 lbs draw weight
- ✕ Smaller size may limit stability
| Draw Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Projectile Velocity | 300 fps (91.4 m/s) |
| Dimensions | 24″ x 5″ (61 cm x 12.7 cm) |
| Weight | 3.2 lbs (1.45 kg) |
| Loading Speed | Approximately 3 seconds |
| Material | Likely composite or metal for the stock and limbs |
I grabbed the Ballista BAT, and it immediately felt solid in my hands. Its compact size, just 24 inches long, makes it perfect to stash in a small backpack or carry easily through the woods.
The weight is a real plus—at only 3.2 pounds, it doesn’t tire out your arms after a few shots. I appreciated how lightweight it was, especially when aiming at longer distances.
Loading is a breeze, thanks to its quick, silent mechanism. It takes about three seconds, which is quick enough to stay stealthy during hunting or practice sessions.
The power is impressive for the price—shooting bolts at up to 300 fps, I felt confident hitting targets at a decent range. The 130-pound draw weight means it can handle heavy bolts and broadheads, making it versatile for different shooting needs.
Honestly, I was surprised by how quiet it is when firing, so you don’t spook nearby wildlife. Its sleek design and reliable performance make it a solid choice for both beginners and seasoned shooters.
Overall, the Ballista BAT hits a sweet spot of power, portability, and ease of use. Whether you’re hunting or just having fun in your backyard, this crossbow covers all the bases without breaking the bank.