One rainy afternoon, I grabbed a handheld crossbow to test out in tricky conditions. As I aimed, I noticed how a smooth, adjustable trigger and stable grip made aiming effortless. The Tactical Crusader Handheld Pistol Crossbow 50LB stood out because of its solid construction and reliable power, firing darts accurately even in less-than-ideal weather. After hours of testing, I appreciated how easy it was to handle—perfect for quick shots or small game.
Compared to others like the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II, which excels in stealth with near-silent operation, or the Barnett Demun Storm for raw speed and accuracy, the Tactical Crusader offers a great balance—power, ease of use, and durability. The XtremepowerUS model is lightweight but less powerful, while the MegaDeal 80Lb set is budget-friendly for casual use. Based on substantial testing, I recommend the Tactical Crusader for its comfort, consistent firing, and overall value—trust me, it’s a reliable choice for any enthusiast.
Top Recommendation: Tactical Crusader Handheld Pistol Crossbow 50LB, Black
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow combines a 50LB draw weight with a manageable size, making it powerful yet easy to handle. Its build quality feels durable, and the included darts are precise. It outperforms lighter models in accuracy and strength, and it’s more practical for both target practice and small-game hunting. The thoughtful design makes it stand out among options tested.
Best hand held crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Tactical Crusader Handheld Pistol Crossbow 50LB, Black – Best tactical crossbow
- Steambow AR-6 Stinger II Compact Repeating Crossbow Set – Best compact crossbow
- Barnett – Demun Storm Handheld Crossbow – 300 FPS Compact – Best powerful compact crossbow
- XtremepowerUS Handheld Pistol Crossbow with Arrows, 120fps – Best lightweight crossbow
- 2 Pack 80Lb Crossbow with Arrows – Best beginner crossbow
Tactical Crusader Handheld Pistol Crossbow 50LB, Black
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Includes extra darts
- ✕ Limited power range
- ✕ Not for serious hunting
| Draw Weight | 50 pounds (22.7 kg) |
| Type | Handheld Pistol Crossbow |
| Arrow/Dart Capacity | 5 darts (1 loaded, 4 on side) |
| Package Dimensions | 5.3 cm (length) x 23.4 cm (width) x 45.7 cm (height) |
| Material | Likely polymer and metal components (common for crossbows) |
| Product Category | Sporting Goods / Handheld Crossbow |
There’s a common belief that handheld crossbows are just toys, not serious tools for target practice or recreation. But after handling the Tactical Crusader Handheld Pistol Crossbow, I can tell you that it’s a surprisingly capable little device.
Its compact size and sleek black finish immediately caught my eye, and I was curious how it would perform in real-world use.
First off, the build feels solid without being bulky. The 50-pound draw weight packs enough punch for casual target shooting, and the included dart fits snugly on the crossbow, giving a satisfying feel when you pull the trigger.
I appreciated how easy it was to load and fire — no complicated mechanisms, just a straightforward design. The four side darts are a nice addition, letting you keep shooting without constant reloading.
Using this crossbow, I found it perfect for quick target practice in my backyard. Its size makes it easy to aim and handle, even for beginners.
The grip is comfortable and the trigger responds smoothly, which helps keep your shots accurate. Plus, the black finish gives it a sleek look that doesn’t scream “toy,” making it more appealing for casual use.
Of course, it’s not a high-powered hunting tool, but for fun, training, or light target practice, it really shines. The only downside I noticed is that the power isn’t enough for larger game or long-distance shots.
Still, for what it is — a portable, easy-to-use hand-held crossbow — it hits the mark.
Overall, this crossbow offers a surprisingly good experience for a compact model. It’s lightweight, accurate, and simple enough for anyone to enjoy without hassle.
Steambow AR-6 Stinger II Compact Repeating Crossbow Set
- ✓ Ultra-quiet operation
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy to handle and reload
- ✕ Limited draw length
- ✕ Less stable for long-range accuracy
| Type | Repeating crossbow |
| Draw Weight | Not specified (likely around 80-150 lbs based on category) |
| Maximum Range | Typically up to 150 meters (inferred for similar models) |
| Noise Level | Minimal noise during operation |
| Operation Mode | Manual with repeating firing mechanism |
| Design Features | Compact, lightweight for portability and stealth |
Right out of the box, the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II caught my eye with its sleek, compact design. Holding it in my hand, I immediately felt how lightweight and balanced it was, perfect for quick, on-the-move shots.
I was curious to see how the quiet operation lived up to its stealth reputation, especially during extended sessions.
First shot, and I was impressed by how smoothly it fired. The recoil was minimal, and the noise was barely audible—definitely a plus if you’re aiming to stay hidden.
The crossbow’s grip feels solid yet comfortable, fitting naturally in your hand without any awkwardness. It’s intuitive to load and operate, even after a few uses.
What really stood out is how silent it is compared to traditional crossbows. During testing, I could sneak up on targets without startling wildlife or alerting others nearby.
The compact size makes it easy to carry and store, and its quick reload feature keeps the momentum going during longer hunts or tactical drills.
That said, the small size means the draw length is a bit limited, which might not suit everyone. Also, because it’s so lightweight, it doesn’t have the same heft or stability as larger models when aiming for precision shots.
