Ravin Crossbows Review – 2021 Guide

| Last Updated September 28, 2021

As the years elapsed, crossbow popularity continued to soar at an exponential rate, owing to their inclusion in the standard bowhunting practices and seasons. A rundown of the companies in this industry revealed the top companies manufacturing top-of-the-line crossbows currently in the market.

One such company is Ravin, who set the crossbow industry on fire ever since its inception and has continued to carry this momentum to date. 

So, if you’re interested in getting your hands on some of the most innovative crossbows that will upgrade your overall hunting experience, read right ahead. 

Comparison of the Best Ravin Crossbows

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Uses the helicoil technology to make it easy to draw
  • 6.5 lbs bow
  • 340 lbs draw weight
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  • Comes fully assembled and fine tuned
  • 6.8 lbs bow
  • 270 lbs draw weight
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  • Best for the Money
  • 7.1 lbs bow
  • 270 lbs draw weight
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  • Deliver at 164 foot pound of kinetic energy
  • 6.75 lbs bow
  • 270 lbs draw weight
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Who is Ravin? 

Ravin is one of the most recognized brand names in the crossbow industry today. The company has been engineering and manufacturing archery products for roughly 20 years, getting better and better each passing year. 

Headquartered in Superior, Wisconsin, Ravin is a brand that identifies itself highly with hunting and hunters themselves. This is what gives them an edge over other companies. Currently, Ravin is owned by Velocity Outdoors, and hence, the revolutionary crossbows from the company are manufactured by Velocity Outdoors as well. The company offers a limited warranty of five years on its products as part of its diligent customer service. 

Why Are Ravin Crossbows So Popular?

Acclaimed as the leading designer, producer, and pioneer of crossbows and accessories, there’s no doubt about why the company has gained immense popularity among hunting and shooting enthusiasts. 

First off, the popularity can be traced back to the core technologies carefully embedded into each product design. All Ravin Crossbows feature HeliCoil Technology, aiding in the balancing and leveling of cams, all while reducing noise and vibration. This, in turn, translates into superior speed, accuracy, and power. Anti-Dry Fire technology ensures the automatic safety of the user. 

What's more, is the Frictionless Flight system corroborating consistency and string and cable longevity. The Trac Trigger Firing system guarantees perfectly balanced draws and straight nock travel while the Versa-Draw Cocking system is secured in place for easy cocking and decocking. 

Next, let’s talk a little about the arrows and the associated arrow speed. Ravin’s personally manufactured arrows weigh around 300 grains, and with an added field tip of 100 grain, the total weight of the dart comes around to be 400. What this essentially entails is that even though heavier arrows are superior in terms of penetration and stabilization of flight, they also tend to reduce the arrow speed owing to the weight factor. 

But is that a trade-off you have to make with the Ravin crossbows? No way! With these, you’ll get the best of both worlds: a heavier arrow, but you’ll still be able to pierce through the 400+ fps mark in a breeze. 

Durability is another significant factor contributing to the popularity of these bows. All designs are heavily vented to minimize weight and optimize balance. The assembly is further crafted to enhance speed and power. And while these remain their major selling points, the comfort they promise should also be mentioned. So, to say the least, the comfort, ease of use, and maneuverability cannot be overlooked. 

Overall, the level of performance and support provided by Ravin remain unrivaled in the crossbow industry. 

Ravin R26 Compact

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 Ravin Crossbows

Now that we’ve talked about the company and what it means to invest in one of their products, let’s have a look at some of the best options they offer. 

Best Overall:
Ravin R26 Compact

Ravin R26 Predator 26-Inch Crossbow, Dusk Camo

PROS

  • Small but packed with power delivering up to 400 fps
  • Very compact ambidextrous design which is lightweight
  • Comes fully equipped and ready to use straight out of the box
  • Equipped with intensive safety mechanisms for your protection
  • Uses high-end technology such as the HeliCoil Technology, Trac-Trigger firing system, and frictionless flight system, etc.

