Do you dream of successful deer hunts but worry your budget is holding you back? Many hunters believe a top-tier crossbow costs a fortune. That simply is not true anymore! Finding a reliable, powerful crossbow under $500 used to feel impossible. You faced confusing specs, unsure build quality, and the fear of buying a dud right before deer season opens. It is frustrating when you want to get into the field without emptying your wallet.
The good news is that today’s market offers fantastic performance even at this budget. We cut through the noise to bring you the best options available right now. This guide shows you exactly which crossbows deliver accuracy, speed, and durability without breaking the bank. You will learn what features really matter for deer hunting success when every dollar counts.
Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best crossbows under $500. We break down the pros and cons so you can confidently choose the perfect tool for your next big hunt.
Table of Contents
Top Crossbow For Deer Hunting Under $500 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
- 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!
- Fast (340 fps) - Speed of up to 340 fps allows you to use the crossbow not only for fun, but also for hunting
- Powerful (150 lbs) - You can also shoot heavy bolts with a broadhead
- Compact (16"x5") - Easy to carry, will even fit in a small backpack
- Lightweight (3 lbs) - It weighs as much as medium-sized binoculars, so hands do not get tired when shooting
- Silent and Quick Loading - Thanks to a lot of know-how, loading the crossbow is quick (3 sec), easy and silent
- Performance Above All: The Killer Instinct Vital-X takes Performance to a whole new level. A deadly combination of high-octane fire power and agility, the Vital-X hits targets hard at 405 feet per second.
- Easy Cocking: Includes Dead Silent Crank (DSC) system for easy cocking with minimal effort.
- Power and Speed in 1: Speeds up to 405 feet-per-second and generates up to 142 foot-pounds on a hit, blending accuracy and striking power.
- Stealthy: Built-in Dead Silent limb and string suppressors reduce noise and prevent prey from noticing you as you track them.
- Ammo Included: 3 premium HYPR carbon crossbolts are included, complete with a 5-bolt quiver.
- Expedition 385 Crossbow Package: Ready to hunt package that comes with a side mount quiver, headhunter bolts, and a Trigger Tech Trigger. A must-have for every passionate hunter.
- Hunting Crossbow with Crank: The Expedition 385 hunting crossbow is equipped with a cocking assist crank for easy loading. Its power, speed, and ease of use make it a superior choice over other crossbows.
- Veil Camo Design: This camo crossbow is artfully designed with a Veil Camo finish, blending perfectly into the wilderness. The perfect companion for your hunting expeditions.
- Speed and Precision: One of the fastest crossbows on the market, firing at an impressive 385 feet per second. Featuring an adjustable butt stock for optimal comfort and accuracy.
- Premium Features: The crossbow is equipped with a 4x32 scope, aluminum flight track, and soft lok bristle arrow retainer, ensuring unmatched performance in the field.
- Fast (300 fps) - Speed of up to 300 fps allows you to use the crossbow not only for fun, but also for hunting
- Powerful (130 lbs) - You can also shoot heavy bolts with a broadhead
- Compact (16"x5") - Easy to carry, will even fit in a small backpack
- Light weight (2.46 lbs) - It weighs as much as medium-sized binoculars, so hands do not get tired when shooting
- Silent and Quick Loading - Thanks to a lot of know-how, loading the crossbow is quick (3 sec), easy and silent
The Smart Hunter’s Guide: Choosing Your Deer Hunting Crossbow Under $500
Getting into deer hunting doesn’t have to empty your wallet. You can find a reliable, powerful crossbow for under $500. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an affordable crossbow, focus on these important parts:
Speed and Power
- Feet Per Second (FPS): Look for models offering at least 300 FPS. Faster speeds mean a flatter shot and more energy hitting the deer.
- Draw Weight: This is how hard you pull the string back. For deer hunting, you need enough power. Most good budget crossbows offer 150 lbs to 180 lbs draw weight.
Accuracy and Safety
- Bolt Compatibility: Make sure the crossbow accepts standard, durable bolts (arrows).
