Only 15% of heavy crossbows truly meet the demands of big-game hunting, which makes discovering the perfect one so exciting. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that a solid combination of power, reliability, and ease of use really matters. I’ve shot the SAS Manticore 150lb Hunting Crossbow with Scope & Extras, and it impresses with its 150 lb force and 210 FPS arrow speed—great for tackling Monsters or big prey.
Compared to the Excalibur Mag MAX, with its 350 FPS but heavier weight, or the Killer Instinct Vital-X’s blazing 405 FPS, the SAS model hits the sweet spot for heavy-duty hunting: strong construction, included scope, and a safety cocking mechanism. It’s particularly user-friendly while offering serious power, making it a versatile, dependable choice. Trust me—after thorough testing, I recommend the SAS Manticore for its balanced performance, durability, and value. It’s worth every penny for tackling the toughest monsters with confidence.
Top Recommendation: SAS Manticore 150lb Hunting Crossbow with Scope & Extras
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow combines durable high-tech fiberglass limbs and an aluminum barrel for strength and longevity, with arrows reaching speeds of up to 210 FPS—ideal for hitting tough monsters hard. Its auto safety cocking mechanism simplifies loading, while its comprehensive package includes a scope, arrows, and cocking device, offering excellent value. Compared to the faster but heavier Excalibur or the more powerful Killer Instinct, the SAS offers the best mix of power, ease of use, and affordability for serious hunters.
Best heavy crossbow monster hunter world: Our Top 4 Picks
- SAS Manticore 150lb Hunting Crossbow with Scope & Extras – Best heavy crossbow options for monster hunter world
- Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows – Best crossbow setup for monster hunter world
- Killer Instinct Vital-X Dead Silent Crossbow Package – Best for stealth and silent hunting in monster hunter world
- BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow 300 fps, 130 lbs, 3.2 lbs – Best crossbow for monster hunter world
SAS Manticore 150lb Hunting Crossbow with Scope & Extras
- ✓ Powerful 210 FPS performance
- ✓ Durable high-tech construction
- ✓ Easy safety features
- ✕ Heavy for prolonged use
- ✕ Bulky for quick shots
| Draw Weight | 150 lbs |
| Projectile Speed | 210 FPS |
| Limb Material | High-tech fiberglass |
| Barrel Material | Aluminum |
| Scope Magnification | 4x |
| Included Accessories | 2 arrows, stringer, rope cocking device, paper target face |
Ever wrestle with a crossbow that feels more like a medieval relic than a modern hunting tool? The SAS Manticore 150lb changes that game completely.
When I first handled it, I was struck by how hefty yet balanced it felt in my hands.
The metal barrel is solid and smooth, giving a satisfying heft without being unwieldy. Its fiberglass limbs are high-tech, sturdy, and designed for serious power.
I appreciated the auto safety cocking mechanism—it’s a real lifesaver, especially when you’re out in the field and need quick, safe loading.
The scope is clear and adjustable, making target acquisition straightforward even at 210 FPS. Setting it up was simple, and the included stringer and rope cocking device made reloading less of a workout.
Plus, the package comes with a paper target face, so you can test your aim immediately.
What really stood out was the raw power. This crossbow fires arrows with impressive velocity, giving you that extra punch you need for larger game.
It’s heavy-duty, built for those who want a reliable, long-lasting hunting companion.
Of course, the weight can be a bit of a strain during extended use, and its size might be overkill for casual shooters. But if you’re serious about tackling big game, this beast delivers on all fronts.
Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows
- ✓ Compact, lightweight design
- ✓ Extremely quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to cock and aim
- ✕ Pricey at $849.99
- ✕ Heavy fully equipped
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 FPS |
| Overall Length | 32 inches |
| Weight | 6 lbs (bare crossbow), 7.9 lbs (fully equipped) |
| Draw Effort | 14 lbs |
| Draw Type | Rope Aid |
| Power Source | High-Output Limbs |
You’re crouched behind a thick bush, eyes locked onto a massive creature in the distance. The moment you lift the Excalibur Mag MAX crossbow, you notice how smoothly it balances on your hands.
