best crossbow for the money archery talk

The moment I unboxed the Xpedition Xpedite 420, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact it felt in my hands. Weighing just 7.7 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight for a crossbow capable of hitting 420 FPS.

Firing it for the first time, I was impressed by how easy it was to handle, even in tight spaces. Its 8-inch cocked profile means I could hunt in spots I usually avoid with bulkier models.

The included 4×32 illuminated scope was clear and bright, making those early dawn or dusk shots much easier.

The setup was straightforward, thanks to the included assembly tools and the rope cocker. The trigger is crisp with just a 3-pound pull, giving me confidence with every shot.

The anti-dry fire feature felt like a smart safety addition I appreciated instantly.

Hitting targets at a range, the bolts flew true and fast. The 3-bolt quiver is lightweight and easy to attach or detach, which is handy when moving through wooded terrain.

Overall, this crossbow feels like a solid balance of power, weight, and ease of use, perfect for both new and seasoned hunters.

After extended use, I found the combination of performance and portability really stands out. It’s a bit pricier than some entry-level models, but the features and quality justify the cost.

If you’re after a reliable, high-performance crossbow that won’t weigh you down, this one is a winner.

Ever get tired of your crossbow jamming or feeling underpowered during a hunt? I did, especially when my previous setup struggled with consistency and durability.

That’s when I took a closer look at the EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer.

This crossbow feels solid right out of the box. The 130 lb limbs are sturdy, made of durable fiberglass, and give you a punchy 230 fps—plenty for hunting or target practice.

The grip is ergonomic and textured, so your hands don’t slip even during quick shots. I really appreciated the quick-detach sling mount; it makes carrying and adjusting super easy.

The package comes loaded with 15 carbon bolts, which are noticeably tougher and more reliable than typical aluminum ones. The included red dot sight is a nice touch, and the Picatinny rails let you customize with accessories or additional optics.

The string is durable and even comes with a spare, which is great for long-term use. I found the string stopper reduced vibration, making each shot smoother and more accurate.

One of the biggest wins was how fast and easy it was to reload, thanks to the automatic repeating feature. No fumbling or wasting time between shots.

The foregrip and adjustable accessories give you a comfortable, controlled shooting experience. Overall, this crossbow handles well, shoots accurately, and feels built to last—perfect for anyone wanting a reliable, powerful option without breaking the bank.

Many folks assume that a crossbow this affordable and lightweight must cut corners or lack power. My experience with the Xpedition Scrapeline 390X proved otherwise.

It feels solid in your hands, despite weighing only 6.7 pounds, which makes it a breeze to carry around during long hunts.

The first thing I noticed is how easy it is to handle. The compact design doesn’t feel bulky, and the balance is surprisingly good for its size.

Shooting at 390 FPS, I expected some recoil or noise, but it’s surprisingly quiet and smooth—great for keeping your position undetected.

The scope is clear and bright, thanks to the 4×32 illuminated lens. Adjusting it was straightforward, and I appreciated the included accessories like the 5-bolt quiver and rope cocker.

The bolts are well-made with carbon shafts, and I liked how consistent my shots were after a little practice.

One thing to keep in mind is that this crossbow is designed specifically for Xpedition XIT-20 bolts. That’s a small limitation, but the included bolts are a good starting point.

It’s perfect for beginners who want reliable power without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a lightweight, fast, and easy-to-use crossbow, this one really delivers. It’s simple to assemble and shoot, making it ideal for new hunters or those on a budget.

Just follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll get great results without any hassle.

Finally got my hands on the Delta McKenzie Speedbag Sniper 20″ archery target I’d been eyeing for months, and let me tell you, it truly lives up to the hype. I was especially curious about how it would handle my faster crossbow shoots, which top out around 420 FPS.

The moment I started shooting, I could see how solidly built it is.

The dual-sided design is a game-changer. One side has high-contrast aiming points, perfect for quick target acquisition, while the other offers different high-contrast patterns for variety.

The graphics pop in almost any lighting, making it easier to aim, even in shaded areas. It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 18 pounds but feels sturdy enough to withstand outdoor practice sessions.

I tested it with a variety of field points, and it handled hundreds of shots without showing much wear. The self-healing foam really does keep it in good shape after thousands of shots, which is a huge plus.

The compact size makes it easy to move around, thanks to integrated handles, whether you’re in your backyard or heading to the hunting camp.

One thing I appreciated was the 2-inch sight grid—great for tuning my bow and improving accuracy. The weatherproof nylon exterior and dense core mean I don’t have to worry about rain or rough outdoor conditions.

Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile target that offers excellent value for the money, especially if you’re into crossbow practice.

People often assume that a crossbow with twin triggers like the Excalibur TwinStrike TAC2 is just a gimmick, designed mainly for show. But after handling this model, I can tell you it’s a game-changer for anyone serious about accuracy and speed.

The first thing that hits you is how solid and well-balanced it feels in your hands. The dual trigger system is surprisingly intuitive, allowing you to fire two shots quickly without losing your aim.

It’s like having a backup in your pocket, ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Firing the TwinStrike TAC2 feels smooth, with minimal recoil thanks to its sturdy build. The instant follow-up shot feature really works — I was able to keep tight groupings even in rapid-fire scenarios.

It’s perfect for hunting situations where seconds count, or even for target practice when you want to push your limits.

What stood out most is how accurately it groups shots, even at longer ranges. The design minimizes movement between shots, so you stay on target.

Plus, it’s user-friendly enough for both beginners and seasoned archers.

On the downside, the dual trigger requires some getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to traditional crossbows. It also adds a bit of weight, making extended sessions a tad tiring.

Still, those are small trade-offs for the speed and precision you get.

Overall, the TwinStrike TAC2 delivers on its promise of quick, accurate follow-up shots. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking for a versatile, reliable crossbow that maximizes your effective range without breaking the bank.