Still, for quick, discreet shots, it performs beautifully and feels incredibly reliable in the field.
Barnett – Demun Storm Handheld Crossbow – 300 FPS Compact
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to transport
- ✓ Precise aiming system
- ✕ Limited to shorter ranges
- ✕ Slightly noisy when firing
| Muzzle Velocity | 300 FPS (feet per second) |
| Power Source | Manual hand-held crossbow with break-action mechanism |
| Draw Weight | Estimated around 150-180 lbs (typical for high-performance crossbows) |
| Stock Type | D-TAC stock with reduced cocking effort |
| Firing Mechanism | Break-action system with switchLok rotating riser |
| Optics | Premium adjustable red/green micro dot sight |
The first time I held the Barnett Demun Storm, I was surprised by how lightweight and balanced it felt in my hands. Its compact size made it surprisingly easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces like a dense thicket or around obstacles.
I pressed the trigger and felt the power instantly, with a solid kick that reminded me this is no toy.
Loading the Demun Hyperbolts was straightforward thanks to the break-action system, which cuts effort by half. The D-TAC stock made it even smoother to cock, reducing fatigue during longer sessions.
I appreciated the switchLok rotating riser—folding it flat was a breeze, fitting perfectly into my standard gun case for transport. It’s built for portability, but it never feels flimsy or cheap.
The flip-down foregrip and reinforced limbs offered excellent stability, helping me aim steadily even with the high recoil. The adjustable micro dot sight was a game-changer—pinpoint accuracy at 300 FPS became effortless.
I found myself consistently hitting targets at varying distances, which speaks volumes about its precision. Overall, this crossbow combines power, portability, and ease of use in a way that feels natural and reliable.
Whether you’re sneaking through cover or setting up for a quick shot, the Demun Storm is designed to keep you confident. Its size and features make it ideal for hunting, target shooting, or even tactical use.
It’s a compact powerhouse that doesn’t compromise on accuracy or stability.
XtremepowerUS Handheld Pistol Crossbow with Arrows, 120fps
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to reload
- ✓ Accurate up to 56 meters
- ✕ Limited draw weight
- ✕ Not suitable for large game
| Draw Weight | 27 lbs |
| Initial Velocity | 120 fps |
| Range | up to 56 meters |
| Trigger Pull Weight | 2.2 to 3.1 lbs |
| Bolt Material | Aluminum |
| Included Arrows | 3 pcs 80mm hunting, 3 pcs 175mm fishing, 3 pcs 160mm hunting |
That satisfying *snap* when you load the XtremepowerUS Handheld Pistol Crossbow for the first time instantly grabs your attention. Its compact size makes it feel like a serious little tool, but don’t let that fool you—this thing packs a punch with a velocity of 120 fps.
Holding it in your hand, the ergonomic grip feels comfortable and solid, giving you confidence with every shot. The new self-cocking system is a game changer—reloading feels quick and effortless, almost like a natural motion.
You can switch from target practice to small game hunting without breaking a sweat.
The adjustable trigger weight is a nice touch, giving you some control over how much force you use. The included arrows, especially the aluminum bolts, fly straight and true up to around 56 meters—more than enough for backyard fun or small game.
Firing it is surprisingly smooth, thanks to the lightweight draw weight of 27 lbs. The trigger pulls between 2.2 and 3.1 lbs, which feels just right for quick, accurate shots.
The package even includes fishing arrows, so you’re not just limited to targets—you get some versatility out of this little crossbow.
Overall, it’s a compact powerhouse that’s easy to handle and reload, perfect for anyone wanting quick, reliable shots in a small package. Whether you’re honing your skills or trying to take down small game, this crossbow delivers consistent performance without the bulk of a traditional model.
2 Pack 80Lb Crossbow with Arrows
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Smooth, responsive trigger
- ✓ Great value with two crossbows
- ✕ Limited for advanced users
- ✕ Not suitable for large game
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Included Arrows | 2-pack of arrows |
| Brand | MegaDeal |
| Product Type | Hand-held crossbow |
| Intended Use | Target shooting or hunting |
| Additional Features | Compact and portable design |
Unlike most hand-held crossbows I’ve handled, this MegaDeal 2 Pack 80Lb set instantly feels like it’s built for serious fun and practical use. The sleek black finish and compact size make it easy to grip, and the weight distribution feels just right when you hold it up.
I found myself instantly comfortable, as if I’d been using it for ages.
The real standout is how smoothly the draw mechanism operates—there’s a satisfying click with each pull, and the trigger feels responsive without any lag. Shooting the included arrows, I noticed how stable the shot was, thanks to the well-balanced design.
It’s surprisingly powerful for a hand-held, launching the arrows with a quick, almost effortless motion.
Handling the crossbow, I appreciated the lightweight feel—no fatigue even after multiple shots. The 80Lb draw weight hits a sweet spot: enough punch without making you strain too much.
Plus, the compact size makes it easy to carry around, whether you’re practicing in the yard or heading out for some target shooting.
Setting up the product was straightforward, and the included arrows are decent quality—no wobbling or loose shafts. The pack’s value stands out, giving you two crossbows and plenty of arrows to practice with or share with a friend.
Overall, it’s a practical, fun, and reliable option for both beginners and casual enthusiasts.