As crossbows rise in popularity, so does the need to acknowledge the growing number of women, of all ages, that use them or want to start doing so, by having options that cater to them.
For that reason, manufacturers have started to release models that market more toward ladies in their design, whether for hunting, sports, or just recreational use, there are many choices to choose from and picking the right one is no easy task.
We have some of the best crossbows for women listed here, along with some important information for choosing the best one.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Crossbows For Women
- OUR TOP PICK: Barnett 78128 Whitetail Hunter II
- BEST FOR BEGINNERS: CenterPoint Sniper 370
- BEST LIGHTWEIGHT CROSSBOW FOR WOMEN: CenterPoint AXCS185CK Sniper
Comparison of the Best Crossbows For Women
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How Do Crossbows For Women Compare to Ones For Men
Models marketed explicitly towards women tend to have specific features in terms of design and style. These types of weapons are usually lighter and relatively easy to carry around. These properties are not exclusive to this type of model, as they better accommodate the needs of particular needs in certain groups of people, in this case, ladies.
In reality, though, crossbows are usually designed by men and for men, so the fact that now we have a broad baseline of these products designed for women is excellent. They may be lighter and more compact, but they still pack a punch and are just as useful as other models around.
What to Look For in a Crossbow
Be sure to keep these things in mind when reading through this review:
Weight
If you plan to carry a device for an extended time, then it is easier to use a lighter and more compact model to avoid fatigue.
Draw Weight
The heavier it is to pull the string on the weapon, the more power it carries due to the force applied to the arrow. However, this directly affects accuracy, so it is better to look for a balance to get some pressure off your arms and shoulders and still be able to fire with precision.
Velocity
The faster the bow, the sooner and harder it hits. The velocity is calculated FPS, or feet per second. In the U.S. some state laws prohibit crossbows that go beyond a certain threshold, arguing that it makes them too lethal. Depending on your location, you should find out how it is regulated.
Cost
Crossbows come in a broad range of prices, but that doesn’t necessarily determine their quality. However, If you can spare the money, then your options are more extensive and you can get the crossbow that most fully accommodates you and your task.
What Size of Crossbow Do I Need
You might think that the size of a crossbow is not a necessary feature. Well, surprisingly, all your hunting game comes down to choosing the right size. Commonly used sizes are 20-inch and 22-inches in length, but you want to look for a smaller crossbow size, also called a pistol crossbow with the shortest distance between the limb tips.
Having a smaller size will reduce the burden of weight and offers greater mobility in the woods. Larger-sized crossbows shoot like a rifle, but they can be troublesome in tight spaces. The weight of a crossbow is also an important aspect to consider.
A draw weight of around 125 lbs. is acceptable for hunting, but lighter crossbows definitely have an advantage. They are easier to carry around with lesser fatigue on arms and shoulders.
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 Crossbows For Women
The reasons you may gravitate toward different models may vary. You may be on a budget, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get a powerful device. Alternatively, you may be an expert looking for your next upgrade, or a beginner looking for the perfect model to get into the sport for the first time. Nonetheless, here is a list that covers all of those bases so you can pick the best option.
Best Overall:
Barnett 78128 Whitetail Hunter II
PROS
CONS
This crossbow positively breaks the quality and price range scale. It is a robust choice that comes with 350 FPS and 150 lbs. of draw weight, which means it can take down a target pretty quickly and accurately. It's also as compact and lightweight as more expensive models, with an overall weight of 6.4lbs. This makes crossing long distances easy and quick.
Another noticeable feature is its anti-dry-fire trigger system. Dry firing is in reference to any instance in which a crossbow is shot without an arrow loaded in it, which ends up applying extensive amounts of force, causing considerable damage and possibly causing injury. It also comes with string-based cocking assist, so it loads arrows faster than other models and makes this less fatiguing for the user.
Sadly, the scope does not offer the customization that some experienced users may seek, so you might want an upgraded model, adding extra value to its base price.