CONS

  • Might need crossbow dampeners since it is a bit louder

Best Uses For the Ravin R26 Compact

The R26 will prove it’s worthiness in the following situations

  • Field Hunting

The Ravin R26 compact crossbow was designed with hunters and hunting in mind. The lightweight 6.5lbs design helps you carry it to the ground blind or tree stand with ease. It packs a whopping 400 fps, which is enough to take not only strong but also large games with ease.

Furthermore, the illuminated scope that the R26 comes with substantially aids in zeroing on the target for precise impact points. All in all, this is the perfect crossbow for hunting.

  • Target Practice and Learning

The compact and ambidextrous design, coupled with technologies like HeliCoil, Anti Dry Fire, and Frictionless Flight system, make it the ideal companion for practice. So, If you're trying to master the crossbow game, whether it pertains to learning or target practicing, we believe this would be perfect for just those activities. 

Components and Included Accessories 

This premium crossbow comes fully assembled and ready to go. You also get a multitude of accessories for a more in-depth experience, such as:

  1. Anti-Dry Fire and Auto-Safety that the R26 exponentially safer to use and protect the user.

  2. Ravin Illuminated Scope has a variety of features itself, such as fps adjustment, red/green illumination, water, fog & recoil proof, fully coated lenses, etc.

  3. Three-Arrow Quiver that securely holds three arrows at the same time.

  4. Draw Handle, which is a beautifully designed ambidextrous handle that attaches magnetically on either side for easier use.

  5. 6 Pack 400 gr. Match Grade .003 Arrows: Advanced high-end 100% pure carbon constructed arrows. Boasts features such as high-impact brass threaded inserts & aluminum nock bushings and Lumenok™ Technology, etc.

  6. Field Tips

  7. Accessories Bracket

What Ages and Skill Levels is the Ravin R26 Compact Suitable For?

The Ravin R26 is one of the best Ravin crossbows on the market right now. It is the only crossbow you would require for any use. Whether it’s learning, target practicing, or on-the-field hunting, the R26 will be an experience to remember. 

It’s a powerful unit able to take down large game but small enough for young hunters to easily get used to it as well. Therefore, whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can’t go wrong with the Ravin R26.

Product Specs

Bow Weight:

6.5 lbs

Draw Weight:

340 lbs

Length:

26"

Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):

142

Power Stroke:

9.5"

Speed (fps):

Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:

400

5.75"

Runner-up:
Ravin R10 Crossbow

PROS

  • Ensures safety of the user by exercising Anti-Dry Fire
  • Compact design, aiding in impeccable downrange accuracy
  • Frictionless Flight system for superior accuracy and longer cable & string life
  • Trac Trigger Firing system assists in a balanced draw and straight-line nock travel
  • Features HeliCoil technology for balanced and level cams, which, in turn, delivers power, speed, and accuracy

CONS

  • Crank system is a little loud for hunting

Best Uses for the Ravin R10 Crossbow

We believe buying this product will enable you to enjoy the following sports:

  • Mobile Hunting

The Ravin R10 Crossbow is specially designed for hunters who like to maneuver or those who like to hunt in tight quarters. It's quite exceptional for big-game hunting even though it weighs only 6.8 lbs and is 33’’ long. Therefore, you can be sure you’ll get superior accuracy and high performance upon usage. Moreover, this model showcases a draw weight of 12 lbs, corroborating ample comfortability as well as accuracy. 

  • Long Range Performance

The crossbow delivers impressive results whether you shoot from a 50, 60, or 70-yard distance. The accuracy remains intact, and while that is happening, its low weight ensures zero fatigue. The bow still manages to live up to all its claims even when shooting from 90 and 100 yards as long as the wind isn't a factor since it can hinder accuracy. 

Components and Included Accessories 

While you get a fully assembled and pre-tuned assembly right out the box, you’ll also be able to enjoy the following accessories:

  1. Illuminated scope that's adjustable for arrow speeds covering 300 to 450 fps. The system is excellent at delivering precise arrow placements from 20 to 100 yards in ten-yard increments.

