The 10 Best Crossbow For Women

What is the best crossbow for women? Ask no more – you’ve come to the right place.

Crossbow hunting has always been an activity for men, but the game is different now. Women are becoming more and more interested in the sport.

The good news is that there are plenty of amazing crossbows out there designed specifically for women. However, it can be a struggle to find the right one.

There are many factors to consider when deciding which is the best crossbow for you, including draw weight, speed, accuracy, ergonomics, and weight.

Well, this post will review the best crossbow for women with all of these features in mind. Whether you’re after waterfowl or a big game, there’s a crossbow to get the job done. So be sure to give yourself plenty of time and choose wisely before your next hunt!

10 Best Crossbows for Women Reviews

1. Centerpoint AXCS185BK Sniper 370 Crossbow

Do you want a fast, powerful rig that can take down the largest legal game? Then, say hello to the Centerpoint Sniper 370 Crossbow.

This high-performance rig delivers ultimate power and precision. In addition, it has bells and whistles of crossbows that cost 3-4 times as much.

But just how powerful is it?

Well, Centerpoint Sniper 370 flings arrows at 370 fps. It achieves such speed using 20-inch, 275-grain bolts with 100-grain field tips. However, the package doesn’t have arrows, only a parallel 4-bolt quiver.

Accordingly, it delivers 128 ft-lbs of kinetic energy at 10 yards and 115 ft-lbs of kinetic energy at 50 yards. Well, that’s more than enough power to take down the largest game, including buffalo and grizzly bears.

It’s not only fast and powerful but also accurate.

Centerpoint Sniper 370 offers tighter groupings up to 50 yards. This crossbow achieves 1-inch and 1.5-inch patterns in most tests at 30 and 50 yards, respectively. Even better, it includes a 4×32 mm scope to improve the experience.

Given its draw weight of 185 pounds, it requires a bit more cocking effort. However, you can rest easy knowing it comes with a rope cocker.

In addition, this crossbow has a fully adjustable forearm and stock. For this reason, you can set it up to fit shooters of all stature.

Centerpoint also rounds off the package with safety features, such as an anti-dry fire mechanism and automatic safety. In addition, it has string dampers to keep down noise and vibration.

At 7.9 pounds, this crossbow is pretty light, especially with the included sling. But as with best crossbows, it’s a bit front-heavy.

This hard-hitting crossbow is also durable. It has fully adjustable composite stock and fiberglass limbs to provide a rig that lasts for years.

Do you know what’s even more reassuring? It comes with a 5-year warranty to ensure you’re getting the most out of your new rig.

Just to add a few more specs, this crossbow has a 13.5-inch stroke. Plus, it measures 21.5 inches wide uncocked and 18 inches after you cock it. And it’s ambidextrous too.

If you’re looking for a crossbow that offers blistering speed and pinpoints accuracy, this is it.

Pros

✅ Blistering velocity

✅ Compact and lightweight

✅ Fully adjustable stock and arm

✅ Comes with a scope

✅ 5-year warranty

Cons

✖️ A bit front-heavy

✖️ The installation instructions are a bit vague but understandable nonetheless

2. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow

The Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow offers a blend of speed, accuracy, and maneuverability. So, it has all the must-have ingredients for chasing its namesake game animal, whitetail deer.

Like Centerpoint Sniper 370, the Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow is not your kid’s toy, it’s a powerful beast.

It has a blistering speed of 375 fps and shells out 118 ft-lbs of kinetic energy using the included 22-inch, 380-grain arrows. So, this crossbow can easily ram arrows through a cape buffalo, let alone a whitetail.

What’s more, it can hit the vitals out from 50 yards. That’s right. The best part, it includes a 4×32 multi-reticle scope that makes accurate out to 80 yards.

Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow is also one of the lightest. At 6.6 pounds, you can always look forward to taking it on your hunting trip.

Also, you’ll appreciate the compact axle-to-axle length of 18.125. As a result, it offers excellent maneuverability for negotiating through thick brushes.

