You’ve come to the correct spot if you’re attempting to select between a crossbow and a compound bow for your bow-hunting setup. Unfortunately, it may be difficult to determine whether the information is reliable and which weapon style a bowhunter should utilize due to the intense disagreement between the two.
One of the most common ways to harvest wildlife is by using a compound bow, and this practice has been around for quite some time. The number of trucks at the trailheads in my neighborhood seems to double with each passing year.
The popularity of crossbows has grown throughout time and has continued to grow. If the number of states that presently permit the use of crossbows during regular hunting seasons is any indication, it is 49.
Only crossbows are permitted during “any weapon” hunts in certain states, which have stricter restrictions than others. Some states, like Kansas, permit it during the standard archery seasons. Hawaii perhaps has the most stringent restrictions, only permitting crossbows with special authorization for those with disabilities.
To help us sort some of this out, let’s examine and contrast the key distinctions between each weapon.
Crossbows – What are they?
In its most basic form, a crossbow is just a bow mounted on an extended frame resembling a gunstock. A crossbow has an internal mechanism for holding a drawn bowstring and an external trigger for releasing the string to fire a tiny arrow at a target. We refer to the little arrows as crossbow bolts.
The crossbow has a lengthy history and was widely used in the past over most of the world. The crossbow has been improved throughout the years, and new materials have been found to boost its potency.
There are three types of crossbows nowadays. the pistol crossbow, compound crossbow, and crossbow that recurved. Recurve crossbows are perfect for hunting since they are silent and light.
The most potent type of crossbow is a compound crossbow, which can fire a crossbow bolt significantly faster than a recurve.
Comparing the pistol crossbow to the compound and recurve crossbow reveals how much smaller and weaker the latter is. They are claimed to have a 30-yard usable range. They can be entertaining for someone chasing squirrels and playing other minor activities because they are more portable and lightweight.
Before buying a new crossbow, you need to take into account a lot of qualities. Axle-to-axle width, power stroke, limp type, draw weight, FPS, FPKE, weight, stocks, and cheek pieces are a few of these attributes. Others include noise, cocking systems, triggers, sights, and scopes.
Recurve Crossbow
Recurve crossbow has limbs that curve away from the archer like vertical bow do. Crossbow doesn’t need cams and cables, just like recurve bows do.
Therefore, the limbs must be curved and longer than those of a compound crossbow in order to produce a draw with sufficient power.
Recurve crossbow is usually slower than their compound counterpart but is still very deadly.
Compound Crossbow
Cams and cables are used in compound crossbows to provide a strong shooting crossbow in a smaller frame. It works similarly to a compound bow by generating an advantage that is mechanical.
Compound crossbows are available with one, binary, hybrid, or dual cam, just like compound bows.
The reverse draw design, which is utilized on the quickest crossbows, is the newest in compound crossbow architecture. The reverse draw design allows for a longer power stroke which equates to more speed and a flatter trajectory.
Pistol Crossbow
Usually used for small wildlife, the miniature pistol crossbow is a short-range weapon. It is exactly what it says it is: a small crossbow mounted on a pistol grip.
Some states permit the use of pistol crossbows for deer shooting, and they are capable of producing bolt speeds of over 200 fps. However, the shot must be executed with the utmost care, and the strength of the pistol crossbow must also be considered.
Always double-check your state’s game laws before entering the field with one.
Crossbows In Detail
How Does A Crossbow Work?
Although they may have a quite distinct appearance, crossbows function in the same way as compound or recurve bows. The arrow or bolt in these weapons is propelled using energy that has been stored. A crossbow’s string is pulled back, pulling back on the limbs and storing kinetic energy. This energy passes into the bolt and propels it after being released through the trigger mechanism. Crossbows, however, lock the bowstring into position so that you do not need to hold it back, in contrast to traditional bows.
Why Buy A Crossbow?
Crossbows have a lot of benefits over traditional bows since they may be cocked and ready to shoot without holding the draw weight. They normally offer more power and speed, and you may leave them loaded until you need to fire them. Crossbows don’t need as much ability or expertise to be used properly. For archers who are inexperienced, have physical limitations, or just lack the time to train with a compound bow, they are a fantastic option.
