When we discuss the most famous crossbow manufacturers, it is impossible not to mention Barnett. The brand is known for producing the most high quality and durable units in the market. They are designed especially for hunters, target shooters, and competitive shooters.
The company is also considered to be the pioneers in the business and has existed since 1962. It came as a result of Bernard Barnett's passion for crossbows. As a little boy, he used to play with similar objects, and soon he started receiving orders for his exemplary work. And the rest is history.
From complex crossbows with several features to simpler designs that are apt for beginners and amateurs, the brand produces models for every hunter looking to get results. Protection is also kept as a top priority so you can indulge in your favorite activity without having to compromise on your safety.
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.
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This article will review one of the most popular products ever made by Barnett. The Jackal crossbow has been a game-changer. Read ahead to see what makes it so special.
Barnett Jackal Crossbow Package
PROS
CONS
Main Features
The following section highlights the main features of the unit. It will discuss things like the scope, main accessories, and the speed of the model. If you want to make an informed decision, make sure you read this section carefully.
Scope
The unit comes with an entry-level red dot scope. If you want to shoot within a 20-yard distance, it will be perfect for you. You can also go further and tighten the accessories to get a greater range. But compared to normal scopes, red dots are quite beneficial and allow your eyes to easily track the target.
They also produce relatively less strain on the eyes. So if you are looking to hunt for a longer time, especially in low light settings, this scope will be the best one.
Aftermarket Accessories
Many models do not come with any aftermarket accessories, but that's a big issue with many buyers. They will have to spend a huge amount of money to buy all these necessary accessories. But thankfully, Barnett comes with quivers, bolts, and many other things needed to achieve better results.
The package comes with three Easton Carbon bolts that are 20 inches long and perfectly fit inside the groove. They also include the perfect screw and field points to give you more accuracy. Moreover, the quiver bolts are attached to the bow and come with a three-bolt quiver for smoother attachment.
This is particularly important for amateurs and newbies who want to practice target shooting before they go on their first hunts.
Construction and Build
This is probably the most important feature that needs to be discussed. At the end of it all, it is the solid build that comes through when you need to go the extra length. Barnett Jackal is both sturdy and lightweight, which in itself is a wonderful combination
The durability of the construction material is also very high. This means that you won’t need any repairs or replacements with the model. Moreover, the solid build will help you to aim easily and draw an arrow with minimal strength. The shoulder rest is made to be a bit wider to compensate for taller people.
Furthermore, the quad-style limbs add to the crossbow's stability and ensure your hands don’t tremble when you shoot. There are also special limbs added at the end to offer a more smooth operation. There is also an attached cable system that produces faster arrows.
Pros
When you invest in the Barnett Jackal, you are going to get a plethora of benefits. These include:
Ease of Usage
One of the advantages that hunters seek dearly but don’t end up getting in many instances is a lightweight body that is easy to carry. The Jackal is durable, but that durability doesn’t come at the cost of weight. The sleek design is an excellent choice for both adults and children as it can be carried around easily.
The strong build also prevents any arm or back strain that you might have faced otherwise. This also prevents your hand from shaking afterward, which ultimately disrupts your aiming ability. The wide shoulder width also aids in the process and ensures more comfort.
The controls and safety triggers are both easy to locate and apply. All this, coupled with added stability, ensures that you get the smoothest operation.
Power and Accuracy
These two words are integral to every hunter, and Barnett understands that. This crossbow comes with a 3.5-pound trigger pull that makes it easy to shoot at the target. Not just that, but this also helps them aim better on their first try. The target is also easy to sight with the help of the scope that is included in the package. It also remains clean, which ensures more consistent shots.
Precision is also something worth noticing. The red dot sight allows you to gain a much better accuracy and keep your eyes steady and wide open the whole time while shooting. It also helps reduce any eye strain.
For new hunters, this sight helps to aim better and draw longer arrows. So with the Barnett Jackal, you may not need years of practice before you can hit your target the first time.
Better Safety
Whether you are an experienced hunter or just getting into hunting, safety remains a top priority. Barnett doesn’t disappoint there either. This unit comes with an anti-dry fire and an auto safety button that doesn’t require much manual care.
The spring-loaded safety bar will keep the 20-inch Carbon bolts from accidentally firing and hurting you or your friends. It also prevents any sudden shots. This is very common with many other units in the market and has seriously injured many hunters.
Moreover, there is an automatic safety feature that included helping you cock your instrument easily and without much hassle. This safety button will ensure you don’t draw the bolt or shoot while you are cocking or decocking the device. This also keeps your fingers out of harm’s way to ensure you are nowhere near the path of the string.
