A crossbow can be considered as an updated version of a simple bow. With a bow, you have to maintain a constant force on the bowstring before releasing the arrow. Your arms need to be straight and stretched out. This takes up a lot of your stamina.
On the other hand, if you are using a crossbow, you only have to pull the bow once, and then the locking mechanism holds the string for you till you release it. This enables you to save energy and make a more precise hit.
Centerpoint is all about bows and their accessories. They make some of the most durable and high-quality products in this industry. Before we get into the best Centerpoint crossbows reviews, let's see who the company is and what makes them stand out.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Centerpoint Crossbows
- OUR TOP PICK: CenterPoint Sniper 370
- RUNNER-UP: CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: CenterPoint Archery Mercenary 390 FPS
Comparison of the Best CenterPoint Crossbows
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Who is CenterPoint?
Centerpoint’s parent company is Velocity Outdoors that was founded in 1923 by Bertram Fenner as a Crosman Rifle Company. Over the years, it has changed hands between many owners, but their main products have always been shooting equipment.
Currently, Velocity Outdoors owns seven companies, namely Crosman, Ravin Crossbows, Benjamin, Centerpoint Archery, Centerpoint Optics, LaserMax, and Game Face Airsoft. Their headquarters are in Bloomfield, New York.
The parent company started Centerpoint Archery in 2016. In their initial lineup, they already had award-winning crossbows like the Sniper 370. In their five-year operational period, they have seen great success because of the company’s previous expertise in shooting products. Their products currently sell in all major outlets like Academy Sports, Walmart, Amazon, and more.
They offer a limited warranty of five years. This includes defects in the material and construction of the stock, trigger, and limb assembly. It also extends to parts, labor, and return transportation. However, the warranty does not include strings, cables, dry fire, scopes, rope cocking device, damage caused by misuse, tampering, using accessories not recommended by Centerpoint, and not following proper instruction of installation and usage.
Why Are CenterPoint Crossbows So Popular?
Centerpoint crossbows are made by a company that has been in the business of making shooting products for nearly a century. Even though their crossbows are relatively new, they seem to know what they are doing.
Generally, a crossbow would last for three years, but Centerpoint products have a five-year warranty period for the bows, including the strings. Their crossbow Sniper 370 was listed in the Outdoor Life magazine as a great buy and the quietest crossbow.
CenterPoint Sniper 370
Centerpoint also makes its own arrows, bow fishing equipment, and bows for younger and less experienced archers. They also give a very detailed user manual that lists all the safety features and instructions for using the bow. Their crossbows also have an average draw weight of more than 125 pounds, which is what you would find on many other crossbows. The 125-pound draw weight is enough for whitetail deers at a moderate range.
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 CenterPoint Crossbows
This section lists all of the essential specifications that you should know of our top picks from Centerpoint crossbows, what these specific crossbows are best used for, and the skills required to use them.
Best Overall:
CenterPoint Sniper 370
PROS
CONS
Best Uses for the CenterPoint Sniper 370
This crossbow is one of the best products from CenterPoint’s line of products. Because of its design and quality, it is very popular with users. Some of its uses are:
Practice for Beginners
The limbs of the crossbow are made of compressed fiberglass, and its riser is made of aluminum. These materials make it very light and easy to handle. It is very well-blanched and easy to use.
It uses CNC machine rails. This machine ensures that the product meets its exact requirements. Using a rail made from this process makes it very smooth, accurate, and fast. This makes things easier for the user.
Big Game
Draw weight is the amount of force needed to draw the string of the bow. Crossbows generally have high draw weights because the user does not have to hold the string for long. The locking mechanism of the crossbow will pull the string back.
The more draw weight the crossbow has, the more force the bowstring will hold. More force means more chances of a fatal shot to the game. With a high draw weight like 185 pounds, this crossbow lets you easily hunt big game.
The speed of the arrow plays a very important role in delivering a lethal shot, too. More speed and more kinetic energy mean more penetration. The average arrow speed is 300 fps. This bow has a speed of 370 fps, so it can easily penetrate deep into big games.