Bottom Line
Excellent quality for an affordable price makes this a great option not only for beginners but for experienced users. If you can overlook the issues with the scope, and desire a sturdy, accurate and lightweight model, this is a great all-around choice.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
6 lbs
Draw Weight:
160 lbs
Length:
34.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
103
Power Stroke:
12.5"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
350
16.125"
Best for Beginners:
CenterPoint Sniper 370
PROS
CONS
This is another affordable choice that has an impressive velocity of 370 FPS and a draw weight of 180 lbs., making it extremely accurate for distances as long as 30 to 35 yards. Thankfully, the crossbow comes with a string cocking device, otherwise loading it could be quite an endeavor.
There are more lightweight and compact models on the list but it’s 7.9 lbs., it shouldn’t be a problem to carry around. It brings a much needed anti-dry-fire system, since firing this crossbow, even more so than others, without a loaded arrow, would be a terrible idea both for the integrity of the device and for you.
It is customizable, as it comes with an adjustable buttstock and interchangeable foregrip. Because of this, the model is perfect for beginners, since you don’t have to adapt to it but rather the other way around. Its affordable price is appealing for those that seek accuracy, low weight, and power.
Bottom Line
If it’s accuracy and force you desire in your starter tool, at an affordable price, then look no further. This option includes many features and it's adaptable to your liking. It might not be as lightweight, but it can still be operated with relative ease.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
185 lbs
Length:
36.5"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
110
Power Stroke:
13.5"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
370
18"
Best Lightweight Crossbow for Women:
CenterPoint AXCS185CK Sniper
PROS
CONS
Users say that it works wonders on the hunting grounds with perfected aims each time. With a solid, well- finished, metallic and light framework, this crossbow is maneuverable and doesn’t tire your arms even after carrying it around for long hours.
Being capable of 370 fps is a surprise, but this bow delivers what it says. In terms of performance, it exceeds others with power, speed, and precision. Moreover, it cocks easily with a shoulder fit, giving you stability for accurate aims.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Products always face a clash in terms of price and performance, but this crossbow has everything you need to step up your hunting game in a single package. With such an inexpensive purchase, you’ll be getting impressive aims because it is deadly accurate.
The bow shoots with immense power and precision to take down any big animal on your next hunt. Also, the string suppressors keep noise and vibration limited, so that’s a major plus point.
Bottom Line
Overall, this has been designed in such a way that it’s the perfect weapon to use by women. Being lightweight, user-friendly, and delivering precision, it proves its functionality in the hunting world. It is compatible for use by everyone owing to the safety features and anti-dry fire trigger, and it will certainly awe you!
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
185 lbs
Length:
36.5"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
110
Power Stroke:
13.5"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
370
18"
4. Wicked Ridge by TenPoint
PROS
CONS
Designed specifically for small-framed and young users, this crossbow offers a good correlation between weight and force. It has an integrated cocking mechanism that reduces the draw weight of 150 pounds by 50%, making shooting a faster and more manageable task. It is remarkably user-friendly which also makes it a good alternative for beginners.
When it comes to speed, it offers 300 FPS, which means it's not the fastest choice but is still fairly accurate and quick. It has an overall weight of 8.2 lbs., which is not as light as other options listed here, but it's still a reasonably manageable and easy model to carry around. More experienced users may have concerns about the noise levels the strings make when fired, which could be a turn-off to some people that want a more stealthy approach to a task.
Something that can’t be overlooked is the camo, which is an excellent and stylish addition that will appeal to ladies. Users that may desire to use it for hunting purposes instead of for recreation shouldn’t worry about the color being too noticeable since deer and many other game animals are colorblind.
Bottom Line
This crossbow is a perfect option for people of all ages, given it’s easy to operate features, which not only make it a great beginner product but also appeals to experienced users that desire the capabilities of a lightweight and powerful tool.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
5.9 lbs
Draw Weight:
150 lbs
Length:
33.9"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
85
Power Stroke:
10.875"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
330
16"
5. Barnett Recruit Terrain Crossbow
PROS
CONS
This crossbow is the second Barnett product on the list, and that’s because the reputation of their products speaks for itself, usually offering excellent quality and high performance.
This particular model comes almost completely assembled and ready to use. Cost doesn’t always translate into quality, however, this model is an exception. It's delivered with some welcome features like an anti-dry-fire system, which prevents unwanted dry shots. It has a rope cocking device for more efficient loading.