The draw weight is 165 lbs.

But the good news is that it’s compatible with Barnett 17455 crank cocking device, reducing tension by up to 93%! Hence, you only need a cocking effort of around 11.5 pounds, something that’s easy even on a 10-year old.

The trigger, too, is smooth and allows you to enjoy a light 4.5-pound pull with zero creep.

Barnett also loads up this crossbow with safety features, including an anti-dry fire trigger and string dampers.

Best of all, it offers the simple installation of a single bolt. So, it’s less likely you’ll need a professional to set it up.

Let’s not forget the Mossy Oak Bottomland camo. This proven pattern works almost anywhere. Moreover, it’s on the darker side, which comes in handy when trying to blend into the shadows of a ground blind.

Other notable specs are 20.125-inch un-cocked width and 15 7/16-inch stroke.

Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow offers additional accessories besides the multi-reticle scope and two 22-inch arrows. You’ll get a lightweight quiver, lube wax, and rope cocking device.

Whitetail Hunter STR will suffice if you need a value-packed hunting rig to introduce you to the sport without breaking the bank.

Pros

✅ Lightweight and accurate

✅ Easy one bolt assembly

✅ Blistering speed

✅ Crisp trigger pull

✅ 3-year warranty

Cons

✖️ The reticle lines on the scope aren’t set for specified yardages

✖️ The safety wings are a bit short and curved down at the ends

3. SA Sports Fever Crossbow Package 543

Maybe what you need is an inexpensive starter package. In this case, I’ll gladly recommend the SA Sports Fever Crossbow.

Now, this crossbow performs a bit contrary to its specs.

For instance, it has a heavy draw of 175 pounds, more than that of the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow. Still, it fires arrows at only 240 fps and outputs 51 ft. lbs. of kinetic energy.

So, it’s not really what you’d want to take down a large game. Nonetheless, it’s strong enough for deer and elk hunting.

You might have problems achieving a tighter grouping from 50 yards. But at a close-up range of 25-30 yards, you shouldn’t have trouble hitting the mark.

I’ll give it to this crossbow regarding lightweight construction. It weighs only 4.85 pounds.

So, you shouldn’t have trouble taking it on long trips. Plus, the padded shoulder sling makes it even easier on your shoulders.

You’ll appreciate its safety features, too. The anti-dry fire mechanism and ambidextrous auto safety, for instance, work flawlessly.

Plus, the package pretty much has everything to start you off. It includes a quick-detach quiver, four 16-inch aluminum arrows, and 4×32 multi-range scope.

The scope, for one, is pretty decent with crisp optics and fog protection. But since it lacks low-light capabilities, I’ll recommend it for daylight shooting.

Other notable specs for this crossbow include 11.5-inch stroke and 27-inch axle to axle (uncocked).

Pros

✅ Inexpensive starter package

✅ Lightweight

✅ Includes all accessories you need to get started

✅ 1-year warranty

Cons

✖️ Not as accurate as most crossbows but worth it for the price

✖️ Requires stringing during assembly

4. BearX Intense Ready to Shoot Crossbow Package

Say hello to one of the fastest crossbows, the BearX Intense Ready to Shoot Crossbow Package. This crossbow offers lethal performance on a compact platform.

At 400 fps, it offers much-needed hard-hitting power to take down a large game. It can deliver as much as 138 ft. lbs. of kinetic energy from a 400-grain arrow, enough to knock down that grizzly or cape buffalo.

But it’s not just about packing a powerful punch. BearX Intense also ensures accuracy by providing tighter grouping out to 50 yards.

In addition, this crossbow is built for tight quarters. It’s 10 inches cocked and 14 inches un-cocked. In addition, it has a stroke length of only 12.7 inches.

The 8-pound weight might sound slightly heavy for a crossbow. However, you’ll appreciate the well-balanced design that makes up for those extra few ounces.

For such a hard-hitting crossbow, the draw weight of 185 pounds doesn’t come as a surprise. So, you’ll be thankful that it includes a rope coking device to reduce cocking effort.

