Without a doubt, crossbows are precise and powerful devices that can truly up the ante during hunting sessions or archery competitions. Being one of the most popular and celebrated brands of crossbows on the market, Barnett has certainly put out some of the best crossbow models out there.
So much so, in fact, that it can be hard to choose the perfect Barnett crossbow among so many good options. With that in mind, we will try to help you out. With any luck, going through the five Barnett crossbow reviews that we offer will help you get a clearer idea of what you should get.
Additionally, we will provide useful information about crossbows in general, hopefully solving any questions you may have about them.
The Best Barnett Crossbows On the Market
1. Barnett WHITETAIL PRO STR Crossbow Triggertech Trubark
Even though it features a complex design that may be somewhat daunting, the Barnett WHITETAIL PRO STR Crossbow Triggertech Trubark is one of the most attractive crossbows you will ever see. Solid, tough and incredibly effective, this crossbow by Barnett is definitely an advanced piece of machinery. Camouflaged and armed with a powerful sight, it certainly looks the part.
Large and sturdy, the Barnett WHITETAIL PRO STR Crossbow Triggertech Trubark is capable of shooting bolts at a speed of 400 FPS. With a draw of 165 pounds and kinetic energy of 140 ft. lbs., this device is capable of penetrating any type of game from astounding distances. What is more, due to its advanced rope cocking device, you will be able to exert that amount of power without straining or injuring your arm.
In addition to being remarkably speedy and powerful, this crossbow by Barnett is very quiet. Largely, this has to do with an ergonomic and comfortable design that allows you to cock, aim and shoot in a few smooth moves. However, this crossbow also has a string dampening system that allows you to hunt stealthily and effectively.
2. Barnett TS390 Crossbow 390 Trigger RCD
If you are looking for a crossbow that provides a nice balance between power and usability, this product by Barnett may be the right thing. Despite being relatively lightweight, the Barnett TS390 Crossbow 390 Trigger RCD is capable of shooting arrows at a speed of 390 feet per second. Very remarkably, the device can do this without requiring you to strain your arm every time you cock it. Smooth and user-friendly without sacrificing effectivity, this is a crossbow worth noting.
Without a doubt, the Barnett TS390 Crossbow 390 Trigger RCD is a practical crossbow with great usability. As such, it allows itself to be operated quickly and efficiently in the field. Even better, it’s remarkably quiet while reloading, cocking and, of course, firing. Additionally, its aim is very precise, making this a great crossbow for medium and large prey hunting. The fact that it comes almost entirely assembled only adds to its practicality and ease of use.
Apart from the crossbow itself, this package includes several accessories that will help you bring your A-game to the field. Among them, the 4 by 32 illuminated scope and the rope cocking device stand out as being particularly useful. Additionally, the Barnett TS390 Crossbow 390 Trigger RCD comes with a side mount quiver, two 20-inch headhunter arrows and a bottle of lube wax for the string.
3. Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow
If you are looking for a crossbow that favors speed and precision over raw power, the Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow may be a good option. Compact, lightweight and incredibly ergonomic, this device is notably portable and very effective. Additionally, expertly put together and made of pure stainless steel components, the Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow is very tough and durable.
Featuring the brand’s patented Trigger Tech Technology and a 3-pound zero-creep release system, this crossbow is capable of shooting bolts at a speed of 330 feet per second. In addition, with a draw weight of 140 pounds, this crossbow by Barnett produces a good amount of power, making it very effective with medium-sized targets. Unfortunately, however, due to the effort required for a compact device to draw this amount of weight, the device’s cocking system is somewhat clunky and slow.
Without a doubt, one of the most notable features that the Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow has to offer is its anti-dry-fire trigger system. Very effective, this system will spare you from failing many shots from inception. Coupled with the device’s anti-nock system, this feature can truly make a difference when it comes to quick shots. As if that wasn’t enough, the device includes a useful anti-vibration foot stirrup that will add precision to your shots.
4. Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package
If you are looking for an easy and practical way to get started with a crossbow, the Barnett Vengeance Crossbow 3x32mm Scope Package may be a fitting option. This complete package includes a high-quality Barnett crossbow, a quick-detach quiver, various bolts and premium red dot sight that is as accurate as it is easy to use. The product’s sleek military-style stock has a camo pattern that will help you maintain your stealth at all times.
Despite not being the most remarkable of the company’s products, Barnett’s Jackal Crossbow Package would certainly make for a fine acquisition. With a medium distance and an above-average draw weight, this crossbow is certainly capable of instantly and humanely killing animals of all sizes. Additionally, its pull is smooth and silent, making it a good option for stealth hunting.