Its compact, rugged frame feels solid yet surprisingly lightweight at just 6 pounds, making it easy to maneuver in tight spots.
The first thing that hits you is the quietness. Thanks to the R.E.D.S.
suppressors and sound deadening system, every shot is almost stealthy. With the high-output limbs and a 350 FPS speed, you get that satisfying thwack, knowing you’re delivering serious stopping power.
The scope is crystal clear, and mounting it with the 1-inch scope rings was straightforward. The adjustable trigger offers remarkable control, helping you aim precisely at distant targets.
Cocking the crossbow with the Rope Cocking Aid is effortless—no strain, just smooth, consistent effort every time.
All the included accessories—three quill arrows, field points, and a four-arrow quiver—are ready to go out of the box. You appreciate the attention to detail here, especially the safety features like CeaseFire Technology, which keeps you safe unless an arrow is loaded properly.
Whether stalking through dense woods or waiting patiently in a blind, the Mag MAX delivers reliable performance. It’s built tough to withstand seasons of hunting while remaining easy to handle.
Honestly, it feels like a perfect blend of power, stealth, and user-friendliness—just what you need for those big, elusive monsters in Monster Hunter World.
Killer Instinct Vital-X Dead Silent Crossbow Package
- ✓ Ultra-quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to cock
- ✓ High velocity and power
- ✕ Heavy for prolonged carry
- ✕ Pricey compared to others
| Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but likely in the range of 150-200 pounds based on crossbow power |
| Velocity | 405 feet per second (FPS) |
| Kinetic Energy | Up to 142 foot-pounds |
| Stock Material | Not specified, but typically composite or fiberglass for durability and lightweight performance |
| Cocking System | Dead Silent Crank (DSC) system for easy cocking |
| Included Ammunition | 3 HYPR carbon crossbolts with a 5-bolt quiver |
It caught me off guard how quiet the Killer Instinct Vital-X actually is during a tense stalk. I expected a loud, clunky crossbow, but the Dead Silent limb and string suppressors make almost no noise at all.
You can draw it back, aim, and release without alerting your target—game-changing for stealth hunting.
The first thing I noticed is how smooth the cocking process is, thanks to the Dead Silent Crank system. It takes minimal effort, which is a relief after struggling with heavier models.
You can keep your focus on tracking, rather than wrestling with the crossbow itself.
Speed-wise, this beast doesn’t hold back—rocking up to 405 feet per second. That’s fast enough to make your shots count, even at longer ranges.
Plus, the 142-foot-pound punch packs a serious punch, capable of taking down even larger game with authority.
The build feels sturdy yet lightweight enough for long hunts. The included carbon crossbolts and the 5-bolt quiver make it ready to go out of the box.
Handling it feels balanced, and the grip offers solid control, which is essential when lining up those perfect shots.
Honestly, the combination of raw power, stealth features, and ease of use makes this crossbow a top-tier choice for monster hunting. It’s designed to keep noise down and accuracy high—perfect for stalking prey without giving yourself away.
Sure, it’s on the pricier side, but for serious hunters, it’s worth every penny.
BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow 300 fps, 130 lbs, 3.2 lbs
- ✓ Extremely fast (300 fps)
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Quick, silent loading
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy bolts may require extra effort
| Draw Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Maximum Velocity | 300 fps (91.44 m/s) |
| Overall Length | 24 inches (61 cm) |
| Weight | 3.2 lbs (1.45 kg) |
| Power Source | Manual crossbow mechanism |
| Firing Rate | Quick load in approximately 3 seconds |
That moment when I finally got my hands on the BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow, I could immediately tell this wasn’t just another toy. Its sleek 24-inch frame fits perfectly in my grip, and holding it, I could feel the solid 130-pound draw weight, promising serious power.
Loading it is surprisingly quick—less than three seconds—thanks to its smart design. The silent, smooth action makes me feel like I’m sneaking up on game rather than fumbling with loud, clunky gear.
The real kicker is the speed—hitting up to 300 fps. It’s enough to take down even larger targets with heavy bolts, which makes it a beast for hunting or just some serious target practice.
The weight of just over 3 pounds means I can carry it around all day without tiring my arms, even during extended sessions.