Low Light Hunting
Centerpoint crossbows come with scopes for an easy target. This model comes with an illuminated 4x32 mm scope. If you are hunting in low light conditions, the light of the scope will help you get a lock on your target.
Components and Included Accessories
Crossbow accessories improve the working and usage of the product. They help make it easy to operate and locate the target. The following are the accessories included with the 370 sniper crossbow.
Illuminated Scope
The bow comes with a 4x32 mm scope, which is considered good for close targets. This one is set for 40 yards. It is also illuminated, which means it has LED lights powered by a battery that lights up the reticle to help you aim.
Carbon Bolts
The package includes three 20-inch carbon bolts. Carbon is 40% lighter than aluminum and also much stronger.
Three-Bolt Arrow Quiver
Quivers are used to hold arrows, bolts, and darts, etc. Instead of carrying around your equipment in hand separately, it is easier to store them in one quiver. This bow comes with a three-bolt arrow quiver for convenience.
Shoulder Sling
The shoulder sling is attached to the quiver, which is then hung around the shoulder. This makes it easier to carry around the arrows and frees up your hands to use the crossbow.
Rope Cocker
A rope cocker is used to reduce the force needed to pull the bowstring. Because crossbows generally have large draw weights, many users opt for rope cockers to make things easy for them. This model comes with a cocker that reduces draw weight by up to 50%.
Auto Safety Framework
Safety is important in any shooting device. This bow has an automatic safety trigger that blocks you from shooting when there is no bolt on the Picatinny rail. After you have cocked the crossbow fully, you can release the safety trigger and start shooting.
It also has an anti-dry firing mechanism that prevents firing a bow without any arrows in it. Dry firing can damage the crossbow; therefore, having a mechanism that prevents it is essential.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the CenterPoint Sniper 370 Suitable For?
The Sniper 370 is recommended for use by beginners. It is easy to use and handle. Even young people can learn to use it without much trouble. The low weight, accuracy, and fast speed combination make it suitable for shooting competitions as well.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
185 lbs
Length:
36.5"
Power Stroke:
13.5"
Speed (fps):
370
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
18"
Runner-up:
CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380
PROS
CONS
Best Uses for the CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380
The Tormentor whisper 380 gets its name from its whisper-quiet operation. Its different uses include:
Big Game
Hunting big game requires fast speed and high draw weight. This is because both of these add up to better penetration and more chances of a kill shot. 300 fps arrow speed is considered enough for animals like deer, moose, and bear, etc. This crossbow gives you a speed of 380 fps. You can hunt just about anything with this crossbow. It is especially considered ideal for deer and elk hunting.
Short Range Hunting
Noise can scare animals away, making it difficult to aim correctly at them. Therefore, this product uses a Whisper Silencing system, which means you can shoot the arrow without any noise. This makes it suitable for use in short-range hunting.
The product also has camouflage patterns on it, and it is small enough to use by hiding behind trees and bushes, etc., making it one of the most suitable options for hunting at short range. It remains accurate within 60 yards.
Components and Included Accessories
The components and accessories that add to the value of the crossbow are the following.
Silencing System
The silencing system is an important part of this crossbow. It is what makes it great for hunting. Its two string stoppers have silencers on them. Other things it uses are limb dampeners and two spider silencers. These reduce the vibrations along with the noise of the string and bow.
Automatic Safety
Its safety features include an automatic safety trigger and anti-dry firing. Safety trigger is put on the ON position when loading the crossbow, so it doesn't accidentally fire. Meanwhile, the anti-dry feature keeps the crossbow from firing when there is no arrow in the bow.
Scope
It uses a 4x32 mm scope mounted on aluminum rails. This size of scope is used for close-range shooting. It is not illuminated, so it is only used in clear lighting.
Field Points
Field points are aerodynamic arrow tips that improve the flight of the arrow. This crossbow comes with three 100-gram field points.
