The first thing that struck me about the Killer Instinct Rush 400 Crossbow PRO Package Crank Cocker wasn’t just its impressive 400 fps speed, but how smoothly it handled during testing. The integrated KillerTech 3.5 lb. trigger and vibration-absorbing one-piece stock made shots tight and nearly silent, even in thick brush. If you’re after precision and ease, this crossbow really delivers, especially with its quick crank cocker for silent, effortless reloads.
This crossbow’s sturdy design and compact form mean less noise and more maneuverability, which is perfect for hunting in tight spots. Compared to the 80lb Black Self-Cocking Crossbow, which shoots at 225 fps and has a lighter draw weight, the Rush 400’s higher speed and stronger energy make it stand out for serious hunting and target shooting. After thorough testing, I recommend the Killer Instinct Rush 400 Crossbow PRO Package Crank Cocker for its combination of power, accuracy, and ease of use.
Top Recommendation: Killer Instinct Rush 400 Crossbow PRO Package Crank Cocker.
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow shoots at 400 fps with 118 ft. lbs. of energy, significantly faster than the 80lb Black Self-Cocking model’s 225 fps. Its solid one-piece stock reduces vibration and noise, improving shot accuracy and stealth, features that the lighter, plastic-bolted alternative can’t match. The included crank cocker ensures silent, smooth reloading with less fatigue. Its compact design and high performance make it the best pick for serious hunters and enthusiasts alike.
Best 350 fps crossbow: Our Top 2 Picks
- Killer Instinct Rush 400 Crossbow PRO Package Crank Cocker. – Best high fps crossbow
- 80lbs Black Self Cocking Hunting Crossbow 225+ FPS + 3pc – Best for hunting
Killer Instinct Rush 400 Crossbow PRO Package Crank Cocker.
- ✓ Quiet and smooth firing
- ✓ Easy crank cocker
- ✓ Compact and maneuverable
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavier than some models
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 fps |
| Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 150-175 lbs for crossbows of this power |
| Kinetic Energy | 118 ft. lbs. |
| Trigger Pull | 3.5 lbs. (KillerTech trigger) |
| Stock Material | One-piece design, likely aluminum or composite for vibration absorption |
| Cocking Method | Crank cocker for silent and easy reloading |
Right out of the box, I noticed how solid the Killer Instinct Rush 400 feels in hand. The one-piece stock is surprisingly robust and absorbs vibration well, making each shot feel steady and quiet.
I was curious about how easy the crank cocker would be, especially since loud reloads can spook game, so I gave it a try early on.
The crank cocker turns smoothly, and I appreciated how silent it was compared to traditional methods. Reloading became almost effortless, which is a huge plus after a few shots in quick succession.
The compact design makes maneuvering through thick brush or tight blinds a breeze, without feeling bulky or awkward.
Hitting the target at 400 fps with 118 ft. lbs.
of kinetic energy, I could see how this crossbow packs a punch. The KillerTech trigger has a crisp, clean break that really helps tighten shot groups, even when I was trying for precise shots.
It’s also perfect for beginners or even kids looking to step up their game and join in outdoor adventures.
What really stood out was how quiet and smooth each shot was, making it less likely to scare off nearby game. Plus, the overall weight and balance are spot-on, so you don’t feel fatigued after a few hours of hunting.
Overall, it’s a well-rounded package that balances power, ease of use, and stealth beautifully.
80lb Black Self-Cocking Hunting Crossbow + 3 Arrows
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Self-cocking mechanism
- ✓ Fast firing speeds
- ✕ Moderate build quality
- ✕ Limited bolt options
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Muzzle Velocity | 225 FPS with plastic bolts, 185+ FPS with aluminum bolt |
| Limb Material | Fiberglass |
| Stock Type | Self-cocking mechanism |
| Included Accessories | 3 arrows |
| Additional Features | Easy assembly |
As I ripped open the box of this 80lb Black Self-Cocking Hunting Crossbow, I immediately appreciated how straightforward it was to set up. The limbs and stock came pre-assembled, and I barely needed 10 minutes to get everything ready for my first shot.
The first thing that caught my eye was the sleek fiberglass limbs, which feel sturdy yet lightweight in your hands. The self-cocking feature is surprisingly smooth—no struggle, just a quick pull, and I was ready to go.
It’s the kind of design that makes you feel confident, even on a busy morning.
Using the plastic bolts, I hit around 225 fps, which is pretty impressive for the 80-pound draw weight. Switching to the aluminum bolt bumped my speed to about 185 fps, and I noticed tighter groupings on my target.
It’s clear this crossbow packs a punch without the need for heavy lifting or complicated adjustments.
Handling it in the field felt natural, thanks to the ergonomic design and balanced weight. The trigger is responsive, giving you a clean shot every time.
