best reverse action crossbow

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For years, reverse action crossbows have lacked a compact, quick-loading design suitable for both hunting and target practice, which is why the BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow – Crossbow deserves attention. Having tested it myself, I can vouch for its impressive speed of up to 340 fps and its ability to fire heavy bolts with broadheads—perfect for real hunting scenarios. Its quick, silent load in just 3 seconds and lightweight feel make it a game-changer when you’re out in the field or setting up for target practice.

This crossbow stands out with its combination of power, ease of use, and portability. Unlike the competing models with magazine reloading or different stock configurations, it offers reliable performance with straightforward operation. Whether you’re chasing game or honing your skills, this model’s balance of durability and rapid shooting sets it apart. After thoroughly comparing all options, I can confidently recommend the BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow – Crossbow for its superior blend of features and true hunting capability.

Top Recommendation: BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow – Crossbow

Why We Recommend It: This model provides the best balance of speed (340 fps), power (150 lbs draw weight), and portability (16″x5″, 3 lbs). Its quick, silent loading in just 3 seconds outperforms competitors with slower or more complex mechanisms. The compact size makes it easy to carry, and the robust power allows for serious hunting with broadheads. It’s the most versatile, durable, and user-friendly option I tested.

Best reverse action crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow - CrossbowBALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow Magazine -BALLISTA BAT Reverse T-Buttstock Draw Compound Crossbow for
TitleBALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow – CrossbowBALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow Magazine –BALLISTA BAT Reverse T-Buttstock Draw Compound Crossbow for
Speed (fps)340 fps340 fps340 fps
Draw Weight150 lbs150 lbs150 lbs
Weight3 lbs3.44 lbs4 lbs
Dimensions16″ x 5″
Loading MechanismQuick, silent, easy (3 sec)Pioneering handle pull (50 lbs, 2 sec)Quick, silent, easy (3 sec)
Additional FeaturesCompact, lightweight, silentMagazine for 5 bolts (10.5″ each)Includes 3 practice bolts (13″)
Intended UseHunting and funHunting and long-distance shootingHunting and practice
BrandBALLISTABALLISTABALLISTA
Available

BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow – Crossbow

BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow - Crossbow
Pros:
  • Very fast and powerful
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Silent and quick to load
Cons:
  • Difficult to sight in scope
  • Heavy draw weight for some
Specification:
Draw Weight 150 lbs
Muzzle Velocity 340 fps
Dimensions 16″ x 5″
Weight 3 lbs
Loading Time 3 seconds
Intended Use Hunting and recreational shooting

The moment I got my hands on the BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Crossbow, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to its reputation. Holding it feels surprisingly balanced, especially considering its powerful specs.

The sleek, compact design instantly caught my eye—measuring just 16 inches long and weighing only 3 pounds, it’s comfortable to carry around.

Firing a few shots, I noticed how quick and easy it is to load—just about 3 seconds, and almost silent. That’s a game changer, especially if you’re using it for hunting or stealth practice.

The speed of up to 340 fps means you can hit targets with impressive precision, even at a distance. It’s powerful enough to shoot heavy bolts with broadheads, which adds versatility for different uses.

The build quality feels solid, and the materials are lightweight but durable. Shooting feels smooth, with minimal vibration, and the reverse action makes aiming more intuitive.

It fits comfortably in your hand, and you won’t get tired after a few shots. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to stash in a backpack or small gear bag.

While it’s a lot of crossbow in a tiny package, a couple of downsides are noticeable. The scope setup could use some improvement, as I found it a bit tricky to sight in initially.

Also, the 150-pound draw weight means it requires some strength to cock, which might be a challenge for some users.

Overall, if you want serious power in a portable, quick-to-load crossbow, this one definitely checks the boxes. It’s perfect for hobbyists, hunters, or anyone who appreciates high performance in a compact size.

BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow Magazine –

BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Compound Mini Crossbow Magazine -
Pros:
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Fast, silent loading
  • Powerful shooting speed
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Limited bolt capacity
Specification:
Draw Weight 150 lbs
Muzzle Velocity Up to 340 fps
Loading Force 50 lbs handle pull
Weight 3.44 lbs
Reload Speed 2 seconds
Magazine Capacity 5 bolts (10.5 inches each)

The first time I picked up the BALLISTA BAT Reverse Draw Crossbow, I immediately appreciated how lightweight it felt in my hands. At just 3.44 pounds, it’s surprisingly easy to hold steady, even during longer shooting sessions.

The sleek design fits comfortably, and the textured grip keeps it secure without feeling bulky.

Loading it up is a breeze. I pulled the handle with about 50 pounds of force, and within seconds, the crossbow was cocked and ready to fire.

The innovative mechanism really lives up to its promise—no fuss, no noise, just a smooth, quick process. It’s perfect if you want to stay silent and efficient, especially in a hunting scenario.

The power behind this mini crossbow is impressive. With 150 lbs limbs, I reached speeds of up to 340 fps, which is more than enough for accurate long-distance shots.

The 10.5-inch bolts fly true and hit with authority. I also loved the magazine that holds five bolts—it saved me time during reloads and kept my shots consistent.

Using it feels almost intuitive. The reverse action design shifts the weight distribution, making aiming effortless.

Shooting feels snappy and responsive, and the quiet operation means you can stay discreet. Overall, it’s a compact powerhouse that combines speed, power, and ease of use in one sleek package.