  2. Three-Arrow Quiver along with a mounting bracket

  3. Three Ravin arrows that come with nocks and 100-grain practice points

  4. Removable Cocking Handle

  5. Field Tips and Accessories Bracket

  6. Anti Dry Fire to ensure the safety of the user

  7. Versa-Draw™ Cocking System for cocking and decocking the crossbow in a safe manner

What Ages and Skill Levels is the Ravin R10 Crossbow Suitable For?

This compact yet powerful design is perfect for virtually anything, whether its practice, target shooting, or big or small-game hunting. As with most popular crossbows delivering precision and a good point of aim within 40 yards, the Ravin R10 goes beyond that. It allows users to score at more than twice that distance. 

So, it is safe to say that you can easily use this crossbow if you’re a beginner and gradually work your way up till you master the game. It doesn’t discriminate; whether you’re an entry-level or a pro, you’ll find ample assistance and comfort upon using this design. 

The safety features put into place and the multitude of innovative technologies ensuring accuracy, speed, and power means that it’s suitable for all ages that are admissible by law. 

Product Specs

Bow Weight:

6.8 lbs

Draw Weight:

270 lbs

Length:

33"

Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):

142

Power Stroke:

11"

Speed (fps):

Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:

400

6"

Best for the Money:
Ravin R20 Crossbow

Ravin R20 Crossbow Predator Camo

PROS

  • Extremely fast with arrow speeds up to 430 fps
  • Compact and lightweight design with amazing accuracy
  • Extensive safety features integrated, preventing accidental and dry fires
  • Excellent and powerful, able to take down moose, elk, and even a black bear, etc
  • Fully assembled and ready to go right out of the box, meaning no figuring out complex assembly manuals

CONS

  • Some users reported that the string broke after a few shots

Best Uses for the Ravin R20 Crossbow

Ravin is an industry leader in the crossbow business. It is known for producing the best and most technologically advanced crossbows out there. Since they make crossbows with hunters and hunting in mind, it is best for that purpose. The R20 is no different in this regard. 

With such pure power, speed, and accuracy, it is comparable to a hunting rifle made to take down strong and large games. The lightweight and durable build is made to be taken out in the field for a hunt. 

Components and Included Accessories 

The Ravin R20 crossbow comes with a multitude of accessories to help complement and enhance your experience. These accessories include:

  1. Advanced Features, including Helicoil Technology, dampened sounds/noises, Anti-Dry Fire/Auto Safety, Built-in Sling Mounts and Cocking Mechanism, etc.

  2. Ravin 100 yard Illuminated Scope, a high-end scope that has a variety of features itself, such as fps adjustment, red/green illumination, water, fog & recoil proof, and fully coated lenses, etc.

  3. Quiver/Mounting Bracket that securely holds multiple arrows at the same time for easy accessibility. 

  4. Draw Handle, which is a beautifully designed ambidextrous handle that attaches magnetically on either side for easier use.

  5. 3 Pack 400 gr. Match Grade .003 Arrows; advanced arrows constructed from 100% pure carbon.

  6. Field Tips

  7. Accessories Bracket

What Ages and Skill Levels is the Ravin R20 Crossbow Suitable For?

The Ravin R20 crossbow is one of the most advanced and powerful crossbows on the market. It is easily comparable to many aspects of a traditional rifle, such as speed and accuracy. Thus, it is a great companion not only for experienced and skilled hunters but also for new beginners. This is because it is very easy to understand and use. 

Furthermore, the safety implementations make it extremely reliable for new hunters to get to learn with minimized risks. All in all, the size may be bigger, but it is still manageable for youngsters. 

Product Specs

Bow Weight:

7.1 lbs

Draw Weight:

270 lbs

Length:

34.5"

Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):

164

Power Stroke:

12.5"

Speed (fps):

Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:

430

6"

4. Ravin R29 Crossbow

Ravin R29 Crossbow Package Predator Dusk Grey with Soft Case Bundle

PROS

  • Silent cocking system
  • Trac-Trigger Firing system confirms balanced nocks and draws every time
  • Measures 6’’ from axle to axle, corroborating comfort and easy maneuverability
  • Compact powerhouse delivering exceptional accuracy and power while being small
  • Helicoil design ensures the perfect balance of the cams, which, in turn, ensures accuracy

CONS

  • Some users have reported issues of limb delamination

Best Uses for the Ravin R29

Let us now look at the circumstances where the R29 will prove to be the ultimate crossbow: 

  • Hunting

The R29 comes fresh out the box shredding the 400+ fps mark. Even though the assembly is specially crafted for compactness, it doesn't impact the instrument’s precision or power. Hence, with the crossbow delivering arrows at 430 fps, the bow is here to display impeccable downrange accuracy. All these features make this perfect for small and big-game hunting. 