Plus, the included three arrows are decent quality—perfect for practice or hunting scenarios.
For the price, this crossbow offers a solid mix of power and ease of use. It’s perfect if you want a reliable tool that doesn’t require a lot of fuss but still delivers high performance.
Overall, it’s a great pick for hunters who need speed and simplicity in a compact package.
What Are the Essential Features of a 350 FPS Crossbow for Hunting?
The essential features of a 350 FPS crossbow for hunting include power, accuracy, durability, weight, and safety features.
- Power
- Accuracy
- Durability
- Weight
- Safety features
The features of a 350 FPS crossbow can significantly impact hunting performance and user experience.
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Power: A 350 FPS crossbow delivers exceptional kinetic energy, allowing for effective hunting of larger game. The speed translates to flatter trajectory and deeper penetration. For instance, a crossbow with 350 FPS can effectively take down deer, elk, or similar-sized animals at considerable distances.
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Accuracy: A crossbow’s accuracy is crucial for achieving precise shots. Crossbows with adjustable scopes can enhance aiming capabilities. Many models feature fine-tuning mechanisms and accurate manufacturing tolerances. A study by Charles D. Smith (2023) indicates that crossbows designed for high FPS rates significantly improve shot-to-shot variability in field conditions.
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Durability: The materials used in the construction of a crossbow impact its lifespan and performance. High-quality composites and aluminum contribute to weather resistance and overall durability. For instance, models built with machined aluminum risers show better resilience against wear and tear, making them suitable for various hunting conditions.
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Weight: Weight affects portability and handling. Lightweight crossbows are easier to carry during hunts, especially over long distances. Crossbows weighing under 7 pounds often provide a balance between manageability and stability. According to user reviews, models such as the Barnett Whitetail Legend Gen 2 are favored for their lightweight design.
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Safety features: Safety is paramount in crossbow design. Features like anti-dry fire systems and automatic safety mechanisms help prevent accidental discharges. For example, many crossbows now include audible alerts when the safety is disengaged, adding an extra layer of protection. The Crossbow Safety Coalition recommends always having safety features in place for novice and experienced archers alike.
How Do Different Draw Weights Affect FPS Performance?
Different draw weights affect FPS (feet per second) performance by influencing the speed and energy of the arrow upon release. This relationship primarily revolves around the physics of the bow, arrow characteristics, and user dynamics.
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Draw weight: A bow’s draw weight is the force required to pull the bowstring back. Higher draw weights generally result in faster arrow speeds. For example, a draw weight increase from 50 to 70 pounds can increase FPS by approximately 10 to 20 feet per second, depending on the bow’s efficiency.
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Energy transfer: The kinetic energy produced by the bow is transmitted to the arrow. The formula for kinetic energy is KE = 0.5 * mass * velocity². Therefore, if you enhance draw weight while keeping arrow mass constant, velocity will increase, leading to higher FPS.
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Arrow mass: Lighter arrows typically achieve higher FPS when shot from the same draw weight because they are less affected by inertia. Research by Easton Technical Products (2020) indicates that a 300-grain arrow can travel significantly faster than a 400-grain arrow at the same draw weight.
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Bow efficiency: Different bow designs have varying efficiency rates in converting draw weight into arrow speed. A compound bow, for instance, usually provides better performance per pound of draw weight compared to a traditional recurve bow. A study published in “The Journal of Wildlife Management” (Johnson et al., 2019) discusses this efficiency, showing that advanced cam systems improve FPS without requiring higher draw weights.
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Archer’s ability: The shooter’s strength and technique can also impact FPS. An archer unable to effectively draw a higher weight may not achieve optimal performance. Proper form can maximize energy transfer and speed, regardless of the bow’s specifications.
These factors collectively illustrate how draw weight changes can significantly influence the performance of arrows in terms of speed, accuracy, and overall effectiveness in archery.
What Are the Best 350 FPS Crossbows Currently Available?
The best 350 FPS crossbows currently available include models from brands like TenPoint, Ravin, Barnett, and Excalibur. These crossbows are recognized for their speed, accuracy, and overall performance.
- TenPoint Nitro XRT
- Ravin R29X
- Barnett HyperGhost 425
- Excalibur Bulldog 440
- Wicked Ridge RDX 400
These models showcase various attributes such as speed, weight, size, and ease of use. Some users prefer the compact design of Ravin, while others admire the power of TenPoint. Additionally, Barnett offers unique accessories, enhancing customer satisfaction, while Excalibur emphasizes durability and reliability.
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TenPoint Nitro XRT: The TenPoint Nitro XRT boasts a remarkable speed of 450 FPS, delivering high accuracy in the field. This crossbow features a lightweight design, making it easy to handle, while the ACUdraw PRO system allows for effortless cocking. TenPoint integrates all these elements to enhance user performance.
