Best Recurve Crossbow Reviews

Are you interested in Crossbow shooting? and thinking of purchasing a recurve crossbow?

If yes,

then this article will help you pick and choose your next hunting equipment in terms of accuracy, price, and Power.

There are other various types of crossbow but its all a matter of choice you make, For your Comfort, we have recommended some of the best recurve crossbow available in market

What is Modern Recurve crossbow?

A recurve crossbow is a single-stringed bow, and it is easy to use and maintain. This crossbow has slight curves pointing away from the shooter and is usually located at the bow end to sustain the string and won’t out of the bow when fired.

It is basically originated from the longbow having small curves at the end of the bow with a high draw weight due to the use of a wider set of limbs to generate great power of the force. The word recurve is taken from the shape of the frame. 

This crossbow is traditionally used for sports shooting and deer hunting. 

Recurve Vs. Compound Crossbows: What’s The Difference?

If you’re a beginner to crossbow hunting and prefer a robust machine that is accurate and easy to maintain then the recurve crossbow would suit your requirements. In contrast to the compound crossbow, the Recurve crossbow is generally lighter and has characteristics similar to the traditional longbow and is easier to set up and use.

This also implies that the recurve is easier to carry around during an expedition than the compound one; which can put a serious strain on your body and affect your hunting experience.

The size of the limbs and barrel is also greater and wider than the compound crossbow. The wider limbs of recurve crossbow have no support of cables and pulleys to create force,  So we have to make sure to use lighter bows for higher speed of crossbow.The arrows’ weight should be kept in mind because the higher the bow’s weight makes it possible to hit harder than the lighter one having the same velocity. 

Before buying any crossbow, we have to keep in mind the specific construction and design specifications of a particular bow and for your ease and comfort, we took out the best crossbows reviews among of them based on draw weight, size, energy, speed, and power stroke to determine the particular model’s performance and accuracy.

Well without wasting more time Let’s get started with the recurve crossbow reviews!

Top 6 Best Recurve Crossbows 2021 Comparison Table

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Excalibur Hunting Recurve CrossBow	Excalibur Matrix Mega 405	Excalibur Matrix Mega 405	Draw Weight: 290 Pounds Speed:405FPS Brand: Excalibur Power Stroke: 13.9 Inches	Check On Amazon
Best Recurve Crossbow for Deer Hunting	Excalibur Matrix 355	Excalibur Matrix 355	Draw Weight: 240 Pounds Speed:355 FPS Brand: Excalibur Power Stroke: 12.2 Inches	Check On Amazon
Best Budget Pick	Excalibur Matrix SMF Grizzly	Excalibur Matrix 355	Draw Weight: 200 Pounds Speed: 305 FPS Brand: Excalibur Power Stroke: 11.5 Inches	Check On Amazon
Powerful & Cheap	Jaguar CR-013 Series	Jaguar CR-013 Series	Draw Weight: 175 Pounds Speed: 265FPS Brand: Jaguar Power Stroke: 12 Inches	Check On Amazon
Archery Blade + Compound CrossBow	CenterPoint Tyro 4X	CenterPoint Tyro 4X	Draw Weight: 175 Pounds Speed: 245FPS Brand: CenterPoint Power Stroke: 10.5 Inches	Check On Amazon
Best Recurve Crossbow for Beginners	Barnett Outdoors Recruit	Barnett Outdoors Recruit	Draw Weight: 150 Pounds Speed:245FPS Brand: Barnett Power Stroke: 12.5 Inches	Check On Amazon

1. Excalibur Matrix Mega 405: Hunting Recurve CrossBow

Excalibur is known to be a leading producer of crossbows since ages; it is not only a large business cashing in on crossbow hunting but a company owned by actual hunters who build the equipment. Their Matrix Mega 405 is the first of its kind crossbow to implement the compact recurve layout.

Finding a crossbow with a perfect combination of impressive features and stability is exceptionally rare these days.

The Matrix Mega 405 is constructed from durable and lightweight composite material so that it does not become a drag on hunting ventures. The built is also very stable and reliable with solid fiberglass limbs to withstand its considerably heavy draw weight. Also, the mossy camouflage finish helps you to blend in with your surroundings and prevent being noticed by predators.

Another impressive feature of recurve crossbows is its non-moving parts for easy operation and maintenance. All the parts are linked tip to tip with the strong support of string. In addition, a riser is used to support the limbs at various points to avoid unwanted movement for stabilization reasons. The limbs of Mega 405 are much shorter than other models to provide better strength and balance.