Where To Shoot A Crossbow
Crossbows and compound bows have a similar mechanism, although they are still completely distinct weapons. For this reason, you won’t be able to use a crossbow at most archery ranges. Crossbows are not only significantly noisier and feature different-sized projectiles, but they also have more power. Bolts can more readily pass through a worn-out target or pierce a target so deeply that it is hard to remove since they are significantly shorter than conventional arrows.
Nevertheless, crossbows are still permitted at many archery ranges. Do your homework and don’t be hesitant to phone ahead to inquire about crossbow usage at a particular archery range. Purchasing your own target and shooting in your backyard or another area of land that you have permission to use is one of the simplest ways to utilize your crossbow.
Compound Bows – What are they?
A compound bow is a bow that bends its limbs as the bowstring is pulled using cables and pulleys. A mechanical advantage is provided to the archer by the pulley and cam system, which also enables the bow’s limbs to be much stiffer than those of a longbow or recurve bow. The rigidity makes the compound bow more energy-efficient since less energy is wasted during a shot due to limb movement. An archer can draw far more weight than they would be able to with a traditional bow thanks to the mechanical advantage.
The compound bow is by far the most popular for hunting and target shooting, despite the fact that more individuals are returning to the usage of traditional bows. The benefits of the compound bow may be used to illustrate some of the reasons why archers prefer it over other bows.
The idea of “let-off” is one benefit of the compound bow. Without getting too technical with the physics of let-off, it makes it possible for the user to draw their bow more quickly and maintain their draw for a longer period of time while aiming a shot. The draw weight of a compound bow can be up to 15-20 pounds greater than what the average archer could handle with a traditional bow.
The compound bow has more moving and mechanical elements than traditional bows, which increases the likelihood of failure and adds to the technical drawbacks of the bow. Additionally, changing a bowstring is much trickier than doing so for a traditional bow, so you sometimes require help from a professional.
Before buying a new compound bow, there are numerous characteristics you should take into account. Axle-to-axle length, brace height, draw length range, draw weight, riser types, limb styles, handedness, kind of eccentric system, let-off percent, IBO and FPS speed, and price are a few of these aspects.
Compound Bows In Detail
How Does A Compound Bow Work?
A compound bow generates energy by using a system of cables and pulleys to bend the bow limbs. Archers can hold the bowstring at the full draw for extended periods of time because to cams on either end of the bow that function as levers. The draw weight is reduced while the bow is completely drawn as a result of the let-off. As soon as the cams are released, the kinetic energy from the limbs is transferred into the bowstring. Many crossbows and compound bows both operate using the same technique. However, unlike crossbows, compound bows may only be fired vertically and do not require a stock or trigger.
Why Buy A Compound Bow?
Compound bows offer a variety of advantages. They are first and foremost considerably simpler to use than traditional bows. They are one of the most often used varieties of bows and are easily accessible. There are numerous brands and variations to pick from, and parts and equipment are simple to locate. Both competitive archery and bowhunting employ compound bows more frequently. In truth, while compound bows are permissible during archery seasons in many jurisdictions, crossbows are not. Shooting compound bows is also a ton of fun. Therefore, compound bows are a terrific option whether you’re bowhunting, practicing for a shooting event, or just want to shoot targets.
Where To Shoot A Compound Bow
You can shoot compound bows at almost every archery shop or range you can locate. Numerous archery shops feature indoor ranges where you may shoot and try out bows before you decide to buy. Backyards and nearby archery ranges are the two most frequented places to use compound bows. When it comes to archery ranges, they are less constrained than crossbows.
Crossbow Vs Compound Bow – Which Is Right For You?
Crossbows are getting more and more popular, despite compound bows being by far the most prevalent choice in archery. For shooters of all ability levels, the crossbow vs. compound bow issue is brought up by this. Should you employ a crossbow or a compound bow? What are the variations, and how do you decide?
Both compound bows and crossbows have advantages and disadvantages. Let’s examine each one so you can choose the one that’s best for you.
