Have you ever dreamed of a successful deer hunt without emptying your wallet? Many hunters think powerful hunting gear must cost a fortune. This is often true for high-end crossbows. However, the desire for affordable equipment is real, especially for new hunters or those on a tight budget. Finding a reliable, safe, and effective cheap crossbow for deer hunting can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
It’s frustrating to worry about whether a budget crossbow will hold up when you need it most. You need accuracy, durability, and enough power to ethically take down game. Settling for something too cheap can lead to poor performance and missed opportunities in the field. We understand these challenges deeply.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most in an affordable crossbow. You will learn which budget models deliver real hunting performance. By the end of this guide, you will know how to confidently choose a great, inexpensive crossbow that helps you harvest deer ethically and successfully.
Top Cheap Crossbow For Deer Hunting Recommendations
- BARNETT WHITETAIL HUNTER II CROSSBOW: High-performance compound crossbow in RealTree Extra with complete hunting accessory package. The lightweight crossbow is ultra-compact, shooting 350 feet per second
- EFFICIENT: Crossbow is equipped with an axle-to-axle length of 16.125" overall weight of just 6.4 lbs., creating an easily controllable profile that hunters of all skills and sizes can manage
- SAFETY FEATURES : Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, TriggerTech 3lb zero creep Frictionless Release Technology
- READY TO HUNT PACKAGE: Bow dimensions are 34.25"L x 18.25"W. Package includes two Headhunter 20" Arrows, Multi-Reticle Scope 4X32mm, Rope Cocking Device, Lightweight Side Mount Quiver, Lubrication Wax. Ships mostly assembled
- BARNETT: The most trusted name in crossbows since 1962
- POWER & SPEED: This crossbow delivers exceptional performance with blazing speeds up to 405 FPS with 134 ft-lb of kinetic energy for hard-hitting performance on small to large game, ideal for both hunting and target shooting.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & COMPACT: Weighing only 6.7 lbs, the BOSS 405 is built for mobility with a 14.75″ cocked width and an adjustable 33.5–36" overall length, perfect for tight hunting spaces.
- CUSTOM FIT & CONTROL: The 6-position adjustable stock and X-Lok foregrip provide a tailored fit for enhanced comfort, control, and accuracy across a wide range of shooter sizes.
- PRECISION ENGINEERED: The Micro‑Lite aluminum barrel helps keep the crossbow light and easy to handle, giving you better balance and smoother aim whether you're in a blind, treestand, or out in the field.
- BUILT TO LAST: Includes a 4×32 IR scope, rope cocker, quiver, three HYPR Lite bolts, rail lube, and string dampeners, backed by Killer Instinct's limited lifetime warranty (non-wearable parts, original owner).
- BARNETT WHITETAIL HUNTER CROSSBOW STR WITHOUT CRANK DEVICE: Ultra-compact compound crossbow with complete hunting accessory package. The lightweight crossbow has a manageable profile that hunters of all sizes can handle and shoots 375 feet per second
- EFFICIENT: Crossbow is equipped with Step-Through Riser (STR) technology that reduces the length of the crossbow and has an overall weight of just 6.6 lbs., creating an easily controllable profile that hunters of all skills and sizes can manage
- SAFETY FEATURES: Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System, Finger Safety reminders, TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology
- INCLUDES: 4.32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, Two 22" Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, Rope Cocking Device, and Lubrication Wax. Ships mostly assembled. Color is Mossy Oak Bottomland
- The most trusted name in crossbows since 1962
- EASY COCKING FOR ALL AGES - The ACUdraw crank cocking device reduces the force required to cock the crossbow to just 5 pounds. Plus, it’s built in, eliminating the chance for ruined hunts due to forgetting your cocking device.
- LIGHTED OPTICS - Our 3x Pro-View Scope is a lightweight 8.5” scope that features 3 crosshairs & 4 dots calibrated for 20, 30, 40 & 50 yards + fully-coated 3x optics. Available with black dots or rheostat-controlled, illuminated, red or green dots.