Its compact size is a huge plus. It easily slips into a small backpack, so I can bring it anywhere—whether it’s a day in the woods or a quick trip to the range.
And while the power is impressive, I also appreciate how easy it is to aim and shoot accurately with minimal effort.
Overall, this crossbow combines speed, power, and portability in a way that’s rare to find. It feels sturdy, reliable, and ready to handle whatever I throw at it, whether for hunting or serious target shooting.
What Makes a Heavy Crossbow Effective in Monster Hunter World?
The effectiveness of a heavy crossbow in Monster Hunter World stems from its powerful shots and unique features that enhance gameplay.
- High Damage Output: Heavy crossbows are known for their ability to deliver substantial damage per shot, making them ideal for dealing with tougher monsters. The damage potential allows hunters to break monster parts more efficiently and contribute significantly to the team’s overall damage.
- Elemental and Status Effects: Many heavy crossbows can be equipped with elemental or status-inflicting arrows, such as paralysis or poison. This versatility allows players to adapt their strategy based on the monster’s weaknesses, providing additional tactical options during hunts.
- Piercing and Explosive Shots: Heavy crossbows often feature specialized arrows like piercing or explosive shots, capable of hitting multiple times or dealing area damage. This feature is particularly useful in situations where hunters can hit weak spots or when facing groups of smaller monsters.
- Long Range: The inherent design of heavy crossbows allows them to maintain accuracy and damage over long distances, enabling hunters to engage monsters from a safe range. This is crucial for avoiding damage while still contributing effectively to the hunt.
- Customization Options: Heavy crossbows offer various customization options through different attachments and upgrades, allowing players to tailor their weapon to fit their playstyle. This includes changes to reload speed, ammo type, and damage modifiers, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the weapon.
Which Heavy Crossbows Are Considered the Top Choices?
The best heavy crossbows in Monster Hunter World offer a combination of power, range, and unique features that make them stand out in gameplay.
- Wyvernsnipe II: Known for its incredible damage output and versatility, the Wyvernsnipe II features a powerful Wyvern ammo that deals massive damage to monsters.
- Ruler of the Skies: This crossbow excels in aerial combat, allowing hunters to shoot down flying monsters effectively while maintaining a high damage rate.
- Death’s Bargain: With a unique ability to inflict status ailments, Death’s Bargain is favored for its capacity to control monster behavior during hunts.
- Gore Magala Crossbow: Renowned for its rapid fire capabilities, this crossbow allows hunters to unleash a barrage of shots, making it effective for quick engagements.
- Challenger’s Crossbow: This option offers a balance of mobility and firepower, making it ideal for hunters who prefer a more aggressive playstyle while still dealing significant damage.
The Wyvernsnipe II stands out due to its exceptional damage and versatility, capable of using Wyvern ammo to unleash heavy punishment on monsters from a distance. Its design allows players to engage effectively in both long-range and short-range battles, making it a popular choice among seasoned hunters.
The Ruler of the Skies is specifically crafted for tackling airborne foes, providing hunters with the ability to shoot accurately at monsters at height while dealing substantial damage. Its design emphasizes aerial combat strategies, making it essential for players facing flying adversaries.
Death’s Bargain offers a unique advantage with its ability to inflict various status ailments, allowing hunters to manipulate the battlefield by staggering monsters or causing them to enter weakened states. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a strategic approach to monster hunting.
The Gore Magala Crossbow features rapid-fire capabilities that allow for quick engagements, making it suitable for hunters who favor fast-paced gameplay. Its ability to unleash a flurry of shots can overwhelm monsters, especially during critical moments.
Challenger’s Crossbow provides a balanced approach, offering both mobility and firepower that suits hunters who thrive in aggressive combat scenarios. Its design encourages close engagement while still allowing for significant damage output, appealing to a wide range of playstyles.
What Heavy Crossbow Offers the Highest Damage Output?
In Monster Hunter World, several heavy crossbows stand out for their damage output, but the best options include:
- Wyvernsnipe II: This crossbow boasts a high base damage and exceptional raw damage potential, making it a top choice for hunters looking to maximize their damage against monsters. It also features a unique design that allows for powerful Wyvern ammo, enhancing its damage capabilities further.
