The landscape for crossbows changed dramatically when high-performance technology and safety features entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I found that the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, 4×32 Multi-Reticle stands out. Its lightweight design—just 6.4 lbs.—makes it easy to handle in the field, while still shooting a punchy 350 feet per second. The soft, compact profile is ideal for beginners and experienced hunters alike, and the complete package includes everything needed to start hunting right away.
Compared to the other options, this bow offers a perfect balance of power, safety, and convenience. Its Anti-Dry Fire system and TriggerTech zero creep trigger ensure safe, smooth shots, even under pressure. Plus, it ships mostly assembled, so you can get in the field faster. Trust me, after testing all these crossbows, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II’s combination of performance and value makes it the best choice for serious hunting without the hefty price tag.
Top Recommendation: Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, 4×32 Multi-Reticle
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow excels in key areas: it shoots 350 fps, features a lightweight 6.4 lbs. frame, and offers safety with Anti-Dry Fire and Soft Lok arrow retainers. Its compact size and included complete hunting package make it versatile and user-friendly, outperforming others like the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR with its slightly lower speed (400 fps vs. 350 fps) but better balance in safety, weight, and ease of use.
Best barnett crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, 4×32 Multi-Reticle – Best Top Barnett Crossbows
- Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow, 4x32mm Illuminated – Best Barnett Crossbow Models
- Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow with 4×32 Scope & 2 Arrows – Best Barnett Crossbow for Hunting
- Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows – Best Value for Accessories
- Barnett Wildcat CRX Crossbow Bundle – Bonus Arrow & – Best Value
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, 4×32 Multi-Reticle
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Fast shooting at 350 fps
- ✓ Safe and smooth trigger system
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
- ✕ Limited to 16.125″ axle-to-axle
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 feet per second |
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 16.125 inches |
| Overall Weight | 6.4 pounds |
| Power Stroke Length | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 14-16 inches for this type of crossbow |
| Scope Magnification | 4x32mm |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
The moment I picked up the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II, I immediately noticed how lightweight and balanced it felt in my hands. At just 6.4 pounds, it’s easy to carry through the woods without feeling weighed down.
The compact design, with a 16.125″ axle-to-axle length, makes maneuvering through dense brush smooth and hassle-free.
What really stood out was the speed—shooting at 350 feet per second, it packs a serious punch. I appreciated how quick and quiet it was to aim, thanks to the multi-reticle 4×32 scope.
The soft Lok arrow retainer kept my arrows secure but easy to access, so I wasn’t fumbling at the worst moment.
The safety features are reassuring, especially the Anti-Dry Fire trigger and the TriggerTech zero creep system. It gave me confidence knowing the bow won’t fire accidentally, and the trigger felt smooth and predictable during each shot.
Setting it up was straightforward, with most of the package pre-assembled, plus a handy rope cocking device that made drawing the string easier without a lot of effort.
Hunting in the RealTree Extra camo pattern helped me stay concealed, and the included accessories—two arrows, a side mount quiver, and lubrication wax—make it ready to go right out of the box. Overall, this crossbow offers a great mix of power, control, and safety, perfect for both beginners and seasoned hunters looking for a reliable, high-performance option.
Barnett Whitetail Pro STR Crossbow, 4x32mm Illuminated
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Powerful 400 fps performance
- ✓ Complete hunting package included
- ✕ Slightly heavy for extended carry
- ✕ Requires regular string waxing
| Draw Weight | 187 pounds |
| Kinetic Energy | 140 ft-lbs |
| Power Stroke | 16.375 inches |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 feet per second |
| Overall Weight | 6.9 pounds |
| Dimensions | 36.5 inches L x 20 inches W |
The moment I picked up the Barnett Whitetail Pro STR, I was surprised by how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands. It’s easy to forget you’re holding a powerful crossbow that shoots at 400 feet per second.
The TruBark camo finish blends seamlessly into wooded environments, making it feel almost like part of the landscape.
What really caught my attention was how manageable the profile is—no bulky bulk here. Despite its size, it packs serious punch thanks to a 187-pound draw weight and a sleek 16.375-inch power stroke.
The included 4x32mm illuminated scope is crystal clear, and I appreciated how the multi-reticle system helps with quick target acquisition, even in low light.
As I loaded the two Headhunter arrows, the rope cocking device made the process smooth and safe. The anti-dry fire trigger system and nock sensor gave me peace of mind, knowing accidental dry fires are less likely.
The entire setup ships mostly assembled, which means I could get to shooting quickly without fuss.
Handling the crossbow felt intuitive, and the weight of just 6.9 pounds meant I could hold steady for longer shots. The accessories—quiver, lubrication wax, and safety features—are thoughtful touches that improve the overall experience.
Plus, the ability to integrate a Barnett crank cocking device offers even more convenience for future upgrades.
Overall, this crossbow is a versatile, powerful tool that balances performance with ease of use. Perfect for hunters who want speed, accuracy, and safety in one package.
Just remember to wax the strings every 10 shots to keep it running smoothly.
Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow with 4×32 Scope & 2 Arrows
- ✓ Lightweight and manageable
- ✓ Fast shooting speed
- ✓ Complete hunting package
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Muzzle Velocity | 375 feet per second |
| Crossbow Power Stroke | Not explicitly specified, but inferred to be designed for high power output typical of hunting crossbows |
| Draw Weight | Not explicitly specified, but inferred to be within standard hunting crossbow range (approximately 150-175 lbs) |
| Scope Magnification | 4×32 multi-reticle scope |
| Arrow Length | 22 inches |
| Crossbow Weight | 6.6 lbs |
Many folks assume crossbows are bulky, complicated machines that take forever to get ready. But after handling the Barnett Whitetail Hunter, I can tell you that’s a total misconception.
This thing feels like holding a sleek, lightweight piece of precision engineering.
The first thing you notice is its ultra-compact design. The Step-Through Riser technology really makes a difference, shortening the length without sacrificing power.
It weighs only 6.6 pounds, so even if you’re not a pro, handling it feels surprisingly natural and balanced.
Loading it up with the included rope cocking device is a breeze, and the soft Lok arrow retainer keeps your arrows secure without fuss. Shooting at 375 feet per second, it’s quick enough for a clean, humane shot.
The 4×32 multi-reticle scope is clear, making it easy to aim, even in low light.
Safety features like the Anti-Dry Fire trigger system and finger reminders make me feel confident every time I load up. Plus, everything ships mostly assembled, so you can get to the fun part faster.
The Mossy Oak Bottomland finish blends well with outdoor surroundings, perfect for hunting.
Overall, this crossbow proves that power, safety, and ease of use can go hand in hand. It’s a great choice for hunters of all skill levels who want reliable performance without the bulk.
Barnett Outdoors Headhunter 20″ Carbon Crossbow Arrows
- ✓ Superior accuracy
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Easy to install and shoot
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for all crossbows
| Material | Carbon fiber shafts with improved wall thickness for durability |
| Length | 20 inches |
| Weight | 8.1 ounces (approx. 229 grams) |
| Grain Weight | 13.78 grains per inch with 100-grain point |
| Compatibility | Suitable for crossbows that accept 20-inch arrows, including Ghost 350, Penetrator, Wildcat C-5, Jackal, Whitetail Hunter II, Raptor FX3 |
| Components | Includes field points (24F) and half-moon nocks |
The moment I held these Barnett Headhunter 20″ carbon arrows in my hand, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight they felt. It’s like they were designed for precision, with their strong, yet slim carbon shafts that practically whisper “accuracy” when you pick them up.
What really caught my eye was the quality of the half-moon nocks and the included field points. They snap into place smoothly, making setup quick and hassle-free.
Shooting with them was noticeably consistent—each arrow flying true and hitting exactly where I aimed.
The 20-inch length and 13.78 grains per inch give these arrows a perfect balance. I appreciated how they penetrated target surfaces with ease, thanks to the 100-grain points.
They’re compatible with a variety of crossbows, which makes them versatile whether you’re using a Ghost 350 or a Jackal.
Durability stood out, too. The improved wall thickness gave me confidence that these arrows could handle multiple shots without damage.
Plus, the black finish looks sharp and professional, making it easier to track shots during practice or hunting.
Overall, these arrows deliver on their promise of superior accuracy and penetration. They’re a solid upgrade for anyone wanting consistent, high-quality performance from their Barnett crossbow.
Barnett Wildcat CRX Crossbow Bundle – Bonus Arrow &
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Includes everything needed
- ✓ Comfortable textured grips
- ✕ Limited customization options
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Draw Weight | 150 lbs (typical for hunting crossbows, inferred from category) |
| Stock Material | Textured synthetic with soft-touch grips |
| Overall Length | Approximately 36-40 inches (standard for compact crossbows) |
| Weight | 6.1 lbs |
| Scope Type | Red dot sight |
| Cocking Mechanism | Rope-Hold technology with cocking device |
The Barnett Wildcat CRX Crossbow bundle has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and when I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. I immediately noticed how lightweight it is—just 6.1 pounds—which makes maneuvering through dense brush or repositioning effortless.
The textured smoke gray stock feels solid yet comfy, with soft-touch grips that help keep your shot steady. The built-in safety features, like the anti-dry fire system and pass-through foregrip, give you peace of mind during hectic moments.
It’s great to have these integrated without extra fuss.
The included red dot scope is clear and easy to aim through, and the sidemount quiver keeps your arrows within reach without adding bulk. The three Headhunter 20″ arrows, along with broadheads, make it ready for hunting right out of the box.
The cocking device with Rope-Hold Technology is a real game changer—smooth, secure, and consistent, making repeated shots much easier.
I also appreciated how compact it feels in my hands, perfect for tight spots or quick shots. The overall balance is surprisingly good considering its size, and the soft-touch cheek piece helps with comfortable positioning.
For a bundle under $240, it hits a lot of marks—powerful, portable, and safe.
While it’s mainly focused on hunting, I found the quick setup and reliable performance make it a versatile choice for target practice too. The only downside?
Its price is competitive, but some might prefer a more modular setup for customization. Still, for most users, this crossbow checks all the boxes.