10 Best Pistol Crossbow for Hunting in 2023

best pistol crossbow for hunting

The Best Pistol Crossbow for Hunting: People have been using crossbows for hundreds of years. Generally, some use these types of weapons for hunting. On the contrary, others use them for casual target practice, sport, and even for competitions.

As all crossbows don’t suit various conditions, so, the manufacturers of this weaponry produce several different types of crossbows, including recurve, compound, and pistol.

Among these pieces of shooting equipment, the pistol crossbow is widely popular. Because it is convenient to use and comes at a reasonable price. But this is not the only factor behind its popularity.

The pistol crossbow is very easy to maintain. Users can handle it with one hand. And its ammunition comes at an affordable price too. Again, the shooting machine can generate high power to hunt small and big games. So, no hunters and sports enthusiasts want to miss such facilities.

And that’s why the device is becoming famous day by day. However, if you are inquiring about a pistol crossbow, you may read through the article the best pistol crossbow for hunting available in the market today.

Our Top Picks – The 10 Best Pistol Crossbow for Hunting

best pistol crossbow for hunting

1. ACE MARTIAL ARTS SUPPLY PISTOL TACTICAL CROSSBOW

  • It comes with 2 strings and 39 scopes
  • 80 lb draw weight and 165 fps firing speed
  • Safe and less strenuous self-cocking mechanism
  • Ideal for small game hunting and target practice

best pistol crossbow for hunting

2. SOUTHLAND ARCHERY SUPPLY PROPHECY 80 POUND PISTOL CROSSBOW

  • It comes with an Aluminum body and 3 arrows
  • 80 lb draw weight and 165 fps firing speed
  • It is a self-cocking Pistol Crossbow
  • Equipped with Cobra Limb System

KINGSARCHERY CROSSBOW PISTOL SELF COCKING

3. KINGSARCHERY CROSSBOW PISTOL SELF COCKING

  • Packed with 63 aluminum and PVC arrow bolts
  • The bow is made of strong fiberglass material.
  • Easier and faster to load self-cocking system
  • Ideal for the beginner shooter

PROPHECY 80 POUND SELF-COCKING

4. PROPHECY 80 POUND SELF-COCKING PISTOL CROSSBOW

  • 80 lb draw weight and 165 fps firing speed
  • Equipped with Cobra Limb System
  • Features Picatinny 7/8″ mounting rail
  • Compact Body with fast drawing self-cocking design

best pistol crossbow for hunting

5. ‎‎KINGSARCHERY KA-CROSSBOW-80LB-1X06A-STRING

  • 80lb crossbow with a safe and faster self-cocking
  • It comes with 15 aluminum arrows
  • The bow is made of sturdy fiberglass.
  • Provide a 30-day limited warranty

best pistol crossbow for hunting

6. SOUTHLAND ARCHERY SUPPLY SAS HONOR RECURVE CROSSBOW

  • 175 lb draw weight and 260 fps firing speed
  • Compact and lightweight for hunting
  • Equipped with auto dry fire safety trigger system
  • Equipped with reflex red dot scope

SNAKE EYE TACTICAL PISTOL CROSSBOW 80LBS COBRA

7. SNAKE EYE TACTICAL PISTOL CROSSBOW 80LBS COBRA

  • 80 lb draw weight and 225 fps firing speed
  • It comes with 3 aluminum bolts
  • Features Metal Bolts and Fiberglass Limb
  • Ideal for small hunting games

