2018 New Crossbows

2017 was pretty interesting concerning new technologies and open a whole new generation of crossbows making exciting 2018. And 2018 delivered, most main manufacturers took time to increase each product to give the customers a new shooting experience. 

I think 2018 new crossbows were created having their customer needs in mind, some brands didn't change much in their crossbows but added new features that make their crossbows more convenient for the user.

The following list isn't a ranking but more a quick view into the spec of the new 2018 crossbows with their unique features. Any crossbow listed below are easily into any top 10 reviews for 2018 new crossbows so making a ranking is no more the issue here. 

Mission SUB-1 Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 13.75”,
• Draw weight: 200 lbs.,
• Speed: 350 fps., 
• Weight: 7.5 lbs

The new SUB-1 offers a new ergonomic design, compact and easy to carry in all situations. A new crossbow platform for a new Mission Crossbow branch. Their design is a major plus when you carry your crossbow in tough lands. After a few years in the crossbow industry, Mission came with their best version of their Mission crossbows.

Easy to say of course, but the fact is, they improved and developed a newer technology for their trigger system and cams system. What really stood out at the 2018 ATA show was their two-stage trigger that broke nicely at 3.4 pounds and the high let-off Sync X Cams that are, as the name implies, perfectly synced for enhanced accuracy and easier cocking. The system eliminates horizontal and vertical nock travel which enhance the precision of the weapon. The trigger also features a de-cocking button that allows shooters to disarm their bow quietly and easily.

SUB-1 means that the crossbow should deliver groups less than 1 inch at 100 yards, and this, consistently. Matter of fact, it does.

Tenpoint Stealth NXT Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 13.5”,
• Draw weight: 220 lbs.,
• Speed: 410 fps., 
• Weight: 7.3 lbs

Tenpoint offers a completely new platform for 2018. A new platform also means that the crossbow is fully loaded with new technology. From the tip to the toe, the Stealth NXT from Tenpoint is a beauty of technology. 

The new assembly features Vector Quad cable technology, Dual Flex limbs, and XR6 cams. All of these systems combined will generate around 144 ft-lbs of kinetic energy and bring your bolts up to 410 FPS. The crossbow uses four cables instead of two. The Vector Quad cable technology will increase strength and stability, and also balances torsion and tension to eliminate cam lean and provide pinpoint accuracy.

The new assets on the Stealth NXT don't stop here. The riser has the new CX5 connection system wherein the riser attaches to the barrel in five different locations to prevent front-end movement and enhance accuracy. The barrel is a TAC-LITE aluminum barrel. That new barrel reduces weight, noise, and vibration. The crossbow also offers a lightweight, three-piece C3 stock molded from carbon-fiber-infused PolyOne OnForce, entirely designed to reduce weight, noise, and vibration while also allowing cheek height and length-of-pull adjustments. 

The Stealth NXT packages like most of the TenPoint crossbows come with different options and prices. The elite package is a real "pack a punch" package. It includes ACUdraw Pro, Evo-X Marksman Scope, TenPoint STAG Hard Crossbow Case, 3-pack of EVO-X CenterPunch premium carbon arrows, integrated string stop system and a quiver.

 

PSE Thrive 400 Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 17”,
• Draw weight: 175 lbs.,
• Speed: 400 fps., 
• Weight: 6.7 lbs

Great new design and quite accessible as for its price range. The Thrive 400 has reverse cam technology, PSE limbs, string and cables to generate 400 FPS. PSE has a well-deserved reputation and the Thrive 400 beneficiates of this reputation.  Efficiency is what defines the most this crossbow, no firework but only efficient systems on this crossbow.

It features a Soft Touch grip and cheek rest and new rubber-coated folding foot stirrup that provides a stand and shortens the overall length for storage. The upgraded accessory package includes five-arrow quiver, four 22-inch Carbon Thunder arrows with 100-grain bullet points and a 22-inch discharge bolt, rope cocker, string stops, illuminated multi-reticle scope, and lube rail.