Though it uses basic stock, this crossbow feels comfortable to hold, thanks to the ergonomic finger grips.

The construction is almost entirely plastic. Still, that doesn’t make the BearX Intense a “cheap” crossbow. On the contrary, the hard plastic feels durable and sturdy.

What’s more, this crossbow has an anti-dry fire mechanism to ensure your safety.

The accessories, too, stand out.

The four 20-inch, 370-grain arrows have a wider, deeper nock than most crossbow arrows on the market. Also, this bow comes with a 4×32 illuminated scope for both day and night hunting.

Moreover, the ready-to-shoot package includes wax for your string.

Pros

✅ Mind-blowing speed

✅ Accurate

✅ Compact platform

✅ Illuminated scope

Cons

✖️ A bit heavy at 8 pounds

✖️ Rope-cocking 185 pounds can be a bit difficult for some

5. PSE Thrive 400 Crossbow Kryptek Highlander

PSE Thrive 400 has been one of the more underrated crossbows for quite some time. But not anymore.

More and more hunters are starting to get their grip on this crossbow. And tell you what, they love almost everything about it.

It’s easily the best crossbow from PSE and the most powerful at that.

First, it uses reverse cam technology for high-speed performance and a longer stroke of 17 inches. At 400 fps, this crossbow packs a lot more punch, delivering 142 ft. lbs. knockdown power from a 400-grain arrow. That’s the kind of energy you need to knock down elk and moose.

Interestingly, you get such brute power from a manageable 175-pound draw weight. But even better is that it includes a rope cocking device that reduces the draw weight to 90 pounds.

You would easily mistake the PSE Thrive 400 for a heavy crossbow given such power. But on the contrary, this crossbow is one of the lightest, weighing only 6.7 pounds.

Even more remarkable is the compact platform. It measures 32 inches long and 18.25-inch axle-to-axle when cocked. Hence, it’s the perfect size for maneuvering in treestands and blinds.

Though sizzling fast, this crossbow keeps its accuracy. The solid front and rear rest, for instance, make it perfect for shooting targets beyond 40 yards.

Plus, it’s a quiet hunter, thanks to the string stops that dampen sound and vibrations. Also, your safety is guaranteed with its anti-dry fire system.

The upgraded accessory package is yet another attractive feature. You get four high-quality 22-inch carbon thunderbolts, a 22-inch discharge bolt, a 4×32 illuminated scope, and a 5-bolt quiver.

The scope, in particular, offers five color brightness settings, meaning it can adapt to any environment.

Pros

✅ Powerful reverse cam technology

✅ Sizzling speed

✅ Lightweight

✅ Upgraded accessory package

Cons

✖️ The stock doesn’t seem solid enough

6. Barnett Avenger Recruit Crossbow

Are you looking for a crossbow for small-framed hunters? If so, then the Barnett Avenger Recruit crossbow might be a good start.

Barnett has engineered this crossbow to provide a lightweight, compact rig.

First, it weighs only 6.4 pounds, which is definitely on the lighter side of things. Plus, it’s compact too, thanks to 16.125-inch axle-to-axle length.

What’s more, this crossbow has an adjustable stock. So, it pretty much has all the prerequisites for small-framed hunters or beginners.

But don’t let the size fool you. The Barnett Avenger Recruit crossbow packs quite a punch for a small crossbow.

It shoots 330 fps and outputs 91.9 ft. lbs., enough to kill any deer.

The best part? It doesn’t require a lot of effort on your part. This is because it has only a 130-pound draw weight. In addition, a cranking device is available for this crossbow.

It shoots consistently, too. For instance, it offers 2-inch groupings out to 50 yards. However, I would recommend nothing more than 40 yards for deer hunting.

The metal-injected molded trigger, too, is tuned just right for accuracy. It offers a crisp release while maintaining tightness.

Moreover, Barnett includes important safety features, such as an anti-dry fire mechanism.

The package includes a 3-arrow quiver and 4×32 scope that’s calibrated for 30-40 yards. So, the only disappointment is that you don’t get the arrows.

