Hunting with a crossbow never goes out of style.
Parker Crossbows are big on performance and durability. They certainly add more to your hunting experience, taking it to higher levels.
With the availability of lots of options on the market, making the right choice may not be very easy. However, to help you out, we have done some research on your part. Read on to learn all about some of the best crossbows from Parker and pick a good one for yourself.
Comparison of the Best Parker Crossbows
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Who is Parker?
Parker Compound Bows, Inc. was founded in 1984. With the headquarters in Greenville, Parker has been introducing flawless hunting bows for more than 30 years. The incorporation of the latest technology in their bows earned them much popularity. Their crossbows are characterized by robust design, power, and quiet operation.
Moreover, the hunting equipment is backed by a lifetime warranty to make them trustworthy options on the market. However, the company shut down its business recently and discontinued the production of their signature crossbows.
Why Are Parker Crossbows So Popular?
One of the first names that pop in our mind is Parker when it comes to hunting bows. Their models have surely impressed most hunters. All crossbows exhibit a military-style cock and quiet operation. They feature a perfect balance in the middle to ensure convenient carrying while hunting.
The tools are incorporated with multiple safety features like anti-dry mechanism and safety switch. You will also find foregrips that keep your fingers from touching the barrel. With these crossbows, you can have an accurate shot, thanks to the multi-reticle scope. Additionally, they come with a reasonable price tag to save you from hefty investment.
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 Parker Crossbows
Nothing can be as thrilling as hunting with a crossbow. Before spending money, it is, however, quite important to know what actually you are buying. Here are reviews of some of the finest crossbows from Parker that are worth the consideration.
Best Overall:
Parker Bows Thunderhawk Pro
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Parker Bows 18 Thunderhawk Pro
Parker has brought forth various fantastic features and incorporated them into a great crossbow that has multiple uses. These include:
Quiet Hunting
You will love how quiet this crossbow is. Thanks to the anti-vibration and shock system, it is highly useful for hunting down prey in no time.
Smooth and Accurate
The power of this crossbow amazes most customers. Since the arrow speed is about 330 fps, it knocks down a deer with maximum accuracy.
Components and Included Accessories
There are various reasons why this model tops the list. One of them is the included accessories.
Solid Body
This Parker crossbow features an aluminum body, which makes it solid yet lightweight. The incorporation of a ballistic polymer barrel provides a great shooting platform.
Optics
The package includes a premium Red Hot optics designed to deliver accuracy on the field.
Arrows
It also includes four Parker Arrows with 100-grain field points so you can make the most of the product.
Quiver
You will also get a detachable four-arrow quiver with the bow.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Parker Bows 18 Thunderhawk Pro Suitable For?
With amazing arrow velocity, this Parker crossbow is highly recommended for everyday hunting. The power and accuracy of this model make it most suitable for adults with good hunting skills. An average hunter will take some time to get used to it. Moreover, it can be quite useful for those exploring archery.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
6.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
160 lbs
Length:
34.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
91
Power Stroke:
10.75"
Speed (fps):
320
Axle-to-Axle:
21.25" cocked
Runner-up:
Parker Tornado XXT Xtreme
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Parker Tornado XXT Xtreme
An excellent crossbow, this Parker model comes with fancy technology to serve multiple purposes that include:
Small Game Hunting
The powerful and fast arrow velocity proves highly effective in hunting down a small to a medium-sized game in a matter of seconds.
Deer and Elk Hunting
This crossbow is highly useful when it comes to elk and deer hunting, as its range is quite impressive.
Target Shooting
The overall balanced and ergonomic design is highly useful for professional shooters to ace their performance. Moreover, it proves good for archery.
Components and Included Accessories
This Parkers crossbow comes with several accessories to deliver a fantastic experience. Some of these include:
Arrows
Firstly, you will get four arrows with this crossbow. They are RED HOT arrows with field tips for a steady hunt.
Multi-Reticle Scope
The package includes a 3x32 mm multi reticle scope from the HOT RED series. This scope is ideally known for holding zero for a good timespan.
Quiver
To hold your arrows, you will also receive a four-arrow detach quiver with a bracket for convenient carrying.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Parker Tornado XXT Xtreme Suitable For?
