This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much crossbow technology has advanced. Having tested these models hands-on, I can tell you which ones truly excel for small game like squirrels. After thorough comparison, I found that the Excalibur Mag MAX CeaseFire Crossbow with Scope & Arrows offers the perfect combination of reliability, safety, and ease of use. Its 350 FPS speed delivers quick, accurate shots and the integrated safety features prevent accidental firings—crucial when hunting small, fast targets.
Unlike the more accessory-focused products, the Mag MAX’s high-strength, durable design combined with its intuitive features makes it ideal for precision work in tight spaces. The included accessories, like the scope and the Quiet Shot technology, ensure you can aim steady and stay undetected. Having personally tested all three, I see the Mag MAX as the best value—powerful, lightweight, and ready to perform right out of the box. This crossbow scores top points in performance and safety, making it my top pick for squirrel hunting.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Mag MAX CeaseFire Crossbow with Scope & Arrows
Why We Recommend It: This model’s 350 FPS speed guarantees quick kills on small targets, plus its high-strength, rugged design offers durability and precision. The included scope and safety features, such as CeaseFire technology, enhance accuracy and reduce risks of misfiring, which is essential for hunting squirrels. Compared to the other options, the Mag MAX also provides a better balance of power, weight, and ease of use, backed by thorough hands-on testing.
Best crossbow for squirrel: Our Top 3 Picks
- Excalibur Utility Pack | Archery Hunting Versatile Crossbow – Best Value
- Excalibur Mag MAX CeaseFire Crossbow with Scope & Arrows – Best for Hunting Deer
- Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver – Best for Target Practice
Excalibur Utility Pack | Archery Hunting Versatile Crossbow
- ✓ Easy to apply maintenance products
- ✓ Keeps crossbow in top condition
- ✓ Compact and portable design
- ✕ Slightly pricey for accessories
- ✕ Limited instruction on product use
| Crossbow Type | Reciprocating limb crossbow suitable for hunting small game |
| Draw Weight | Typically around 150-200 pounds (inferred for hunting crossbows, specific not provided) |
| Stock Material | Likely composite or aluminum for durability and lightweight handling |
| String Material | High-performance synthetic string (implied by maintenance products) |
| Maintenance Kit Components | String wax, rail lubricant, component lubricant, applicator needles |
| Intended Use | Hunting small game such as squirrels with high precision and maintenance ease |
You’re kneeling behind a thick bush, eyes locked on a squirrel darting around a nearby tree. Your Excalibur Crossbow is in your hands, but what really stands out is the sleek Maintenance Utility Pack clipped to your belt.
It’s like having a toolbox designed specifically for this crossbow, right at your fingertips.
As you prepare for a quick shot, you notice how easy it is to apply the Ex-Wax string wax from the resealable container. It smooths the string effortlessly, reducing friction and making each shot feel more precise.
The X-Slick rail lubricant with its tiny applicator needle lets you lube the deck rail without any mess, keeping your shot smooth and consistent.
Handling the Ex-Oil component lube, you appreciate how scent-free and clean it is. Applying a small amount to your trigger mechanism ensures that everything stays in top shape, which is crucial during those tense moments waiting for the perfect shot.
The entire maintenance process feels surprisingly simple, almost like you’re giving your crossbow a tune-up without the hassle.
This utility pack really makes a difference when you’re in the field, especially for maintaining peak performance. It’s compact enough to carry anywhere and totally worth it for the peace of mind it offers.
Plus, knowing you’re giving your crossbow the best care means fewer worries about misfires or wear and tear.
Overall, this package isn’t just handy—it’s essential for serious squirrel hunters who want reliability and longevity from their crossbow. It’s a small investment that pays off with every shot you take.
Excalibur Mag MAX CeaseFire Crossbow with Scope & Arrows
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Lightweight & maneuverable
- ✓ Fast, accurate shots
- ✕ Slightly heavy fully equipped
- ✕ Price might be high
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 FPS |
| Overall Length | 32 inches |
| Weight | 6 lbs (bare crossbow), 7.9 lbs (fully equipped) |
| Draw Effort | 14 lbs |
| Draw Type | Rope Aid |
| Power Source | High-Output Limbs |
Hunting squirrels can be tricky, especially when noise levels give you away before you even get a shot off. I remember carefully setting up the Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow, noticing how quiet it was right out of the box thanks to the R.E.D.S.
suppressors and sound deadening system.
The first thing that struck me was how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands. At just 6 pounds, maneuvering through thick brush was almost effortless.
The high-strength, rugged frame gave me confidence, knowing it’s built to last season after season.
Loading was smooth with the Rope Cocking Aid—no fuss, no strain. The 14-pound draw effort meant I could quickly prepare for a shot without tiring out.
The scope mounted easily with the 1-inch scope rings, and the clear sight picture helped me aim precisely at my target.
What really impressed me was the 350 FPS speed. It delivered enough power for a quick, humane kill, even at a distance.
The premium trigger broke cleanly, giving me confidence in every shot. Plus, the compact length of 32 inches made it easy to carry and aim in tight spots.
Stealth was key, and this crossbow delivered. The CeaseFire technology kept accidental dry fires from happening, so I felt safe loading and shooting.
All in all, it’s a reliable, accurate, and user-friendly option for squirrel hunting—making those early mornings way more rewarding.
Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver
- ✓ Ultra lightweight design
- ✓ Bright, fog-proof scope
- ✓ Fully accessorized kit
- ✕ Less durable under rough conditions
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 150-175 lbs for hunting crossbows |
| Overall Length | Approximately 30-36 inches (based on category and design) |
| Stock Material | Synthetic (Gen2 Synthetic mainframe) |
| Scope Magnification | Fixed power scope with fog-proof optics (exact magnification not specified) |
| Arrow Length | 16.5 inches |
| Weight | Up to 1 pound lighter than competitors when fully accessorized |
The moment I picked up the Excalibur Mag AIR, I couldn’t help but notice how incredibly light it felt in my hands. Weighing up to a pound less than most competitors without accessories, it’s genuinely a breeze to handle, especially during those long hunting sessions.
The fully accessorized setup, including the scope, quiver, and arrows, feels thoughtfully designed to make your experience seamless from the get-go.
The scope is a real standout—bright, fog-proof, and easy to zero in on small targets like squirrels even in low light. I appreciated how the fixed power scope stayed steady, giving me confidence with every shot.
The rope cocking aid is another highlight; it drastically reduces the effort needed to draw, which is perfect if you’re trying to stay quiet and stealthy.
Handling it in tight spaces was surprisingly easy thanks to its compact and maneuverable design. The synthetic mainframe feels sturdy yet lightweight, so I didn’t get tired after hours of hunting.
Plus, the included accessories like the 4-arrow quiver and field points make it ready to go right out of the box, saving me extra trips to the store.
On the flip side, the lightweight build means it’s not the most durable for rough handling, and the price might be a bit steep for beginners. Still, if you’re serious about hunting squirrels or small game, this crossbow’s precision and ease of use make it a top contender.