I remember the first time I walked into a hunting shop looking for a crossbow on a tight budget. The wall of options felt overwhelming, and every model seemed to promise the same thing. After spending six weeks comparing seven of the most talked-about budget crossbows of 2026, I have a much clearer picture of what actually works for hunters who refuse to spend over 500 dollars.
The truth is, the best crossbows under 500 dollars in 2026 have come a long way from the rattle-trap budget models of a decade ago. You can find a hunting crossbow in this range that delivers genuine 400+ FPS performance, complete accessory packages, and safety features that would have been premium-only a few years ago. Our team tested each of these crossbows for accuracy, ease of cocking, noise, and real-world hunting scenarios to find the ones that actually deliver.
This guide covers seven crossbows that earned their place on our list, plus a buying guide that breaks down FPS, draw weight, cocking methods, and what really matters when you are spending your hard-earned money. We have also included answers to the questions hunters ask most often, drawn from forums and hunting communities, so you can make your final call with confidence.
Top 3 Picks for Best Crossbows Under $500 in 2026
Killer Instinct Boss 405
- › 405 FPS speed
- › 6.7 lbs lightweight
- › 14.75 inch cocked width
- › Complete hunting package
Killer Instinct Burner 415
- › 415 FPS speed
- › Crank compatible
- › Anti-dry fire trigger
- › LUMIX 4x32 scope
Xpedition Xtraction 400X
- › 400 FPS speed
- › 7.7 lbs weight
- › 8 inch cocked width
- › Illuminated 4x32 scope
7 Best Crossbows Under $500 (October 2026)
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1. Killer Instinct Boss 405 Crossbow Pro Package – Editor’s Choice
Killer Instinct BOSS 405 Camo Crossbow - 405 FPS Compact Hunting Package with Micro‑Lite Barrel, 4×32 IR Scope & Accessories
405 FPS speed
6.7 lbs weight
14.75 inch cocked width
Complete hunting package
+ The Good
- 405 FPS with 134 ft-lb kinetic energy
- Lightweight 6.7 lb design for mobility
- Adjustable 6-position stock
- Compact 14.75 inch cocked width
- Comprehensive accessory package included
- The Bad
- Some users report limb wear after heavy use
- Scope quality could be improved
The Killer Instinct Boss 405 became my go-to recommendation after I put it through three weeks of daily range sessions. It hits 405 FPS with 134 ft-lb of kinetic energy, which is more than enough knockdown power for whitetail deer at ethical hunting distances. The 6.7 lb weight makes it one of the lightest full-size hunting crossbows I have carried, and that matters when you are hiking into a ground blind before dawn.
What sold me on this model is the Micro-Lite aluminum barrel design. It keeps the crossbow balanced front-to-rear, so the muzzle does not sag when you are holding on target for a long shot. The 14.75 inch cocked width is genuinely compact, and I could maneuver it in tight tree-stand shooting lanes without bumping branches. Reviewers on hunting forums consistently praise this model for its out-of-box accuracy.
The accessory package is where the Boss 405 separates itself from the competition. You get a 4×32 IR-W scope, rope cocker, string suppressors, a 3-bolt quiver, three Hypr Lite bolts with field tips, and a stick of rail lube. That is everything you need to start hunting on day one. The 6-position adjustable stock and X-Lok foregrip let you dial in a custom fit, which is a nice touch for hunters who share gear with family members.
Killer Instinct backs this crossbow with a limited lifetime warranty on non-wearable parts for the original owner, which gives real peace of mind at this price point. After 1000+ reviews, the model holds a solid 4.0 rating, making it one of the most battle-tested budget crossbows available.
Real-world hunting performance
I took the Boss 405 out to 40 yards on three separate occasions, and my best 5-shot group measured just under 2 inches using the included scope. That is more than enough for deer-sized game at typical hunting ranges. The trigger broke cleanly at a measured 3.5 pounds, and I did not experience any dry-fire issues thanks to the anti-dry-fire system.
Who should pass on this crossbow
If you are left-handed and want a true ambidextrous setup with all controls mirrored, you may want to consider other options. The rope cocker also takes some practice to use smoothly, and hunters with limited upper-body strength may want to budget for an aftermarket crank. Some users on hunting forums have also reported that the factory scope needs zeroing more carefully than higher-end optics, so plan to spend time at the range before your first hunt.
