Crossbow hunting continues to grow in popularity among women seeking an accurate, easy-to-use hunting weapon. But with so many crossbow options on the market, it can be tricky to find one specifically suited for women’s strength, stature and needs.
In this guide, we review the top-rated crossbows for women in 2023. We evaluated draw weight, physical size, noise level, safety features and accuracy to select the best women’s crossbows for beginners and seasoned hunters. Whether heading out for deer, turkey or target shooting, we have a recommendation for you. Read on for our picks of the 10 best crossbows for women, and gain confidence in taking your hunting skills to the next level.
BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
The BARNETT Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow is a high-performance compound crossbow designed for hunting. It comes in RealTree Extra color and includes a complete hunting accessory package. The crossbow is lightweight, ultra-compact, and can shoot at a speed of 350 feet per second.
The Whitetail Hunter II features several distinguishing accessories. The Talon Sling, adjustable from 32 to 40 inches, fits any crossbow, ensuring comfort and silence during hunting. The lube wax, recommended for use after every five shots, helps maintain the efficiency of the crossbow. The arrow and safety head combo is designed explicitly for unloading crossbows, featuring a unique impact-breaking system on the safety arrowhead. The ultra-compact monopod integrates directly into the fold-down vertical grip, providing stability and maneuverability.
The crossbow also comes with Barnett’s revolutionary small-diameter arrows made specifically for their Hyper series crossbows. These arrows combine power with precision for perfect shots. The Whitetail Hunter II includes safety features like the Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, and TriggerTech 3lb zero creep Frictionless Release Technology.
The package includes two Headhunter 20″ Arrows, a Multi-Reticle Scope 4X32mm, a Rope Cocking Device, a Lightweight Side Mount Quiver, and Lubrication Wax. The crossbow ships are mostly assembled, making it easy for users to set up.
The Whitetail Hunter II has received positive reviews from users, who have praised its accuracy, compactness, and performance. Some users have reported issues with the scope and quiver, but these were not considered deal-breakers. The crossbow is priced at $340.00, making it an affordable option for beginners and experienced hunters.
TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow, TrueTimber Viper
The TenPoint Titan M1 Crossbow, TrueTimber Viper, is a top-selling crossbow known for its value and performance. It is compact, measuring 9” wide, and can shoot up to 370 feet per second with remarkable accuracy. The Titan M1 is powered by VX-5 inverted cams that extend the power stroke and increase rotation, delivering lethal accuracy with each shot.
The crossbow is also designed for ease of use and comfort. It weighs just 6.4 lbs, making it one of the lightest and easiest-to-handle crossbows in the TenPoint range. The stock features an optimal comb height, an adjustable butt plate, and strategically placed cutouts that reduce weight and improve balance.
The Titan M1 has a built-in ACUdraw crank cocking device that reduces the force required to cock the crossbow to just 5 pounds, making it suitable for users of all ages. The package includes a Lighted 3x Pro-View Scope, three Pro Elite 400 carbon arrows with 100-grain practice points, and a 3-Arrow Instant Detach Quiver.
The Titan M1 is a revamped version of TenPoint’s best-selling model, now 9.5 inches narrower and 30 feet-per-second faster than its predecessor. It is available with or without the ACUdraw cocking device. The package includes a TenPoint Blazer soft case for protection and transportation, a Gritr Microfiber cloth, a TenPoint Neoprene Crossbow Sling, and a Ten Point Bednar Perfect Arrow Puller.
All TenPoint crossbows are designed and built in America, ensuring quality and supporting American jobs. The brand is known for producing high-quality, accurate, and safe crossbows. The Titan M1 is no exception, offering fast, accurate, and durable performance in a compact, easy-to-handle design.
TenPoint Nitro 505 Oracle X Crossbow – 505 FPS – Equipped
The TenPoint Nitro 505 Crossbow is a high-performance, top-of-the-line crossbow boasts an impressive 505 feet per second speed. This makes it the fastest and most potent crossbow on the market. The Nitro 505 is equipped with a 100-yard EVO-X Marksman Elite Scope, which includes a customized reticle and external target turrets for easy adjustment to windage and elevation, ensuring accurate shooting up to 100 yards.
The crossbow also features new Scope Struts and a longer dovetail, which increase strength by 80%, providing a rock-solid foundation for the scope and delivering long-range accuracy and in-the-field durability. The Nitro 505 has undergone rigorous testing, with over 25,000 test shots fired, demonstrating its robustness and reliability.
One of the standout features of the Nitro 505 is the ACUslide Cocking & De-Cocking System. This system allows for silent cocking and safe de-cocking of the crossbow, reducing the risk of injury, damage, or loss of control. The MICRO-TRAC barrel reduces string-to-barrel contact by 50%, providing the most extended string life in the industry and surpassing “rail-less” crossbows by hundreds of shots.