- ULTRA-LIGHT CROSSBOW - The Rampage XS is our lightest crossbow ever. It measures just 31.5” long, shoots 390 feet per second, and is a full-blooded American crossbow ready to hunt hard & get the job done.
- BUILT IN AMERICA - While all other manufacturers import their crossbows at this price-point, the Rampage XS delivers American-made quality and innovation to give you confidence when it matters most.
- BUILT-IN SAFETY - Integrated safety wings help keep the shooter’s hand & fingers safely below the flight deck, and a fully enclosed trigger guard provides additional safety. Also includes a Dry-Fire Inhibitor (DFI) and a crisp, 3.5-pound trigger.
- Ammunition: The Hunting Crossbow Kit includes 12 arrows, 80 steel balls, and 1 harpoon. Enjoy a variety of ammunition for hunting, shooting, and fishing.
- Scopes: Comes with a 4×33mm scope, infrared targeting, and a flashlight, providing excellent assistance for medium to long-range shooting.
- Auxiliary: Includes two sheets of target paper and a crossbow bag. The bag is perfect for carrying the XGeek crossbow, and the target paper is ideal for practice.
- Parameters: Hunting Crossbow Speed: 240 FPS, Stroke Distance: 10 inches, Axle to Axle: 24 inches, Length: 35 inches, Weight: 8.5 lbs.
- Service: XGeek is a team of outdoor enthusiasts. If you encounter any issues with your XGeek crossbow, contact us anytime. We're online 24/7!
- 175-pound draw weight
- Compression Molded Fiberglass Limb
- Auto safety cocking mechanism design
- Speed: 245 FPS
- Reinforced Composited Stock
- High quality materials：The shaft and nuts are manufactured using an anodized aluminium Steel blades and the tips using a super hard stainless steel, it's solid, durable and sharp
- Easy to install and use： Standard thread Screw-in Arrows, Screw-in Arrows, Easy to Install and Replace。
- O-rings design：for secured Tightening Prevents arrows from easily loosening improves point-to-point accuracy ， Standard thread Screw-in Arrows, Screw-in Arrows, Easy to install and use Replace。
- Precise production：Consistent weight and precision machined to make sure arrow flying straightly and target exactlly,Great for fitable for hunting and shooting game.
- After-Sale Service：We will provide a 3-month warranty . If you have any questions about the product, please contact us at the first time. We will solve it for you within 24 hours.
- High quality materials：The shaft and nuts are manufactured using an anodized aluminium Steel blades and the tips using a super hard stainless steel, it's solid, durable and sharp
- Easy to install and use： Standard thread Screw-in Arrows, Screw-in Arrows, Easy to Install and Replace。
- O-rings design：for secured Tightening Prevents arrows from easily loosening improves point-to-point accuracy ， Standard thread Screw-in Arrows, Screw-in Arrows, Easy to install and use Replace。
- Precise production：Consistent weight and precision machined to make sure arrow flying straightly and target exactlly,Great for fitable for hunting and shooting game.
- After-Sale Service：We will provide a 3-month warranty . If you have any questions about the product, please contact us at the first time. We will solve it for you within 24 hours.
Finding Affordable Power: Your Guide to Cheap Crossbows for Deer Hunting
Deer hunting is an exciting sport. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get started. A cheap crossbow can be a great tool. This guide helps you find the best budget-friendly option for your next hunt.
Key Features to Look For
When buying an affordable crossbow, certain features matter most for success in the field.
Speed and Power
Look at the feet per second (FPS) rating. Faster crossbows shoot arrows further and hit harder. For deer hunting, aim for at least 300 FPS. This speed ensures your bolt has enough energy to ethically take down a deer.
Draw Weight
This is how much force you need to pull the string back. Cheaper crossbows often have high draw weights. Make sure you can comfortably cock the bow. Many budget models come with a rope cocker, which helps reduce the required effort.