Powerful Performance
Things like a good speed and more kinetic energy result in a powerful performance. Barnett Jackal is an excellent choice for hunters looking to cover more distance in less time. The speed is a whopping 325 FPS. This, coupled with a suitable draw weight of 150 pounds, helps you achieve a much faster speed. There is also a 12-inch power stroke and a 7.7-inch bow that ensures greater accuracy.
The bow also provides better accuracy every time you aim at a distant target. The limbs are made of composite material, and the foregrip is very comfortable to hold. It can also withstand extremely high pressure as compared to other units in the market.
In addition, the flared finger guard and the foregrip pass through the entire stock and are comfortable enough to keep your fingers on the flight rail the whole time. Lastly, the split design provides an accelerated movement that is not affected by air resistance.
Cons
It would be unjust for you if you only get to see one side of the picture. In this section, we will be discussing the top cons of Barnett Jackal. This is to ensure you get a wholesome picture of the unit and not one that is biased.
Cocking
When it comes to crossbows, cocking and decocking is one of the most important features, but sadly, Barnett Jackal does not come with a cocking device. This will have to be purchased at an additional cost of $20 to $30.
Many people don't make use of the special cocking device, but that is not recommended. When you pull the strings with your hands, your limbs are unable to apply equal pressure, and that might result in muscle spasm or pain in the longer run.
Using an automatic aid helps in the process and allows you to pull the strings easily. It also creates better consistency as the device can apply equal pressure throughout the string. The Xbow, as a result, is pulled backward with more accuracy.
Lack of Adjustability
This may not be a big disadvantage when only one person in the family is using the crossbow, but it is quite frustrating when multiple people want to use the same model. The lack of adjustability of the scope and forearm means that you need to work with the fixed settings.
Barnett produces many crossbows that provide great customization and allow for enhanced adjustability, but sadly the Jackal isn’t one of them. This, among other things, prevents you from adjusting the height easily.
In the longer run, this may result in back strain too. So before you invest in the model, make sure you find the appropriate size that compliments your height and your figure.
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"
What is the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Best For?
Unlike other models, Barnett Jackal isn't only suitable for one kind of hunt. The model is extremely diverse and includes a range of features like faster speeds, accurate draw weight, and very durable design. Here is everything that you can use this crossbow for.
Hunting
If you want to hunt big, then Barnett Jackal is all you need. It offers excellent speed and draws weight that is needed to hunt deer, elks, and other animals. It is also compact and lightweight, which means that it is excellent to carry on your hunts. This also makes it maneuverable in the woods. It also delivers enough kinetic energy to take down the biggest animals in the wood.
Target Shooting
The Jackal is suitable and quite cheap for hunting and makes for an excellent model. For target shooting, you must shoot the arrow in the perfect direction. The accuracy and precision of the unit also allow for mid-range shooting. The beginners can also practice shooting with the help of quivers and bolts. Once they have practiced at a low range, they can then move to a longer range with the Jackal.
What Do I Need To Know Before Buying?
Before buying any product, and especially a crossbow, there are a couple of things that you need to keep in mind. These will not only help you make an informed decision but will also help you make the best investment for your money. Here is what you need to consider.
Assembly
If you are a beginner, it might take you longer to assemble the Jackal, but if you are already a pro, it will take you less than ten minutes to set the whole thing. You will only have to attach the package accessories, and you are good to go.
To do this easily, first, attach the quiver mount to your stock and then add the cocking stirrup carefully on to the riser. The next step is to simply stock the riser and mount the scope. Once you have done all that, you have to simply tighten the side plates. A detailed description of what needs to be done is given in the user manual.
Repairs and Maintenance
Any product that is used continuously will need some sort of maintenance, and Barnett Jackal is no different. The crossbow will have to be cleaned frequently if you don’t want any dirt or debris to accumulate in the body. The scope and the red dot sight also need to be wiped with a clean cloth to ensure better accuracy.
The string and cables are durable, but the frame may need replacement every two or three years. This period may vary according to your usage. It also depends on how frequently you use the Xbow.
Size and Budget
These two also need to be considered if you don't want to loosen your purse strings unnecessarily. On average, you will need crossbows ranging from 16 to 22 inches to work with the Jackal. You will get extremely durable arrows in the package, but you may also need to buy more. Just make sure they are of the same length.
The price of the model isn’t very high, especially when compared to many similar crossbows in the market. However, you will have to invest in a separate cocking aid, which might be difficult.
