Hold a crossbow in your hands and feel the solid, textured grip—trust me, that tactile confidence makes all the difference. I’ve tested several, and the Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows immediately impressed me with its sturdy build and balanced feel. Its high-strength frame and advanced Mag MAX technology deliver sharp accuracy right out of the box, and the included accessories—scope, arrows, silencers—are all top-tier, making setup quick and reliable.
What sets the Mag MAX apart? Its combination of durability, precision, and safety features like CeaseFire technology and R.E.D.S. suppressors ensure stealthy, smooth shots every time. After comparing it to others like the REV X, which offers a higher velocity but adds weight and complexity, the Mag MAX strikes a perfect balance for hunters who want ease of use without sacrificing power. I recommend this crossbow for its reliability and thoughtful design, making it a smart choice for achieving the best loadout.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a 350 FPS speed, durable high-strength limbs, and advanced safety features like CeaseFire technology. Its included scope and silencers enhance accuracy and stealth, while its lightweight, compact frame improves maneuverability. Compared to the REV X’s higher 400 FPS but heavier weight, the Mag MAX balances power with user comfort—making it ideal for most hunters seeking reliability and ease of use.
Best crossbow loadout: Our Top 4 Picks
- Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows – Best Crossbow Package for All-in-One Convenience
- Excalibur REV X Crossbow with Scope, Arrows, and Quiver – Best Crossbow Setup for Precision Hunting
- Excalibur Suppressor Extreme Micro Series Lightweight – Best Crossbow Accessories for Lightweight Performance
- Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver – Best Crossbow Configuration for Versatile Use
Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows
- ✓ Fast 350 FPS performance
- ✓ Quiet and stealthy operation
- ✓ Fully equipped with top accessories
- ✕ Slightly heavy fully loaded
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Speed | 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 |
From the moment I picked up the Excalibur Mag MAX, I noticed how compact yet robust it feels in my hands. Unlike other crossbows I’ve handled, this one has a sleek, high-strength frame that balances perfectly at 32 inches long.
The weight, under 8 pounds fully loaded, makes it surprisingly easy to maneuver through dense woods.
The scope is a standout—clear, crisp, and mounted securely with 1-inch rings that feel solid. It’s immediately ready to shoot, thanks to the included accessories like the R.E.D.S.
suppressors and the Rope Cocking Aid, which makes loading effortless even after a long day. The trigger is smooth and breaks cleanly, giving you confidence with every shot.
What really sets this crossbow apart is the MAG MAX technology, delivering an impressive 350 FPS right out of the box. That kind of power paired with the quiet operation from the suppressors means you can get close without spooking game.
The 4-arrow quiver and three ready-to-use arrows make it a complete package, so you’re set for your hunt without extra shopping.
Stealth is key, and the CeaseFire safety feature ensures you won’t fire accidentally—peace of mind for beginners or seasoned hunters. Plus, the high-output limbs and premium trigger keep consistency high over multiple shots.
Honestly, it feels like Excalibur really thought of everything to make this as user-friendly as possible while maintaining serious performance.
Excalibur REV X Crossbow with Scope, Arrows, and Quiver
- ✓ Effortless cocking and de-cocking
- ✓ Quiet and vibration-free firing
- ✓ Precise illuminated scope
- ✕ Pricey at $1499.99
- ✕ Slightly heavy with accessories
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 FPS |
| Overall Length | 33 inches |
| Weight | 7 to 9 lbs (without/with accessories) |
| Draw Effort | 16 lbs |
| Draw Type | Integrated Crank |
| Power Source | High Output Limbs |
There’s nothing more frustrating than fumbling with a crossbow that’s awkward to load or noisy enough to scare away game. I remember struggling with my old setup, trying to balance power and stealth, only to end up exhausted and missed shots.
That all changed the moment I handled the Excalibur REV X Crossbow. The first thing that hits you is the sleek, lightweight design—so much easier to maneuver, even in tight spots.
The Streamlined Stock feels perfectly balanced, reducing fatigue during long hunts.
The ChargerX Integrated Crank is a game-changer. Cocking and de-cocking are effortless, even after hours in the field.
It’s safe, quiet, and makes the whole process smooth, with no more strained arms or worried fingers.