Carbon Bolts
Three carbon bolts accompany the field points. There is also a quiver to store them.
Cocking Device
The rope cocking device of this crossbow reduces the draw weight by about 50%.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 Suitable For?
The CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 is a budget crossbow used best for short-range shooting. It has fast speed and high draw weight, and it does not have an illuminated scope, so you need some practice to use it. For this reason, it is not the best choice for young or inexperienced shooters.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.8 lbs
Draw Weight:
185 lbs
Length:
35.5"
Power Stroke:
13.75"
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
14"
Best for the Money:
CenterPoint Archery Mercenary 390 FPS
PROS
CONS
Best Uses for the CenterPoint Archery Mercenary 390 FPS
According to the specifications of this crossbow, the following are its uses.
Small to Medium Game
The Archery Mercenary delivers silent shots, so it is suitable for hunting. Silence is important for targets that spook easily. It has a speed of 390 fps with a kinetic energy of 135 ft-lbs, making it perfect for small to medium games. It can effectively take down bigger prey as well.
For accuracy, this bow has an adjustable cheekpiece. This feature allows for better eye alignment when aiming. The perfect aim makes a lot of difference when you are trying to get a humane and lethal shot.
Harsh Shooting Environment
Archery Mercenary 390 has a lightweight and compact design. It is made to withstand the harsh wild and wind. It is well-balanced and has a comfortable aiming position. This makes it easy for the user to have a good grip. Hunting in the wild also requires silence and compactness, and this bow has both.
Components and Included Accessories
There are five complementary accessories that come with the Archery Mercenary 390 and some safety features.
Parallel Quiver
Quivers can be side mounted or parallel. This crossbow comes with a parallel quiver to hold the arrows or bolts.
Rope Cocker
It also has a rope cocker because the draw weight is very high, i.e., 185 pounds. The rope cocker helps reduce the effort needed to pull the string.
Scope
As with most Centerpoint crossbows, this model also comes with a 4x32 mm scope. You can change it for a different scope if the budget is not a concern.
Carbon Arrows
It has three 20-inch carbon arrows. The arrow's material and length make a huge difference in the accuracy and penetration of the shot.
Rail Lube
A lube or lubricant is used to make the rail smooth and frictionless. A smooth rail means that arrows will go out smoothly and accurately.
Safety
This product has an automatic safety trigger and anti-dry feature. These two are needed for any good crossbow. For a good and comfortable grip, this bow has large finger guards. This makes the shooting a little easier.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the CenterPoint Archery Mercenary 390 FPS Suitable For?
The Archery Mercenary is recommended for adult use only by manufacturers. It is not suitable for young and novice users. You should have some knowledge and previous experience of using crossbows for hunting, but you don’t need to be an expert. You can learn using this if you have good enough strength for pulling the draw weight of 185 pounds.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
12.2 lbs
Draw Weight:
185 lbs
Length:
35.8"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
Power Stroke:
135
14.50"
Speed (fps):
390
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
18"
4. CenterPoint Sniper Elite Whisper
PROS
CONS
Best Uses for the CenterPoint Sniper Elite Whisper
This product is similar to the Sniper 370 crossbow in some aspects with some improvements. Those improvements allow it to be used in these various circumstances.
Blind Hunting
Blind hunting involves the hunter hiding behind some sort of covering from the prey. This crossbow is well-balanced, lightweight, and not very large. The compactness helps when you are trying to hide.
Still-hunting/Stalking
This type of hunting involves the hunter slowly and secretly following the prey. This method is used when you are not familiar with the hunting ground. Because this involves moving around, this means you need a light crossbow, making the Sniper Elite Whisper the ideal option.
For discretion, the crossbow should be quiet. This bow is whisper quiet and has little to no vibrations.
Big Game
It has a speed of 370 fps, which is good for hunting deer, bear, etc. The high draw weight and field tips for good aerodynamics and carbon arrows for speed help with penetrating big game easily.
