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If you take hunting seriously, then this crossbow will suit your needs. This durable crossbow is that other impressive crossbow I recommend for an unlimited budget. With $1,600, you’ll get a powerful and fast crossbow that gives consistent flat shoots. A serious hunter will hunt any time of the day whenever he deemed it possible. That means hunting during snowy and late-season weather, too. That’s where the Matrix 405 comes in. This is a great hunting companion simply because it’s capable of a maximum velocity of 405 fps and backed by 290 pounds. With 127 ft./lbs. of kinetic energy, you’ll humanely kill your game in a jiffy. The R.E.D.S. string suppressors in this crossbow reduce vibration, noise, and shock, making it possible to produce quieter and more comfortable shots. A built-in release allows easy uncocking, too.

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The Matrix 405 has a lifetime warranty. It also features an Anti Dry Fire System which is housed in the scope mount. This prevents dangerous misfires by catching the crossbow string to prevent firing if it’s triggered without an arrow. Another highlight is its Premium Matrix string made of BCY Dynaflight 97 which reduces creep and increase speed. It’s even a bonus that it comes with a Twilight DLX Scope that has fully multi-coated lens, a huge 44m objective lens, and an adjustable multiplex crosshair system.

As mentioned above, one of its features is the BCY Dynaflight 97 string. This is 35 inches long and connects a set of Matrix Power Load limbs from each tip. The limbs are molded and made of unidirectional fiberglass and measure approximately 15 inches long. Excalibur has its signature limbs made in-house and are reported to be 60 percent more durable than its previous bow limbs. Quad-Loc Risers on the 405 also support each limb at multiple points, eliminating any undesirable movement. The Matrix 405’s aluminum alloy riser is also perfectly machined.

The Ergo Grip Stock of the Matrix 405 will completely give you a whole different experience on its forearm, trigger guard, pistol grip, rear stock piece and butt plate. You may still be comfortable with the standard cheekpiece which adjusts for right handed or left handed shooters though. The base material is made from injection molded glass-filled Nylon, allowing the crafting of detailed formations such as finger grooves, flares and ribbing. For your comfort and for better control, the pistol grip and fore grip have been equipped with inserts made from rubber. The rail connects the bow and stock while also serving as the platform for the trigger housing. The rail, which is mounted to the end closest to the shooter, is made of aluminum alloy and houses the linkage between the trigger and the release mechanism.

Let’s now tackle the greatness of its provided scope. The Twilight DLX scope performs exceptionally for this crossbow. At first use, you’ll be blown away by its impressive light aperture and clarity. The optics on this scope are probably be among the best you’ll ever encounter. It features a fully multi-coated optics for maximum brightness and clarity. This will eliminate your worries regarding glare, reflection, and fogging. Its adjustable multiplex crosshair system is etched into the glass and is illuminated in either red or green. With its 44mm objective lens, you’ll obviously gather a lot of light; making hunting possible even in low light situations. You’ll even find it effortless to assemble. The scope is also made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is shockproof and waterproof.

The bow and scope is undeniably impressive, but you still have to consider the draw weight before you purchase. If you are not sure you’ll be able to handle all 290 pounds (about 50% less with rope cocker), the C2 crank is available to be added on for more ability to draw. With this much power, you will experience some vibration and noise upon firing, but plenty of speed will also be gained. Accuracy at short ranges is unquestionable and the impact on the target is impressive for a crossbow of its size.

With regards to their customer service, they respond quickly to your concerns and are very accommodating. No wonder their customers rate their services 5/5.

To wrap up, here are the specifications of the Excalibur Matrix 405:

 

Velocity	405 FPS
Draw Weight	290 LBS
Power Stroke	13.9″
Mass Weight	6.2 LBS
Overall Length	36.2″
Stock	ERGO-GRIP STOCK
Finish	MOSSY OAK® TREESTAND™ CAMO
Scope	TWILIGHT DLX™ 3-6x44MM SCOPE
Scope Rings	INCLUDED
Firing System	GUARDIAN™ ANTI-DRY-FIRE SYSTEM
Cheek Piece	AMBIDEXTROUS
Suppression	R.E.D.S.™ SUPPRESSORS
Quiver	4-ARROW QUIVER INCLUDED
Arrows	4 18″ DIABLO™ ARROWS INCLUDED
Field Points	150 GRAINS, INCLUDED
Rope Cocking Aid	INCLUDED

It’s now an understatement to say that this is the best hunting crossbow you could ever get.

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Horton Crossbow Innovations Storm is the one of the best crossbows I recommend. This is perfect for your limitless budget and hunting needs. The highlighted features include a machined aluminum RDX that increases performance and improve stability. This riser has a self-locking limb pocket that prevents limb twist and reduces limb stress. The Storm is also compact which is great for hunting in close quarters. It has great speed, accuracy, balance, a dry-fire-inhibitor, and adjustable shoulder and cheek rests. This U.S.A. made crossbow delivers its 400-grain carbon arrow at a blazing 370 FPS with 122 foot pounds of kinetic energy. If you are a bit lazy about waxing the string every five shots, then you won’t regret spending your money on this one since the waxing is only required after every 75 shots, giving you more time shoot than wax.