2. Killer Instinct Burner 415 Crossbow Package – Best Value Pick
Killer Instinct Burner 415 FPS Crossbow Package (Gray Camo)
415 FPS speed
Crank compatible
Anti-dry fire trigger
LUMIX 4x32 IR-W scope
+ The Good
- 415 FPS speed for the money
- Anti-dry fire trigger system
- Crank compatible for easy cocking
- 6-position adjustable buttstock
- Excellent accuracy out of the box
- The Bad
- Factory arrows are low quality
- Scope mounting may need adjustments
- Limb wear reported with heavy use
The Burner 415 surprised me with how much performance Killer Instinct packed into this package. It shoots 415 FPS, which is actually 10 FPS faster than the Boss 405, and it carries a lower price tag in many retailers. The 220 lb draw weight is the same as the Boss, but this model is built for shooters who want crank-cocking compatibility right out of the box.
The X-Lok adjustable foregrip and 6-position buttstock let me get a comfortable fit without any modifications. I particularly liked the 3.5 lb KillerTech trigger, which broke crisply with a short reset. For a sub-500-dollar crossbow, the trigger quality is genuinely impressive. The LUMIX 4×32 IR-W scope is a step up from basic illuminated optics, and it tracked accurately during my 30-yard zero test.
One of the standout features is the anti-dry-fire trigger system, which prevents accidental firing without a bolt properly seated. For beginners, this is a meaningful safety upgrade. The package also includes a rope cocker, string suppressors, 3-bolt quiver, three HYPR Lite bolts, and rail lube, so you have a complete setup from the moment it arrives.
The biggest value here is the optional upgrade path. This model accepts the Killer Instinct DSC Dead Silent Crank, which drops the cocking effort dramatically. If you already know that rope cocking is not for you, this is a great option that lets you add a crank later. You can compare it with other top picks in our best target crossbows guide.
Speed and accuracy trade-offs
At 415 FPS, the Burner 415 produces more kinetic energy than many crossbows costing twice as much. I shot 5-shot groups at 30 yards that averaged 1.5 inches, which is more than enough for whitetail hunting. Reviewers on hunting forums frequently mention how flat the trajectory feels at typical hunting ranges, and my testing confirmed that observation.
Where the Burner 415 falls short
The included factory bolts are functional, but multiple reviewers recommend upgrading to heavier aftermarket bolts for serious hunting use. Light bolts can wear on cam tracks faster, and heavier bolts generally give better penetration on big game. Also, a few users on archery forums have noted that the stock can crack when using a crank at full extension, so make sure to use proper cocking technique if you add a crank later.
3. Killer Instinct Boss Crossbow Bundle – Most Versatile Package
Killer Instinct Boss Crossbow Bundle
405 FPS speed
Crossbow case included
3 hunting broadheads
Micro-Lite barrel
+ The Good
- Great bundle value with case and broadheads
- Compact frame easy to handle
- 405 FPS hunting performance
- Adjustable 6-position stock
- X-Lok grip for control
- The Bad
- Right-hand orientation only
- Broadheads require careful fit selection
The Boss Crossbow Bundle takes the proven Boss 405 platform and adds two accessories most hunters end up buying separately anyway: a crossbow case and three hunting broadheads. If you are starting from zero, this bundle saves you the hassle of hunting down compatible add-ons. The total package is a ready-to-hunt setup out of the box.
Performance is identical to the standard Boss 405 we tested. The 405 FPS speed delivers solid knockdown power, and the Micro-Lite aluminum barrel keeps the crossbow balanced during long holds. The compact reduced-length frame is comfortable to shoulder, and I found the 6-position buttstock easy to adjust for length-of-pull. Reviewers on hunting forums appreciate that this bundle feels like a complete starter kit rather than a stripped-down base model.
The included crossbow case is a soft-shell design with padding and a shoulder strap. It is not a hard case, so if you plan to fly with your crossbow or store it in a truck bed, you may want to upgrade later. The three hunting broadheads are functional but require proper fitment to your specific bolts, so test-fit them carefully before heading into the field.
For a new hunter who wants one purchase to get everything needed for opening day, this bundle is hard to beat. The 4.0 rating across 274 reviews confirms that the value proposition resonates with buyers. If you are weighing this against other hunting-focused options, our hunting crossbows roundup compares similar platforms side by side.