Well, there’s confusion as to which arrows to use. Some say 19-inch arrows, others 18 inches. However, we recommend Barnett Headhunter 20-inch, 400-grain arrows.

Pros

✅ Integrated crank available but purchased separately

✅ Lightweight

✅ Smooth trigger pull

✅ Adjustable stock

✅ 3-year warranty

Cons

✖️ Doesn’t come with arrows

✖️ A bit small for hunters over 6 feet

7. Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Crossbow with ACUdraw Pro

“Dollar-for-dollar, pound-for-pound, you’ll not find a better value-priced crossbow.” That’s what TenPoint has to say about the RDX 400 crossbow.

But does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out!

First, you’ll appreciate the reverse-draw system that uses 15.5 inches of stroke power. It’s pretty much the secret to the RDX lightning speed and down-range accuracy.

But just how fast and accurate?

Well, this crossbow flings arrows at 400 fps, delivering a bone-shattering 140 ft. lbs. kinetic energy. So, whether it’s grizzly bear or moose you’re after, this crossbow packs enough punch to get the job done.

The best part? It has an integrated ACUdraw rope coking system to handle its 175-pound draw weight.

However, this isn’t your standard ACUdraw system. Instead, it uses a more advanced ACUdraw Pro. It reduces the draw weight to only 8.5 pounds, which is 4 ounces lighter than ACUdraw models. In addition, it allows shooters to draw the bow 43% faster.

The RDX 400 crossbow is pre-sighted at 20 yards. However, it includes a 4×32 illuminated scope calibrated to 50 yards.

It offers all these in a compact platform of only 9 inches wide when cocked. Plus, it’s relatively light, weighing 7.6 pounds with accessories. Also, considering how the reverse-draw system shifts the riser to the center, this crossbow doesn’t feel front-heavy.

What’s more, you can handle this crossbow with confidence, knowing that it’s safe, thanks to the anti-dry fire system.

Key accessories include an integrated string stop, three 20-inch arrows, and a 3-arrow quiver.

Do you know what’s even better? This crossbow comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros

✅ Super-fast and accurate

✅ Well-balanced weight

✅ ACUdraw Pro

✅ Easy single-bolt assembly

✅ Lifetime warranty

Cons

✖️ The camo pattern tends to peel off after some time

✖️ The short stock might not be too comfortable with long-armed shooters

8. TenPoint Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 Crossbow

Released in 2020, Rampage 360 is pretty much a newcomer in the world of crossbows. But in the short time that it’s been on the market, this crossbow has far surpassed most models in its class.

For starters, the Rampage 360 is the premier entry-level crossbow on the market, and for a good reason.

Perhaps, the primary reason is that it’s the lowest-priced crossbow to include a built-in cocking device. This crank-style ACUdraw 50 system reduces the 175-pound draw weight by 50%, making it ideal for shooters of all ages.

In addition, this crossbow packs quite a punch. It drives arrows at a blazing 360 fps and delivers 112 ft. lbs. of knockdown power.

Also, this crossbow is pre-sighted at the factory to provide accuracy out of the box. You get tight 1-inch grouping out to 50 yards using the multi-line scope.

While not as compact as the RDX 400, Rampage 360 still affords a narrow profile. It measures 15 inches wide when cocked, making it excellent for tight shooting situations.

Wicked Ridge Rampage 360 also rewards you with trusted, American-built quality. It comes in glass-filled polypropylene that provides much-needed strength without weight penalty.

For your attention, this crossbow weighs only 6 pounds. Plus, it includes an industry-leading lifetime warranty.

Rampage 360 also addresses user safety. It has safety wings to protect your hands and includes an anti-dry fire system to prevent accidents.

Though it doesn’t include the arrows, this crossbow offers a ready-to-hunt package. You’ll get a compact 8.5-inch multi-line scope and a 3-arrow quiver.