Snake Eye 80lbs Self Cocking Cobra

8. SNAKE EYE 80LBS SELF COCKING COBRA CROSSBOW

  • 80 lb draw weight and 160+ fps firing speed
  • Packed with 15 Aluminum arrows
  • Features auto safety cocking mechanism
  • Fiberglass construction with nicely polished limb

best pistol crossbow for hunting

9. KINGSARCHERY KA-CROSSBOW-80LB-SCOPE-2X06P-STRING

  • Durable fiberglass construction
  • It comes with 27 aluminum arrow bolts
  • Packed with spare crossbow string and caps
  • Features mountable Hunting Crossbow Scope

best pistol crossbow for hunting

10. PSE VIPER SS CROSSBOW VIPER SS HANDHELD CROSSBOW

  • 50 lbs draw weight and 215 fps firing speed
  • Ideal for recreational target shooting
  • It comes with auto safety & anti-dry fire trigger
  • It comes with 3 Frenzy bolts

Review of the Pistol Crossbow for Hunting

Pistol crossbows come in different sizes and various styles. And so, most people make a mistake while selecting one from several brands. As a result, they end up buying a multifunction or regular budget crossbow as they don’t know how to choose.

The best crossbow for self defense always comes with high-quality features. They tend to have a compact size and offer excellent maneuverability. Besides that, they come with all essential features like self-cocking mechanisms, anti-dry fire systems, and auto safety mechanisms, etc.

Also, these types of crossbows feature additional gears such as the adjustable scope, ammunition, spare string, caps, and lots more. After checking all these key factors, one should decide on the purchase. Here we are going to describe in detail the pistol crossbow for hunting, and you may read through it to find out your desired one.

1. Ace Martial Arts Supply Pistol Tactical Crossbow

best pistol crossbow for hunting

The Ace Martial Arts Supply Cobra System pistol crossbow is high-quality shooting stuff. It is specially designed for people who are looking for a stylish handheld crossbow.

That means it comes with an attractive design that can draw the attention of any bowhunter. And if you need the most powerful pistol crossbow for target practice, then you may choose this one.

The crossbow is made of durable materials, and it is available in different colors as well as styles. Thus, you get the opportunity to pick one from numerous designs. The significant feature of the pistol crossbow is it has a self cocking mechanism.

As a consequence, you don’t need to apply much effort during cocking. On the other contrary, it is pretty lightweight; its weight is around 2.3 pounds. That’s why you can conveniently carry it in the woods.

Again, this powerful mini crossbow comes with 80lbs of draw weight. And it can shoot arrows at a speed of 165 FPS. So, you can easily hunt down your target. Besides that, it comes with a 4 x20 scope, which is adjustable. And this feature helps you aim precisely.

Ace Martial Arts Supply

Apart from these features, this hunting pistol crossbow has some fantastic features, which are 39 aluminum arrows, and two 80 lbs strings. As it comes with bolts, so, you don’t need to spend the extra buck and can save your money.

And the crossbow’s strings enable you to improve your accuracy of the shooting. Overall, it is ideal for beginners and professionals who intend to practice target shooting.

Pros

  • Superior quality
  • Durable construction
  • Ensures high propelling of arrows
  • Allows mounting scope
  • Suitable for newbie
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Has no safety feature

2. Southland Archery Supply Prophecy 80 Pound Pistol Crossbow

best pistol crossbow for hunting

The Southland Archery Supply Prophecy 80 Pound pistol crossbow is excellent shooting equipment. This best crossbow pistol depends on Barnett’s commando’s mechanism. That means it has all the features that a high-quality Barnett crossbow offers.

The noticeable feature of this best pistol crossbow for hunting is 80 lbs of draw weight. As a result, users don’t need to spend much physical energy while cocking the unit. For cocking, it features a self-cocking mechanism, which makes the loading of the bows easier.

Besides that, users get the benefit of the high power stroke, which is 6-4/5″. And this power is enough to hunt down targets easily. Another noticeable feature of the pistol crossbow is it can propel bolts at a speed of up to 165 FPS. The feature makes the equipment ideal for target practicing and hunting small games.

Southland Archery Supply Prophecy

The Prophecy 80 Pound self cocking pistol crossbow comes with a 1 x 30mm red dot scope. The red dot scope is mounted on the primary framework. And it allows users to aim at the target correctly.