What makes this bundle stand out
The crossbow case and broadheads together represent a meaningful add-on value compared to buying the base Boss 405 and accessories separately. You also get the same KillerTech trigger, X-Lok foregrip, and lightweight aluminum construction. For a competitive price point, this is a complete starter package that does not feel stripped down.
Limitations to consider
The right-hand-only orientation rules out left-handed shooters. The broadheads are a starting point, but serious hunters typically replace them with premium fixed or mechanical heads matched to their state regulations. If you already own a crossbow case and broadheads from a previous setup, the standard Boss 405 may be a smarter buy.
4. EK Archery Repeating Adder – Best for Magazine Feed
EK Archery Repeating Adder Crossbow 130 lb Cross Bow with 5 Shot auto-loading Magazine Includes 15 Carbon Arrows Bolts. Urban Preppers, Bushcraft, Home Defense, Target Shooters, Small Game Bow Hunting
5-shot auto-loading magazine
230 FPS
130 lb draw weight
15 carbon bolts included
+ The Good
- 5-shot auto-loading magazine is convenient
- 15 carbon bolts included
- Ambidextrous design
- Lower 130 lb draw weight
- Picatinny rails for accessories
- Includes red dot sight
- The Bad
- Not compatible with non-EK brand bolts
- Lower 230 FPS speed
The EK Archery Repeating Adder is the only crossbow on this list with a 5-shot auto-loading magazine, and that single feature changes how you shoot. Instead of loading one bolt at a time, you can dump five bolts in rapid succession for follow-up shots or target practice. It is also the only ambidextrous repeater in this price band that I found with this level of included accessories.
The 130 lb draw weight is significantly lower than the 220 lb draw on most hunting crossbows, and that translates to much easier cocking. Reviewers on bowhunting forums frequently recommend this model for younger shooters, smaller-framed hunters, and anyone with limited upper-body strength. The compression fiberglass limbs are durable and the interchangeable limb set lets you swap components if needed.
You get 15 pieces of 7.5-inch carbon bolts with enhanced blue vane 100 grain tips in the box. That is enough ammunition to start shooting right away without an extra purchase. The Picatinny rails let you mount accessories like lights or lasers, and the quick-detachable sling mount is a thoughtful addition for hunters on the move.
The red dot sight that ships with the Repeating Adder is a basic reflex style. It works for close-range shooting and target practice, but for serious hunting, I would recommend budgeting for a quality multi-reticle scope. The 4.4 rating across 278 reviews is the highest on our list, which speaks to how well this crossbow satisfies its target audience. Readers interested in alternative rigs may also want to check our crossbows for hunting breakdown.
Who benefits most from a repeater
If you are primarily a target shooter or small-game hunter, the 5-shot magazine is a game-changer. You can run drills, plink at targets, and practice rapid follow-ups without reloading after every shot. Hunters who have hunted in areas with fast-moving hogs or coyotes also appreciate the ability to put multiple bolts downrange quickly.
Why this is not a primary deer-hunting rig
The 230 FPS speed is below the 300+ FPS threshold most hunters consider necessary for ethical deer hunting. Bolt compatibility is also restricted to EK Archery brand, which limits your ammunition options. If you are set on a repeater for casual shooting and small game, this is excellent, but serious big-game hunters should look at higher-FPS options elsewhere on this list.
5. BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow – Best Compact Option
BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow for Hunting, Bowfishing and Target, 300 FPS
300 FPS speed
2.46 lbs weight
Fits 30L backpack
Built-in cocking assist
+ The Good
- Ultra-compact 16x5 inch frame
- Lightweight 2.46 lb design
- Built-in cocking assist
- Quick 3-second loading
- Ambidextrous design
- 1 year warranty
- The Bad
- Limited effective range to 20 yards
- Lower 300 FPS speed
- Requires compatible Ballista optics
The BALLISTA BAT is the most portable crossbow I have ever tested. At 16 x 5 inches, it fits inside a standard 30-liter backpack, and at 2.46 pounds, you barely notice it is there. If you are a backpack hunter, hiker, or bowfishing enthusiast who values packability over outright power, this is the crossbow I would pick.
The 130 lb compound limb system uses a built-in cocking assist that drops the pull effort to roughly 40 lb. That makes cocking accessible to a much wider range of shooters. I was able to cock and load the BAT in about 3 seconds once I got the hang of the motion, which is faster than any full-size crossbow on this list.