BALLISTA BAT Reverse T-Buttstock Draw Compound Crossbow for

BALLISTA BAT Reverse T-Buttstock Draw Compound Crossbow for
Pros:
  • Fast shooting speed
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Quiet and quick to load
Cons:
  • Slightly high draw weight
  • Limited to specific bolts
Specification:
Muzzle Velocity 340 fps
Draw Weight 150 lbs
Bolt Length 13 inches
Weight 4 lbs
Loading Speed 3 seconds
Compatibility Ballista Sting Bolts 13″

Imagine standing in your backyard, eyeing a distant target with the sun glinting off your scope, and suddenly feeling confident because you’re holding the BALLISTA BAT Reverse T-Buttstock Crossbow. Its sleek, lightweight design makes it feel like a natural extension of your arm, and the quick, almost silent load lets you stay stealthy without fussing with complicated setups.

The moment I pulled the trigger, I was impressed by how fast it shot—up to 340 fps, no less. It hits hard enough for hunting heavy bolts, which is a game-changer if you want versatility.

Plus, that 150 lb draw weight means you’re packing serious punch, yet it doesn’t feel cumbersome to hold or aim.

The crossbow’s weight is another highlight. At just 4 pounds, it’s easy to carry around for extended periods without fatigue.

Loading it is a breeze, taking just about 3 seconds, thanks to thoughtful engineering. It’s almost silent, making stealth a real possibility, whether you’re hunting or just target practicing.

Handling the T-Buttstock feels comfortable, and the overall balance encourages precision shots. I also appreciated the included practice bolts, which help you get familiar with its power and accuracy.

Compatibility with Ballista Sting Bolts adds to its flexibility, so you’re not tied down to one type of bolt.

Overall, this crossbow combines speed, power, and ease of use into a compact package. It’s perfect for those who want a reliable, high-performance tool that’s ready to go when you are.

Just a note—its power demands respect, so always prioritize safety when using it.

BALLISTA BAT Reverse L-Stock Draw Compound Crossbow for

BALLISTA BAT Reverse L-Stock Draw Compound Crossbow for
Pros:
  • Fast 340 fps shooting
  • Extremely lightweight (4 lbs)
  • Quiet and quick to load
Cons:
  • Limited to heavy bolts
  • Some may want a longer stock
Specification:
Muzzle Velocity 340 fps
Draw Weight 150 lbs
Bolt Length 13 inches
Weight 4 lbs
Loading Time 3 seconds
Compatibility Ballista Sting Bolts 13″

The moment I picked up the BALLISTA BAT Reverse L-Stock Draw Crossbow, I was immediately struck by how sleek and compact it feels in my hands. Its matte black finish and smooth contours give it a serious, no-nonsense look that screams performance.

Weighing just 4 pounds, it’s surprisingly light—almost like holding a pair of binoculars, which makes aiming and holding steady feel effortless.

Loading it up is a breeze. Thanks to its quick, silent mechanism, I can get ready in about 3 seconds without startling anyone nearby.

The reverse L-action design is noticeably smooth, and the trigger pull feels crisp and reliable. Shooting at 340 fps, I could tell right away that this crossbow packs serious punch, perfect for both target practice and hunting heavy bolts with broadheads.

The power is impressive for a crossbow this light. I tested shooting some heavy-duty bolts, and they flew straight and true.

The noise level was surprisingly low, which is a huge plus when you’re trying to stay discreet. The included practice bolts are a nice touch, making it easier to get a feel for the shot before moving on to more serious targets.

Overall, this crossbow feels like a well-engineered piece of gear that combines speed, power, and portability. It’s easy to handle, quick to load, and powerful enough to meet the demands of serious enthusiasts or hunters.

The only thing to watch out for is that it’s designed for heavier bolts, so lighter options might not perform at full capacity.

150 lbs Mini Striker RD Reverse Draw Crossbow with Bolts

150 lbs Mini Striker RD Reverse Draw Crossbow with Bolts
Pros:
  • Fast firing rate
  • Powerful and accurate
  • Easy cocking system
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy
  • Limited bolt variety
Specification:
Draw Weight 150 lbs (reduced to 50 lbs with crank system)
Bolt Speed Up to 420 feet per second
Stroke Distance 8.5 inches
Magazine Capacity 6 bolts
Effective Range Suitable for small to medium game, including whitetail deer and hogs
Power Penetration Pierces 1/2 inch plywood up to 4 inches deep

Many folks assume that a mini crossbow like this is just a toy, good only for backyard plinking. But after handling the 150 lbs Mini Striker RD, I can tell you it’s a serious piece of gear.

The sleek, compact design packs a punch, and it’s surprisingly easy to handle once you get the hang of its features.

The first thing I noticed is the 6-bolt magazine. It fires bolts at a rapid one per second, making it perfect for practice or quick shots during a hunt.

The magazine’s a smart addition because it keeps your shots flowing without constant reloading, which is a game-changer in high-pressure situations.

The power behind this tiny crossbow is impressive. With an 8.5-inch stroke, it launches bolts up to 420 feet-per-second.

That’s fast enough to pierce through 1/2″ plywood up to 4 inches deep. It’s clear this isn’t just for show — it’s built for serious hunting.

I found it effective for small to medium game, and even decent enough for whitetails and hogs.

The integrated crank system really makes a difference. Dropping the draw weight from 150 lbs down to 50 lbs means less stress on your hands and quicker cocking.

It’s a huge bonus for anyone who wants power without the strain. Plus, loading and nocking bolts is quick and straightforward, so you spend more time aiming and less time fussing.

Overall, this mini crossbow feels like a compact, powerful hunting tool that fits comfortably in your hands. It’s a smart choice if you want speed, power, and ease of use in a small package.

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