Beginner's crossbow buying guide

Buying guide for a beginner's crossbow

Have you tried shooting with a crossbow and want to continue by buying your own crossbow? Models and prices vary, and it's difficult to choose. Here are some key points to help you.

How to choose a crossbow

Choosing the right equipment is complicated, between power, usage, and type of crossbow, it's easy to get lost.

Unlike with a bow, the choice of power is not primarily based on your physique or skill level, but rather on the activity you wish to practice. It's important to know that the higher the power, the faster your arrow will go (but not necessarily farther) and will hit its target with more force.

Another delicate choice is to differentiate between a compound crossbow and a traditional crossbow. A compound crossbow is more difficult to set up initially, but easier to cock and less sensitive to the trigger mechanism. These are also generally more powerful, as the limbs are often stiffer and produce more energy. Compound crossbows are also shorter, but more fragile, and in case of string breakage, it's complicated to repair on your own without specific equipment. Compound crossbows are used for hunting or target shooting.

A recurve or traditional crossbow is easier to maintain and will be preferred for recreational shooting. In the range of traditional crossbows, pistol crossbows are well represented. Light, manageable with one hand, they are equipped with a safety. They are also less powerful and therefore have a shorter range.

The last parameter to consider is the choice of materials. Steel limbs have been replaced by lighter composite materials, and some manufacturers offer crossbows with lighter stocks (frames) made of wood, reinforced plastic, or have become skeletal. It's important to remember that the heavier the beginner's crossbow is, the more stable it is and the more accurate the shot will be.

Comparison of crossbows on Hattila.com

Hattila.com is an online crossbow specialist and offers a wide range from beginner crossbows to hunting equipment with compound crossbows.

Mini crossbow or pistol crossbow:

With a power of 50 to 80 pounds, these are pleasant leisure crossbows with great mobility and easy to handle, but without the advantages of superior models that have power, accuracy, and projectile speed.

With attractive prices ranging from €19.99 for the 50-pound crossbow pistol to €44.90 for the 80-pound Cobra Gold crossbow pistol, this equipment is an appreciable alternative for leisure or to get started in shooting. The mini crossbow is a one-handed crossbow for children.

Classic crossbows, Adult beginners for target shooting:

With a power between 120 and 150 pounds, these crossbows are accurate and allow adults to start target shooting as a hobby. They are not too expensive and have a pleasant design with good handling.

The 120-pound black model, lighter in fiberglass and aluminum, priced at €99.00, will follow you everywhere. Easily dismantled and powerful, the 150-pound Camo crossbow with pre-mounted string is extremely practical and manageable with a price of €129.00.

Heavy crossbows:

Appreciated for target shooting, hunting, or survival, these weapons range from 175 to 200 pounds in power, allowing shots from 50 meters to over 100 meters for the most powerful ones. Discover our heavy crossbow models.

You can also find as a complete package the MK-XB21 175-pound crossbow, with a quiver and a red dot sight priced at €229.00. Its power and accuracy make it an excellent hunting weapon.

Compound crossbows:

The compound crossbows sold on Hattila.com are perfect for hunting or target shooting. Precise with easy recocking, the prices are affordable with a 175-pound crossbow starting at €399.00 and the Missile crossbow with a power of 200 pounds at €590.00

Which crossbow for which audience?

Crossbow pistols with a power of 50 or 80 pounds, lightweight and easy to handle, are perfect for beginners, children over 8 years old, or people wanting to do recreational shooting.

Classic crossbows of 120 to 150 pounds are rather reserved for target shooting enthusiasts. The accuracy and power allow for training at distances of several dozen meters.

Finally, heavy crossbows with or without pulleys, with a power of 175 pounds, are intended for serious shooting sports enthusiasts, those who practice survivalism, or even hunting (prohibited in France, but authorized in other European countries).