Thus, they don’t usually face up with trouble during aiming and hunting. Lastly, the shooting equipment is highly durable as it has a cobra limb system. It enables users to use the pistol crossbow for an extended period.

Pros

  • Sturdy and durable
  • Features self-cocking
  • Can shoot bolts at a speed of up to 165 FPS
  • Easy to assemble and use
  • High-quality
  • Comes at a reasonable price

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with the arrows

3. KingsArchery Crossbow Pistol Self Cocking Pistol Crossbow

KingsArchery Crossbow Pistol Self Cocking

The KingArchery Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow is a large shooting weapon, and it has been manufactured specifically for small hunting games. It has an attractive black design, and it comes with 63 aluminum bolts.

The shooting equipment can deliver these arrows at high speed. And the ammunition offers excellent penetration. As these weapons come in a large quantity, so, users don’t need to purchase extra arrows and can save a couple of bucks.

This hunting pistol crossbow is highly durable as it is crafted from fiberglass. The material ensures maximum durability and makes the crossbow lightweight, as well. The weight of the machine is only 3 pounds; as a result, users can comfortably handle it.

KingsArchery Crossbow Pistol Self Cocking

Apart from that, the pistol crossbow comes with some significant features, which are the self-cocking system and the adjustable sight.

The self-cocking mechanism ensures smooth and faster reloading, and the adjustable sight offers users to get the precise aim while targeting. In summary, it can be an excellent weapon that you may choose for your next hunting trip.

Pros

  • Sturdy and durable
  • Excellent quality
  • Enables arrows to reach a decent speed
  • Features adjustable scope
  • Comes with 63 aluminum bolts
  • Fairly priced

Cons

  • Assembly requires a little bit of time

4. Prophecy 80 Pound Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow

Prophecy 80 Pound Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow

The Prophecy 80 Pound Aluminum Pistol Crossbow is very much functional. If you are looking for an innovative pistol crossbow, then you may check its features. It is effortless to cock. So, without any delay, let’s dig into its functions.

This comes with durable construction. Although it has a sturdy structure, it is pretty lightweight. Its weight is around only 2 pounds, and that makes it easy to maneuver.

Besides that, the most powerful pistol crossbow for hunting has a decent draw weight, which is 80 lbs. As a result, users don’t need to put in much effort while cocking the unit. The Prophecy Pistol Crossbow is very powerful, and it can shoot a bolt at high speed over a reasonable distance.

It allows the arrows to travel up to165 FPS. Another remarkable feature of the crossbow is it comes with additional accessories.

Prophecy 80 Pound Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow

It has the SAS Stringer; it is specially designed to help users to cock the string easily. And it fits almost all the pistol crossbows that have Cobra System limbs.

Also, the Prophecy has high-quality bolts which are made of durable aluminum. Apart from that, it features an ergonomic grip handle, which increases stability during shooting. In a nutshell, it is perfect for hunting big game.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • High quality
  • Ergonomic design
  • Features additional accessories
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • The sights can be a bit difficult to understand

5. KINGSARCHERY KA-CROSSBOW-80LB-1X06A-STRING

best pistol crossbow for hunting

If you are inquiring about a pistol crossbow that offers extreme accuracy, then you check out the Kingsarchery Ka pistol crossbow. It has fantastic features to notice. For its features, some bowhunters even consider it the best pistol crossbow for hunting available on the market today.

First, you will notice its impressive construction. It is constructed from high-quality fiberglass. Thus, it ensures maximum durability. Besides being sturdy and durable, the pistol is lightweight as well.

And this feature allows users to comfortably carry and use this mini pistol crossbow when they are in the woods. Again, the crossbow features 80lbs of draw weight, and it propels arrows at decent speed over a significant distance.

When it is about crossbows, the bolt becomes a vital fact. Like the other high-quality pistol crossbows, it also comes with 15 aluminum bolts. In essence, it features only three arrows, and the rest twelve comes as a bonus option.