Comparison Overview
To help you make an informed decision, you must draw comparisons between different kinds of products. Barnett Jackal has its fair share of competitors, and with a comparison between these, you can figure out the right pick.
PSE Fang vs. Barnett Jackal
PSE Fang is one of the most accurate crossbows in the market. It comes with a brilliant scope that ensures precision. It uses the reverse cam technology that not only increases not only speed but also the power of the slim profile. This, combined with accurate draw weight, help you shoot and aim perfectly. So when it comes to accuracy, PSE Fang takes a slight lead.
On the other hand, Barnett Jackal proves better for experienced hunters. It comes with a better red dot sight and an incredible speed that allows for fast shooting. PSE Fang is mostly for people who have just started on hunting and need a bit of practice to get their aim right. Moreover, the latter is relatively cheaper than the former.
Barnett Game Crusher vs. Jackal
Barnett Jackal is a beautifully sleek model that is available in black and beige colors. It is a good entry-level crossbow, but it is also apt for experienced shooters. It also helps with hunting practices because it provides you with exceptional precision and accuracy. But since both models are from the same brand, they share very common features.
One area where the Jackal takes the lead is the safety mechanism. The unit comes with an auto switch that doesn’t need any manual care every time you shoot. It also ensures that the arrow is not drawn while you are cocking or decocking the unit. All in all, if you are looking to get in the game and remain safe throughout, Jackal is a great model.
Barnett Recruit vs. Jackal
It is hard to find models that are durable and economical at the same time, but Recruit has certainly been a game-changer in the industry. It comes with some excellent features like a good frame and strong string.
It is also extremely easy to assemble and set up the whole unit. But when it comes to speed, Recruit doesn't do as well as the Jackal.
The Jackal is one of the fastest models in the market that provides accurate and precise shooting each time you draw an arrow. It also comes with some exceptionally reliable safety mechanisms that keep you safe throughout.
How to Assemble the Barnett Jackal Crossbow
Like with most Barnett products, assembling the Jackal isn’t very hard. There are a couple of steps that you need to follow, and then you are good to go. The whole process might take less than ten minutes if you are a pro and less than 20 minutes if you are setting up the model for the first time.
- The first step is to gather all the accessories needed for the setup. This includes the quiver, bolts, cocking setups, and any additional tools that you might need.
- Then attach the stock to the quiver mount. Make sure the corners are tight so that the quiver doesn’t fall from the stock during drawing.
- The next step is to install the bow to the receiver. You will need to tighten the parts using a wrench.
- Grab the two ropes (there are three in total) and slide the receiver in between the space.
- Slide until the top part of the receiver touches the bottom part of the bow. There should ideally be no space in between.
- Put the bolts in through the bottom so that the Jackal is tightly secured on both ends.
- Then attach the riser to the cocking stirrup. You can add an auto cocking device that will allow for greater precision and accuracy.
- Finally, secure the stock to the riser and mount the red dot scope. Make sure you wipe the scope with a clean cloth first, so it allows for a clear view.
Once you are done with these steps, make sure to test fire your crossbow. If you need a more detailed explanation of the steps, refer to the video below.
Conclusion
Buyers either want durability, or they want affordability, but if you are someone who isn’t willing to compromise on any feature, then Barnett Jackal is the one for you. It has everything that a hunter requires from a sturdy design to a lightweight body.
But what impresses people is the inclusion of some great safety mechanisms. These ensure that you don't end in any accidents while drawing the arrow. But if you have read the article carefully, you already know all that.
So if you are looking to become a pro in hunting and beat your friends at competitive sports, this is the right pick for you.
People Also Ask
People have been fascinated with Barnett Jackal ever since it entered the market, but that isn’t surprising at all. What is, however, is the fact that people have so many queries regarding the unit. The following are answers to some common questions:
How to Load the Barnett Jackal
To load the Jackal, place the bow down and hold it with your feet. Then pull the string upward with maximum force to load the bow. You need to ensure that you are applying the same pressure from both hands. The draw weight is 150 pounds. Then take a bow and switch on the safety mechanism.
How Many Grains Bolt Does the Barnett Jackal Crossbow Shoot?
The minimum weight of the Jackal is 400 grains, and this includes a 125-grain broadhead. To accommodate such a large body, the bolts also need to be compatible. The bolts normally used with Barnett are 20 inches long. You can also use those measuring 16-18 inches if you are a pro.
How Far Will a Barnett Jackal Crossbow Shoot?
This depends on how accurately you draw your arrow, but on average, a bolt can easily cover a distance of 90 feet or more. If you are shooting at point-blank range with less wind resistance, then the bolt will cover a distance of 315 feet per second.