The performance of this crossbow is exceptional which makes it a highly popular choice for seasoned hunters. It is an incredibly strong weapon that shoots with ample strength to kill almost anything that moves with a single precise shot.

Thanks to its Ergo-grip stock with an adjustable cheek-piece that works perfectly for both left and right-handed hunters. The exclusive Diablo arrows are built to further enhance the performance of this speedy killer machine.

Although Mega 405 comes with a rope cocking device, it will be easier to use a crank-cocking for this recurve crossbow due to its heavier draw weight. Largely owing to its silencers and built-in dampeners, it is one the most noise-less crossbows available. The dampeners not only reduce noise but also absorb vibration for better performance.

The scope that comes with the package is impressive with good light-gathering capacity.

Specifications:

2. Excalibur Matrix 355: Best Recurve Crossbow for Deer Hunting

If you are an experienced and passionate hunter, your topmost priority would be to find a hunting gear that is solid, durable, accurate, and reliable. This challenge is addressed by Excalibur through their most sought-after crossbow Matrix 355.

The Matrix 355 is a tough and durable crossbow with robust PowerLoad limbs and the beautiful Ergo-grip stock design that makes it easy to carry and does not induce shoulder strain. Also, the stock has a convenient hole to place your thumb while the rubber-grip prevents the crossbow slipping.

Although much of the Matrix range appears to be on the bulkier side, the major portion of the weight is spread over the backside of the crossbow to provide comfort to the hunter.

It is a very diligently designed lightweight crossbow, which is evident from its Realtree Xtra Camouflage pattern applied by Kolorfusion. The string of Excalibur Matrix 355 is thoughtfully designed in a way that it manages to stay away from the rail to increase the service life of the string.

Riser is made of machined aluminum and is smoother than other crossbows using composite material for improved precision. And the foot stirrup is strong enough for the task it has to do.

As far as the functionality of the Excalibur Matrix 355 is concerned, it is undoubtedly seamless. The shooting is highly accurate up to 60 yards with a very reliable trigger action and pulling the trigger doesn’t really interfere with the overall balance of the bow.

Another attractive feature of this crossbow is the wide shoulder plate, which is explicitly developed to deter unpleasant recoil and to ensure greater comfort. The crossbow comes with multi-coated lenses that provide you with a crisp image with improved visibility even in poor light conditions.

A sturdy mountable quiver with four Diablo carbon arrows, four field points, all screws and mounting equipment, manual and lubricant are also included in the package.

This crossbow possesses all the features that are vital for an enthusiastic shooter. It is a tough, feature-rich, and versatile crossbow that can be used in all sorts of climates.

Specifications:

3. Excalibur Matrix SMF Grizzly: Best Budget Pick

While Excalibur products are known for their superior performance and reliability, the higher price tag sometimes puts them out of the range from the budget of most buyers. Matrix Grizzly is one of the cheap recurve crossbows by Excalibur while not compromising over performance and strength.

The Grizzly is robust but also lightweight which helps the users to carry it for a longer time without putting a strain on their bodies.

This crossbow’s weight is calibrated to accommodate teenage and adult users. Its frame is quite athletic and is made of SMF composite materials which add to its strength, accuracy, and prevents rusting.

The built is made to sustain the draw weight of 200 pounds for straight and accurate shooting. It has a very impressive mossy oak pattern, for hunters to blend in their surroundings while hunting. The sleek design and lightweight composition of this crossbow make it easy to use and maneuver.

It also has an impressive “thumbhole” so that the hunter’s hands remain balanced while shooting, and the shorter stock sits comfortably against the shoulders of most hunters.

This budget-friendly crossbow by hunting Excalibur does not compromise on its performance because of its cost. The release is very controlled and the pinpoint accuracy makes it the perfect recurve crossbow for deer hunting.

The kit includes all you need to start shooting straight away, including an easy-to-read instruction manual. The Grizzly is available in a package that provides an easily adjustable scope and quiver, a rope cocking aid, and 150-grain field arrows.

This best-rated bow is Ideal for women, youngsters, and seniors that might not have the necessary strength to operate other heavy bows.  

Specifications:

4. Jaguar CR-013 Series: Powerful & Cheap 

The Jaguar CR-013 is designed for speed and performance enthusiasts, very much like the car that it is named after.  This good recurve crossbow is crafted for shooters, who want a high-quality weapon at an inexpensive price.

Jaguar CR-013 is a large crossbow and it offers a great size to power ratio. Jaguar boasts a durable and solid construction in all of its crossbows.