As you can see in the picture above, this Horton crossbow is obviously a head-turner. The entire design looks so special and enticing; it’s worth holding on to every day, every single hour. Out of the box, you might notice that the limbs are backwards. Don’t fret. The RDX stands for Reverse Draw Crossbow, and having the limbs and riser pointed toward you might be a bit different and uncomfortable. But the result of this reverse limb design is a super powerful, super narrow crossbow that feels much lighter than its actual weight. Having the riser and limbs pointed backwards has a favorable impact on the manner the crossbow shoulders as the center of gravity is pushed back towards the shooter, resulting in greater comfort and control.

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This Horton crossbow is very smooth to shoot. As mentioned earlier, the trigger is light making it easy to shoot. The massive skeleton cams and split limbs combined to push an arrow out with very little recoil also makes it worth the price. The new arrow retention brush has three sets of bristles and they really make a difference in silencing the shot as well as aligning the arrow in the center of the track in a perfect way. Come to think of it, Horton even added an adjustable butt plate as well as an adjustable cheek plate. The butt plate has three positions to help you get the correct LOP, and the cheek plate can be adjusted vertically in seven positions to ensure you are fitted perfectly to the stock. It may seem expensive, but with numerous pros, you might as well forget the cons.

The Storm RDX fires 400-grain arrows at 370 fps, translating to a muzzle energy of about 122 ft. lbs. This is some serious power and should allow you to hunt just about anything you want. If you’re wondering, “How quiet is this Horton Storm RDX anyway?” then let me tell you, it’s really quiet and stealthy. Reverse draw crossbows actually seem to be much quieter than those that are not because the riser is not on the end of the barrel, rather, it’s father back where there is more support. The dual string stops help cut vibration as well as the new arrow retention brush, which eliminates the metallic strum that often occurs when shooting a crossbow with a metal retention piece. So yes, it’s really quiet and stealthy.

It comes standard with three 20” Horton Victory carbon arrows. These are pretty much ready to go right out of the box. If you think you want to use another brand, then go ahead. Just be sure to stay in that 20” range and that you are getting enough spine to handle a 370 fps crossbow.

The Storm RDX also comes with a 4×32 scope which is enough for various shooting situations. It is graduated for 20, 30, and 40 yard shots with a floating dot for 50 yards. However, even if the light transmission is good, it could be better if the scope was illuminated. You may also find it difficult to line up for longer shots using multiple aim points. Somehow, the scope is better suited for a crossbow that shoots around 330 fps, so it would be practical for you to get a scope that allows you to adjust the speed. The crossbow may also be heavy but a shoulder strap is always useful. Despite all the difficulties you have to deal with for this one, the accuracy of this crossbow will surely amaze you. It’s worth the money you’ll invest on it.

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This customizable crossbow designed and assembled in the U.S.A. is another scope worth your money. The accessories that come with it are ideal for any shooting situation. The crossbow features an Eight-Position Picatinny Stock Rail System that accommodates most military and commercial AR parts, great for unlimited custom styling. The crossbow is also slim and because of this, balance is improved and you can shoot better. The Micro Adjustable 5-Positiion Tactical AR Stock Design allows you to repeat your shots because of its optimal length-of-pull.

Another great thing about this crossbow is its unquestionable durability. For a crossbow to be used in any hunting scenario, it needs to have a great build. Its 3.5lb. trigger pull is gun caliber machined, too, which gives more lethal results. You don’t have to worry about the vibration and noise because they are controlled by the rubber-like exterior finish coating, called SilenTech, for quieter hunting. Most crossbows nowadays have an anti fry fire system that helps keep you safe. And that is another feature in this Intercept Axon. Into the bargain, it even includes a lighted scope with red and green illumination.

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One of the best features of the Carbon Express Intercept is its innovative Picatinny rail system. It’s the most widely used and accepted mounting system in the firearms industry. Designed to appeal to lovers of AR rifles, the Intercept is the perfect tool for hunters who already own a variety of lights and lasers, bipods, grips and additional tactical-style gear. An imaginative hunter can even configure this crossbow for bow fishing, night hunting, shooting out of high-elevation treestands, confined one-man blinds, and other non-deer hunting scenarios. With this set-up, it might even be difficult for you to get your hands off of this crossbow.

For starters, a 15-inch Picatinny rail allows for precision scope placement using Carbon Express’ QD scope mounts. This gives the shooter a clear field of view on every shot and proper eye relief when shooting from acute angles — such as over bait in a 20-foot-high treestand or in a blind where the target appears from an unanticipated direction. Many modern crossbows are actually designed with a one-position scope mounting system that often requires wiggling and jiggling at the moment of truth, which isn’t true with the Intercept.

