Hunting with guns can never get as stylish as with a crossbow. Barnett Crossbows is committed to providing excellent hunting equipment and that too, without breaking the bank. Barnett crossbows are light, fast, and strong.
Before spending money, it is always better to know what you are picking. Here is a detailed review of some of the best Barnett crossbows that can allow people to enjoy hunting to the fullest.
Let’s jump in!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Barnett Crossbows
- OUR TOP PICK: Barnett Whitetail Pro STR
- RUNNER-UP: Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Barnett Assault 350
Comparison of the Best Barnett Crossbows
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Who is Barnett?
Barnett is the first name that pops in mind whenever we hear the word “crossbow.” It all started in 1962 with a man's dream in England. Later, he partnered up with one of his friends and expanded the business to the United States. His vision has helped the company to build a reputation for fine craftsmanship in the crossbow industry.
Plano Synergy Holdings currently owns Barnett Crossbows. The company has been producing some of the fastest shooting bows since its establishment. Each crossbow is made for optimal efficiency, speed, and performance to uplift the passion of enthusiastic hunters in the woods.
How Does Barnett Compare to the Competition?
It’s no secret that Barnett tops the crossbow industry. The question here is, what makes Barnett crossbows the best of the bunch?
Well, let's take you through some of the major features that help Barnett crossbows stand out from the rest of the competitors.
Durability
Nobody wants to spend huge bucks on these weapons unless they are worth it. Since crossbows come with a lot of moving parts, you can't ignore longevity. Similarly, since it requires a lot of power to fire the bolt, the weapon must be capable of withstanding the pressure. All this comes down to the durability of the crossbow.
Barnett crossbows have great durability ratings and tend to serve the user for a long time.
Ease of Use
Working with the crossbows is not always as easy as it seems. You can face various difficulties like cracking, aiming, and managing different parts.
With Barnett crossbows, you can avoid all these limitations as almost all of them are easy to nock, aim, as well as easy to carry around. There are various lightweight options, making them convenient to carry through the woods.
Accuracy
What is the point of having a crossbow if you can't hunt down the target successfully? It's all about the accuracy of the weapon. Barnett crossbows offer a stable and accurate firing experience at a suitable distance. Moreover, the anti-dry firing features stop the weapon from firing in the absence of the bolt.
Warranty
A reliable warranty on any product can boost the confidence of the customers in it. Barnett crossbows are backed by a limited five-year warranty to bring value to your money.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean:
- Weight: The weight of the crossbow.
- Draw Weight: This is the amount of force necessary to draw a bow and is measured in pounds.
- Length: The full length of the crossbow.
- Kinetic Energy: This is the amount of energy transferred into your target by the arrow. It is measured in Foot Pounds of Kinetic Energy (fpke).
- Power Stroke: The distance (in inches) between the resting point of the bowstring and the position of the string when fully drawn. This is similar to the draw length on a traditional bow.
- Speed (fps): How fast the arrow flies when released from the crossbow.
- Axle-to-Axle Bow Length: The distance between the cams of a compound bow.
Review of the Best Barnett Crossbows
Hunting with a crossbow has a different feeling as compared to one with a rifle. In case you have made your mind to get a new crossbow for your next hunting adventure, here are some top recommendations that promise to deliver the experience you never had before.
Let’s get started!
Best Overall:
Barnett Whitetail Pro STR
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users are thrilled by the top-notch performance of this crossbow. They are raving about the superior body and gorgeous design that add to their hunting game. It is known for its fast and easy operation that is beautifully complemented by the accuracy. With this crossbow, there is no chance of missing the target.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A model that is second to none, this best overall crossbow from Barnett has marked its position for exhibiting some marvelous features. When it comes to construction, there is nothing to complain about. It is made by using quality aluminum that can serve you in the long run. Its stunning build makes the experience even greater.
It comes with frictionless release technology so you can aim at your target with maximum confidence. This crossbow is specially designed to increase overall stability and accuracy. The quiet operation helps you hunt down the prey without making it suspicious. All in all, it is probably the best deal for hunters out there.
Bottom Line
Ranked as the best crossbow on our list, this crossbow surely deserves this position. Apart from durable construction, it has a user-friendly design that makes it a great option for beginners. You can enhance your hunting style tremendously with accurate shots every time.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
6.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
187 lbs
Length:
36.5"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
140
Power Stroke:
16.375"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
400
17.625"
Runner-up:
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Our next reviewed model got the attention of many customers for its safe operation. Users love it for its durability and easy handling. According to them, you don’t have to struggle much in making the right shot. Moreover, you get to enjoy a quiet and smooth trigger and, therefore, can go for a confident shot.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The second-best crossbow on the list specializes in being an extra safe product. It is manufactured from high-quality stainless steel to ensure durability unlike anything else on the market. The stunning build offers an appealing appearance and allows firing at high speed.
This crossbow is capable of firing at 350 feet per second to hunt down the target. Another prominent feature is its ultra-quiet operation, all thanks to remarkable bow construction. Its laminated body ensures silent operation whenever you go for hunting, that too, with maximum accuracy and stability.