Slotted cast magnesium is used to make the barrel of the CR-013 and for extra precision, it uses bolt flight tracking. In addition, the weaver style rail is quite simple and stays away from the line of fire. Rugged carbon stock and 175 lb. fiberglass compression limbs are both sleek and efficient.

Jaguar’s package comes with a rifle type design much like many other crossbows in this category. It is simple and comfortable to carry, while firing doesn’t take too much strength, and just like a rifle it can be carried, controlled, and fired with ease.

For further stability, you should lean it against your shoulder when you shoot so that weight is also distributed on the shoulder. Even though it has a lightweight due to its recurve shape, it also offers a shoulder sling for transportation if it ever feels cumbersome to carry.

As the name implies, Jaguar has an unbeatable speed and power, just enough to hit your running target with ease. The crossbow can surprise you with its accuracy and superb power, but it needs to be cocked with extreme force because of its heavy draw weight so that it can shoot like a gun.

Therefore you will need a system for cocking the rope as it doesn’t come with the kit, so it would have to be purchased separately.

The bottom line, Jaguar CR-013 is the best hunting recurve for modern-day hunters, because of its innovative design, speed, and accuracy.

Specifications:

5. CenterPoint Tyro 4X: Archery Blade + Compound CrossBow

CenterPoint Archery crossbows are designed for seasoned and novice hunters, with advanced technology and unmatched quality. The Tyro 4X is a perfect weapon in an affordable price tag, for hunters who are new to this sport.

While it is a relatively compact and lightweight crossbow, that does not detract from the fact that it is a robust and powerful weapon.

It’s designed with a simple draw and fire system and can fit comfortably against the shoulder of the hunter. It showcases a fiberglass limb which is compression-molded to sustain possible damage from various elements.

Also, CenterPoint has designed a sleek and adjustable stock that lets you tailor your bow to fit on your shoulder conveniently.

While Tyro is not as fast as other crossbows on the market, it shoots arrows at 245 FPS which is still an awesome speed for smaller to medium-sized game hunting. You can also use crossbow bolts for perfect target practice to train yourself for the next hunting season. To make your shots more accurate and precise, Tyro 4X also includes a magnifying reliable scope.

To provide maximum safety to its users, this crossbow comes with an auto-safety cocking mechanism to prevent accidental fire and an ADF trigger system for inhibiting dry-fire. Furthermore, the convenience of the shooter is the topmost priority of CenterPoint, and that is why they have created a handy storage compartment in the foregrip for carrying additional objects when hunting.

If you are new to this sport, then this crossbow would serve as a perfect getaway to archery. The lightweight, simplistic design and safety features are all the factors that make you want this gear.

Specifications:

6. Barnett Outdoors Recruit: Best Recurve Crossbow for Beginners

Barnett Outdoors, LLC is a major manufacturer of archery, slingshot, and crossbow products nationally and internationally. Recruit Recurve is amongst its most famous and well-recognized crossbows in the category of small and medium game hunting gears.

As we all know, Barnett is renowned for making high-quality hunting equipment and this bow is living proof.

The Recruit’s body and rail are crafted from high-quality carbon resin which generates a durable frame for the crossbow. This extremely lightweight crossbow weighs only 4.5 pounds and comes with an adjustable stock to fit comfortably on all body types.

This Recruit Crossbow is easy to operate and strong enough to kill whitetail with superior accuracy and speed. Since it’s not designed to hunt anything bigger than a Whitetail, you’re going to need a lot of practice and pinpoint precision for shooting something large with it. You can successfully use recruit recurve for crossbow target shooting, bow fishing and to hunt medium-sized games.

Safety is the most essential factor to consider while selecting any hunting equipment, and the Barnett recruit recurve includes an integrated safety and anti-dry fire mechanism that operates quite efficiently on each shot.

There are also finger reminders beneath the rail and a pass-through foregrip that enables you to hold the crossbow securely and comfortably. It also provides an adjustable butt pad and has patented a detachable limb assembly to quickly detach it from the stock for transportation.

The crossbow also includes a classic red dot scope which is also illuminated for hunting in poor light conditions.

The Barnett Recurve crossbow is an effective hunting gear for beginners and target shooters. The package arrives at an affordable price tag, enabling newcomers to acquire good knowledge while not throwing away large amounts of cash.

Specifications:

Buying Guide of Recurve Crossbow for Hunting

When it comes to crossbow shopping, there are a variety of fantastic options to pick from. Each option aims to offer different attributes depending on your skill level; if you’re looking for some serious hunting, maybe only some target practice or perhaps just looking for some fun-filled entertainment.