  • Practicing

The crossbow also comes quite handy if you want to practice proper shooting techniques owing to the HeliCoil technology and Versa Draw Cocking system. 

Components and Included Accessories 

With the Ravin R29, you’ll be able to enjoy the following unique components and accessories:

  1. Illuminated scope for up to 100 yards

  2. Built-in Cocking Mechanism for easy cocking and de-cocking through a fully integrated and ambidextrous system

  3. Anti-Dry Fire to ensure auto-safety of the hunter

  4. HeliCoil Technology delivers accuracy, speed as well as power

  5. Built-in Sling Mounts

  6. Quiver + Mounting Bracket for easy accessibility

  7. Removable Draw Handle

  8. 6 Ravin .003 Arrows + Field Tips

What Ages and Skill Levels is the Ravin R29 Suitable For?

The Ravin R29 is a fine choice for beginners and experts alike. The advanced features embedded into the core assembly make sure that it remains user-friendly regardless of experience. Moreover, since the product certifies auto-safety all while delivering superior performance, it’s safe to say that it is well-suited for all age levels above 18 years. 

Product Specs

Bow Weight:

6.75 lbs

Draw Weight:

270 lbs

Length:

29"

Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):

164

Power Stroke:

12.5"

Speed (fps):

Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:

430

6"

5. Ravin Crossbows R15

PROS

  • Comes fully assembled straight out of the box, ready to go
  • Powerful and unmatched accuracy on every shot guaranteed
  • Utilizes the most advanced technology, such as Helicoil Technology, etc
  • Advanced cocking and docking mechanism integrated into the crossbow
  • Beautiful compact design is lightweight and delivers extreme speeds up to 425fps

CONS

  • No alternative to the noisy cocking mechanism and the foregrip is quite shallow and narrow

Best Uses for the Ravin R15

A Ravin R15 will be best suited for the following practices:

  • Hunting

The Ravin R15 was built for one main purpose in mind, and that is to hunt. With such powerful and fast numbers, it was made to take down strong and large games without breaking a sweat. At 425fps and 160 foot-pounds of power, it is enough to pierce and shatter bones.

  • Target Practicing

The Ravin R15 is also a great crossbow to learn and perfect your shooting. With Helicoil technology enhancing the accuracy, you can be sure that your target practice will be a fun experience. Therefore, this is not only a great hunting crossbow but also an amazing sports crossbow.

Components and Included Accessories 

The Ravin R15, like most other Ravin crossbows, comes with a set of amazing accessories. Some of the components integrated into the R15 and the included accessories are:

  1. Safety and Cocking Mechanism, including Anti-Dry Fire, Auto-Safety, and audible clicks and locks to keep you as safe as possible. It requires minimum human effort, making it much safer. VersaDraw cocking system with Trac-Trigger firing system and much more.

  2. 100 yard illuminated scope, which is a great quality scope packed with features of its own, from great optics, coated lenses, colored illuminated dots, and lens cap for protection to being a shock, recoil, fog, and waterproof. It is also adjustable from 20-100 yards and between different speeds of 300-400 fps.

  3. 6 Ravin bolts with Ravin nocks; branded arrows that work with this crossbow. They are of decent accuracy and quality build.

  4. Ravin Quiver/Mounting Bracket that makes your arrows much more accessible, making your life easier when standing in the tree stand, for instance.

  5. Versa-Draw Cocking Handle, featuring a magnetized handle, making it easier to attach and use. 

  6. 6 Field Points

What Ages and Skill Levels is the R15 Suitable For?