Alongside the bonus set of arrows, the crossbow also offers a spare crossbow string and caps combo. Also, it comes with an adjustable scope. Users can use the scope to increase the accuracy of their shots. Lastly, it has a self-cocking lever, which makes reloading easy and quick. That means users can shoot arrows back to back easily.

Pros

  • Comes with a self-cocking feature
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Lightweight
  • Offers a lot of arrows
  • Features an adjustable scope
  • Great value for the price

Cons

  • The screws may get loose over time

6. Southland Archery Supply SAS Honor Crossbow

best pistol crossbow for hunting

The Southland Archery Supply SAS Honor 175lbs Crossbow is designed for beginners. It comes with all the features that not only draw the attention of the hunters but also meet their requirements.

The primary feature of the pistol crossbow is its draw weight. It comes with 175 pounds of draw weight. And it can shoot arrows at a speed of 260 feet per second. For this feature, many experts recommend this pistol crossbow for beginners and professional hunters.

Another noticeable feature of the unit is it is lightweight. That’s why users can easily carry this recurve crossbow out in the woods. Besides that, it comes with some other excellent features like the adjustable stock, red-dot scope, quick detach quiver with three arrows, rail lube, rope cocker, and safety system, etc.

Southland Archery Supply SAS Honor Crossbow

Among these features, the adjustable stock provides maximum comfort. And the red-dot scope increases the accuracy of targeting. Lastly, there is a safety feature, which is an auto dry fire system.

In essence, it is a mechanism that reduces the chances of dry firing. In summary, this weapon can be a good companion for both entry-level and professional hunters.

Pros

  • Compact design
  • Durable materials
  • Lightweight
  • Ensures precise aiming
  • Features an adjustable stock
  • Comes at a reasonable price

Cons

  • May need to wax the string after several shots

7. Snake Eye 80lbs Cobra Tactical Pistol Crossbow

Snake Eye 80lbs Cobra Tactical Pistol Crossbow

The Snake Eye 80 Lbs Self-Cocking Tactical Crossbow is very popular amongst hunting enthusiasts. It is made of high-quality fiberglass, and so, it is highly durable. The significant feature of the best mini crossbow is it has self-cocking technology.

For that, it shortens the reloading time and makes the cocking easier. While reloading the unit, it engages safety automatically. That means you will remain safe during cocking and shooting over and over.

The manufacturer of this pistol crossbow for home defense has made it lightweight. Thus, users can comfortably use and carry the unit. Besides being compact and lightweight, it offers excellent power for small game hunting. That means it features 80 lbs draw weight, and it can propel arrows at high speed.

The crossbow features fifteen metal arrows. Overall, this shooting unit offers durability and plenty of flexibility simultaneously. And you can use it without facing up with any trouble while hunting.

Pros

  • Has the self-cocking system
  • Comes with 15 arrows
  • Durable construction
  • Features cobra frame
  • Easy to load
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • The string could be better

8. Snake Eye 80lbs Self Cocking Cobra Crossbow

Snake Eye 80lbs Self Cocking Cobra Crossbow

The 80lbs Self Cocking Cobra Crossbow is an excellent and affordable shooting weapon. It comes with adequate features that can draw the attention of professional hunters. That means like the other high-quality pistol crossbows; it also has some fantastic features to notice.

The significant feature that can impress you is the draw weight. It comes with 80lbs of draw weight. And with the help of this feature, the shooting equipment generates high power so that arrows can travel up to 160 FPS.

Another remarkable feature of the unit is it comes with a pack of 15 metal arrows. It will be beneficial to any hunter who wants to save a couple of bucks. The manufacturer of the crossbow gives it a lightweight and stylish design.

It features a black body, and it is easy to carry out in the woods. Last but not the least, a feature of this best mini crossbow has a self-cocking mechanism. Overall, it can be the perfect equipment for hunting small games.