Among hundreds of thousands of options, a recurve crossbow has a more basic design than other types, which makes it easier to control and maintain. Some advantages of Recurve is:

• It has a simplistic design and less moving parts, therefore it requires minimum maintenance.
• The recurve crossbow is extremely easy to re-string especially in comparison with the compound bows.
• These bows are less noisy.
• Recurve bows are more reliable because of their simple and efficient design.
• You can quickly aim with these crossbows because of their low weight.
• In terms of price, recurve crossbows are much cheaper than their compound ones.

Factors to Consider While Buying

Simplicity is probably the most appealing characteristic of the recurve crossbow. It is also lighter in weight because it lacks all the complex mechanisms such as stringing, heavy cam, and cables.  That being said, there are lots of other attributes that need to be considered before you invest in a recurve crossbow.

Velocity:

Velocity is directly linked with the amount of power with which the crossbow bolt will hit the target. It is recommended to go for options that propel the bolt faster so that you can achieve the kill with a single hit. A crossbow demonstrating 300 fps or more would be ideal.

 Draw Weight:

The draw weight is the amount of power that is applied to draw back the arrow to take a shot. Higher draw weights ensure increased range and higher velocity. However, it can also add up to fatigue and affect your accuracy. It is therefore recommended to consider options with nominal draw weights.  

Weight of the Bow:

Hunting expeditions can require long durations of movement. Weight of the bow can have a significant impact on the overall hunting experience as it can increase fatigue levels. However since heavier bows are more stable than lighter ones, it is recommended to find the perfect middle ground so that both hunting experience and shot stability are not compromised.

 Budget Considerations:

The budget remains one of the top considerations while purchasing crossbows. While there can be tradeoffs between expensive and budget crossbows, beginners can opt for cost-effective options and opt for better options later on as they progress.

Safety System:

When it comes to shooting, the safety feature is a major consideration. Crossbows should be able to disconnect the safety lock before shooting the arrow after loading.

However, safety mechanisms vary from brand to brand. Several companies are paying a little consideration while others have sophisticated safety systems and sensors.

Some Pros/ Cons of using Recurve crossbows

Advantages:

Recurve crossbows boast a very simpler design without any complex framework of cables and pulleys. Simple concept lets you hunt more effectively in some of the toughest and poorest environmental conditions.

Recurve Crossbows are also quite easy to maintain as compared to other hunting bows. If you own a quality Recurve, you can easily maintain and adjust its bowstring without any support.

The recurve crossbow doesn’t have any additional cables and pulleys, so the total weight as well as the frontal weight is lower. This aspect boosts your accuracy significantly.

Disadvantages:

Since the recurve crossbow employs just the limbs to generate all of the force, you may notice that the recurve has a little higher draw weight than others.

Similarly, Recurve Crossbows require wider limbs to produce necessary force. For hunters who prefer hunting in thicker terrain, the wideness of a crossbow can be dangerous.

To achieve higher speed with Recurve Crossbow, you need to use a lighter arrow that does not strike as hard as a heavier arrow.

The recurve crossbow attains maximum draw weight by cocking it completely. Thus, every time you release the string, it is done with maximum load. This factor leads to a lot more wear and tear as compared to Compound bows.

FAQs

Can we adjust the draw weight of a recurve crossbow?

The draw weight can be adjusted but the process is a little difficult. You have to load and unload more stress on the limbs of the weapon by tightening or opening the limb bolts.

How far can a recurve crossbow shoot?

These crossbows typically have a shorter shooting range. The farthest they can go is almost 60 Yards, but accuracy is optimal between 30-50 Yards.

When should I change the string of my recurve bow?

 The life of the crossbow string varies according to the manufacturer and the type of bow you have been using. Regularly waxed crossbow strings last about 300 and 800 shots, or up to 5 years.

Why do many hunters choose a recurve crossbow instead of a compound crossbow?

Many hunters choose to recurve because of its simplicity and easy maintenance. It is easier to replace the string for better performance on a recurve crossbow than on a compound.

Final Verdict

With its appearance and performance, the Excalibur Matrix Mega 405 outranks the competition for the good Recurve Crossbow. If you can afford a higher price tag, it is a perfect crossbow crafted that thrills the seasoned hunters with its bone-breaking power and speed.

The recurve crossbow for the money is the Excalibur Matrix 355 with its impressive speed, unparalleled precision, and superb performance. It is a very diligently designed lightweight crossbow for passionate hunters providing value for money.

For our budget buyers, we highly recommend the Jaguar CR-013 Series Crossbow. It is one of the best budgets recurve crossbows crafted for shooters, who want a high-quality crossbow in an affordable price range.