Like most Ravin crossbows, the versatility of the product is vast. Whether you are buying it to learn using targets or going to be out hunting, you can’t go wrong with the R15. It is easy enough for a young beginner to get started on. But it features advanced technology and features for veteran experts to enjoy using their skills upon. Therefore, this crossbow can’t be pinned down to a specific segment as it is versatile enough to adapt to your every need.

Product Specs

Bow Weight:

6.9 lbs

Draw Weight:

195 lbs

Length:

34.5"

Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):

160

Power Stroke:

13"

Speed (fps):

Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:

425

6"

Types of Bows From Ravin 

Ravin only fabricates different models of crossbows. These come with innovative technologies like HeliCoil, Anti-Dry Fire, Trac-Trigger Firing system, Frictionless Flight system, and Versa-Draw cocking system, which are the common denominator for all items. 

Every product, in addition, surpasses the 400+ fps mark. On the other hand, each item that is offered showcases a unique build and finish, making each one unique yet identical. The models manufactured by the company include R29X, R29, R26, R20, R10, and R15.

Other Archery Equipment Made By Ravin 

Apart from making high-quality crossbows, the company also manufactures archery equipment compatible with its products to enhance and upgrade the overall hunting experience. These include:

  • Ravin Arrow Replacement Nocks

  • Ravin Draw Handles

  • Ravin Hard Cases
  • Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mounts

  • Ravin Arrows

  • Ravin Lighted Nock Extinguishers

  • Ravin Replacement Rests

  • Ravin Replacement Turret Caps

  • Ravin Rise Levels

  • Serving And String Fluids

  • Ravin Shoulder Slings

  • Ravin Soft Cases

  • String And Cable Sets

  • Vibration Dampers

  • Ravin Vortex Scopes

  • Ravin Scope Level and Scope Rings

Ravin Crossbow vs. TenPoint - Comparison Overview 

Both Ravin and TenPoint are renowned companies in the crossbow industry. Considering the competitive force that surrounds them, here’s a comparison between the two for easier analysis.

Weight

In terms of weight, options from Ravin are lighter and also offer a better grip. The products from Tenpoint are bulkier, but that also makes them more solid. 

Scope

While the scope offered by both companies is kind of identical, the one from Ravin proves to be a little more clear in this regard.

Assembly

Many find that Ravin crossbows are designed such that the arrows come in the way as the quiver runs parallel to the bow itself. On the other hand, other users also happen to report that the trigger pull system on the Tenpoint was not as good as that of Ravin’s but seemed to like the fact that the arrow was on the rail and not reliant on the rest. 

Warranty

New Ravin crossbows are covered under a five-year limited warranty plan since the date of purchase. The warranty covers defected materials and workmanship to the stock, trigger, cocking mechanism, and limb assembly. The liability extends to parts, labor, and return transportation to the customer. 

TenPoint, on the other hand, claims to cover its crossbows against defective materials and workmanship for a lifetime. However, bow limbs, scope, and cocking devices are covered under a limited warranty plan, which goes on for five years from the date of purchase. The string and cables are not covered under any warranty.

How to Load a Ravin Crossbow 

Looking for the proper and safe way to load a Ravin crossbow? Read on:

  1. The very first thing to keep in mind is to never place your hand in the path of the bowstring. Furthermore, when you’re loading an arrow, always keep your hand forward of the string stops.

  2. Once these considerations are taken care of, grasp the arrow directly behind the field tip or the broadhead.

  3. Next, insert the nock end of the arrow under the riser archway and into the center of the TTFS assembly until the Ravin clip-on nock clips to the bowstring.

  4. Once this is done, you should hear an audible click.

  5. Now, center the forward end of the arrow on the arrow rest at the front of the crossbow.

  6. Your crossbow is now fully loaded and ready to fire!

For a visual and more elaborate tutorial on what we just explained, refer to the following video.

How to Unload a Ravin Crossbow

In order to properly unload your Ravin crossbow, refer to the following procedure:

  1. Point your crossbow in a safe direction.

  2. Visually confirm that the safety is in the safe position. You can confirm this by checking the white dot, which will be visible if the setting is in a safe position.

