Whether you’re a skilled hunter or an amateur with a crossbow, buying a quality model almost always yields great results.
This is why most professional hunters opt for Horton crossbows. The reverse-draw technology of these models not only make them superior but also ensure you never miss your target.
We have compiled a list of the best Horton crossbows that you can buy. It allows you to learn about some amazing products that are worth checking out.
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Who is Horton?
Horton Crossbow Innovations is one of the leading crossbow manufacturing companies in America. Their top-quality products are well-known and something that the hunting community heavily relies on. The company halted its operations in 2013.
It was initially known as Horton Archery LLC at the time of inauguration in 1980. Later on, its rival, Tenpoint Crossbow, acquired the business under the leadership of Rick Bedar. Horton crossbows are famous for the reverse-draw technology that makes them unique and super-effective.
Now, Tenpoint Crossbow currently sells Horton products, which include the American-made Horton Vortec RDX and the Horton Storm RDX.
Why Are Horton Crossbows So Popular?
Horton crossbows have been known in the market as a premium model for quite some time. Their quality and performance are unmatched when compared to other products. The great accuracy and lightweight design of Horton crossbows made brand-loyal customers from all over the globe. Not only were these models easier to carry, but their Fury’s design made it a complete success.
Moreover, its reverse-draw technology also plays a vital part in its fame. The light trigger pull, balanced design, and the anti-dry fire mechanism further enhanced units’ performance. Horton crossbows are deadly accurate that push your arrows at a blazing speed for an instant kill.
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 Horton Crossbows
There are many different crossbows available on the market, which makes it quite difficult to choose one. Our list of the best Horton crossbows includes some of the best models that you can purchase. The following models are listed based on their reliable build quality and consistent performance.
Best Overall:
Horton Crossbow NH15001-7522 Storm RDX
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Horton Crossbow NH15001-7522 Storm RDX
Everyone admires the quality and performance that this crossbow brings to the table. However, some qualities make it perfect to use in the following situations:
Target Shooting
If you are looking for a crossbow that offers ease of use, then this is the one for you. The Horton Storm RDX comes pre-assembled from the factory that makes it readily usable. Moreover, the detailed set of instructions provided makes it ideal for target shooting.
Stalk Hunting
Any stalk hunter who loves hunting big game would prefer this model. Its enhanced draw weight shoots arrows at blazing speed. As a result, it offers higher accuracy and deeper penetration.
Components and Included Accessories
The following are the components and accessories that make this crossbow the best pick for professional hunters.
4 x 32mm Multi-reticle Scope
It features a multi-reticle scope that allows you a crystal-clear vision of your target. It is tailor-made for shooting between 20 and 50 yards.
3 x 400-grain Carbon Arrows
The Storm RDX shoots its 20” carbon arrows at an intense speed that provides high accuracy and penetration when shooting in close range.
ACUDraw Cocking Device
The ACUDraw cocking device is one of the best accessories included with the package. It allows you to easily crank a crossbow with only 5lbs of force.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Horton Crossbow NH15001-7522 Storm RDX Suitable For?
There is no doubt that the Horton Storm RDX crossbow is one of the best models ever made. It is fully equipped to meet the hunting needs of any hunter. Professional hunters usually prefer this crossbow due to its robust design. Also, its universal construction makes it a perfect choice for all ages and skills.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
8.2 lbs
Draw Weight:
165 lbs
Length:
35.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
122
Power Stroke:
16.5"
Speed (fps):
370
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
10"
Best for the Money:
Horton Brotherhood
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Horton Brotherhood
The Horton brotherhood promises advanced technology and consistent performance for hunters. At the same time, its ergonomic and user-friendly design makes it ideal for a diverse audience. The crossbow can be used for the following purposes:
Hunting
Whether you are an amateur or a professional hunter, Horton's Brotherhood is all you need for a great hunting experience. It is fully equipped to hunt big game that packs a power punch with an ergonomic and user-friendly design.
Close-Range Target Shooting
You can also use this crossbow for close-range target shooting. Its comfortable thumbhole design and integrated safety mechanisms make it a perfect fit for newbies.
Components and Included Accessories
The high-quality components and accessories provided with this crossbow make it truly remarkable. The following are some of the key components of this model:
Thumbhole Stock Design
Horton Brotherhood features an ergonomic design that consists of a thumbhole stock. It promises high comfort, which makes it feasible for all ages and skills.