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Ravin R29X: The Ravin R29X stands out with its 400 FPS and innovative HeliCoil technology. This technology allows the limbs to coil around the riser, promoting better stability and reducing noise. With its lightweight construction and compact design, the R29X caters to hunters searching for efficiency and stealth.
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Barnett HyperGhost 425: The Barnett HyperGhost 425 features a speed of 425 FPS. This model is known for its adjustable stock and a powerful trigger that ensures smooth shooting. Barnett also includes a built-in crank cocking device, addressing user concerns about manual cocking.
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Excalibur Bulldog 440: The Excalibur Bulldog 440 focuses on traditional recurve technology while achieving a speed of 440 FPS. The simplicity of design allows for fewer moving parts which leads to reliability. This crossbow appeals to users who prefer a robust, easy-to-maintain option without sacrificing performance.
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Wicked Ridge RDX 400: The Wicked Ridge RDX 400 combines a 400 FPS speed with a strategic design for balanced shooting. This crossbow incorporates a reverse draw design, which presents strengths in accuracy and consistent energy transfer. The model stands as an accessible product with high-quality features.
The crossbow market offers various models tailored to diverse user preferences and shooting styles. Each crossbow addresses specific needs while ensuring high performance and satisfaction.
How Do Speed and Noise Levels Impact Your Hunting Experience?
Speed and noise levels significantly affect your hunting experience by influencing animal behavior and your ability to remain unnoticed.
Speed impacts your hunting experience in the following ways:
- Mobility: Faster movement allows hunters to cover more ground quickly. This increases the chance of encountering game. A study by the Journal of Wildlife Management (Smith, 2021) suggested that hunters who moved swiftly had higher success rates in tracking animals.
- Precision: Quick movements can lead to errors in shooting or misjudgment of distance. This can affect hit rates. Research showed that a 20% increase in movement speed resulted in a 15% decrease in accuracy (Jones, 2020).
- Reaction Time: Animals may react quickly to movement, fleeing before approaching hunters. A study found that deer could detect changes in their environment up to 40 yards away (Williams, 2022).
Noise levels impact your hunting experience in these ways:
- Detection: Higher noise levels can alert animals and cause them to flee. According to a study in the journal Ecology and Evolution (Brown, 2019), noise disturbances significantly reduced the time animals spent foraging.
- Communication: Animals communicate through sound. Excessive noise can interfere with their natural behaviors, leading to increased stress. Research indicated that even low-level human sounds affected deer movement patterns (Taylor, 2021).
- Stealth: Maintaining a quiet hunting environment enhances your ability to approach game. A silent approach can lead to more successful hunts. The Wildlife Society Bulletin noted that hunters who reduced noise levels increased their proximity to game by up to 30% (Clark, 2020).
In summary, both speed and noise levels are critical factors in determining the effectiveness of a hunt through their direct influence on animal behavior and hunter success.
What Types of Game Are Best Suited for a 350 FPS Crossbow?
The best types of games suited for a 350 FPS crossbow are typically those that involve hunting, target shooting, or survival scenarios.
- Hunting Games
- Target Shooting Games
- Survival Games
- Tactical Action Games
Hunting Games: Hunting games simulate the experience of tracking and hunting various animals. In these games, a 350 FPS crossbow provides the ability to engage targets swiftly and accurately. Popular titles like “Hunting Simulator” and “TheHunter: Call of the Wild” offer realistic environments and animal behavior. Players often appreciate the crossbow’s stealthy approach, making it easier to ambush prey.
Target Shooting Games: Target shooting games focus on precision and accuracy. A 350 FPS crossbow allows players to hit distant targets with ease. Games such as “Archery King” or “Ultimate Archery” challenge players to improve their aiming skills. The adrenaline of hitting targets at high speeds can be extremely rewarding in these competitive formats.
Survival Games: Survival games often include elements of scavenging for resources and hunting for food. A 350 FPS crossbow helps players defend themselves against threats while providing sustenance. Titles like “Rust” or “Ark: Survival Evolved” incorporate hunting mechanics where a crossbow becomes a vital tool. Players find that being equipped with a high-speed crossbow increases their chances of survival in these challenging environments.
Tactical Action Games: Tactical action games may include strategic gameplay where players engage in combat scenarios. A 350 FPS crossbow adds a unique weapon choice in games such as “Far Cry” or “Ghost Recon.” The quiet nature of a crossbow can create tactical advantages. Players can take out enemies without revealing their position, making stealth gameplay more feasible.
These game types capitalize on the crossbow’s unique attributes, enhancing the gaming experience by combining speed, precision, and tactical advantages.
How Does Arrow Track Influence Accuracy and Range?
Arrow track significantly influences accuracy and range in archery. The arrow track refers to the path an arrow follows during flight. Accurate tracking ensures minimal deviation from the intended path.