Cold Weather
In cold or wet weather, you are likely to wear thick gloves. This can affect the grip you have on the crossbow. To accommodate that, the trigger guard on this unit is made extra-large, making this bow suitable for use in cold weather.
Target Shooting
This crossbow is also good for target shooting. The reticle scope that comes with it is accurate to about 40 yards.
Components and Included Accessories
To aid in big game hunting, the following accessories are provided with the crossbow.
Rope Cocker
The rope cocker helps with pulling the string back without reducing the force and kinetic energy stored in the string.
Limb Noise Suppressor
The noise suppressor reduces vibrations and noise in the crossbow. This helps with animals that are difficult to catch. It also helps with the close-range shooting.
Multi-Reticle Scope
A multi-reticle scope makes aiming at different distances easier. You don’t have to keep adjusting the windage and elevation settings for accuracy. This crossbow comes with a 4x32 mm scope.
Safety
Its safety features include the standard automatic trigger safety and dry-fire inhibitor.
String Stoppers
A string stopper is a device used to reduce string vibration after the release of an arrow. This, in turn, reduces the noise and recoil produced by string vibration. This is an Elite Whisper model, so it comes with string stoppers that minimize the noise.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the CenterPoint Sniper Elite Whisper Suitable For?
Given its quiet operation and high accuracy, it is used by expert hunters. Its accessories and specs make it great for different kinds of hunting and target shooting. Any seasoned archer will do great with this product.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
185 lbs
Length:
35.5-39"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
112
Speed (fps):
370
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
18"
5. CenterPoint XR175 Recurve Crossbow
PROS
CONS
Best Uses for the CenterPoint XR175 Recurve Crossbow
Recurve bows are more powerful than traditional longbows and compared to crossbows, they have a simpler design. This recurve bow can be used for the following purposes.
Small to Medium Game
This recurves bow's speed and draws weight make it suitable for small to medium game like deer and elk.
Target Shooting
This crossbow is accurate enough for hunting as well as target shooting. Its accuracy is tested at 1.5-inch groupings from 25 yards and two-inch groupings from 50 yards.
If you are participating in a target competition, you need this accuracy. It also helps when you need to achieve a lethal shot.
Components and Included Accessories
Recurve bows are simpler than crossbows, but they also have different accessories that help improve accuracy and performance. This model comes with the following:
Aluminum Bolts
It comes with four 16-inch aluminum arrows or bolts. Aluminum arrows are cheaper than carbon arrows and are very precise.
Quiver
It comes with a quiver to hold the arrows and bow.
Rope Cocking Device
Although this recurve bow does not have a very high draw weight, it is higher than average. Therefore, the rope cocking device facilitates ease of use, especially because recurve bows don’t have locking mechanisms, and the user will have to hold the string.
Red Dot Sight
These sights use illuminated red dots for aiming. They are pretty accurate and simple to use. This is a 1x40 mm three-dot sight with batteries.
Rail Lube
A crossbow rail needs to be lubricated often for smooth functioning. This crossbow comes with a rail lube, so you don’t have to spend extra on it.
Bow Stringer
It also comes with a bow stringer is the only recommended tool for string and unstringing a recurve or longbow.
Safety
Its safety features include automatic safety, which is enabled when the bow is not fully cocked. It also has an anti-dry firing feature.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the CenterPoint XR175 Recurve Crossbow Suitable For?
Recurve bows are a good starting point for archers that are in the learning phase. This bow’s draw weight is very high, so the user needs to be in good physical health. It is not well-suited for youngsters.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
5 lbs
Draw Weight:
175 lbs
Length:
30.5" - 32.75"
Speed (fps):
245
Types of Bows From CenterPoint
There is more than one type of bow used for hunting. Different people have different preferences, but their uses are very similar. All bow types are made for specific hunting types.
CenterPoint makes four kinds of bows.