Gordon Composite Limbs
The crossbow features energy-efficient cams along with high-quality Gordon Composite limbs that offer a 55% high let-off. As a result, it delivers safe and easy cocking.
MIM Talon Trigger
This model uses an advanced Talon MIM trigger that offers a dual-sided safety, unlike any other crossbow. It also promotes the Anti-Dry Fire mechanism for greater safety and peace of mind.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Horton Brotherhood Suitable For?
The amazing thing about Horton Brotherhood is the advanced technology it utilizes to satisfy diehard hunters. It couples a safe, user-friendly, and simple operation that makes it an ideal choice for first-time shooters. Moreover, its ergonomic design creates a balance between comfort and performance, which is suitable for all ages and skills.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
8.6 lbs
Draw Weight:
160 lbs
Length:
37"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
85
Power Stroke:
13.5"
Speed (fps):
300
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
21"
3. Horton Vortec RDX
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Horton Vortec RDX
The Horton Vortec RDX stamps its authority with its powerful operation and capabilities. Here are some of the uses for this crossbow:
Big Game Hunting
As a hunter, everyone likes to earn trophies and hunt large animals. If you are one of them, then the Vortec RDX is a perfect choice. Its ability to shoot high-speed arrows with great accuracy allows you to bring down the mightiest of animals.
Close-Range Hunting
This crossbow is tailor-made for close-range hunting. Shooting your target between 20 and 50 yards almost always ensures an instant kill.
Components and Included Accessories
Here are some of the components and accessories that allow this model to perform better than its rivals.
Three-Arrow Quiver
When you opt for the Vortec RDX, it comes with a three-arrow quiver. The quiver allows you to not only accommodate your arrows but also to access them easily.
Anti-dry Mechanism Safety
The crossbow comes integrated with an anti-dry mechanism safety that is designed to protect the user. It ensures to keep your fingers away from the string’s path while shooting.
ACUDraw Cocking Device
The ACUDraw cocking mechanism is found at the back of the crossbow. It helps in reducing the draw weight to as low as ten pounds of cranking pressure.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Horton Vortec RDX Suitable For?
This model is ideally designed for professional hunting. However, due to its affordable price, it is used by amateurs as well. Moreover, the compact design of the Vortec RDX allows it to be favorable for a young audience. It offers great maneuverability and convenient use when paired with its integrated safety mechanism.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
7.6 lbs
Draw Weight:
135 lbs
Length:
34.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
103
Power Stroke:
15.5"
Speed (fps):
340
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
9.125"
4. Horton Storm RDX
PROS
CONS
Best Uses For the Horton Storm RDX
The Storm RDX is one of the best models offered by Horton. Its all-round capabilities and solid performance make it a premium crossbow for hunters. This model can be used for the following purposes.
Ground Blind Hunting
Ground blind hunting is fun, especially if you own a quality bow that you can rely on. Although this hunting practice involves ambushing and surprising your target, this model makes that possible.
Close-Range Hunting
The lethal capabilities of this crossbow make it a deadly weapon at close range. Its ability to shoot high-speed arrows with high accuracy enables deeper penetration into the victim’s body. Consequently, it can be considered ideal for big-game hunting.
Components and Included Accessories
The RDX storm includes the following key components and accessories that promise great performance.
ABX BullPup Stock
The Horton Storm RDX features an adjustable BullPup stock that most crossbows don’t offer. It allows you to adjust for perfect eye-level alignment and length of pull.
4 x 32 Multi-Line Scope
The crossbow delivers a complete package to the user, with the included high-quality optics. They allow you to identify your target for a perfect shot.
Three Carbon Arrows and Quiver
The crossbow also includes three 400-grain carbon arrows that can be secured in its quiver. It enables quick access during intense action.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Horton Storm RDX Suitable For?
There is no doubt that Horton Storm RDX is fully equipped to meet the needs of any hunter. Whether you are hunting big game or target-shooting at close range, it is all you need. However, this model is not designed for youth. It is more suitable for professional hunters who favor a crossbow with lethal firepower.
Product Specs
Bow Weight:
8.2 lbs
Draw Weight:
165 lbs
Length:
35.25"
Kinetic Energy (ft lbs):
122
Power Stroke:
16.5"
Speed (fps):
370
Axle-to-Axle Bow Length:
10"
Types of Bows From Horton
Horton offers some of the best crossbows in the industry. Their adaptive design is backed by a handful of features that make them effective in any given situation. However, you must find the right type of crossbow for yourself.