Pros

✅ Ultra-crisp trigger

✅ ACUdraw

✅ Compact and accurate

✅ Lightweight

✅ One bolt assembly

✅ Lifetime warranty

Cons

✖️ Doesn’t include the arrows

9. Wicked Ridge M-370 Crossbow with Acudraw

Most hunters would readily pay a premium for a lightweight crossbow. Well, the Wicked Ridge M-370 affords the lightest construction but without the hefty price.

It has an industry-leading weight of only 5.8 pounds. That makes it lighter than most recurve crossbows.

In addition, this crossbow is highly compact and maneuverable. It’s just 9.5 inches cocked and 14 inches un-cocked. Hence, you can easily slip it through thick brushes or maneuver in your box blind.

Well, the M-370 isn’t the most powerful in the Wicked Ridge Series. However, it still packs some serious power behind it.

It drives arrows at 370 fps and delivers a hard-hitting 118 ft. lbs. kinetic energy.

The M-370 has a 180-pound draw weight. But don’t fret. It has the Company’s ACUdraw system that makes it easy enough for a 10-year-old to draw. Also, with a 13.8-inch stroke, this crossbow is noticeably faster to cock.

This crossbow doesn’t sacrifice accuracy. The multi-line scope is calibrated to 50 yards, which is accurate enough for 99% of hunting situations.

Like other crossbows from TenPoint, the M-370 offers an industry-leading lifetime warranty.

Moreover, installation is quick and easy, thanks to the one-bolt assembly. Plus, it offers a ready-to-hunt package that comprises a multi-line scope, a 3-arrow quiver, and three Pro Elite 400 carbon arrows.

Pros

✅ ACUdraw

✅ Feather light and accurate

✅ Highly compact and maneuverable

✅ One bolt assembly

✅ Lifetime warranty

Cons

✖️ Different arrow weights for speed rating

10. Excalibur Matrix GRZ2 Crossbow

Are you looking for a perfect recurve crossbow for any hunting scenario? You can bet your money on the Excalibur Matrix GRZ2 crossbow.

This recurve crossbow offers versatility and performance without breaking the bank.

Did you know that this crossbow is the most rugged and reliable in its class? That’s right. It uses a weatherproof fiber-reinforced frame that can take a beating under any condition.

Also, this crossbow tends to have a skeletonized construction. Hence, it offers significant weight reduction without sacrificing strength. At just 5.5 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to take on long trips.

Excalibur Matrix GRZ2 might not be a speed demon. Still, it delivers more arrow speed and down-range energy. You can achieve speeds of up to 305 fps and 72.3 ft. lbs. kinetic energy. Well, that’s enough power to take down most deer.

Like other Excalibur crossbows, it tends to have a considerable draw weight of 200 pounds. Still, you’ll appreciate that the rope cocking device reduces cocking effort by half.

This crossbow is accurate, too. It’s pre-sighted at 20 yards but offers a clean shot up to 40 yards.

At 26.5 inches un-cocked, the Excalibur Matrix GRZ2 doesn’t qualify as a compact crossbow. Still, the extra inches offer better stability and downrange accuracy.

Excalibur skips the automatic anti-dry fire system. Instead, it uses manual safety, which is still good for such a wallet-friendly crossbow. Also, it doesn’t have string dampers, but is quiet nonetheless.

Excalibur offers a lifetime warranty for this crossbow. Also, you’ll get several accessories, including a fixed power scope, rope cocker, 4-arrow quiver, and three 18-inch arrows with 150-grain field points.

Pros

✅ Rugged weatherproof construction

✅ Lightweight

✅ Includes all accessories

✅ Lifetime warranty

Cons

✖️ Quite a large draw weight

✖️ Doesn’t include automatic safety

How To Choose The Best Crossbow For Women

Crossbows are a great alternative to traditional bows. They offer more power and are still easy to use.

There are many different crossbows on the market, but not all of them will be suitable for you. You must find the right one for your needs. So, what should you look for when picking a crossbow?

Crossbow Type

Compound or recurve? It’s probably the biggest decision you have to make.