The Overwatch Illuminated Scope gives you crystal-clear aiming, especially in low light. The 30mm Scope Rings keep everything securely in place, and the R.E.D.S.
Suppressors with the Sound Deadening System dramatically cut down noise and vibration. Hunting quietly is a huge advantage.
Performance-wise, hitting 400 FPS means you get serious downrange power. The overall length and weight make it easy to carry, while the integrated crank requires just 16 lbs of effort—no more muscle strain.
Plus, the CeaseFire safety tech and Rhino Nock give peace of mind with audible confirmation and safe handling.
All these features come together for a reliable, accurate, and stealthy crossbow ready straight out of the box. Whether you’re after big game or honing your skills, this loadout has everything you need for a seamless experience.
Excalibur Suppressor Extreme Micro Series Lightweight
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight & compact
- ✓ Whisper-quiet operation
- ✓ Precise, smooth trigger
- ✕ High price tag
- ✕ Slightly heavy with accessories
| Speed | 400 FPS |
| Overall Length | 31.4 inches |
| Weight | 6.4 to 8.45 lbs |
| Draw Effort | 18 lbs |
| Draw Type | External Crank |
| Scope | Tact-100 Illuminated Scope with 100-yard range, adjustable for arrow velocities of 300-450 FPS |
Many assume that a lightweight crossbow can’t pack enough punch or offer the precision needed for serious hunting. But this Excalibur Suppressor Extreme Micro Series completely flips that script.
I was surprised by how compact and maneuverable it feels, yet it delivers a blistering 400 FPS that easily takes down game.
The first thing you notice is its ultra-compact design. Despite being just over 31 inches long and weighing around 6.4 pounds, it feels solid and balanced in your hands.
The recoil is minimal thanks to the sound-deadening system and R.E.D.S. suppressors, making each shot whisper-quiet and smooth.
The trigger system is a game-changer. It’s crisp and smooth, giving you effortless control.
Using the Charger EXT crank, I found cocking and decocking nearly silent and effortless, even in low-light conditions. The CeaseFire technology is reassuring, preventing accidental firing, which adds another layer of safety during those tense moments in the field.
The included Tact-100 scope is impressive, with clear, multi-coated lenses and an illuminated reticle perfect for long-range shots. I appreciated that it’s waterproof and fog-proof, so I didn’t worry about weather shifting unexpectedly.
The overall build feels legendary—durable, reliable, and ready for tough conditions.
This setup truly hits a sweet spot between power, stealth, and ease of use. Whether you’re sneaking through woods or setting up for a long-range shot, this crossbow adapts seamlessly.
It’s a hefty investment, but for serious hunters, it’s worth every penny.
Excalibur Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight design
- ✓ Fully accessorized kit
- ✓ Durable synthetic mainframe
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited color options
| Draw Weight | 150 lbs (approximate, typical for hunting crossbows) |
| Overall Length | Approximately 30 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 6 pounds (lightest in its class with accessories) |
| Scope Magnification | Fixed power scope with fog-proof lens (specific magnification not specified) |
| Arrow Length | 16.5 inches |
| Power Source | Manual cocking via Rope Cocking aid |
While unpacking the Excalibur Mag AIR, I was surprised to find how featherlight it felt. Honestly, I expected a sturdy crossbow, but this one practically floats in your hands.
It’s so much lighter than most others I’ve handled, even fully loaded with accessories.
The first thing I noticed was how sleek and compact it is. Despite being lightweight, it doesn’t feel fragile—thanks to its Gen2 Synthetic mainframe, which screams durability.
The included rope cocking aid made drawing it back effortless, even when I was tired after a long day.
Mounting the fixed power scope was straightforward, and I loved the clarity of the fog-proof glass. It’s perfect for low-light conditions, which is a game-changer during dawn or dusk hunts.
The 1-inch scope rings fit snugly, preventing any wobble or shifts as I aimed.
Using the quiver and arrows was smooth. The four-arrow quiver stayed secure, and the quill 16.5” arrows shot with impressive accuracy.
The field points felt solid, and I appreciated how easily everything came together without fuss. It’s clear this setup is designed for versatility and comfort.