Excalibur Assassin 360 Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 15”,
• Draw weight: 285 lbs.,
• Speed: 360 fps., 
• Weight: 7.7 lbs

The Assasin from Excalibur is simply a magnificent recurve crossbow. For those who prefer recurve crossbows, this one has achieved another level of efficiency. I have to say that what afraid a lot of users concerning recurve crossbows is usually the cocking weight and the new Excalibur Charger Cranking System does a great job to solve the issue. It reduces the 285 pounds to merely 12 pounds of cocking weight. The Cranking device also has an ambidextrous handle with a wrist strap that makes it nearly impossible for the crank to slip from your hand. The handle detaches from the stock and cocks and de-cocks the bow in complete silence. 

Meanwhile, the new Tru-Fit stock allows adjustment in both length and comb for a perfect fit, and the two-stage Pro-Shot trigger broke very nicely. Sure the technologic jumps made by the wheel-bow companies are impressive, but in terms of no-nonsense improvements on a great hunting bow, the Assassin was probably my favorite at ATA

Meanwhile, a True-Fit stock affords custom length-of-pull adjustment while a modest 15-inch power stroke and 21-inch cocked width enhance maneuverability. And, Roller Catch trigger technology ensures an even, consistent break on the two-stage trigger. And, R.E.D.S. Suppressors, Air Brakes and patented Sound Deadening System reduce the noise level by a reported 25 percent.
 

CAMX A4 Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 13”,
• Draw weight:  200 lbs.,
• Speed: 370 fps., 
• Weight: 7.8 lbs

Sleek design indeed, but under the hood, this crossbow delivers also results. Mainly built around quietness. Everything features designed on the CAMx A4 were engineered to be stealthy and accurate. This crossbow can be used as a recreational crossbow but is clearly made for serious hunters.

Noise is really out of the equation, leaving all your attention to your target. Not worrying about the stealth of your crossbow brings hunting to another level.

The A4 Suspension System is, combined with their three-layer laminated split-limb design, mainly responsible for the quietness. The inboard cams system delivers quietness but also zero shocks to the shooter resulting in a more accurate shooting at any distances. 

Note that there are ballistic nylon tips to protect the ends of the limbs and provide more years of durability even with direct impacts to the front end.

Furthermore, the CAMX A4 has a new patented P.A.R system, a pivoting arrow retention that provides a consistent pressure on the arrow. Combined with their drag fire control trigger, this crossbow becomes an industry-leading crossbow toward safety. 

 

Ravin R20 Sniper Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 13”,
• Draw weight: 12 lbs.,
• Speed: 430 fps., 
• Weight: 7.1 lbs

A crossbow getting closer and closer to a real rifle. Of course, not in terms of velocity but clearly closer to the feel of shooting a rifle. Light, narrow and maneuverable, the R20 is standing out, other brands are starting to mimic their technology. 

The Sniper Package is fully loaded and generates an industry-leading crossbow concerning downrange accuracy (under an inch up to 60 yards). The scope combined with the Helicoil patented technology of Ravin enhance the distance reachable by the crossbow. The 340 degrees allowed by the cams are imperative to reach up to 430 FPS with the R20.

The downrange accuracy is not only obtained by is power but also by the fact that the arrow is always properly and consistently sited in the right position. Understand, at this speed level, this little detail is crucial. A slight movement a launching position could result in a major miss at the end. The Trac-Trigger Firing System combined with the Frictionless Flight System eliminates the risk to almost none of missed-shooting at any distance even at its tremendous speed.

The sniper package includes high tech tools to enhance the precision of the crossbow. Pricey of course but clearly a many years investment. As you go for hunting or recreational shooting, the Ravin R20 worth definitely your attention.

Barnett Predator Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 12.25”,
• Draw weight: 207 lbs.,
• Speed: 430 fps., 
• Weight: 7.8 lbs

Barnett brought this year a serious competitor to the new technology offered by other brands. You definitely know that you can rely on Barnett for its durability and precision. 2018 brings a new asset, more velocity with the well-known efficiency of the Predator line of products. 

The 2018 Predator crossbow offers more balance with its unique RUCS System. It reduces the front end weight to enhance the maneuverability of the crossbow but also improve the feel when aiming for several minutes. Concerning aiming, the 1.5-5x32mm Premium Illuminated Scope is a great optic offering a clear image.