Pros

  • Easy to cock
  • Features 15 arrows
  • Sturdy and durable
  • High quality
  • Stylish design
  • Great value for the price

Cons

  • Has no safety feature

9. KingsArchery KA-Crossbow-80lb-Scope-2x06p-String

best pistol crossbow for hunting

KingsArchery always tries to make high-quality crossbows. And the company is pretty much successful in the crossbows industries. All of its stuff comes with prominent features.

And you will notice it when you take a look at the Crossbow Self-Cocking by KingsArchery. For quality, many hunters have rated this model as the handheld crossbow available in the market today.

The KingsArchery crossbow pistol is crafted from molded fiberglass. As a result, it ensures optimal durability. It comes with the 80-pounds of draw weight.

Besides that, it also features a self cocking mechanism. As you know, this system can help you reduce the time of reloading and makes cocking easier. The shooting machine has a total of 27 aluminum arrow bolts. With the help of these bolts, you can easily hunt down small targets.

Apart from that feature, it comes with a mountable scope that enables you to aim precisely. Also, the shooting device features essential accessories such as the spare string and caps.

You may use these pieces of equipment when you need them.  In a nutshell, if you want to purchase a mini pistol crossbow for stealth, then it will be the ideal option for you.

Pros

  • Features adjustable hunting scope
  • Comes with a lot of arrows
  • Superior quality
  • Comfortable to use
  • Ensures high accuracy
  • Fairly priced

Cons

  • Arrows are pretty light which can be a cause for accuracy

10. PSE Viper SS Crossbow Viper SS Handheld Crossbow

best pistol crossbow for hunting

The PSE Viper SS Crossbow is a compact and superb shooting weapon available on the market. At only 50 pounds of draw weight, it delivers the same projectile speed as rifle-type crossbows. That means it allows you to shoot bolts at a speed of up to 215 fps. For shooting, it comes with three frenzy bolts.

Another noticeable feature of this model is instead of stock; it has a dovetail. Thus, you can tuck it under your arm easily. Besides that, its front grip has a raised ridge, which provides extra safety.

And like the other standard crossbows, it also has all the safety systems that you would expect. It comes with an auto safety & anti-dry fire system. It features a finger guard for hand safety.

PSE Viper SS Crossbow Viper SS Handheld

Apart from that, it comes with the integrated-cocking mechanism with a safety lock, which serves as a second safety. Lastly, it has a track-style rail for precision shooting. Overall, it is perfect for those who are looking for excellent quality crossbows.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Perfect for young and adults
  • Has auto safety system
  • Study and durable
  • Produce excellent arrow speed
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • The bolts aren’t so high quality

What to Consider When Choosing a Pistol Crossbow for Hunting?

There are various types and qualities of pistol crossbows for hunting. Before you purchase a new one, you should check the pistol crossbow’s specification, quality, and price. Here are some key features to look for-

Draw Weight

Of course, compared to the traditional crossbow, the mini pistol crossbow has a relatively low draw weight. The draw weight of a typical pistol crossbow ranges from 50 to 80 pounds.

And the draw weight of full-size crossbows is 300 pounds or more. Lighter draw weight is undoubtedly more convenient when reloading, especially if you need to shoot many shots simultaneously.

On the other hand, when the draw weight of the best pistol crossbow for hunting is increased, it becomes exceedingly strong.

Pistol Size

The size of the Pistol crossbow can greatly affect the accuracy of your shot. Bigger pistols are generally fitted with stocks, which reduces the jerk of the trigger-pull and helps to make more accurate and powerful shots.

Essentially, small tactical crossbows do not have the same level of firepower that large ones do.

However, small crossbows are easier to control, whereas big crossbows have more power. So depending on your requirements, it will be better for you to select any size.

Self-cocking Mechanism

The auto-cocking feature enables you to shoot as soon as you can draw a bolt. It can be effective for targeting fast-moving targets close.