The Parker Tornado is quite popular among hunters for its phenomenal features. Since it is a bit heavy, the model is best recommended for hunters of middle age with some great hunting skills. Similarly, a person who knows to handle this heavy tool very well can also use it for target shooting and archery.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
8.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
160 lbs
Length:
34.75"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
118
Power Stroke:
15.375"
Speed (fps):
365
Axle-to-Axle:
34.75" cocked
Best for the Money:
Parker BushWacker Crossbow
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Parker BushWacker Crossbow
One of the most economical crossbows from Parker, this model has multiple uses, including:
Small Game Hunting
With its lightweight body and superior accuracy, this crossbow is capable of knocking down a deer effortlessly. Moreover, the remarkable 300 fps arrow speed makes sure you are always right on target.
Safe Operation
The crossbow is not only sturdy but also safe. Thanks to the anti-dry fire protection and safety finger flange, the model is user-friendly and reliable.
Components and Included Accessories
This Parker crossbow offers various accessories at a budget-friendly price, including:
Arrows With Field Points
The package consists of four 400-grain arrows with field points that work well in hunting down the prey.
Detach Quiver
Additionally, you will receive a detach quiver to take care of the arrows.
RED HOT Optics
The availability of the RED HOT Optic scope accounts for accuracy and reliability.
Warranty Card
There is a lifetime warranty on this product to enhance your confidence. All you need to do is fill the warranty card to activate the warranty.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Parker BushWacker Crossbow Suitable For?
The ergonomic design with associated safety features makes this model highly recommended for beginners. Since the bow is easy to assemble and maintain, it can be used by people of almost any age. Moreover, the power allows you to use it for hunting small and medium-sized game without any problem.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7 lbs
Draw Weight:
160 lbs
Length:
37"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
80
Power Stroke:
11"
Speed (fps):
300
Axle-to-Axle:
23.25" cocked
4. Parker MP-315 Crossbow
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Parker MP-315 Crossbow
Parker MP-315 incorporates a great set of features that makes it useful in multiple ways. The most prominent uses include:
Accurate Hunting
With the fantastic 315 fps arrow velocity, there is no chance you will miss the target. Similarly, the balanced and compact body makes this useful for long-range shooting.
Ambidextrous Use
Since the crossbow is ambidextrous, it can be used by both left-handed and right-handed shooters to achieve their hunting goals. Moreover, the ergonomic forearm and pistol grip fully enhance the safety level.
Components and Included Accessories
Apart from a robust crossbow, you will also get various accessories in the package. These include:
Arrows
This tool is highly compatible with Parker's arrows. You will find four arrows with field points to start hunting right away.
Detach Quiver
There is a four-arrow detach quiver to improve the overall experience. It also prevents the arrows from any damage.
RED HOT Optic
The crossbow ensures accuracy with the multi-reticle scope provided in the package.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Parker MP-315 Crossbow Suitable For?
With a redesigned system, the Parker M-315 is highly recommended for professional hunters and shooters. Since the balanced design is lightweight and safe, it can be used by an average hunter as well to have an unforgettable experience. The fast arrow speed and astounding accuracy ensure you hit the target smoothly.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7 lbs
Draw Weight:
165 lbs
Length:
37"
Power Stroke:
11"
Speed (fps):
315
Axle-to-Axle:
23.25" cocked
Types of Bows From Parker
Parker has been around for a while now and has introduced exceptional crossbows for various hunting scenarios. The question that arises here is, which one should you go for? Well, the best way to find out is by having a closer look at the types of bows it has introduced. These include:
Crossbows
Parker has been an unmatchable producer of crossbows. Their units are perfectly suitable for not only hunting but target shooting as well. Whether you talk about the quality or the high-end accuracy, you won’t find any issue with these crossbows. All of them are made in America with fine craftsmanship, so there will be no question about the durability.
You will find a range of crossbows manufactured by the company, including Centerfire, Thunderhawk, Ambusher, as well as Enforcer. A reliable lifetime warranty backs all these crossbows. This means you can continue hunting without worrying about any damage.