The Picatinny rail also allows the user to make the necessary stock and grip adjustments for basic shooting at the range and for specialty uses such as competitive shooting, woodland practice ranges, roving and other off-season events and pastimes.

This crossbow requires 175 pounds to draw, so I recommend the use of a rope cocking device. The included rope cocking device lowers the effort required to cock the crossbow down to about 90 pounds, and ensures you have an even, consistent pull on the string, so that’s equal to about 50 points bonus. Plus, the cams work flawlessly for every shot. Another 50 points.

When it comes to the weight, the Intercept is listed at 8.3 pounds minus scope, quiver, arrows and fore-grip, but the differential is insignificant when hunting out of a stand or blind without the quiver. The length (30 ¼ to 35 inches depending on stock adjustment) and width (13 ½ inches axle to axle when cocked) makes the Intercept the perfect crossbow for midday still-hunting through thick cover such as bedding areas or rut zones. Balance becomes essential here, and that’s not going to be a problem with Intercept. Its slim profile design makes it a pleasure to hold while zigzagging through saplings, brush and briars.

With no creep, the trigger pull is crisp and dependable at 3 ½ pounds. Its Anti Dry-Fire (ADF) mechanism is another safety feature for it requires each arrow to be firmly seated on the string or the locking mechanism will not release even when the trigger is pulled — either on purpose or by accident.

Let’s now discuss the arrows. It’s important to know that various arrows and points will shoot to a different point of impact when shaft or point changes are made. Always sight in and hunt with the same arrow configurations and use field tips that are similar in weight to the broadheads you intend to use. It’s your responsibility to combine the crossbow, arrow and points. Any crossbow will perform well with fine-tuning, but it all boils down to the use of proper equipment.

Moreover, if you’re planning on shooting over 50 yards with confidence, you need to upgrade the scope. On a positive note, Carbon Express has done an excellent job developing this scope with good light gathering capabilities regardless of lighting conditions.

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If you’re asking what crossbow functions well in a compact package, then Excalibur Matrix 380 is the answer. This recurve crossbow has everything you need. It’s the best crossbow for the money. With your $1000, you’ll get 60% longer limb life, increased durability, Realtree Xtra camo applied via the Kolorfusion process for realistic detail and long lasting finish, 13.1-inch power stroke, and an Ergonomic grip stock that brings everything closer for better balance and improved accuracy. This balanced, accurate, and easy to cock crossbow has a Quad-Loc rise design that locks each limb on four sides for greater strength and consistency. Not to mention its Recoil Energy Dissipation System that reduces noise and vibration. It also has an anti dry fire system and has a long-lasting durability. This even comes with a cheekpiece, rope cocking aid, four-arrow quiver with bracket, four Diablo arrows, four 150 grain field points, and a Tact-Zone scope that features an updated reticle design, 30mm main tube, red or green illuminated reticle, and multicoated lenses for exceptional clarity and light-gathering performance.

Though the 260-pound draw weight may be hefty, this crossbow is still worth your $1000. There’s another disadvantage but this is only found in some products; that is, the limbs may break off at the base after hours of shooting. But bear in mind that with proper handling and care, this won’t be an issue.

The Matrix 380 is one of the best products of Excalibur. It’s a great combination of power and minimum noise in an elegant compact body. It even includes a rope-cocking aid, which is essential for its 260lb. draw weight. Using the rope-cocking device, the crossbow draws smoothly and with minimal effort. The safety engages securely every time the crossbow is cocked, and it easily disengages when you are ready to fire. However, you have to remember that some states do not allow the use of a crossbow with a draw weight of 200lb. or the use of any type of leverage-gaining device (like a rope-cocking device) for hunting purposes, so you should double check your state’s crossbow laws before purchasing this particular crossbow.

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Assembling this crossbow is a little more complicated than assembling a compound crossbow because you have to string the bow. In this case, however, the assembly came already strung. Follow the steps below to get it going:

1. Using two 5/16” flat Allen cap screws with large washers, mount the limb system to the riser.
2. Mount the foot stirrup using two 1/4” round head bolts.
3. Attached the front and rear sights using the hardware included.
4. Mount your scope.
5. Head to the archery range to sight it in. Your backyard will do, by the way.

The Matrix 380 exposes you to 112.3 lbs. of kinetic energy, releasing arrows at 380 fps. Because of its power, the Matrix 380’s anti-dry fire (ADF) system turns to be beneficial. The Guardian anti-dry fire mechanism is embedded in the sight mount and traps the string if the Matrix 380 is fired, keeping the arrow in its place. The safety system has a built-in release which permits you to easily de-cock so you do not have to fire an arrow at the end of the day. The trigger pull of this bow is also smooth and easy, giving consistent breaks every time and consistent accuracy from as far away as 80 yards.