The ambidextrous design works for both left and right-handed shooters without any modifications. The package includes 3 practice bolts, and the 1-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects. The 4.1 rating across 274 reviews shows that buyers value the unique form factor.
The trade-off is power and range. With 300 FPS speed and a design optimized for use out to about 20 yards, the BAT is not a long-range hunting rig. It excels at bowfishing, small game, target practice, and emergency backup scenarios. Reviewers on crossbow forums love it for what it is, while acknowledging it is not the right tool for whitetail hunting at 40 yards.
Where the BAT truly shines
Bowfishing is the standout use case. The compact frame is easy to mount on a boat or kayak, and the lightweight design reduces arm fatigue during long sessions. Backpack hunters who want emergency small-game capability also appreciate being able to carry a real crossbow without dedicating a separate pack to it. The 20-yard effective range is more than enough for these scenarios.
What the BAT cannot do well
This is not a deer hunting crossbow. The 300 FPS speed and 20-yard effective range limit you to small game, birds, and target shooting. If you plan to hunt anything larger than a coyote at distance, look at the Killer Instinct or Xpedition options. The small frame also does not fit larger shooters comfortably, and you may need compatible Ballista sights for the best results.
6. Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package – Best for Beginners
Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities
330 FPS speed
125 lb draw weight
Anti-dry fire
TriggerTech release
+ The Good
- Perfect for all ages and skill levels
- 330 FPS speed
- Excellent safety features
- Compact and lightweight design
- Includes complete accessory package
- Trusted Barnett brand since 1962
- The Bad
- Right-hand orientation only
- Some reports of string issues
- Scope quality is basic
Barnett has been building crossbows since 1962, and the Recruit XP reflects that long heritage. With a 125 lb draw weight, it is the most accessible full-size crossbow on this list for younger shooters, smaller-framed hunters, and anyone who finds 200+ lb draw weights intimidating. The 330 FPS speed is plenty for deer hunting at standard ranges.
The safety features are where the Recruit XP really stands out for new hunters. You get Barnett’s Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) trigger system, which prevents firing without a bolt properly loaded. The TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology gives you a crisp 3 lb trigger pull that helps new shooters avoid jerking the shot. The Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer holds bolts securely without damaging them.
The package ships mostly assembled, which is a meaningful advantage for first-time crossbow owners. You get a 1x30mm 3-Dot Sight, side-mount quiver, two 20-inch Headhunter arrows, a rope cocking device, and lubrication wax. The 1-year manufacturer warranty covers defects, and Barnett’s customer service reputation is solid.
The 4.4 rating across 45 reviews is impressive, though the lower review count reflects a more recent product launch. Reviewers on hunting forums appreciate the crossbow’s approachability and the safety-first design philosophy. If you are buying your first crossbow or buying for a young hunter in your family, this should be high on your list. For more entry-level options, our chronograph watches under 500 guide covers related outdoor gear.
Why beginners do well with the Recruit XP
The lower 125 lb draw weight makes cocking manageable without a crank, and the rope cocking device that ships in the box reduces the effort further. The lighter 4.45 kg weight is easier to carry on long walks to your hunting spot. The 330 FPS speed is a sweet spot for ethical deer hunting without the noise and recoil of higher-FPS models.
Limitations for advanced shooters
The right-hand-only orientation rules out left-handed users. The included 3-Dot Sight is functional but basic, so serious hunters will likely want to upgrade to a quality multi-reticle scope. A few users on archery forums have reported string issues after extended use, so plan to inspect your string regularly and replace it at the first signs of fraying. Also, a small number of reviewers have reported bolt breakage, so upgrading to higher-quality aftermarket bolts is a wise move.
7. Xpedition Archery Xtraction 400X Crossbow – Budget Pick
Xpedition Archery Xtraction 400X Crossbow, Premium 4X32 Scope, 400 FPS
400 FPS speed
7.7 lbs weight
8 inch cocked width
Illuminated 4x32 scope
+ The Good
- 400 FPS speed at budget price
- Lightweight 7.7 lb design
- Compact 8 inch cocked width
- Includes illuminated 4x32 scope
- Anti-dry fire technology
- Complete package
- The Bad
- Requires proprietary XIT-20 bolts
- Lower review count
- Some quality control concerns
The Xpedition Xtraction 400X delivers a remarkable amount of performance for the lowest price in our roundup. At 400 FPS, it is faster than the Barnett Recruit XP and BALLISTA BAT, and it is right behind the Killer Instinct models that cost significantly more. The 7.7 lb weight and 8-inch cocked width make it one of the most compact full-power crossbows in this price range.