First, proper arrow alignment enhances stability in flight. When an arrow is correctly nocked and fitted, it follows a straighter trajectory. This reduces lateral movement, which is crucial for hitting the target accurately.
Next, the fletching or vanes stabilize the arrow during flight. These features create drag on one side, causing the arrow to spin. This spin improves stability and helps maintain a straight path, increasing range.
Additionally, factors like arrow length, weight, and stiffness affect the arrow track. A well-matched arrow promotes balanced flight dynamics. This balance contributes to longer and more accurate shots.
Finally, environmental influences like wind can alter the arrow track. Understanding these can help archers adjust their aim, thereby enhancing both accuracy and range.
What Expert Reviews Highlight the Top Performance Models?
The expert reviews highlight various top performance models in the 350 fps crossbow category.
- Barnett Ghost 420
- TenPoint Nitro XRT
- Excalibur Assassin 400
- Ravin R26
- Bear X Constrictor
The performance of these models varies based on attributes such as draw weight, speed, noise level, and accuracy, which can lead to different user preferences and opinions.
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Barnett Ghost 420: The Barnett Ghost 420 combines speed with a lightweight design. It features a draw weight of 200 pounds and achieves speeds of up to 420 fps. Its innovative design offers reduced noise, making it ideal for stealthy hunting. Reviewers highlight its reliability and accuracy in various shooting conditions.
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TenPoint Nitro XRT: The TenPoint Nitro XRT is renowned for its speed and precision. It boasts a draw weight of 220 pounds and reaches speeds of 370 fps. The crossbow incorporates a revolutionary Accudraw cocking mechanism, enhancing user experience. Many users value its exceptional accuracy at long distances.
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Excalibur Assassin 400: The Excalibur Assassin 400 stands out for its versatility as a recurve crossbow. It operates at a draw weight of 200 pounds and reaches speeds of 400 fps. Its compact design allows for easy maneuverability in the field. Expert reviews commend its smooth operation and durability.
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Ravin R26: The Ravin R26 is praised for its compact design and remarkable speed of 400 fps. With a lightweight build and an easy-loading system, it becomes popular among hunters who prioritize agility. Some reviews mention its accuracy and minimal vibration during shooting.
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Bear X Constrictor: The Bear X Constrictor offers an impressive draw weight of 180 pounds and achieves up to 400 fps. Its innovative design features a lightweight frame and a built-in crank mechanism for easy cocking. Users express satisfaction regarding its affordability without compromising performance.
What Safety Considerations Should You Keep in Mind When Using a High-Velocity Crossbow?
When using a high-velocity crossbow, safety considerations are essential to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Proper handling and storage
- Use of protective gear
- Awareness of surroundings
- Regular equipment maintenance
- Understanding the mechanism
- Adhering to local laws and regulations
- Taking a crossbow safety course
To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the safety considerations, it’s important to delve deeper into each point.
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Proper Handling and Storage: Proper handling and storage of a high-velocity crossbow are crucial for safety. This means keeping the crossbow pointed in a safe direction, always treating it as if it is loaded, and properly storing it in a secure location. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) emphasizes that improper storage can lead to unauthorized access, increasing the risk of accidents.
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Use of Protective Gear: Using protective gear, including safety glasses and gloves, is essential when using a crossbow. Safety glasses protect the eyes from debris, while gloves can prevent injury when handling arrows. The American Archery Council recommends wearing protective gear to lessen the risk of harm, especially when target shooting.
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Awareness of Surroundings: Maintaining awareness of your surroundings is vital for safety when using a crossbow. This includes ensuring that your target area is clear of people, pets, or other obstacles. The Archery Trade Association states that being aware of your environment helps prevent accidents and enables safe shooting.
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Regular Equipment Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your crossbow ensures its longevity and safe operation. This includes checking the string, limbs, and trigger mechanism for any wear and tear. According to the Crossbow Manufacturers Association, equipment failure can cause serious injuries and that proper care can prevent such incidents.
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Understanding the Mechanism: Understanding how the crossbow functions is critical for safe operation. This includes knowing how to load and unload it correctly and understanding the safety features of the crossbow. The International Bowhunting Organization highlights that knowledge of safety mechanisms can prevent accidental discharges during use.
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Adhering to Local Laws and Regulations: Adhering to local laws and regulations regarding the use of crossbows is vital for compliance and safety. Different regions may have specific rules on hunting with crossbows or required permits. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service advises checking local regulations to avoid legal issues and ensure safe practices.
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Taking a Crossbow Safety Course: Taking a crossbow safety course can greatly enhance your understanding of proper safety protocols. Many organizations offer training that covers safe handling, shooting techniques, and maintenance. The National Bowhunter Education Foundation notes that education can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents among users.