The scope that comes with it is powerful as well. Sighting it in is quick and easy. It holds zero every time. Even after how many tries, you won’t knock it off from zero. However, there’s a downside to this one. The illumination is a bit too faded, making the green and red illuminations barely visible on a foggy morning. So, no hunting on a misty forenoon.

Of course, you’ll be needing a case for this one. The best protection you can get for this is provided by the Carbon Express Deluxe Case. The case includes an internal pocket for your accessories and they can be accessed easily. It also includes 26” long by 7” wide external pocket for your quiver and arrows, and enough padding to further protect your crossbow. Plus, it only costs $70. However, if you have a larger scope, go for the Barnett Case Model 17083. This one provides larger spaces for your larger accessories.

Let’s talk about the warranty. The Excalibur Matrix 380 comes with an unconditional 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects. After five years, the warranty is extended at Excalibur’s discretion for the lifetime of the original owner. They also have good customer service. Their representatives are so knowledgeable and friendly; you can share any concern with your crossbow.

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For under $400, you can already get one incredibly powerful and accurate bow brought by one of the top brands in the industry—Barnett. Barnett worked with The Brotherhood to produce this light and quiet bow that produces speed up to 350 fps with 109 ft./lbs. of kinetic energy. This sturdy crossbow features a lightweight composite stock with a Magnesium STR Riser. The CNC-machined 7/8” Picatinny rail on this crossbow allows you to mount the optics of your choice so you’re not bounded by the provided scope.

This crossbow’s accuracy and speed is great. Its ADF Trigger System leaves you with pretty good and tighter groups. The 3.5-lb. trigger pull is also smooth, giving you a perfect, flat shot. Assembling, handling, and sighting in would be hassle-free as well.

With regards to the drawbacks, there are a number from customer reviews. I’ve collected the most essential ones so you know what to expect when you get the package. At the outset, the provided quiver is cheap and it’s recommended if you use a different one. The safety works incorrectly as well, demanding you to manually push back the string stop with a pen and engage safety at the same time then draw the string back to lock it into place. It sounds tasking, actually. The reticle of the scope that comes with it is tilted, too. But as mentioned earlier, you can mount another scope if you want to. There is also an engineering flaw that resulted with the bolt not laying flat on the barrel. What’s more, a rope cocking device is not included. You also have to be extra careful when you use this crossbow since the finger guards and the arrow retention spring can easily break.

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According to the products that the Brotherhood has manufactured, The Barnet Outdoors Brotherhood Crossbow is larger and better than others. This has a relatively balanced weight between the crossbow and the hunting bows. With the crossbow weighing 160lbs and the hunting bows ranging between 150lb and 170lb, the two matches in weight making the crossbow balanced even when shooting. The bigger the arrow and the bow, the faster and effective the bow is and the stronger and longer the striking power has on the part of the arrow. It is this weight that enables the arrow to travel at a speed of 350fps thus catching up with the target unawares.

The Barnett Outdoors Brotherhood Crossbow package has been developed with a scope sight of at least 3×32. This scope sight helps the hunter to have a better view of the animal being hunted at least when the hunter is as far as 50 yards from the animal. This feature makes the hunting crossbow convenient because the hunter does not need to go near the animal because some animals can run away, while others like the buffalo can attack the hunter. With this crossbow package, your safety is guaranteed.

Another great thing about this bow is that it does not vibrate during shooting, thus eliminating chances of making noise that can alert the target. It’s very easy to assemble out of the box.

1. Attach the limbs to the frame using one bolt.
2. Attach the scope.
3. Attach the provided four bolts for the foot stirrup
4. You’re done!

The bows actually differ in weight; granting the hunter a choice depending on the distance and size of the animal being targeted. You won’t be remorseful about having this one because it has strong and well-built bolts that make the bow stronger and durable. As a result, you can use it for a long period of time.

On the other hand, the crossbow is not made of durable materials and in case it falls or is stepped on, it can break easily. It’s safe to say that the bolts may be strong, but the crossbow itself isn’t. Aside from that, the scope sight is not clear enough when operated from far distances. But of course, the cons presented are not so big of a deal compared to the pros you’ll get in return.

Cocking this crossbow with a rope cocking device is simple. It requires very little effort. It’s also comfortable to shoot and you’ll love the the pass-through grip on the fore end. Carrying it around and using it is easy as pie. Plus, it’s highly efficient and effective as it travels at a high speed and does not vibrate to create any noise. It has a good scope sight to help the hunter have a better view of the animal and can shoot even when the hunter is 50 yards away. It’s recommended by hunters because it’s the best crossbow compared to others in its price range. It will make your hunting interesting, effective, and most importantly, safe.

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