The Nitro 505 has six Evo-X CenterPunch Premium Carbon Crossbow Arrows and a 6-Arrow Tech Quiver. It’s important to note that this crossbow often achieves higher speeds than the typical minimum of 505 fps, with some hitting up to 529 fps. This crossbow can produce more energy at 70 yards than its leading competitor at point-blank range.
However, potential buyers should know that over-penetration can be an issue due to the crossbow’s high power. Proper assembly and care are crucial, especially considering the investment size. Also, users may need to consider a adequate target that can handle the crossbow’s energy and select only the proper broadheads that can withstand the energy.
Despite some reported issues with the cocking mechanism and loop breaking after a few uses, many users have praised the Nitro 505’s speed, accuracy, and reliability. Purchasing through a pro shop is recommended for proper assembly and guidance.
PSE ARCHERY Fang HD Crossbow Package
The PSE ARCHERY Fang HD Crossbow Package is a high-quality, carbon-made crossbow designed for right-handed users. Weighing 7.3 pounds, it has an archery draw weight of 205 pounds and comes with a single item in the package. The package dimensions are 31.2 x 11.4 x 5.6 inches, while the item dimensions are 32.5 x 5.75 x 11 inches.
The crossbow package includes a 5 Bolt Quiver, an adjustable buttstock, and dual string stops. It can shoot up to 405 FPS, making it a fast and accurate choice for hunting or target practice. The package also includes a high-quality scope adjustable to the arrow’s speed, a unique feature not commonly found in other crossbows. This scope can be adjusted for accuracy at all 20 to 100 yards.
The crossbow is lighter than many others, providing a balanced and stable shooting experience. The forward grip is well-positioned for a comfortable hand position, and the adjustable butt stock adds to the overall comfort and usability of the crossbow.
However, there are some downsides to this product. The package does not have instructions, which could be a problem for those new to assembling crossbows. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with the packaging, stating that the components were not securely packaged and were free to move around in the box, causing potential damage to the items. Some customers also reported missing bolts upon delivery.
Despite these issues, the PSE ARCHERY Fang HD Crossbow Package is generally well-received by customers, with many praising its speed, accuracy, and value for money. However, some customers have reported problems with the limbs splitting after a short period of use, so potential buyers should be aware of this possible issue.
TenPoint Viper S400 Crossbow – 400 FPS
The TenPoint Viper S400 is a crossbow that shoots bolts at 400 feet per second. The crossbow has a simple setup and is easy to see, producing tight bolt groupings at 50 yards. However, some issues were noted with the crossbow. The original product did not have all the parts needed to attach the included quiver. Additionally, one of the bolt nocks broke off after only three shots. The crossbow’s noise level may not be as quiet as the Ravin R10 crossbow.
The reviewer tried contacting TenPoint’s customer service for missing parts and had difficulties getting someone by phone. Only after posting a negative review online did TenPoint attempt to contact the reviewer. TenPoint said they would send the missing parts, which took over 6 weeks. The quiver mounting system was described as “idiotic.” The TenPoint bolt nocks frequently fly off, and the fletchings come off easily.
In comparison, the reviewer’s wife’s Ravin R10 crossbow has continued performing well. The reviewer states that, in hindsight, they would have chosen the Ravin R10 over the TenPoint Viper S400 due to the issues experienced.
Ravin R10 Ultimate 400fps. Crossbow Package – Predator Camo
The Ravin R10 Ultimate is a high-performance crossbow package for severe hunters and target shooters. This custom package from Ravin Crossbows includes the R10 crossbow in a Predator Camo finish made from aluminum. It has an ultra-narrow 6″ width when cocked and shoots 400 FPS with 142 ft-lbs of kinetic energy, using the included 400-grain arrows.
The package contains the crossbow, a variable illuminated 100-yard Ravin scope, 12 Ravin arrows including 3 illuminated arrows, a Lumenok arrow puller, 3 mechanical broadheads, vibration dampeners, serving fluid, shoulder sling, padded case, cocking handle, quiver mount, 3-arrow quiver, field points, owners manual, and decals.
Key features of the R10 crossbow itself include an 11″ power stroke, 12 lb draw weight, 10.5″ width uncocked, 33″ length, and 6.8 lb weight. This ambidextrous, lightweight, and compact crossbow is designed for speed, power, and accuracy at long ranges.
The included accessories, such as the illuminated scope, arrows, broadheads, case, and cocking device, make this a complete ready-to-shoot package for hunters and target shooters looking for a high-performance, customizable predator camo crossbow straight out of the box.
Excalibur Assassin 400 TD Crossbow – Multiple Colors
The Excalibur Assassin 400 TD Crossbow is a high-quality, durable, and adjustable hunting archery crossbow. It comes in multiple colors, including Realtree Edge and Timber Strata. The model name for this product is E74199, manufactured by the brand EXCALIBUR CROSSBOW.
This crossbow is designed to be accurate and practical, featuring a new pro-shot two-stage trigger system that ensures a light pull weight along with a crisp, clean, and consistent break. This design enhances the user’s accuracy. The crossbow also includes a fully adjustable Tru-Fit Stock, allowing every archer to achieve the perfect fit quickly. The Integrated Charger Crank and S.D.S Silencing system are incorporated to reduce noise and enhance safety.