Without a doubt, the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package is a lot more affordable than all the other products featured in this guide. For that reason, it comes as no surprise that it’s also made of cheaper materials, resulting in a crossbow that is less durable and reliable than you would want it to be. However, taking its effectivity into account, it can still be said that the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package is worth looking into.
5. Barnett Vengeance Crossbow 3x32mm Scope Package
Featuring an advanced design that is, at the same time, sleek, modern and ergonomic, the Barnett Vengeance Crossbow 3x32mm Scope Package is truly remarkable. Made of materials of the highest quality and expertly constructed, this crossbow by Barnett is durable, reliable and incredibly precise. Additionally, it has a nice FPS rate of 365 that, combined with its 140-pound draw weight, enables you to make long-distance shots with fantastic effectivity.
Enhanced with a patented carbon riser technology, the Barnett Vengeance Crossbow 3x32mm Scope Package is one of the fastest crossbows that Barnett has ever made available to the public. Surprisingly, the manufacturer also managed to reduce the weight of the riser by 43%, shifting the center of gravity back and providing additional balance to the device. The result is a crossbow that can be operated quickly, quietly and reliably even in difficult situations.
Even though it’s not the most advanced, powerful or speedy of Barnett’s crossbows, the Barnett Vengeance Crossbow 3x32mm Scope Package is certainly worth taking a look due to its effectivity and balance. Incredibly smooth, its shooting action will certainly have a positive effect in your long-distance shooting.
Some Important Things to Know About Crossbows
Crossbows Are Lethal
Even though modern usage is safer than ever, it still needs to be remembered that crossbows are lethal. For that reason, they need to be treated with care and safety in mind. As a matter of fact, no matter its type or what kind of arrows it has, a crossbow should always be treated like a firearm.
That includes being stored in a safe place when not in use, never pointed at anything except your target and so on.
You Need a Licence to Use a Crossbow
Whether you need a license to use a crossbow varies from country to country and region to region. However, in the United States, most states require crossbow users to obtain a permit before they can freely shoot at targets or prey. For that reason, it’s always important to check the local regulations before you start using your crossbow.
Basic Safety Measures When Using a Crossbow
Before using a crossbow, it’s essential to learn a few important safety measures and procedures that should be observed at all times. They are the following:
- Always point the crossbow in a safe direction.
- Before aiming, check the position of your target.
- Never shoot over a ridge.
- Only shoot within a safe range.
- Never shoot an arrow up in the air.
- Handle arrows carefully, avoid touching their tips.
- Always be quick to repair any defects in your equipment.
- Store your equipment in padded bags or protective hard cases.
Understanding Crossbows
What is FPS?
When you look at crossbows with some level of attention, the term FPS will often come up. FPS (feet per second) is used to measure the speed of an arrow after it has been shot by a crossbow. If a crossbow has a rate of 300 FPS, that means the arrow will travel 300 feet for every second in the air.
Of course, in reality, other forces intervene, making the real speed of the arrow a bit slower than it’s supposed to be according to the FPS. However, learning about a crossbow’s FPS can be a helpful way to evaluate it.
Recommended Crossbow Bolt Size
When it comes to crossbow shooting, bolt is another term that is used to refer to the projectile that’s being shot. However, you can also call it an arrow. Typically, bolts or crossbow arrows are designed with 16 to 22 inches in length.
At any rate, though, all crossbows include a bolt size recommendation by their manufacturer. Take into account that, if your bolt is slightly longer than the manufacturer recommends, it may still work. However, if it’s smaller it won’t as their tip will interfere with the rail.
What Types of Arrows Should You Use?
Normally, crossbow arrows are made of aluminum or carbon. Some arrows also have feathers or vanes attached to their back end.
Take into account that, unlike regular bows, crossbows cannot be used with any kind of arrow. Instead, you have to buy arrows that fall within the requirements provided by the manufacturer regarding size, length and width.
Conclusion
Having thoroughly tested each one of them, we are very comfortable saying that the five products featured in this guide are notable and worth their price. More than anything, these five Barnett crossbow reviews have re-affirmed our trust in the brand and all its products.
However, there is one crossbow by Barnett that simply stands out among the rest. Made of the best materials available and expertly constructed, the Barnett WHITETAIL PRO STR Crossbow Triggertech Trubark is an astounding piece of modern technology.
At the same time, this high-quality crossbow is remarkably well-balanced, precise and quick. All that makes it the clear winner of this roundup.
I’m Nebojša, a seasoned digital marketing professional with over 15 years of experience. My writing covers a diverse range of topics, from technology and gaming to app development and automobiles, all while delving into the intricacies of SEO optimization. Beyond the digital realm, I find solace in nature, inherited from my father’s love for the outdoors. His passion for hunting has influenced me, adding another layer to my appreciation for the natural world.