  3. Also, note that you should never place your hand in the path of the bowstring.

  4. Always keep your hand in front of the string stops.

  5. Next, grasp your arrow directly behind the tip and pull it upward until the Ravin clip-on nock disengages from the bowstring and clears the archway bracket.

  6. Your crossbow is now unloaded.

Conclusion 

With such strong features and additional gear, Ravin crossbows are here to leave a mark! What we like most about the company is that it has stayed true to its claims. Whether it’s in terms of accuracy, the precision of shot, distance, speed, or maneuverability, the crossbows have made a powerful impression. No wonder the company’s so acclaimed because we can’t think otherwise as well!

People Also Ask

Finally, feel free to go through our Q&A guide if there are any more questions in your mind. 

Are Ravin Crossbows Worth the Money?

We would say the Ravin crossbows are definitely worth the money. All designs feature innovative and reliable technologies, including HeliCoil, Anti-Dry Fire, Cocking mechanisms, Friction Less flight system, etc. Moreover, they’re quiet, accurate, easier to carry and maneuver as well as uncock. So we can’t think of any reason why not to invest in one!

How Good Are Ravin Crossbows?

Ravin crossbows are exceptional when it comes to arrow speed. All models break the 400+ fps mark. In addition, power strokes are first-class. They arrive fully assembled and pre-tuned right out of the box and also include additional gear. 

The technologies incorporated into each model are also top-notch. So to sum it up, they're great for all kinds of hunting activities and for a multitude of experience levels. 

How Far Can a Ravin Crossbow Shoot?

Ravin crossbows can shoot with extreme accuracy and precision for up to 100 yards. 

Which Broadheads Are Recommended For Ravin Crossbows?

In terms of broadheads, you’ll need one that is strong and sturdy. It has to be tough enough to withstand pressure conditions. For this matter, we think a broadhead constructed from steel would be ideal. 

Next, it should have exceptional cutting power to penetrate through the prey’s body. Blades should be of high quality, and steel should be stainless to corroborate longevity. While we think this is a subjective matter, our recommendation would be the Muzzy Trocar HBX Crossbow Archery Arrow Hybrid Broadhead.

How Long Can I Leave My Ravin Crossbow Cocked?

You can leave your Ravin crossbow cocked for up to eight hours. For safety reasons, don’t keep it cocked for longer than that. 

How to Replace Crossbow Ravin String

The best thing we would recommend here is to look at your user manual for your specific model and follow the procedures mentioned. Each crossbow is different, so it’s necessary to handle each one according to what’s stated by the manufacturer. 

How to Shoot a Ravin Crossbow

Once your crossbow has been loaded, it’s now time to actually shoot. Go through the following steps so you can shoot in an accurate and safe manner:

  1. First of all, you will have to slide the orange button on the side from the fire to the safety position, if not done already.

  2. Point the bow in a safe direction and uncock it without removing the arrow.

  3. Once it is fully uncocked, remove the arrow and begin the cocking sequence again.

  4. Fully engage the Ravin clip-on nock with the bowstring.

  5. You should be able to hear an audible click.

  6. Now you can return the button position from safety to fire and attempt to fire.

  7. You should be all set!

What is the Difference Between the Ravin Predator R9 And R15 Crossbows?

The difference between the two lies in the launch speed. Other than that, the whole set up is identical. The difference in launch speed occurs due to the new limb design incorporated in the R15, altering the kinetic energy and speed as a result. Hence, the K.E of the R15 is 164 ft-lbs, while that of R9 is 135 ft-lbs. The cocking draw weight is 12 lbs for the former and 10 lbs for the latter. The speed of R15 is 425 fps, while the speed of R9 is 390 fps.



My name is Caleb and I am obsessed with hunting, fishing, and foraging. To be successful, you have to think like your prey. You have to get into the mind of your target - and understand Big Game Logic. If you have any questions, or just want chat about your latest hunting score or big catch, you can reach me at admin@biggamelogic.com. Read more about Big Game Logic.