Be mindful that Horton offers different types of crossbows that are meant for a different audience. Picking the right one will save not only your time but also your hard-earned money. In this section, we will walk you through some of the bows offered by Horton.
Horton Crossbows (Full Size)
Horton crossbows are quite popular among hunters. A vast majority of the hunting community heavily relies on the incredible quality offered by Horton products. Their crossbows are considered as one of the best available in the market.
However, professional hunters and adults usually prefer these models as they are expensive and require a certain level of expertise. Also, those who hunt for a living almost always opt for Horton crossbows due to their effective reverse-draw technology.
Horton Youth Crossbows
The good news is that Horton has never neglected the passion of young archers who like to hunt in their backyard. This is why Horton develops youth crossbows that are specifically designed for young archers. The compact design and great quality of these models promise a complete package for the young generation.
Other Archery Equipment Made By Horton
It’s not just the crossbows that make Horton famous but also the appropriate archery equipment necessary for the perfect hunting session. The company excels in developing a wide range of accessories to ensure you never miss your target.
Here are some of the archery equipment manufactured by this company.
Crossbow Bolts/Arrows
Horton develops a large variety of crossbow bolts. You can either opt for aluminum or carbon models, depending on your needs.
Crossbow Scopes
High-quality optics is another area where Horton marks its authority. Its crossbow scopes provide a crystal-clear vision of your target that provides great accuracy and precision.
Crossbow Strings
The company also excels in offering quality crossbow strings. These are tailor-made for use with Horton crossbows for the ultimate hunting experience.
Comparison Overview
You can find a wide range of crossbows available on the market. This is why it becomes quite difficult to identify the right one for yourself. However, with the following comparisons between different crossbows, you will be able to buy the perfect fit.
Horton RDX Vortec vs. Tenpoint RDX Crossbow
Horton and Tenpoint crossbows are some of the best models that you can opt for hunting. Here is a brief comparison between these two based on their similarities and differences.
Similarities
The length of these models is quite similar, which is about 34.25 inches. They are also easy to handle and offer great maneuverability.
Both models also feature a nearly identical weight. These units weigh around 7.6 pounds, which makes them lightweight and easy to balance.
Differences
The Horton Vortec RDX's draw weight is 135lbs, whereas it’s 165lbs for the Tenpoint model. As a result, the latter delivers high-speed arrows.
Moreover, the Horton crossbow uses ACUDraw, while the Tenpoint model uses Dredd Sled 50. Both these cocking aids are considered innovative and super-effective.
Horton vs. Excalibur Crossbow
Horton has been a leader in the crossbow industry; however, Excalibur models are no less. Their reliable design and build quality add to their great performance and offer comparable quality with Horton crossbows.
Similarities
Both these crossbows are fully equipped for hunting purposes. Their great accuracy and precision make them suitable for hunting.
Differences
The Excalibur crossbows pack a lethal punch with its high firepower. However, Horton crossbows surpass its rival due to its blazing arrow speed. With more than 300 FPS, the Horton crossbow offers more kinetic energy and a higher impact.
Power Stroke
Excalibur models are quite famous as compared to Horton crossbows for their compact design. Consequently, they offer a lightweight build and greater maneuverability.
Horton Reverse Draw Crossbow vs. Barnett
Barnett crossbows are one of the premium crossbows that you can opt for other than Horton models. While packed with a multitude of features, their affordable prices make them a good choice for a majority of audiences.
Similarities
Both crossbows feature a lightweight design. As a result, they are considered ideal for long hunting sessions.
Differences
Horton crossbows tend to be quite expensive, while Barnett crossbows provide comparable performance at a reasonable price.
The former is also known for its silent operation. They shoot arrows without making much noise. Meanwhile, the latter might have a high noise output while shooting.
Sighting in a Horton Crossbow
Sighting in a Horton crossbow is fairly simple due to its user-friendly design. With some guidance, you can ensure a great user experience. The following is a stepwise guide to perfectly sight in your crossbow.
- The scope that comes along with this crossbow is sighted in at 20 yards. You need to fine-tune it before it can be used for hunting.
- If the reticle is not in focus, adjust the focus by rotating the non-rocking ring on the outer edge.
- Take a shot at 20 yards. Make sure that you are hitting close to the center of the target.
- Make final adjustments at 30 yards using the centerline. If necessary, make adjustments using the windage and elevation knobs.