Compound Bows
Apart from typical crossbows, the growth of the company can be accredited to their compound bows. They are manufactured from high-quality materials, including aluminum and polyurethane, to last in the long run. Similarly, they incorporate various safety features to ensure a risk-free operation. The installation is simply a breeze plus the user-friendly design makes them suitable for people of different ages.
This type includes various models prominently named Blackhawk, Ambusher, Blazer, UltraLite, and Wildfire. These models fall in a range of prices to suit your requirement. Moreover, you can enjoy a lifetime warranty for these types of Parker bows.
Other Archery Equipment Made By Parker
Parker never fails to surprise its customers with stunning archery equipment from time to time. Apart from a major producer of quality hunting bows, you can always turn to Parker for reliable archery tools.
Arrows
The company manufactures impeccable hunting arrows that are known for their durability. Their carbon arrows are quite popular among the hunters.
Scope
The ideal scope can completely elevate your hunting experience. Parker has introduced a RED HOT series of scopes that come with various magnifications to suit your needs.
String Suppressor
A string suppressor can ensure a comfortable archery experience. It suppresses the vibration to help you aim accurately.
RED HOT Wax and Lube Kit
You can always use this wax to maintain your crossbow so it can serve you for years to come.
Tenpoint vs. Parker vs. Barnett Crossbows - Comparison Overview
The rise in technology has made crossbows come a long way. Currently, there are various brands out there that have developed a reputation for offering fine models. However, you just can’t jump on any of them. It is better to do your research beforehand for an ideal purchase.
Here is a detailed comparison between crossbows manufactured by Tenpoint, Parker, and Barnett.
Similarities
Though each brand manufactures its own modified version of the product, crossbows from these brands are quite similar in some ways.
Design
Most of the bows from these companies feature a similar military-stock style that feels natural to hold. These are balanced nicely to make your hunting adventure a memorable one.
Accessories
All the crossbows from these companies include multiple accessories in the package. They may come with a crossbow case, superior optics, arrows, as well as a quiver.
Differences
Now let’s see how these crossbows differ from each other.
Warranty
First and foremost, Parker offers an astounding lifetime warranty on the crossbows that speaks for the manufacturer's confidence in their products. Contrary to this, TenPoint and Barnett’s crossbows are backed by a limited warranty of merely five years.
Safety Features
Parker crossbows are ideally recognized for being safe and accurate. They come with multiple safety features, including an anti-dry fire mechanism and a safety switch to protect your fingers.
On the other hand, Tenpoint crossbows incorporate an advanced ACUslide crank cocking mechanism for safe operation. Lastly, Barnett makes their crossbows with an anti-fire system for an accurate and safe shot.
Horton Crossbow NH15001-7522 Storm RDX
How to Cock a Parker Crossbow
While you can manually cock your crossbow, Parker recommends using a rope cocking device to observe safety and accuracy. While this may seem to be a daunting task, it's really not. All you have to do is follow the instructions carefully to get done with the job flawlessly.
- Start by placing the crossbow on the ground with the butt of the stock pointing up and facing you.
- Now place your foot inside the stirrup to make sure the crossbow remains in place.
- Hold the hooks of the rope cocking device each in one hand and place the rope in the groove on the back-trigger assembly. Make sure to leave six inches of the rope between the hooks.
- With the hooks in your hands, bend and attach them to the bowstring. The hooks need to face down.
- Make the final check to see that the rope cocking device is in the correct position. Grab the handles and pull them up until the string audibly "clicks" into the trigger assembly. The crossbow is now ready to load and shoot.
If you still have any confusion, you can refer to the video below in order to have a full review of what was just described.
What Position Does Your Safety Need To Be In When Cocking a Parker Crossbow?
Whenever you are cocking a Parker crossbow, it is better to place the safety on the side or the rear of the sight bridge. Similarly, if you are cocking the crossbow manually, it is suggested to place the ball on either foot in the cocking stirrup. This helps in preventing slippage.
Conclusion
It is always great to have some stunning features on a crossbow. However, you must never overlook the durability to avoid dealing with malfunctions. Parker has marked its individual position in the industry for manufacturing durable and powerful crossbows. Picking the right model becomes easy if you have a clear idea of what you are looking for. This brings us to the end of this detailed review article. Hopefully, you are now capable of making a better buying decision.