Safety Features
Always check for an anti-dry-fire mechanism. This stops the crossbow from firing without a bolt loaded. This feature protects your equipment and keeps you safe.
Included Accessories
Good budget packages include a scope, a quiver (to hold bolts), and a few practice bolts. Getting these extras saves you money right away.
Important Materials in Budget Crossbows
The materials used affect how long your crossbow lasts and how accurate it shoots.
- Limb Material: Most cheap crossbows use fiberglass or composite materials for the limbs (the flexible parts). These are durable and keep costs down.
- Stock Material: Look for high-density polymer or synthetic stocks. They resist weather well. Wood stocks are rare in the cheapest models but offer a classic look.
- Rail Material: The rail, where the bolt slides, should be smooth aluminum or a similar metal. A smooth rail reduces friction and improves bolt speed and accuracy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cheap crossbows are created equal. A few things signal better quality, even at a low price point.
Quality Indicators (Improve Quality)
A decent trigger system is crucial. A lighter, crisp trigger prevents you from jerking the bow just before release. Also, check the bolt alignment channel. A well-machined channel keeps the bolt straight during launch.
Quality Reducers (Reduce Quality)
Cheap plastic sights or very basic scopes often come standard. These might need immediate upgrades for serious hunting. Furthermore, loose screws or rattling parts suggest poor assembly. Poor assembly quickly reduces accuracy.
User Experience and Use Cases
A budget crossbow changes how you hunt.
Ease of Use
For beginners, lighter weight crossbows are easier to carry through the woods. If you plan to hunt from a tree stand, a compact design is better. Remember, setting up a new, cheap crossbow often means sighting in the scope yourself.
Best Use Cases
Cheap crossbows work very well for short-range target practice. They are excellent for hunters practicing before moving to a more expensive model. They are also great for hunting small game or for use as a backup weapon. While they can take a deer, they perform best within 30 yards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheap Deer Hunting Crossbows
Q: Can a cheap crossbow ethically kill a deer?
A: Yes, if you choose a model with adequate power (around 300 FPS) and you make a clean, close shot (under 35 yards). Always practice extensively first.
Q: What is the most important safety feature I must have?
A: The anti-dry-fire mechanism is the most important safety feature. It prevents damage to the bow and potential injury.
Q: Do I need to upgrade the scope that comes with a cheap crossbow?
A: Often, yes. The included scopes are usually entry-level. For consistent deer hunting, an upgraded, illuminated scope will improve your aiming, especially in low light.
Q: How do I know if the draw weight is too high for me?
A: If you struggle significantly to pull the string back even with a rope cocker, the draw weight is too high. You need to be able to cock the bow safely and consistently.
Q: What kind of bolts (arrows) should I buy for a budget crossbow?
A: Always use bolts that match the recommended spine and length listed in the crossbow manual. For deer, use carbon bolts tipped with sharp broadheads.
Q: Will a cheap crossbow be very accurate?
A: Accuracy depends more on the shooter and the quality of the rail/trigger than just the price. A budget bow needs careful setup, but it can shoot accurately within 30 yards if well maintained.
Q: Are cheap crossbows durable enough for multiple seasons?
A: They can be, but they require more care. Always store them dry and check all screws and the string condition before each season. Cheaper materials wear out faster than premium ones.
Q: What is the main trade-off when buying a budget crossbow?
A: The main trade-off is usually speed and trigger quality. Budget models are slower and often have heavier triggers, which can affect long-range accuracy.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a budget crossbow?
A: Look at major sporting goods retailers or trusted online dealers. They often run sales on last year’s models, giving you better quality for a cheap price.
Q: Does a heavy crossbow mean it is more powerful?
A: Not necessarily. Weight often comes from the synthetic stock. Focus on the FPS rating and the draw weight, not just how heavy the unit feels in your hands.