What Makes Crossbows Stand Out – Crossbow Advantages?
1. Crossbows Do Not Have a Steep Learning Curve
In comparison to other bow varieties, crossbows may be simpler to learn and shoot correctly.
2. Crossbows Are Easy to Fire
The compound crossbows do not require you to hold the string like a compound bow does in order to aim and shoot. Once it is cocked, there is less stress on your muscles and joints.
3. Compact and Highly Portable
Crossbows are small enough to hunt in bush, overgrown thickets, and confined places in a tree stand, even if they are not as thin as a pistol.
4. These Bows Offer higher Kinetic Energy Than Other Bows
Crossbows are available with far larger draw weights and kinetic energies than compound bows.
5. Crossbows Are Always Ready to Fire
When compound crossbows are cocked and a crossbow bolt, or an arrow, is nocked, it is ready to shoot. If it is not emptied, it will remain ready to fire indefinitely.
6. Archers with a Disability Can Easily Work with Crossbows
When it comes to physical limitations, crossbows are typically simpler to use.
7. It Is Easy to Transition to a Crossbow from a Rifle
For those who hunt with a shotgun and a rifle, the feel and action of compound crossbows are comfortable. They can introduce archery to hunters who use rifles and shotguns.
What Are The Limitations of Crossbows?
1. Crossbows Have a Comparatively Higher Draw Weight
To send an arrow at the same speed as a compound bow, a crossbow needs twice as much draw weight. Accordingly, an arrow fired from a 75 kg compound bow will travel at the same speed as a bolt fired from a 150 weight crossbow.
2. Always Remain Loaded, Which Can be a Safety Issue
The crossbow must be handled like a loaded weapon after it has been cocked. It may also misfire easily, just like a rifle.
3. It Takes Quite a While to Reload a Crossbow
It takes a lot longer to cock a crossbow than it does to nocking an arrow with a compound bow. After firing, you must draw the crossbow’s string back with a cocking tool or cocking rope.
4. Most of the Crossbows Are Bulky
In contrast to the more lightweight compound bow, crossbows are bulkier and less maneuverable.
5. Needs to be Uncocked Before Storage
Compound crossbows require a discharge target, an emptying bolt, or a defusing tool like a crossbow defuser in order to be emptied at the end of the day.
6. There Is No Standard Regulation
Crossbow draw weight is restricted in several areas, while some governments need particular usage conditions.
What Are The Compound Bow Advantages?
1. Does Not Require Any Cocking
No additional equipment is needed to nock an arrow with a compound bow, but you will need a release aid.
2. These Bows Have Something Called the “Let Off” Factor
The “let off” that compound bows experience when the string is plucked. When the bowstring is half pulled, the draw weight drops to zero, making it simpler to draw and handle a heavy bow.
3. Compound Bows Offer High Overall Stealth
Compared to other types of bows, compound bows are often quieter because their longer limbs allow for a more gradual release of their stored energy.
4. The Reload Time Is Comparatively Low
Compound crossbows require more time to reload than compound bows do. It merely involves pulling another arrow and drawing back once again; cranking or cocking are not necessary.
5. Compound Bows Are Lighter and Easier to Carry
Crossbows often weigh more than compound bows.
What Are The Flaws of Compound Bows?
1. Not for the Weak Archers
Even with a 50% let-off, your draw weight is constrained by your physical strength.
2. Requires Time to Get the Hang of It
Gaining proficiency with a compound bow typically takes a good deal of practice and attention to form.
3. Compact But Longer Than
Despite being designed to be small, compound bows can nonetheless have difficulties maneuvering through dense undergrowth.
5. Not a Great Pick for Archers with Physical Limitations
Physically challenged people could find it challenging to use a compound bow.
6. Speed of the Shot Comparatively Lower Than Crossbow
To shoot, you must draw and nock the arrow. Longer than the bowhunter can maintain the draw, the compound bow cannot remain in the ready-to-shoot position.
When Is a Compound Bow vs Crossbow the Best Choice?