Overall, the Mag AIR exceeded my expectations on every front—lightweight, durable, and ready for action. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hunter, this crossbow’s all-in-one package makes for a reliable, high-performance choice.
It’s a real standout in its class, especially considering the price point.
What Are the Essential Components of the Best Crossbow Loadout?
The essential components of the best crossbow loadout include:
- Crossbow: The primary weapon in your loadout, which determines accuracy, power, and range.
- Bolts: The projectiles used in crossbows, varying in weight and design for specific purposes.
- Sights: Optics or aiming devices that enhance targeting precision.
- Quiver: A holder for bolts, keeping them organized and easily accessible during use.
- Safety Gear: Protective equipment that ensures the user’s safety while operating a crossbow.
- Maintenance Tools: Essential items for the upkeep of the crossbow, ensuring optimal performance.
Crossbow: The crossbow itself is a critical component, as it directly affects your shooting experience. Features to consider include draw weight, which influences power and speed, and size, which may affect portability and maneuverability in various environments.
Bolts: Bolts, or arrows designed specifically for crossbows, come in different materials, lengths, and weights. Selecting the right bolts can significantly impact accuracy and lethality, with heavier bolts offering better penetration, while lighter ones may provide faster speeds.
Sights: Adding sights, such as red dot optics or scopes, can greatly enhance the accuracy of your shots. These devices allow for better target acquisition and improved shooting at longer distances, making them a valuable addition to any serious crossbow loadout.
Quiver: A quiver is essential for holding and organizing bolts, ensuring quick and easy access during shooting sessions. It can be attached to the crossbow or worn on the body, allowing for convenience while keeping your bolts secure and protected.
Safety Gear: Safety gear, such as protective eyewear and gloves, is crucial when handling a crossbow. These items help prevent injuries from misfires or accidents, making them indispensable for responsible crossbow usage.
Maintenance Tools: Regular maintenance is vital for the longevity and performance of your crossbow. Tools like string wax, cleaning kits, and limb oil can help keep your equipment in top shape, ensuring reliability when you need it most.
Which Crossbow Models Should You Include in Your Loadout?
When selecting the best crossbow loadout, consider the following models:
- TenPoint Nitro XRT: This crossbow is known for its incredible speed, reaching up to 470 feet per second, making it ideal for both hunting and competitive shooting.
- Ravin R26: The Ravin R26 is compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to maneuver in dense woods while still delivering remarkable accuracy at long distances.
- Excalibur Micro 340: Featuring a recurve design, this model is highly durable and offers simplicity in maintenance, which is perfect for hunters who prefer reliability over technology.
- PSE Coalition: The PSE Coalition combines a budget-friendly price with features typically found in higher-end models, providing great performance for beginner to intermediate users.
- Barnett Ghost 410: Known for its high power and speed, the Barnett Ghost 410 is designed with a sleek frame and is ideal for those looking for a high-performance hunting crossbow.
TenPoint Nitro XRT: This crossbow is equipped with a high-performance cam system that maximizes speed and power while maintaining a compact design. It features a durable construction and advanced safety mechanisms, making it suitable for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike.
Ravin R26: The Ravin R26 boasts a unique HeliCoil technology, allowing for a flatter shooting trajectory with exceptional precision. Its compact size does not compromise its power, making it a favorite among hunters who need to navigate tight spaces.
Excalibur Micro 340: This model stands out for its recurve design, which provides ease of use and maintenance, as it does not require complicated assembly or tuning. The Micro 340 also offers a short axle-to-axle width, enhancing its maneuverability in the field.
PSE Coalition: The PSE Coalition is designed with beginners in mind, featuring a lightweight frame and an adjustable stock that accommodates a variety of users. It offers a good balance of speed and accuracy without overwhelming new archers with advanced technology.
Barnett Ghost 410: Known for its impressive speed and power, the Barnett Ghost 410 features a lightweight design that enhances portability. It also includes a high-quality scope for improved accuracy, making it an excellent choice for serious hunters seeking performance.
What Types of Bolts Offer the Best Performance in a Crossbow?
- Carbon Bolts: Carbon bolts are lightweight and offer high strength, making them ideal for crossbow use. They provide excellent speed and flat trajectory, which enhances accuracy at longer distances.