Well, neither is good nor bad. It pretty much depends on what best suits your preferences.

If you’re new to the sport and want an inexpensive crossbow with less maintenance, having the best recurve crossbow is better.

However, if you’ve been in the game for a while and need something quieter, compact, and with greater stopping power, a compound crossbow is the right choice.

Draw Weight

Draw weight refers to the force needed to cock your crossbow.

The higher the draw weight, the deadlier the arrow. However, you’ll need more force to draw the string.

So, what draw weight is perfect?

The ideal draw weight depends on the application. Do you plan to use it for hunting or target shooting?

Fort target practice, you can do with lighter draw weights of less than 150 pounds. However, for hunting, you’ll need 150 pounds or more.

Velocity

Velocity, often measured in feet per second, determines the arrow speed over the first 20-30 yards.

The draw weight and arrow weight will significantly impact arrow speed. For instance, heavier arrows tend to travel slower than lighter arrows shot from the same bow.

So, what’s the minimum velocity to aim for?

Well, we recommend a minimum of 200 fps. It will serve you best in both hunting and target practice.

Energy Output

This is the amount of energy the crossbow transfers to the arrow upon release and is measured in foot pounds.

The larger the draw weight and power stroke, the more energy you get on the arrow.

So, what are the kinetic energy requirements for different hunting scenarios?

The best crossbow for hunting small game, such as turkey and groundhog, should have a minimum of 25 ft. lbs. If you’re after the medium game, such as antelope and deer, go for a minimum of 40 foot pounds.

If it’s for large animals, such as elk and black bears, consider a minimum of 60 foot pounds. Finally, if you’re after the largest game, mostly grizzly bear and buffalo, consider nothing less than 75 foot pounds.

Durability

Today’s crossbows generate considerable physical stress. Hence, ensure your crossbow is durable enough to handle the strain.

Pay more attention to the limb. Quality crossbows often have fiberglass, carbon, or composite limbs. However, you can still get away with CNC-machined aluminum.

Weight

Weight might not be much of a concern for men. But because women don’t have such strong arms, it makes sense to choose a lightweight crossbow. It ensures that the crossbow is easy to carry with you on long trips in the woods without hindering your mobility.

Accessories

It would be best to choose a crossbow that offers a ready-to-hunt package. Some accessories to look out for include a scope, rope cocker (for those without built-in crank devices), quiver, and arrows.

FAQs

What are the advantages of a crossbow?

Crossbows are popular for hunting game because they allow you to shoot from a greater distance than would be possible with an ordinary bow. They are also easier to aim at than most firearms if accuracy is important. For this reason, they’re ideal for both target practice and hunting.

Does a woman need to know how to hunt to use a crossbow?

As a woman, you might get the impression that hunting with a crossbow is a man’s job. This is because of the strong social norms surrounding this activity. But it’s not true at all!

Many women hunt with a crossbow and enjoy this kind of sport. The best thing about using a crossbow is that even without spending much time or energy mastering it, you can still be successful in hunting small animals like rabbits and other rodents.

How to use a crossbow safely and effectively

A crossbow is a weapon that launches bolts or arrows. A crossbow isn’t like a traditional bow and arrow. It’s more like a gun that fires projectiles.

When using a crossbow, you need to make sure you are safe and follow the steps listed below.

Step 1: Load the bolt into the crossbow

Step 2: Aim the crossbow at your target

Step 3: Pull back on the string (you may need to hold it with your other hand)

Step 4: Hold for about three seconds before releasing it to fire the bolt.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored the best crossbows for women, as well as tips on how to choose the right crossbow for your needs. We hope you find these tips helpful!

However, you should know one thing – a crossbow knows no gender. So, no one crossbow is 100% for men or women. As long as you can draw it and hit your target accurately, that model can be a good option.

Still, it should meet all your needs, whether it’s hunting or target practice. Also, it should offer the best features within its price range.

Well, our top 10 models have all the prerequisites of a perfect crossbow. So, whatever your reason for wanting a crossbow, they should be able to meet your expectations.