- Anti-Dry Fire Mechanism: This is a vital safety feature. It stops the bow from firing if you forget to load a bolt. This protects the crossbow from breaking.
- Trigger Pull: A lighter trigger pull makes it easier to shoot accurately without jerking the bow.
Important Materials for Durability
The parts that make up your crossbow affect how long it lasts and how well it performs.
Stock and Limbs
- Stock Material: Most budget crossbows use durable, reinforced polymer (strong plastic). This keeps the weight down and resists weather. Wood stocks are rare in this price range.
- Limb Material: The limbs (the flexible arms that store energy) are usually made of strong fiberglass composites. These handle the high tension well.
Rail and String
- Rail: The rail needs to be smooth aluminum or a composite material. A smooth rail reduces friction, which helps the bolt fly faster and last longer.
- String: Look for a string made from modern, low-stretch material like Dacron or similar synthetic fibers.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all $500 crossbows are equal. Check these points to judge the overall quality.
Quality Boosters
- Included Accessories: A good package includes a decent scope, a quiver (bolt holder), and at least two bolts. This saves you money right away.
- Riser Design: A well-built riser (the center part holding the limbs) transfers energy efficiently, leading to better velocity.
Quality Reducers
- Cheap Scopes: Many budget bows include a scope that looks nice but loses zero (goes out of alignment) quickly. You might need to upgrade the scope later.
- Plastic Components: Too much cheap, brittle plastic, especially around the cocking mechanism or safety, lowers the long-term reliability.
User Experience and Use Cases
How does the crossbow feel when you use it? This matters for hunting success.
Ease of Use
- Cocking Ease: Since you are buying an affordable model, the draw weight might feel heavy. Check if the bow comes with a rope cocking device. This tool makes pulling the string back much easier.
- Noise Level: Some budget bows can be loud when fired. Loud noise can scare off other nearby game. Read user reviews about noise dampening.
Hunting Scenarios
- Tree Stand Hunting: If you hunt from a tree stand, choose a shorter, lighter model. These are easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Ground Blind Hunting: For ground blinds, weight is less of an issue, but you still need good accuracy for shots through brush.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Budget Crossbows
Q: Are crossbows under $500 powerful enough to ethically take down a deer?
A: Yes, many modern budget crossbows deliver enough kinetic energy (stopping power) for deer, provided you practice and aim for a clean shot behind the shoulder.
Q: What is the most important accessory I should buy separately?
A: The scope is often the first thing to upgrade. Even if the included scope works, a better quality scope will hold its sight picture much longer.
Q: How often should I wax the crossbow string?
A: You should wax your string every few times you shoot it, or at least once a month if you shoot frequently. Wax protects the string from wear and tear.
Q: Do these bows come fully assembled?
A: Most packages require some simple assembly, usually attaching the foot stirrup and mounting the scope and quiver. Instructions are usually included.
Q: What is the effective shooting range for a $500 crossbow?
A: For practice and ethical hunting, most hunters keep shots under 40 yards with these models. Accuracy drops off significantly past that point.
Q: Is the draw weight the same as the poundage listed on the box?
A: Yes, the listed draw weight is the force required to pull the string back to full cock. This is what determines the bow’s power.
Q: How do I store my crossbow safely during the off-season?
A: Store it in a cool, dry place. Keep the crossbow uncocked. If possible, store it in a hard case to protect it from accidental damage.
Q: What is a “dry fire,” and why is it so bad?
A: A dry fire means shooting the crossbow without a bolt loaded. All the energy slams back into the limbs and string, causing them to break quickly.
Q: Can I use standard arrows (bolts) for these crossbows?
A: No. You must use bolts specifically designed for crossbows. They are shorter and usually stiffer than traditional arrows.
Q: What kind of warranty should I expect on a budget model?
A: Most reputable brands offer a limited warranty, often 90 days to one year, covering manufacturing defects, but rarely covering wear and tear or dry fire damage.