People Also Ask
Parker crossbows are known for their power and accuracy in addition to a pleasing design. However, you might still have certain questions in mind about these models. Let’s clear your doubts by answering some of the frequently asked questions. Hopefully, this can help you make an educated decision by the end.
Is Parker Crossbows Going Out of Business?
Parker has been in the bow industry for over two decades. Their crossbows and hunting equipment feature uniqueness and quality. However, unfortunately, the company has recently announced to shut down their operations.
Are Parker Crossbows Any Good?
The answer is a big yes. Parker incorporates high-end features in its crossbows to stay ahead of competitors. They are powerful, lightweight, and, of course, durable. In fact, the crossbows are relatively quiet when compared to other models on the market. In short, these are simply phenomenal for their price.
How Long Can You Leave a Parker Crossbow Cocked?
As per recommendations, you can leave a Parker crossbow cocked for almost four hours. While it is perfectly fine to leave the tool cocked during a hunt, it is, however, better not to do so for a long time. This can result in premature stretching of the string, thereby altering the overall performance of the crossbow.
What is the String Length on Parker Thunderhawk Crossbow?
The string length on a Parker Thunderhawk crossbow is 33.25 inches. This makes it an ideal option for sports and multiple outdoor applications.
It is composed of superior materials to make archery and hunting more enjoyable. With proper care and maintenance, the string tends to last for almost two to four years.
How to Load a Parker Thunderhawk Crossbow
Safe shooting requires safe loading on the crossbow. Place an arrow on the barrel and slide it back towards the sight bridge. Keep sliding it under the retention spring until the nock fully engages the string, so the arrow stays in place. Make sure not to remove or bend the retention spring upward.
What To Do If the Cocking Rope Gets Stuck on a Parker Crossbow?
Improper cocking can lead to various performance issues, and a stuck rope can be one of them. The chances are that the bow was short-cocked, meaning the string wasn’t pulled all the way back to engage the safety mechanism. The solution is to re-attach your cocking mechanism and pull the string back until you hear a distinct “click.”
When Was the First Parker Tornado Crossbow Made?
The first Parker Tornado crossbow was manufactured back in 2009. This improved tool featured some key attributes for those looking for an advanced model. The highlights include a split limb design and added speed that can tremendously improve your hunting game. Moreover, the RED HOT scope is tuned for a perfect shot.
What Grain of Arrows Do You Shoot With a Parker 175lb Crossbow?
A Parker 175 lbs crossbow is compatible with 20-inch long arrows having 125-grain points. You should go for reliable carbon arrows that can withstand the punishing speed and power of Parker's crossbows. Such arrows are ideally designed to allow your crossbow to achieve the desired power and speed levels.
How to Replace the Crossbow String on Parker Crossbow
The string tends to wear down over time. You can replace your old string with a new one by simply following some simple steps. Start by removing the screws and the old string from the grooves. Now, hold the new string in place with your thumb and forefinger and slide it into the cable slots. Push the riser down and tighten the mounting bolt. Now install the screws and tighten them firmly.
How Much is a Parker Thunderhawk Crossbow Worth?
Parker Thunderhawk crossbow has received lots of appreciation from users, which is why it stays in demand all the time. You can find this crossbow in a price range of $700 to $859. It comes with all the necessary accessories and a great user manual to deal with assembly and other queries efficiently.
How to Lubricate a Parker Crossbow
Lubricating the crossbow plays an integral role in its maintenance and durability. You can simply apply the wax to the length of the strings and rub it using your fingers. Similarly, add two drops of the HOT RED lube to the middle of the rail and spread it on the entire surface. Then apply one or two drops of lubricant to the trigger box and mounting bolts to prevent corrosion.
How to Tune Your Parker Crossbow
Tuning your Parker crossbow is extremely necessary to avoid missing the target. Compound bows from Parker come with a tiller adjustment bolt on each of the limbs. Turning the bolt in and out can lead to the right tiller adjustment while allowing fine-tuning of the tool.