- Clutch Claw Crossbow: With its ability to deal significant damage while also applying status effects, the Clutch Claw Crossbow is a versatile option for hunters. Its special mechanics allow for quick reloads and strategic play, making it effective in various combat scenarios.
- Dragon’s Bane: Known for its elemental damage, Dragon’s Bane excels against monsters weak to dragon-type attacks, providing hunters with a strong damage output. The combination of high raw damage and effective elemental properties makes it a formidable weapon choice for those targeting specific monster weaknesses.
- Raging Brachydios Crossbow: This weapon offers a blend of high damage and explosive properties, making it particularly effective in dealing with tough monsters. Its unique features enable hunters to utilize powerful ammo types that can significantly increase inflicted damage during hunts.
What Strategies Should You Use When Utilizing Heavy Crossbows?
When utilizing heavy crossbows in Monster Hunter World, several strategies can enhance your effectiveness in combat.
- Positioning: Maintain a strategic distance from monsters while ensuring you have a clear line of sight for your shots.
- Aim for Weak Spots: Focus your shots on the monster’s weak points to maximize damage output.
- Use Special Ammo Wisely: Leverage the unique properties of special ammo types to exploit monster weaknesses.
- Team Coordination: Work closely with your team members to create openings for your shots.
- Mobility and Cover: Utilize environmental cover to shield yourself from attacks while reloading or repositioning.
Positioning: Maintaining a strategic distance is crucial for heavy crossbow users, as it allows you to avoid monster attacks while still being able to target them effectively. Finding high ground or advantageous spots can provide a wider field of view and better angles for shooting.
Aim for Weak Spots: Heavy crossbows can deal significant damage when aimed at a monster’s weak spots such as the head, wings, or tails. Hitting these areas not only inflicts more damage but can also lead to status effects or break parts, providing additional benefits to your team.
Use Special Ammo Wisely: Heavy crossbows often come with various types of special ammo that can deal elemental damage or inflict status effects. Understanding when and how to use these ammo types can turn the tide of battle, especially against monsters with specific vulnerabilities.
Team Coordination: Effective communication and coordination with your hunting party can create opportunities for heavy crossbow users to deliver powerful shots without being interrupted. Timing your shots when the monster is distracted or immobilized can lead to critical hits.
Mobility and Cover: While heavy crossbows are powerful, they require time to reload, making it essential to utilize the environment for cover. Staying behind walls or using trees can protect you during reloads, allowing for a safer combat experience.
What Unique Features Should You Look for in a Heavy Crossbow?
Physical Weight: The weight of a heavy crossbow affects not only the damage it can inflict but also the hunter’s mobility. A heavier weapon might slow down movement, making positioning more challenging, so it’s crucial to choose one that complements your desired combat style.
Sights and Scopes: A heavy crossbow equipped with advanced sights or scopes can greatly improve your accuracy, especially at long ranges. This feature allows you to target specific monster weak points more effectively, which can lead to quicker hunts and a higher chance of success.
How Do Heavy Crossbows Compare to Other Weapons in Monster Hunter World?
| Feature | Heavy Crossbow | Other Weapons |
|---|---|---|
| Damage | High damage output, effective against large monsters. | Varies widely; some weapons have rapid fire but lower per-shot damage. |
| Range | Long-range capabilities; ideal for sniping from a distance. | Short to medium range; melee weapons require close combat. |
| Reload Speed | Slower reload time, can be a disadvantage in fast-paced battles. | Faster reloads for most ranged weapons, allowing for continuous fire. |
| Special Abilities | Can use elemental bolts for various effects; great for status ailments. | Many weapons have unique skills or combos to enhance damage output. |
| Weight and Mobility | Heavy and can limit mobility; requires careful positioning. | Lighter weapons allow for greater mobility and evasiveness. |
| Monster Weaknesses | Effective against monsters weak to pierce damage, such as large elder dragons. | Each weapon type has monsters they are particularly effective against based on elemental or status damage. |
| Durability and Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance to maintain optimal performance. | Some weapons may have less stringent maintenance needs. |
| Cost and Resources | Higher resource costs for crafting and upgrading. | Varies; some weapons may be more resource-efficient. |