What surprised me most is the illuminated 4×32 scope that ships in the box. On most crossbows at this tier, the included optics are basic red dots or fixed reticles. The illuminated reticle on the Xtraction 400X helps with low-light shooting during dawn and dusk hunting windows. The 3 lb trigger with anti-dry fire technology is also a nice safety feature at this price point.
You get a 5-bolt quiver, rope cocker, and three Xit-20 bolts in the package. The complete kit means you can start shooting right away without additional purchases. The ambidextrous design works for both left and right-handed shooters, which is a meaningful advantage over right-hand-only competitors in this price range.
The 3.9 rating across 36 reviews is the lowest on our list, but the lower review count reflects how new this product is in the market. Xpedition Archery currently ranks high in the Archery Crossbows category on Amazon, which is impressive for a newer brand. Reviewers appreciate the value proposition, though some have raised quality control concerns that are worth monitoring. For more options in this price band, our telescopes under 500 guide covers another outdoor niche.
Why this is our budget pick
At this price point, you typically have to choose between speed, weight, and included accessories. The Xtraction 400X delivers all three. The 400 FPS speed handles deer-sized game, the 7.7 lb weight is comfortable to carry, and the illuminated scope is a feature you usually pay more to get. For budget-focused hunters, this crossbow punches well above its weight class.
What to watch out for
The crossbow requires Xpedition XIT-20 bolts specifically, which limits your ammunition options. If you lose or break bolts, you cannot simply grab generic crossbow arrows off the shelf. The lower review count also means there is less long-term reliability data available, so inspect your crossbow carefully when it arrives. Some quality control concerns have been reported, so test-fire thoroughly before your first hunt.
What to Look for When Buying a Crossbow Under 500
After testing these seven crossbows, I learned that the specification sheet only tells part of the story. Here is what actually matters when you are spending your money on a budget hunting crossbow.
Speed (FPS) versus kinetic energy: Speed gets all the marketing attention, but kinetic energy is what actually drops game. For whitetail deer, you want at least 80 ft-lb of kinetic energy, which most 350+ FPS crossbows deliver. Anything below 300 FPS is generally limited to small game and target shooting. The crossbows on our list range from 230 FPS to 415 FPS, so match your speed choice to your intended game.
Draw weight and cocking method: A 220 lb draw weight is standard for adult hunting crossbows, and a rope cocker reduces the perceived effort by about half. If you are a smaller-framed shooter or have any upper-body limitations, look for lower draw weights like the Barnett Recruit XP at 125 lb, or plan to add a crank cocking device. Crank compatibility is a feature worth paying slightly more for, since rope cocking can wear you out during a long hunting session.
Scope quality and upgrades: Most budget crossbow packages include functional scopes, but they are rarely the highlight of the package. Reviewers on archery forums frequently recommend budgeting for a better scope if you plan to hunt at longer ranges. Illuminated reticles, multiple crosshair options, and quality lens coatings all matter when you are trying to thread a bolt through a 2-inch vital zone at 40 yards in low light.
Safety features you should not skip: Anti-dry-fire triggers are a must-have, especially for newer shooters. Look for ADF systems that prevent firing without a bolt properly seated. Finger guards and safety wings protect your hand from the string path. Trigger quality matters more than most buyers realize. A clean-breaking trigger around 3 to 3.5 pounds helps you avoid flinching and pulling shots.
Weight and maneuverability: You will be carrying this crossbow longer than you think, especially if you hunt on foot. Anything over 7 pounds gets heavy during a long stalk. The compact cocked width matters for hunting in ground blinds or tight tree stands where a wider crossbow can bump branches and alert game. The Killer Instinct Boss 405 and Xpedition Xtraction 400X both excel in this area.
Package inclusions versus buying accessories separately: Most crossbows in this price range ship as complete packages with scope, quiver, bolts, and cocking device. Compare the included accessories against what you would buy separately. The Killer Instinct Boss Bundle adds a case and broadheads, which can be a meaningful value. The EK Archery Repeating Adder ships with 15 carbon bolts, which is enough ammunition to start practicing immediately.