Crossbow versus Compound Bow Speed And Accuracy
Crossbows are often faster and more accurate than compound bows. Between 320 and 350 feet per second is where some of the quickest compound bow speeds available on the market fall. Crossbows have a shooting speed of well over 400 feet per second. Crossbows, even the most affordable ones, can often shoot around 350 to 370 feet per second. More precision is also related to this speed.
Crossbows are more accurate and often move more quickly. They can also be fitted with optics to improve accuracy even more. Crossbows fired from a stable rest further reduce human error because the user holds the bow off-hand. These elements work together to provide a clear winner in terms of accuracy and speed.
Crossbow versus Compound Bow Distance
The majority of compound bows have amazing ranges. Many archers have ranges considerably in excess of 100 yards. Depending on the archer, the effective and most accurate range is often 30 to 60 yards. Crossbows have far greater range. Some versions can shoot from as far as a few hundred yards. Crossbows, however, can reliably hit targets at distances of 100 yards when used for hunting or target shooting. They can shoot further than compound bows can.
Crossbow versus Compound Bow Hunting
Crossbows are less common than compound bows as hunting tools. They are permitted to be used throughout practically every state’s archery (bow) season, despite the fact that they cannot fire as far or quickly. Due of the many benefits they offer, crossbows are sometimes prohibited from being used during hunting seasons that only permit archery. Compound bows are more better for hunting since they are also lot lighter and more portable. Crossbows may be cumbersome, bulky, and difficult to carry through the woods.
Crossbow versus Compound Bow Learning Curve
Compared to compound bows, crossbows are significantly simpler to learn how to use. Once you know how to cock the crossbow, firing it is as easy as aiming and pressing the trigger. Compound bows demand more training and practice to master. To become competent and accurate, you need to use the right form and technique.
Compound Bow vs Crossbow: What to Choose?
Which kind of bow should you buy, then? Should you go and try crossbow hunting or a compound bow? Both both have benefits and drawbacks.
The crossbow’s biggest advantage over compound bows is its ability to stay loaded and ready to fire, whereas the compound bow may miss a shot even when it loads more quickly.
Crossbows: Crossbows are simple to master and enable anyone with physical restrictions to hunt with a bow with ease. Although they are slower than modern compound bows when loading, they might have greater kinetic energy. Furthermore, individuals who are accustomed to hunting with rifles and shotguns will find the crossbow’s mechanics to be extremely familiar.
Compound Bows: Bows are quieter and lighter than crossbows, but to become skilled with them, you must practice and train. Additionally, they do not require a unique loading process. Stick with the tried-and-true vertical bow if you wish to bowhunt more traditionally.
Depending on your needs, both bows are fantastic options. You could desire a crossbow only to explore a different aspect of bow hunting that few people undertake. Whichever bow you choose, both are great options as long as you are aware of their benefits and drawbacks.
5 Reasons to Choose a Crossbow Over a Compound Bow
1. Practice Less With a Crossbow (Sort of)
We still need to practice using a crossbow even though it doesn’t have as many intricate details as a compound bow. The dynamics, controls, safety, and restrictions of your weapon must be understood, as every rifle shooter will attest. You will become more adept with any weapon on the range as you use it more frequently and grow more accustomed to it. But we soon realized that we needed to spend more time with a compound bow than we had, at least for me. You might want to think about the transition if you discover the same thing to be true.
2. Eliminates Shot Setup, Crossbows are Preloaded
A crossbow is primed prior to the prospective shot being fired, unlike a compound bow. You get into position for hunting, draw back the crossbow string (perhaps with the aid of a cocking tool), and lock it into the ready position with a safety catch.
The bolt or arrow is placed firmly at its intended location. Furthermore, all I need to do to shoot when my prey enters firing range is slip the safety off, aim, and squeeze the trigger. Sounds recognizable? The stairs resemble a rifle very strongly.
3. The Ease of Aiming a Crossbow
Crossbow scopes can be added to modern crossbows, but compounds rely on a number of adjustable pins. The necessity for a sight on a crossbow is sometimes disputed because the effective shooting range of any bow is less than 30 yards.
Recommendation: Since the recoil of a crossbow differs from that of a rifle, mounting a rifle sight on one is not advised. Some individuals do utilize rifle scopes.