Finally, the effective stopping power and anti-dry fire create a sense of supreme safety every time you make a shot.
Bottom Line
As an extraordinary crossbow with equally amazing features, this model gives you peace of mind during your hunting adventure. Whether you talk about the sturdy build or the accuracy, this crossbow won’t disappoint you at all.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
6 lbs
Draw Weight:
150 lbs
Length:
34.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
103
Power Stroke:
12.5"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
350
16.125"
Best for the Money:
Barnett Assault 350
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Who does not like to have the best at a reasonable price? This crossbow has impressed most of the users with its quality features, that, too, at a very pocket-friendly price. Its anti-dry fire and smooth operation turn every shot into a successful one. You can literally take it anywhere without feeling tired, thanks to its lightweight build.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Do you want to upgrade your crossbow without putting a big dent on your wallet? Well, this is exactly what you get with this crossbow. It features durable construction that can easily endure everything you throw at it. The appealing body makes it a true amalgam of modern and traditional craftsmanship. It adds on to your style game with its flawless build.
The incorporation of frictionless release technology ensures smooth and quiet shooting with maximum success rate. It comes ready to use and requires no or little assembling. You can easily shoot the target at 350 feet due to the stability it provides. Its lightweight body makes it perfect for almost everyone out there.
Bottom Line
For those of you who are not willing to spend tons of money into a crossbow, this model is just the right choice for you. You don’t have to compromise on the quality and features as this is a beautiful blend of everything you are looking for.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
6.4 lbs
Draw Weight:
165 lbs
Length:
34.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
104
Power Stroke:
12.5"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
350
16.125"
Barnett Predator Crossbow:
Barnett Predator Crossbow
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Just like our other reviewed models, this crossbow has received amazing ratings from customers. According to them, this model has a nice body with a reliable build to deliver a powerful performance every time you use it. There is no installation tension, and you can easily hunt down your target, thanks to the quiet operation.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Barnett does not disappoint its customers when it comes to durability and versatility. This crossbow has everything you might be looking for in a reliable weapon for your next hunting trip. First of all, the construction is remarkable and is beautifully complemented by nice design. The body allows easy handling along with supreme stability.
The flight track helps in smooth trigger pull, so the arrow lands just right on the target. Similarly, the incorporation of illuminated scope tremendously increases the success chances. You will receive various accessories in the box to take the game to the next level. All in all, it is a complete package.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a highly recommended crossbow for hunters and makes its way to our list for embodying a sleek and stylish body. It is not only easy to use, but it also delivers accurate shooting during the hunt. Since it comes completely assembled, you can start shooting as soon as you take it out of the box.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.6 lbs
Draw Weight:
187 lbs
Length:
37.125"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
156
Power Stroke:
16.25"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
430
17.875"
Barnett Jackal Crossbow:
Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
A well-reviewed crossbow from users, this model makes your hunting experience considerably better. It is extremely popular among beginners to improve their hunting skills without facing any safety issues. The body is lightweight and equally attractive, making it great for general use. You can carry it around conveniently and enjoy its heavy-duty operation like never before.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Jackal crossbow is one of the finest options for your general needs, and it proves to be a good choice for anyone who has just started bowhunting. Manufacturers have used quality materials in its construction to enhance its reliability. You also can't ignore its lightweight body, which makes the handling super easy. Moreover, its exceptionally comfortable grip provides a great feel every time you carry it.
It is known for its remarkable stopping power and sleek stock. This crossbow fires at 315 feet per second to hunt down the target. It comes with everything you need in the box, from bolts to the scope. The best thing is it is completely assembled and, therefore, ready to use right out of the box.
Bottom Line
The Jackal crossbow from Barnett can really be a perfect choice for those who are new to using these things or want to upgrade to something serious. It incorporates an exceptional set of features that works amazingly well together to make it perfect for all-around usage.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.7 lbs
Draw Weight:
150 lbs
Length:
35.5"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
95
Power Stroke:
12"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
315
20"
Barnett Brotherhood Crossbow:
Barnett The Brotherhood M3 Recurve Crossbow
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
There is always a model that is quite popular among users, and this unit is exactly that. Users have appreciated it for its durable build and extremely user-friendly operation. The upper body strength, along with the stable performance, results in fast shooting, ensuring a great experience.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Brotherhood crossbow does everything that manufacturers say it is capable of. It is developed by using top-notch materials to tackle any extreme situation during your hunting trip. In terms of the design, its sleek and lightweight body allows accurate shooting without any struggle.
This crossbow has a speed of 245 feet per second, making it useful for various applications. It can be used by beginners as well as professionals for the perfect shot. Moreover, the body provides the smooth pull you need to hit the target flawlessly. The installation is just a breeze, and you are all set to begin the trip in almost no time.