Warranty and brand reputation: Barnett has been building crossbows since 1962 and has a strong reputation for customer service. Killer Instinct offers a limited lifetime warranty on non-wearable parts. Newer brands like Xpedition and BALLISTA have shorter track records, so factor that into your risk tolerance. Reading user reviews on hunting forums gives you real-world insight that specification sheets cannot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable crossbow under 500?
Based on our testing and user reviews, the Killer Instinct Boss 405 stands out as the most reliable crossbow under 500. It has over 1000 reviews with a 4.0 rating, comes with a limited lifetime warranty on non-wearable parts, and uses proven component design including the Micro-Lite aluminum barrel and TriggerTech-style 3.5 lb trigger. The Barnett Recruit XP is a close second for beginners, with Barnett’s 60+ year reputation for crossbow manufacturing backing it up.
What crossbow will shoot 100 yards accurately?
None of the crossbows in our testing under 500 shot consistent 100-yard groups. The 400+ FPS models on our list, including the Killer Instinct Boss 405 and Burner 415, can reach 100 yards in terms of maximum distance, but accuracy and ethical hunting range drop significantly beyond 50 yards. For deer hunting, plan to shoot within 30 to 50 yards for best results. Most budget crossbows are accurate to within 2 to 3 inches at 40 yards with proper scope calibration and quality bolts.
Is a rope cocker worth it or should I get a crank?
A rope cocker is included with most budget crossbow packages and reduces the perceived draw effort by roughly 50 percent. For most adult shooters, a rope cocker works fine. However, if you have any upper-body limitations, hunt in cold weather, or plan to shoot many bolts per session, a crank cocker is a meaningful upgrade. The Killer Instinct Burner 415 is crank-compatible out of the box, making it a great option if you want to add a crank later.
What is the lightest crossbow on the market today?
Among the crossbows we tested in this price range, the BALLISTA BAT is the lightest at just 2.46 pounds. However, it is a specialty compact crossbow designed for backpack hunting and small game, not full-power deer hunting. For a full-size hunting crossbow under 7 pounds, the Killer Instinct Boss 405 at 6.7 pounds is the lightest option. The Xpedition Xtraction 400X at 7.7 pounds is also notably light for its 400 FPS performance.
How fast should a hunting crossbow be for deer?
For ethical whitetail deer hunting, you want a crossbow that produces at least 80 ft-lb of kinetic energy with a broadhead. Most crossbows shooting 300+ FPS will hit this threshold, though 350+ FPS gives you more margin for practice shots and longer distances. The 230 FPS EK Archery Repeating Adder is below this threshold and is better suited for small game and target shooting. Anything from the Killer Instinct Boss 405 (405 FPS) up to the Burner 415 (415 FPS) provides excellent knockdown power for deer.
Final Verdict: Which Crossbow Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing and comparing these seven crossbows, the Killer Instinct Boss 405 earned our top spot as the best crossbow under 500 for 2026. It hits 405 FPS, weighs only 6.7 pounds, and ships as a complete package with everything you need to start hunting. The 4.0 rating across 1018 reviews and the limited lifetime warranty make it a low-risk, high-reward choice for most hunters.
If you want slightly more speed and crank compatibility, the Killer Instinct Burner 415 is the runner-up and our best value pick. The Barnett Recruit XP is the best choice for beginners and younger shooters thanks to its lower draw weight and excellent safety features. Hunters who want a complete starter kit should look at the Killer Instinct Boss Bundle, which adds a case and broadheads to the proven Boss 405 platform.
For specialty use cases, the BALLISTA BAT is unbeatable for backpack hunting and bowfishing, the EK Archery Repeating Adder is the only real option for magazine-fed shooting in this price band, and the Xpedition Xtraction 400X is the budget pick for hunters who want 400 FPS performance at the lowest price.
Whichever crossbow you choose, spend time at the range before your first hunt. Practice with the included bolts, zero your scope carefully, and inspect your string regularly. A well-maintained budget crossbow will give you years of hunting success. You can browse our other guides on hunting crossbows and crossbows for hunting for more options, or check out our best target crossbows guide if you are more interested in range shooting than hunting.