- Unscrew their adjustment caps and rotate the adjustment knobs in the direction indicated to make corrections.
- Keep on shooting the crossbow and make adjustments to the scope until both the aiming and impact points coincide.
- Once sighted in at 30 yards, the top line should be accurate at 20 yards. The same goes for the bottom line.
If you are still unsure of the process, refer to the video below for a complete demonstration.
How to Maintain a Horton Crossbow
It is observed that regular maintenance of your crossbow increases its lifespan. If you are passionate about archery and hunting, then this section is for you. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your crossbow operates effectively for long.
- Always make sure that your crossbow is un-cocked and unloaded before conducting any maintenance on it. Use a pair of safety glasses while servicing your crossbow.
- Thoroughly check for loose, damaged, or missing parts of your crossbow. If you notice excessive cut strands on the strings or cable, do not use your crossbow without replacing them.
- To increase the lifespan of the strings and cables, wax them properly. You can do it every 75 to 100 shots or at the start of the season. However, do not wax the string center serving.
- Regardless of the shots you fire, change your strings and cables every two to three years.
- Make sure to lubricate the crossbow rail for higher arrow speed and reduced friction. Don’t use excessive amounts of petroleum jelly that can attract other impurities. Also, don’t forget to lubricate your cams and axles.
- Keep your trigger box dry, especially if you are shooting in damp conditions.
- Also, apply wax to the drawcords before going out for hunting.
In case you are having trouble servicing your crossbow, refer to the video below for a full overview of the steps discussed above.
Conclusion
Choosing a quality crossbow from an ocean of brands and products truly becomes difficult. However, you can always count on those that feature Horton in their name. If you have a passion for archery, we recommend using Horton crossbows for the ultimate user experience. They are not only reliable, but they also offer incredible accuracy and precision.
People Also Ask
You can never go wrong if you opt for a Horton crossbow. However, certain users find it difficult to properly operate these remarkable crossbows. Below, we have listed some commonly asked questions to ensure you have a great time hunting.
How Much Does a Horton Crossbow Cost?
Horton crossbows are unmatched when it comes to sheer power and accuracy. However, their incredible performance comes at a hefty price tag. Although you can find some cheaper models, the price for these crossbows ranges between $400 and $1500.
Are Horton Crossbows Any Good?
Horton is one of the most reliable crossbow manufacturers around the globe. Many professional hunters prefer Horton products over any other model. The accuracy and precision offered by these crossbows take your hunting experience to a whole new level. Also, the integrated safety mechanisms, user-friendly, and lightweight design further add to their high quality.
Who Bought Horton Crossbows?
Horton crossbows were initially manufactured by Horton Archery LLC in 1980. However, the company filed for bankruptcy in 2013 and permanently halted its operations. At that time, a rival company Tenpoint Crossbow Technologies acquired the dying company. Since then, Tenpoint has been the sole seller of Horton crossbows.
What Size Bolts To Use For a Horton Crossbow?
Typically, bolts range in length from anywhere between 16 and 22 inches. However, the most commonly used bolts feature a length of 20 inches. You should always opt for a size that is recommended with your crossbow. You can get away with a longer bolt than recommended, but a shorter one can get caught on the crossbow rail.
How to Tighten the Limbs on a Horton Crossbow
Horton crossbows are the go-to option for many people who love a user-friendly design. The wide range of features it offers adds to the convenience of the user. You might find it difficult to tighten or lose the limbs on a conventional model. Meanwhile, Horton products allow you to do so using their self-locking limb pocket and cap system.
How to Change the Draw on a Horton Crossbow
It is important to understand and acknowledge the right draw on your Horton crossbow. Most people find it difficult when using a standard crossbow. Horton crossbows allow you the luxury to effectively change the draw using its ACUDraw system. It allows you to exert minimum pressure to crank your crossbow.
How to Change a String on a Horton Crossbow
You can conveniently change a string on your crossbow using a stringer. The stringer operates as a lightweight string. To do this, attach the string to the nock and then attach all ends of the stringer on both nocks. You can also string your Horton crossbow using a bow press.
What is the Difference Between a Horton Legend and Horton Hunter Crossbow?
Horton offers some of the best crossbows that you can purchase for hunting. Whether it’s a Horton Legend or a Horton Hunter, both are fully equipped to take on the big game. These models share similar properties and shooting capabilities. However, the Horton Legend appears to be far more user-friendly with its easy assembly.