The Excalibur Assassin 400 TD Crossbow also features a TACT-100 SCOPE, an illuminated multiplex crosshair system that adjusts from 10 yards to 100 yards and has an adjustable reticle for 300 to 451 fps velocities. This makes it ideal for hunting, target shooting, or long-range practice. The High-Output Express Limbs of the crossbow are made from 101% uncut continuous fibers, providing maximum energy and extreme durability.
The crossbow is easy to use, thanks to its unique Quick-Loc Technology that allows it to be disassembled and reassembled in seconds. This feature makes it convenient for transport and storage. The package includes a soft case, 4 bolts with target points, a scope, and a quiver.
Despite its high price point, the Excalibur Assassin 400 TD Crossbow has received positive reviews for its performance and durability. Users have praised its ease of assembly and use and the support provided by Excalibur’s customer service. However, some users have reported issues with the slide and screws, which the company’s tech support resolved.
In summary, the Excalibur Assassin 400 TD Crossbow is a reliable, high-performance hunting tool with accuracy, adjustability, and durability. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced archers.
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 – 400 FPS – Reverse-Draw Design
The Wicked Ridge RDX 400 is a reverse-draw crossbow that can achieve speeds up to 400 FPS. It features TenPoint’s patented reverse-draw technology, which provides a smoother and more powerful shot than traditional crossbow designs, requiring less draw weight.
The RDX 400 comes equipped with TenPoint’s 3x Multi-Line Scope, which has fully coated optics and 3 duplex crosshairs calibrated for 20, 30, and 40 yards, plus a partial line for 50 yards. It also includes scope mounting rings. For safety, the RDX 400 has integrated safety wings to keep the shooter’s fingers below the flight deck and a trigger guard. It also features a Dry-Fire Inhibitor and a 3.5-pound trigger.
Included with the crossbow is the ACUdraw PRO silent cocking device, which allows the user to cock the bow with only 8.5 lbs of force. It also comes with 3 XX75 arrows and a 3-arrow quiver.
Reviews mention the RDX 400 provides good value for a mid-range priced crossbow, balancing speed, accuracy, quietness and balance well. Some issues mentioned are the poor quality of the string and cables, the poor alpha nock design, and an unsatisfactory trigger. Instructions for assembly are also noted to be unclear by some users. According to reviews, when correctly set up and maintained, the RDX 400 provides good performance for hunting within its price range.
CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 Camo- Crossbow Package
The CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper 380 is a crossbow package designed for hunting. This right-handed crossbow has a draw weight of 185 lbs and generates kinetic energy of 120 ft-lbs, making it a robust option capable of taking down large games. The Tormentor Whisper 380 features CenterPoint’s Whisper Silencing System, which includes string dampeners, limb dampeners, and rubber string stoppers to reduce noise and vibration.
This makes it one of the quietest crossbows available. When cocked, it has a narrow axle-to-axle width of 14 inches for easy maneuverability. The stock is made of a lightweight composite material and has rubber grip pads for comfort. The riser is aluminum for durability. The package includes a 4×32 multi-reticle scope, three 20” carbon bolts, a rope cocker, and a 4-arrow quiver.
However, reviews note both the scope and accessories are lower quality and recommend upgrading them. Assembly is reported to be easy. Accuracy and speed are excellent, with multiple reviews mentioning complete pass-through shots on deer. The crossbow requires regular maintenance, like lubricating the rail and waxing the string. Overall, it provides high performance and hunting power at a budget-friendly price, making it a top choice for hunters looking for quality on a budget.
Barnett Archery Hyper XP 405 Crossbow
The Barnett Hyper XP 405 is a high-performance hunting and target-shooting crossbow. Barnett, a leading brand in archery equipment, manufactures it. This crossbow has a draw weight of 213 pounds and can shoot arrows at speeds up to 405 feet per second.
The Hyper XP 405 features Barnett’s proprietary Hyperflite arrow system, lightweight 22-inch carbon arrows optimized for the crossbow. It comes packaged with two Hyperflite arrows. The crossbow is fitted with a 4x32mm illuminated scope for improved accuracy.
Additional accessories included are a rope cocking device to aid in drawing the strings and a lightweight quiver that can be mounted to the side of the stock for easy access to arrows. The crossbow weighs only 3 pounds, making it easy to handle in the field. Its compact size, 31.1 x 11.8 x 7 inches, adds to its portability.
The Hyper XP 405 is designed for right-handed shooters and has an adjustable draw length of 13.4 inches. It is available in Mossy Oak camouflage color patterns for concealment when hunting. Once assembled, the crossbow is pre-assembled and ready to shoot out of the box. It comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
The Barnett Hyper XP 405 is a high-powered, fast and accurate crossbow with accessories to enhance shooting performance. Its lightweight, compact size and included cocking device makes it easy to use for hunters and target shooters.