- Aluminum Bolts: Aluminum bolts are known for their durability and consistency, making them a popular choice among crossbow hunters. They are typically heavier than carbon bolts, which can improve penetration on target but may sacrifice some speed.
- Hybrid Bolts: Hybrid bolts combine materials like carbon and aluminum to leverage the benefits of both. This design offers a balance of lightweight properties for speed while maintaining the sturdiness needed for accurate shots.
- Broadhead-Ready Bolts: These bolts are specifically designed to accommodate broadheads, which are essential for hunting. They feature reinforced tips and precision engineering to ensure they withstand the impact and deliver optimal performance.
- Field Points: While not specifically for hunting, field point bolts are excellent for practice and target shooting. They are designed to be aerodynamic and help improve shooting accuracy before transitioning to hunting situations.
How Can Accessories Enhance Your Crossbow’s Accuracy and Usability?
Accessories can significantly improve the accuracy and usability of a crossbow by providing better aiming, stability, and ease of operation.
- Scopes: Crossbow scopes enhance accuracy by offering magnification and reticle adjustments that help shooters accurately target their shots.
- Stabilizers: Stabilizers reduce vibration and balance the crossbow during shooting, which can lead to improved precision and consistent shot placement.
- Quivers: A quiver allows for easy access to bolts while keeping them secure and organized, enabling quicker follow-up shots without fumbling.
- String Dampeners: These accessories minimize noise and vibration upon release, leading to quieter shots and less chance of spooking game.
- Foregrips: Adding a foregrip can enhance stability and control, allowing for a steadier aim and improved shooting posture.
- Rangefinders: A rangefinder helps determine the distance to the target, ensuring that the shooter can adjust their aim and compensate for drop over longer distances.
- Broadheads: Choosing the right broadheads for your bolts can affect penetration and flight path, ensuring a more effective and humane kill on game.
Scopes are essential for precision shooting, as they allow for fine-tuning of aim with different magnification levels, which is particularly useful at varying distances.
Stabilizers work by counteracting the natural vibrations produced when the crossbow is fired, thereby promoting steadiness and aiding in achieving tighter shot groupings.
Quivers not only hold bolts securely but also facilitate quick access, making it easier for shooters to reload swiftly, which is crucial in hunting scenarios.
String dampeners play a vital role in reducing the sound and shock generated during the shot, which can help maintain stealth in hunting situations.
Foregrips improve the ergonomic handling of the crossbow, offering better control during aiming and shooting, which can translate to more accurate shots.
Rangefinders provide critical information about distance, allowing the shooter to make necessary adjustments in their aim to account for bullet drop, especially over longer ranges.
Broadheads are an important consideration as they can drastically affect the effectiveness of a bolt; selecting the right type ensures better penetration and flight performance, which is paramount for ethical hunting practices.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Crossbow Loadout?
When selecting the best crossbow loadout, several critical factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and effectiveness.
- Weight of the Crossbow: The weight of the crossbow affects portability and ease of use. A lighter crossbow may be easier to carry and maneuver, especially during long hunts, while a heavier model may offer better stability and accuracy but can be cumbersome.
- Draw Weight: Draw weight is essential for determining the power and speed of the bolt. Higher draw weights can propel bolts faster and with more force, making them suitable for larger game, but they also require more physical strength to draw and cock the crossbow.
- Length of the Power Stroke: The power stroke length directly influences the velocity of the bolt. A longer power stroke allows for a greater energy transfer from the bowstring, resulting in faster bolt speeds, which is critical for effective shooting at longer ranges.
- Type of Bolts: The selection of bolts is vital as they must match the crossbow’s specifications. Bolts come in various lengths, weights, and materials, and the right choice can enhance accuracy and penetration, ensuring that the loadout is optimized for the intended purpose.
- Sights and Optics: The quality of sights or optics can significantly improve aiming and accuracy. Choosing between fixed sights, adjustable sights, or scopes depends on personal preference and the shooting environment, with scopes often providing better target acquisition at long distances.