Crossbows
Crossbows are suitable when you need to hunt large game. They have speeds higher than other bow types, and they require less physical effort on the part of the user. You don’t need to hold the string for long as the bow does it for you. Centerpoint crossbows are made for whitetail warriors and big game hunters. They are made of aluminum to keep them lightweight.
Recurve Bows
A recurve bow is like a longbow but with limbs that curve away from the user. This design stores more energy and hence delivers more speed. Centerpoint is more known for its crossbows, but they also make good recurve bows. Their recurve bows have limbs made of heavy-duty fiberglass. Their highest draw weight is 45 pounds.
Bowfishing
Bowfishing equipment by Centerpoint is made from waterproof material because of the nature of shooting. It requires a bow with reels on the ends of both limbs that help reel back the string to pull up the fish. Centerpoint bowfishing bow has an adjustable draw weight between 15 and 55 pounds. It uses 33-inch fiberglass arrows for the ideal experience.
Youth Bows
Youth bows are designed for young and inexperienced people to help them learn. They are the best bows for beginners since they are compact, lightweight, and simple to get the hang of. These bows weigh no more than two to three pounds. They use 26-inch arrows and limbs made of composite fiberglass.
Other Archery Equipment Made By CenterPoint
Other than bows, Centerpoint also makes bow accessories. Some of these are given with the bows. You can also buy them separately if you want.
Arrows
Centerpoint makes six different kinds of arrows. These include bowfishing arrows, arrow nocks, carbon arrows with illuminated nocks, premium carbon fiber arrows with illuminated nocks, 20-inch crossbow arrows, and non-illuminated carbon fiber arrows.
Bowfishing arrows are made of fiberglass because it is highly durable, and it does not rust. Illuminated nocks help when you are shooting in low light. It makes it easier for you to locate your target after hitting it.
Rope Cocker
As mentioned above, a rope cocker is a device used to reduce the force needed to pull the string. It can reduce the draw weight by up to 50%.
Silent Cranking Device
Cranking devices also reduce the draw weight of a bow. However, they work better than a rope cocker because they reduce the draw weight by 75%. The cranking device made by Centerpoint is designed to be silent, so it doesn’t add noise and vibration to the bow.
Crossbow Bag
Their crossbow bags are made of 100% polyester. They are durable and keep the bow dry. They also have straps that you can hang around the shoulder for easier handling.
Scope
The scope used by Centerpoint bows is the 4x32 mm scope. It is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. It is also illuminated for use in low light conditions. It has windage and elevation adjustments and good eye relief.
Comparison Overview
Centerpoint is not the only company that makes archery equipment; in fact, it is relatively new. There are other good manufacturers to choose from. We have compared some of them with CenterPoint to help you decide where to buy your products from.
Killer Instinct Crossbow vs. CenterPoint Crossbow
Killer Instinct is another new company that has made a good name for itself in the industry. Here’s how its crossbows compare to those made by Centerpoint.
Speed
Centerpoint has the highest arrow speed of 445 fps compared to the Killer Instinct crossbow, whose highest speed is 425 fps. The former has lightweight models with 56 ft-lbs kinetic energy that gives good downrange accuracy.
Killer Instinct crossbows give deep penetration, given its extra-high speed. Using these bows, you can kill just about anything in the wild, including large games like bears.
Warranty
Centerpoint crossbows have a limited five-year warranty. Killer instinct crossbows, on the other hand, come with a limited lifetime warranty. The warranty is for manufacturer defects and includes all components and parts of the crossbow except wearable components and accessories like a rope cocker.
CenterPoint Mercenary vs. Tormentor Crossbow
Centerpoint Mercenary and Tormentor are both crossbows made by Centerpoint. They vary in their specifications. Here’s a comparison between the two:
Velocity and Kinetic Energy
The Mercenary has a speed of 390 fps and kinetic energy of 135 ft-lbs. The Tormentor, on the other hand, has a speed of 380 fps and kinetic energy of 120 ft-lbs. The difference is not very huge but can make a difference when you want precision and accuracy.