As for the technology, all Barnett crossbows comes with the same package, all ready-to-shoot packages. the TriggerTech trigger, the Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, and the Pass-Through Foregrip to name only those. 

Is the string tough enough for the job, only trying it for a while will tell us, right? Barnett did put a lot of efforts to improve this side of their crossbows which was their main issues.

Gearhead X16 Tactical Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 16”,
• Draw weight: up to 125 lbs.,
• Speed: 350 fps at 125 lbs., 
• Weight: 6.25 lbs

Packable design take-down crossbow, how often will you hear that concerning a crossbow. It is the reason why I choose to write about this crossbow, not because it offers incredible statistics but because it has this unique feature. 

The crossbow is easy to assemble and dis-assemble. Few seconds and you are ready to shoot. The concept is out of the box and made for sheep hunting. The compactness of the crossbow is the main feature. 

Light but strong construction, the Gearhead X16 is a combination of a crossbow and a compound bow. This means, easy to cock and quiet like a compound but in a crossbow shape. The crossbow is aftermarket accessories friendly meaning that it can receive all type of items and shoot any arrows.

Scorpyd DeathStalker 380 Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power Stroke: 17.25”,
• Draw weight: 130 lbs.,
• Speed: 380 fps., 
• Weight: 6.2 lbs

Carbon structure with narrower width and length with great precision. That sentence resumes mostly the Scorpyd Deathstalker 380. They developed an efficient compact package for limited hunting places. This crossbow is made for harvesting Whitetails. 

The optic is a Hawke scope non-illuminated. Hawke has probably the best scope on the market so it is a great asset to this model. The trigger gives a crisp feeling and leaves no doubt that it is quality. Vibration is at its minimum and produces almost no sound after release. This reverse draw crossbow deserves all your attention.

Killer Instinct Ripper 415 Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 15”,
• Draw weight: 200 lbs.,
• Speed: 415 fps., 
• Weight: 6.9 lbs

Killer Instinct brought on the market nice crossbows at really decent prices. The Riper 415 is quite interesting for the value. When you compare under $400 crossbows, you won't find a lot of them that delivers over 400 FPS and doesn't take all your money. 

The structure offers a narrow crossbow when cocked and easy to maneuver with its 6.9 pounds. The scope is easy to sight-in and delivers great result even at 80 yards. The trigger offers a crisp feel but is more a 4 pounds pressure trigger. 

The Killer Instinct Ripper 415 is among the best hunting crossbow that we have run across that exceeds 400 fps in speed, and this, under $400. If you are beginning shooting or hunting with a crossbow, the Ripper 415 is certainly the most serious contender that you should consider especially at such price.

TenPoint NitroX Crossbow Package

Specs:

• Power stroke: 16.5”,
• Draw weight: 170 lbs.,
• Speed: 440 fps., 
• Weight: 7.8 lbs

This should be TenPoint new Flagship. The NitroX offers all you need to experience the best shooting experience you will ever have. Featuring the new SLING-SHOT and Vector Quad cable technologies, the reverse-draw Nitro X measures an ultra-narrow 7-inches wide and delivers devastating speed up to 440 FPS with a 375-grain arrow and 410 FPS with a 445-grain hunting bolt. 

Downrange accuracy is above the average by its consistency. Groupings are easy to maintain at any distance. Paired with a 166 ft-lbs of kinetic energy, the NitroX is definitely a hunter choice. 

The auto-engaging safety trigger breaks cleanly at 3.5 pounds of pressure enhancing your precision. The adjustable C3 stock is simply nice to look at, it reduces weight, noise, and vibration.

Like all TenPoint packages, you have different cocking mechanisms raising the initial price but often worth the investment. All in all, the NitroX is a leader in 2018 for speed and precision.

 

Conclusion

2018 new crossbows use new technology and are undoubtedly faster than their previous generation. Many new crossbows, budget or flagships, that should suit all kind of hunter's needs. 2018 won't be easy on targets, the precision generates by the crossbows paired with their velocity is reaching an outstanding level that almost anybody now can use one of those machines and harvest during hunting season.

Thank you for reading us, do not hesitate to leave any comments below and Have A Nice Hunt!