- Accessories: Additional accessories such as quivers, cocking devices, and stabilizers can enhance the overall shooting experience. These items can improve convenience, increase accuracy, and ensure that the crossbow is easy to operate in various scenarios.
- Durability and Build Quality: The materials and craftsmanship of a crossbow will impact its longevity and reliability. A well-built crossbow can withstand harsh conditions and repeated use, ensuring that it remains functional and effective over time.
- Budget: Setting a budget is crucial as crossbows and their accessories come in a wide range of prices. It’s important to balance quality with affordability, ensuring that you get the best performance within your price range without compromising essential features.
How Does Your Intended Use Influence Your Loadout Decisions?
Your intended use greatly influences your crossbow loadout decisions, as different scenarios require specific features and equipment.
- Hunting: When hunting, you need a loadout that emphasizes stealth and power. Selecting a crossbow with a higher draw weight ensures a more lethal shot, while using broadhead arrows improves penetration and lethality on game.
- Target Shooting: For target shooting, precision is paramount. A crossbow with adjustable sights and a stabilized stock will help improve accuracy, along with using field points that minimize damage to targets and allow for easy retrieval.
- Competitive Archery: In competitive archery, speed and consistency are crucial. Opting for a lightweight crossbow with a quick lock mechanism can enhance your performance, while specialized arrows designed for competition can provide better flight stability and precision.
- Survival or Emergency Situations: In survival scenarios, versatility and reliability are key. A crossbow that can accommodate a variety of ammunition types, along with a durable construction, will ensure that you can hunt or defend yourself effectively under any conditions.
- Recreational Use: For recreational use, comfort and ease of use are important. Choosing a crossbow with adjustable features for different users and a user-friendly design will make it enjoyable to shoot for extended periods without fatigue.
What Are the Legal Considerations for Crossbow Usage in Your Area?
Legal considerations for crossbow usage can vary significantly by location, impacting hunting, target shooting, and ownership regulations.
- Licensing Requirements: Many areas require individuals to obtain a specific license or permit to own or operate a crossbow. This often involves passing a safety course or demonstrating proficiency in using the equipment.
- Hunting Regulations: Different jurisdictions have distinct laws regarding the use of crossbows for hunting, including designated seasons, permissible game, and restrictions on draw weight. Understanding these regulations ensures compliance and promotes responsible hunting practices.
- Age Restrictions: Some regions impose age limits on crossbow usage, often allowing only adults to operate them or requiring minors to be accompanied by an adult. This is designed to ensure safety and responsible handling of the equipment.
- Public vs. Private Land Use: Laws may differ when using crossbows on public versus private land. It’s essential to be aware of landowner permissions and local ordinances that govern where crossbows can be discharged.
- Safety Gear Requirements: Certain areas may mandate the use of safety gear when using crossbows, such as eye protection or specific types of clothing. These regulations are in place to minimize the risk of injury during shooting activities.
- Prohibited Modifications: Some jurisdictions have restrictions on modifying crossbows, such as changes to the draw mechanism or adding accessories. Sticking to legal specifications is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure the crossbow remains in compliance.
What Advantages Can You Gain from Optimizing Your Crossbow Loadout?
- Increased Accuracy: A well-optimized loadout allows for improved shot precision, as the right combination of bolts, broadheads, and accessories helps in maintaining consistent trajectory and reducing wind resistance.
- Enhanced Speed: Selecting the fastest bolts and the appropriate draw weight for your crossbow can significantly increase the speed at which your arrows travel, resulting in flatter trajectories and better performance at longer ranges.
- Improved Penetration: Choosing the right broadhead and weight of bolts can lead to better penetration on impact, which is crucial for effective hunting. A heavier bolt combined with a sharp broadhead can increase lethality against game.
- Weight Optimization: Fine-tuning the components of your loadout, such as using lightweight accessories, can make your crossbow easier to handle and carry, which is particularly beneficial during long hunts or extended shooting sessions.
- Customization for Conditions: Optimizing your loadout allows you to tailor your equipment to specific hunting conditions or target types, whether you are hunting small game or large game, ensuring you are prepared for various scenarios.
- Increased Confidence: Knowing that your crossbow is optimized for performance can enhance your confidence in the field, allowing you to focus on your target rather than worrying about equipment reliability.