Powerstroke
Powerstroke is the distance between the string’s cocked and rested position. It can also be called the draw length. It is how far the string can go or how much energy it can store. A long Powerstroke, therefore, results in faster arrow speed.
The Mercenary has a Powerstroke of 14.5 inches while the Tormentor has a Powerstroke of 13.75 inches.
Barnett vs. CenterPoint Crossbow
Barnett was started in 1962 by Bernard Barnett. It is an old company that has evolved over the years to include modern designs. Here’s how crossbows made by Barnett fare in comparison to those made by Centerpoint:
Safety
Centerpoint crossbows have two safety features, i.e., automatic safety trigger and anti-dry fire system. Automatic safety works like firearm trigger safety. It is put on the ON position when you are not shooting or loading the equipment, so there are no accidental shootings. Anti-dry fire safety keeps the crossbow from firing when there is no arrow in the bow.
Barnett crossbows also have an anti-dry fire trigger system. They use nock sensors to check if there is an arrow in the crossbow. Barnett also has finger safety reminders. The finger safety is a plastic rail that keeps your fingers away from the path of the string.
CenterPoint Sniper Elite Whisper
Warranty
Barnett’s warranty includes the stock, trigger mechanism, and limbs. They guarantee no manufacturer defect. They also cover parts and labor for repair. Accessories like cables, strings, and arrows are not covered.
Centerpoint has a warranty of five years. It also does not include strings and accessories. It does cover defects in workmanship and material.
How to Lubricate a CenterPoint Crossbow
Lubricating your crossbow is important if you want a smooth operating bow that delivers a fast arrow. Follow these steps for properly lubricating your bow:
- Your Centerpoint bows usually come with rail lubes. You will use those for rail maintenance.
- Run the lube stick up and down the rail about four times.
- You should apply the lube after every five to ten shots.
- Another thing you will need is a string protectant wax.
- Apply the wax on the strings and then rub it using your fingers, so it is evenly spread.
That’s all there is to it. Refer to the video instructions below for more tips and instructions for lubing and maintaining your bow.
Conclusion
Centerpoint is, no doubt, a good contender for the best crossbows manufacturers. They offer various options of high speed and powerful crossbows. We have narrowed down their product line to the best crossbows for you. Their crossbows have higher-than-average speed combined with accuracy, silent operation, and budget-friendly prices.
People Also Ask
If you have more questions about which crossbow will suit you best and if Centerpoint is the right company for you, then read these frequently asked questions.
Are CenterPoint Crossbows Any Good?
Centerpoint crossbows are some of the best products available at a low price range. Their Sniper 370 is their best-seller and a user favorite. They have had good reviews from renowned magazines like Outdoor Life magazine. They come with excellent safety features as well, making them a great choice for hunting.
Are CenterPoint Crossbows Made in the USA?
Yes, Centerpoint crossbows are made and assembled in the USA.
What Length of Bolts Does a CenterPoint XR175 Crossbow Take?
Centerpoint XR175 uses 16-inch bolts or arrows.
What Weight Broadhead For a CenterPoint Crossbow?
Centerpoint crossbows use 100-grain broadheads.
How to Shoot a CenterPoint Crossbow
First, you need to operate the bow safety. This is done by putting the safety switch on the ON position. Use the rope cocking device to properly cock the bow and then switch off the safety trigger. Hold the bow in a way that your fingers are below the path of the string. Your hand should remain on the foregrip. Aim through the scope and pull the trigger.
How Do I Change the Battery on My CenterPoint Gladiator Crossbow Sight?
To remove the battery:
- Loosen the cap of the scope using a flathead screwdriver.
- Remove the battery after the cap comes off and put in the new battery.
- Screw the cap back on.
How to Decock a CenterPoint Crossbow
To decock a crossbow, first, shoot an arrow on soft ground. Another thing you can do is use a cocking device. Place the device’s hooks on the ends of the strings. Pull the string and let the handle rest on one of the hooks. Then pull the trigger. Loosen your grip and let the string fall back to its uncocked position.