Even though it fires at 330 FPS, which is pretty good, it has the lowest draw weight on the list with only 140 lbs., which is not as high as some people might expect. The lower draw weight can result in a loss of accuracy with distance.
Nonetheless, for small-framed users, this is a solid choice. An adjustable buttstock allows you to personalize it to your liking. It’s also really compact being 16.125-inches from axle to axle, so moving around different areas with it is easy and comfortable.
Bottom Line
This model is an excellent device for people on a tight budget. The Barnett Recruit offers plenty of features that compare to models on a higher value scale. It can even take down massive game, but it has a couple of disadvantages like the accuracy loss.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
6.4 lbs
Draw Weight:
130 lbs
Length:
34.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
91.9
Power Stroke:
12.5"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
330
16"
Best For More Experienced Users:
Barnett TS390 Tactical Series Crossbow
PROS
CONS
Last but not least, this is the most potent tool on the list. The 390 FPS and 187 lbs. of draw weight of this crossbow, speaks for itself. Thankfully, it comes with a string-based cocking device. With this machine, you can easily hit targets at 60 yards with a 2-inch margin.
Concerning features, you can expect a lot. It has an adjustable buttstock for a user that wants some degree of personalization. At 16.75 inches from axle to axle, it is relatively compact. The power warrants finger safety reminders to avoid accidents when firing. It features the coveted anti-dry-fire trigger and has string dampeners for people that favor stealth.
It is important to wax the strings every other shot to keep them from wearing out too fast. However, it is not as lightweight as the other products. This option suits experienced users better, given the extensive display of features and power.
Bottom Line
Being at the top of its category, this versatile alternative comes equipped with enough features to make it uniquely yours. The downside, however, is that because of this very reason, it is not as lightweight as the rest of the options, so a user may have to sacrifice some agility for effectiveness.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.6 lbs
Draw Weight:
187 lbs
Length:
36.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
128
Power Stroke:
14.25"
Speed (fps):
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
390
16.75"
Benefits of Investing in a Great Crossbow
Here are the main perks of picking up one of these great models:
Getting Around
The right device can make moving around easier since it’s harder to get tangled with branches, bushes, and general fauna. A portable choice can help you cover longer distances in less time, also saving you the added fatigue that results from carrying heavy gear. The durability of your crossbow also improves when it is less likely to bump into things.
Effectiveness
The primary purpose of this tool is to hit the target, so investing in a good weapon makes this a more practical task. If you’re hunting, not only do you want an alternative with added velocity and power for hitting targets at a long distance, but also one that kills game more effectively and humanely. With the right tool, this becomes easier.
Suited For You
At the end of the day, the perfect model for a woman is the one she feels comfortable with, and given the degree of personalization that these options bring to the table, it is easy to find an alternative that is reliable and that you feel comfortable carrying around.
Conclusion
A woman who is trying to choose the right tool has many points to think about before making a purchase. As explained, some choices are more versatile for experienced users than beginners. People on a budget do not necessarily have to end up with a low-end product. The good thing is that manufacturers are releasing new alternatives every day that cater to ladies of all ages who want to have a go with this classic and deadly device.
People Also Ask
As the internet overflows with tons of information, it can become quite overwhelming and confuse you as to what to trust and what not to. We fully research our information to make sure that we come up with reliable answers that clear all sorts of confusion in your mind. Have a look at some commonly asked questions.
How Can Women Cock a Crossbow Easily?
Cocking a crossbow might be the hardest part of shooting, especially since it requires a lot of effort and strength. You should look for a product that is easy to cock, minimizing the load on the back. An easy method for cocking is to sit on the ground with your feet on the riser, and it becomes easier to cock it leaning on your back.
While cocking with your bare hands is hard to pull back, you can always opt for rope cocking or integrated rope cocking devices to take off half the load. Cranking devices are a great help to relieve 90% of the cocking weight.
What is the Draw Weight on Crossbow For Women?
Draw weight is the amount of strength needed to draw the crossbow back in its cocked position. This determines the speed and energy with which the arrow can fly. The overall range for draw weight ranges from 75-125 pounds, but for women, anything with 150-165 lbs. will get the job done without causing arm fatigue.
Based on your hunting style, you need to find the perfect balance of arrow speed and draw weight because it’s pointless to have a crossbow you can’t cock.