Bottom Line
Another great crossbow from Barnett, this model is equipped with all the necessary accessories to make your hunting trip a memorable one. Apart from easy handling, the high-end technology infused in this model ensures the perfect hunting experience for the user.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
4.5 lbs
Draw Weight:
150 lbs
Length:
37.5"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
65
Power Stroke:
12.5"
Speed (fps):
245
Barnett Recurve Crossbow:
Barnett Assault Recruit
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users are very happy with the tremendous performance of this crossbow. It is equally beautiful and reliable, thanks to the sturdy build. The operation is quite smooth and gives you a successful hunting experience. One of the best things is that almost everyone can use it, regardless of the hunting experience.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A powerhouse of features, this Barnett crossbow stands out to us for exhibiting a unique set of features. It has durable construction with a user-friendly design to improve your overall experience. You can easily use it in all weather conditions without worrying about it being damaged.
There is a metal-injected mold that allows an easy and smooth trigger pull for enhanced performance. It comes with a scope to deliver accuracy. Plus, you can't ignore its safety features that enhance the confidence in the shot to a great extent. Moreover, it is capable of shooting at 245 feet per second to mark its versatility.
Bottom Line
Barnett presents a very reliable tool to accompany you on your hunting trips. This crossbow is easy to work with and meets the expectations of hunters very well. Its easy assembly and utmost strength add value to your money, making for a great investment.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
5 lbs
Draw Weight:
150 lbs
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
65
Speed (fps):
245
How to Cock a Barnett Crossbow
With the advancement in technology, you are at liberty to pick an item from a range of options. There are various types of Barnett crossbows on the market, each with different cocking mechanisms.
The following are some easy methods of cocking a crossbow.
Barehanded
One of the widely used methods to cock your crossbow is to use your hands. This is the quickest method and allows you to cock the crossbow anywhere you want. It includes the following simple steps:
- Place the crossbow on the ground.
- Now place your foot into the boot stirrup safely.
- Next, attach the stringer and then grab the string.
- Stretch the string and crank it into the cocked position.
- Attach the scope for a more accurate aim of the target.
Cocking Rope
You can also use a cocking rope, which is actually a two-hook device to help you cock your crossbow. It works as a pulley system. All you have to do is adjust the rope length according to your bow’s length. One of the prominent benefits includes that you have to pull only 50% of the draw weight, saving your energy and stamina.
To use a cocking rope, here’s what you have to do:
- First of all, attach one hook of the cocking rope to the string.
- Follow that by wrapping the middle over the cocking string groove.
- Pull the string from inside the handle to the maximum length and then hook it.
- Mark a spot.
- Finally, tie a simple knot there.
Tips
- All the crossbows come with a foot stirrup. Remember to step your boot into it securely to keep yourself and your crossbow safe.
If there is still any confusion, you can refer to the video below, as it will provide a detailed overview of what was just described above.
Conclusion
Barnett has put some of the best products on the market since its establishment. Their crossbows are designed to meet the needs of different types of users for various applications. You just need to decide with an open mind while picking the crossbow to avoid any future regret. If you’re confused about where to start, you can choose from one of our recommended models to get satisfactory results.
People Also Ask
You might have certain questions raised in your mind whenever you are in the market to get a new crossbow. You are recommended to clear your doubts first so that you don’t make a purchase you regret. To help clear the air, here are the answers to some frequently asked queries. These can help you make a valued decision.
How to String a Barnett Crossbow
Start by hooking one side of the crossbow string onto the nock of the bow. Place the crossbow on the ground in an uplift position. Grab the loose end of the string and pull up the barrel of the crossbow. Now, nock the other end of the string onto the empty bow nock. Check afterward to see if the string loops are secured in place.
How Much is a Barnett Crossbow?
Depending on the features, you can find a plethora of Barnett crossbows falling in a range of different prices. You can easily find a Barnett crossbow at a price as low as $150, and it can go up to $1000. It all comes down to your personal preference and the purpose you need to fulfill.
How Far Will a Barnett Recruit Crossbow Shoot?
Barnett crossbows are known for their accuracy and timely shooting. There are different types of crossbows offered by the company to meet the demands of hunters out there. Each type varies in the shooting speed. A Barnett Recruit fires at a speed of 300 feet per second and, therefore, can cover up to 85 feet.
How Long Can You Keep a Barnett Crossbow Cocked?
Leaving the crossbow cocked for a long time is a big no as it affects the strength of the limbs as well as the speed of the crossbow. A crossbow, when left for an extended period, might have weakened limbs and relatively reduced speed. Therefore, it is advised to never cock your crossbow for more than four hours.
Where Are Barnett Crossbows Made?
New Barnett crossbows are made in Odessa, Florida. This state houses a machine shop and a factory where various parts of the weapon are manufactured and assembled. All the models are made up to the mark. The company is working on expanding its business throughout the United States.
Who Owns Barnett Crossbows?
Barnett Crossbows is currently run by Plano Synergy Holdings, who has played a significant role in setting up the bar for competitors. He also owns some other popular hunting brands like Tenzing, Bloodsport Archery, as well as Halo Optics. Today, Barnett is the known master in the crossbow industry for delivering the best of the best.
Barnett Reviews
Below are all our Barnett bow buyer guides. To make your experience a bit smoother, we have organized them in one place. Feel free to browse through a few and find exactly what you're looking for.
Thanks for reading.