Low-power devices called specialized crossbow scopes have a variety of reticles for different ranges. You may set the center crosshair to any desired distance.
4. Crossbows Are Easier on the Body
Users of compound bows frequently possess stronger upper bodies and arms, allowing them to draw their bow and hold it there for a while as they wait for the target to move into position. With the crossbow’s pre-loaded setup, this is not the case.
Shoulder problems such as arthritis, rotator cuff tears, past fractures, and dislocations may limit many older generations in achieving effective compound bow control. These essential upper body functions and powers may even be limited by surgery following accidents at any age.
Crossbows could be a simpler transition if you want to switch from rifle hunting but are having trouble learning how to use a compound bow.
Crossbows Help if You’re of a Certain Size
If you’re a big man like myself, you can run into some “posturing” restrictions when trying to draw your compound bow from a treestand. It’s possible that your barrel chest and trunk-shaped tummy, which took you so many years to grow, will unintentionally get in the way. As you release, a compound’s lower limbs or, worse yet, the string can snag on flesh or slack clothes. When we go on hunts in really cold weather, I bulk out even more, which makes the clothing problem worse. These circumstances are a little more bearable and advantageous for success with the crossbow!
Without a question, archery is a wonderful activity, whether you’re shooting targets or doing it for pleasure, but if you’re having trouble controlling a compound bow, think about switching to a crossbow.
Crossbow and Compound Bow Recommendations
Crossbow Recommendations
1. Killer Instinct Lethal 405 Crossbow
Excellent for beginners is the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 crossbow. It has a great pricing point, a sight, three bolts, and a quiver, in addition to all of these features. This means that as soon as you get it home, you are prepared to begin shooting. It is a fantastic alternative for novices or those on a tight budget and can shoot up to 405 feet per second.
2. Barnett XP 380 Crossbow
For many years, Barnett has developed top-notch crossbows. Their XP 380 crossbow offers you all the characteristics of a crossbow that costs three times as much money, making it a fantastic mid-tier alternative. It includes an adjustable stock and cheek rest and claims velocities of 380 feet per second. A scope, quiver, and two bolts are included in the full set as starter items.
3. Ravin Crossbows R10x Crossbow
The R10x from Ravin Crossbows is the only crossbow you need if you want the best. It costs a lot more than the majority of other crossbows, yet it is still well worth the investment. It is exceedingly thin and light. Over 400 feet per second of bolts may be fired from this crossbow. With a lighted scope, quiver, and three bolts, it is pre-tuned and ready to fire.
Compound Bow Recommendations
1. Bear Archery Legit RTH Compound Bow
The Bear Archery Legit RTH bow is the ideal bow for novices since it has everything you need to shoot, and it works well for hunting from a treestand or ground blind. It has a stabilizer, arrow rest, quiver, and sight. You only need a few arrows to get started shooting. The pricing of this bow is excellent considering all you receive. For individuals who are just starting out or on a limited budget, it is the ideal choice.
2. Obsession Bows Turmoil RZ Compound Bow
Although Obsession Bows is a relatively young business, its bows are already causing a stir. The Turmoil RZ bow bundle is fully furnished. It has an arrow rest, quiver, stabilizer, and sight. Up to 350 feet per second may be fired from it. This bow is great value for the money and is ideal for anybody looking to start hunting or target practice. It has an 80% let-off and internal dampeners.
3. Black Out NV-32 Compound Bow
The Black Out NV-32 is currently one of the greatest bows available for individuals looking for a high-quality bow. This compound bow is undoubtedly one of the lightest and quietest bows available, even if it does not come with all of the accessories that the other bows on our list do. It features a 70 to 85% adjustable let-off and fires arrows at a speed of 340 feet per second. This bow is one of the most accurate bows you can get since it was made using premium materials and careful engineering.
Final Thoughts
Compound bows and crossbows are frequently contrasted with one another. There will be some who believe one is superior while another group supports the alternative. In actuality, they are both incredibly potent weapons with astounding precision. Selecting the one that is the best fit for you will merely require some thought and study.