A self cocking pistol crossbow with a self-cocking function requires no additional accessories for cocking, making it easy to use.

This mechanism allows you to reduce physical stress during shooting and replace the string quickly. So, we recommend you choose a crossbow handgun with a self-cocking function.

Bolt Type

One of the crucial components of a pistol crossbow is the bolt. PVC bolts and aluminum bolts are the two most frequent types of bolts used in crossbow pistol hunting.

When it comes to bolts, both copper bolts and aluminum bolts feature metal tips. These metal tips make it easier to find PVC and steel bolts because they are often brightly colored.

Moreover, the PVC bolts are great for shooting small games, and the aluminum bolts are built to last. Overall, both bolts have a lengthy lifespan.

Accessories

Some pistol crossbow comes with more accessories such as additional bolts, scopes, red dot optical, sights, and strings than other regular crossbow handguns. You can use these accessories to improve your accuracy and fire rate.

FAQs

Are Pistol Crossbows Accurate?

Due to the shorter limb and lighter projectile, pistol crossbows are less powerful and accurate than full-sized crossbows of the same draw weight.

Are Pistol Crossbows Lethal?

The draw weight of a pistol crossbow is usually lower than a full-sized crossbow. Therefore pistol crossbows are not much lethal yet. But, an 80 lb pistol crossbow can kill a deer, medium-sized animals, or even a person.

How Far Will A Crossbow Pistol Shoot?

Some crossbows may shoot a target 500 yards away, although most will not allow for accurate targeting that far away. If you are a beginner, shoot a target 30 yards away; more experienced hunters can shoot targets 60 yards away. Experienced hunters may occasionally take shots up to 80 yards.

How Fast Is A Crossbow Pistol?

Crossbow pistols usually fire at 160 feet per second. However, some crossbow pistol designs can shoot bolts 300 feet per second!

How to String The Crossbow Pistol?

The first step is to attach the string to one of the bow’s nocks. Next, apply pressure to the bow with your foot while holding the crossbow at an angle on a hard surface. Pull the trigger and release the string until it clicks into place. Now you’re done!

Are Pistol Crossbows Good for Hunting?

With an 80-pound pistol crossbow, you can kill small game from distances of up to 20-40 yards. There are rats, squirrels, bullfrogs rats, and rabbits. At shorter ranges, you’ll be able to take down larger and smaller games more successfully with a pistol crossbow.

Do I Need A Permit To Own, Or Use A Pistol Crossbow?

A pistol crossbow has certain legal issues. Anyone over the age of 18 is allowed to buy and keep it as an individual. But some states require a specific license to own a crossbow. You may even have to join an official sports club to obtain that license.

Final Words

While selecting a crossbow, you need to think about lots of factors. It depends mostly on your demands.

If you want a handheld crossbow for killing a game like a deer, then you need to choose something that offers excellent firing speed and accuracy. That means you need to ignore those stuff that produces speed in shorter ranges.

On the contrary, if you want to practice shooting in your yard or wherever you prefer, then a compact pistol crossbow will meet your requirements.

Hence, the fact of choice depends a lot on your demand. That’s why experts recommend not to do hurry when choosing the best pistol crossbow for hunting. We should always select the one that suits our requirements.

  1. Have you heard of anyone using no. 5 kingsarchery ka-crossbow-80lb to bow fish? What do I need to know about this?

  2. Can children at age 12 use ace martial arts supply cobra system self cocking pistol crossbow?

    • There are some who will answer the query “absolutely not” and others say “yes it’s fine”. However, I would not advise the 12-year-old to have this except under supervision, it’s a weapon. It can penetrate soft flesh.

  3. Ace martial arts supply pistol tactical crossbow is a fantastic combination of power and speed. Whether you are an experienced hunter or just starting out, this weapon will give you a long-range advantage on targets.

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