Whether you’re an amateur target shooter or a seasoned hunter, you’ll not find a shortage of the best crossbows made in the USA. The United States is home to a variety of top-quality crossbow manufacturers who produce some of the absolute best crossbows on the market.
Each of these companies is innovative in its own right. Some have existed since the 1930s, but they all have been around long enough to engineer the highest quality crossbows available today.
Before getting to the American companies themselves, we’ll discuss key features and other considerations before making your purchase, along with whether or not you would enjoy using a crossbow.
But first, a quick history lesson….
History of Crossbows
The first crossbow was invented around 783 BC for hunting and going to war. Images exist today of wooden crossbows used in Europe at around 1200 CE. They were used in various wars until the early 1700s. Obviously, their use decreased as gunpowder arms replaced them. However, they continued to be used for hunting, especially when looking for big game such as elk. They're used more often today in archery, but whether a person hunts or shoots at targets, men, women, and kids all enjoy the sport. I actually have two young female friends (one is a former pageant queen!) who fancy a little crossbow hunting.
Today, the United States is home to a number of top crossbow manufacturers, including TenPoint Crossbow Technologies, Ravin Crossbows, and Bear Archery, to name just a few. These companies produce high-quality crossbows that are popular among hunters of all experience levels.
Crossbows have been around for centuries, and over time, they have evolved into several different types.
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Types of Crossbows
1. Recursive crossbows: These are the most traditional type of crossbows, with a bow that curves away from the shooter. They are simple and easy to use, and they have a lower draw weight, making them good for beginners.
2. Compound crossbows: These are the most popular and advanced type of crossbows among hunters and recreational shooters. Compound crossbows are accurate, powerful, and versatile. They have a complex system of pulleys and cables that reduce the draw weight and increase the speed of the arrow. While they are more accurate and powerful than recurve crossbows, they also are more expensive and require more maintenance.
3. Pistol crossbows: These are small, lightweight crossbows that are easy to carry and shoot. They are not as powerful as other types of crossbows, but they are still capable of taking down small game.
4. Rope-cocking crossbows: These are crossbows that have a built-in mechanism for cocking the bowstring, making it easier for the shooter to load the arrow. They are great for people who have a hard time cocking a crossbow manually.
5. Reverse-draw crossbows: These are crossbows that have a shorter limb assembly, which allows the shooter to hold the crossbow closer to their body. They are more compact and easier to maneuver than other types of crossbows, making them ideal for hunting in tight spaces.
No matter which type you choose, it's important to follow all safety guidelines and practice good shooting techniques to ensure a safe and fun experience.
Are You a Good Candidate for an American-made Crossbow?
A crossbow is a versatile and exciting tool a wide range of people enjoy using. Outdoor enthusiasts and hunters will appreciate the accuracy and power of a crossbow, while those interested in medieval or fantasy-themed activities might enjoy using one for recreational purposes. Crossbows can also be a great option for those looking to get into archery, as they are generally easier to use and require less physical strength to operate compared to traditional bows. Additionally, many people find the unique mechanics of a crossbow to be a fun and interesting hobby in and of itself. Overall, anyone with an interest in archery, hunting, or outdoor activities is likely to find enjoyment in using a crossbow.
Overall, the type of crossbow that is right for you will depend on your skill level, budget, and intended use. Are you new to the sport? How much are you willing to spend? And will you use your crossbow for target practice, or do you desire to become a serious hunter?
Regarding your budget: While it's important to get good value for your money, keep in mind that with crossbows (as with many other products) you often get what you pay for. A higher-priced crossbow may have better materials, construction, and features, and ultimately be a better investment.
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What to Consider when Choosing a Crossbow
The crossbow industry in the USA remains innovative in crossbow engineering. America continually introduces new technology and materials that improve performance and accuracy. Crossbows with cocking aids and other safety features can make the sport more accessible and enjoyable, especially for those new to crossbow hunting.
When it comes to choosing the best crossbow for your needs, consider important key factors.
Key Factors
Size and weight: Look for a crossbow that is lightweight and easy to handle. This will make it easier to aim and shoot right on target.
Draw weight: This term refers to the amount of force required to draw the string back and load the crossbow. A lower draw weight will be easier to handle, but may not have as much power as a crossbow with a higher draw weight.
Power stroke: Power stroke applies to the distance that the string travels when you draw the crossbow. A longer power stroke usually results in more power and speed.
Arrows: Make sure the crossbow is compatible with the type of arrows you want to use.
Materials: Materials are one of the most important factors in the quality of a crossbow. Look for crossbows made from high quality materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, or other lightweight but durable materials.
Construction: The construction of a crossbow is also important. Look for crossbows that are well-made, with attention to detail and exceptional craftsmanship. A well-made crossbow delivers more accuracy. Virtually all American-made crossbow companies prioritize quality construction.
Scopes: An illuminated scope is a useful feature, especially for hunting in low light conditions.
Field Points: Field points, specialized arrowheads, impact the accuracy and performance of your crossbow. Aluminum arrows are another popular choice for crossbow hunting, as they are lightweight and easy to handle.
A good crossbow should have a range of useful features that make it easier to use and more effective. Look for crossbows with adjustable sights, detachable quivers, and other features that can help you get the most out of your crossbow.
Other Important Factors
Consider specific brands, crossbow speed, and ease of use before buying a crossbow.
Brand reputation: It’s also a good idea to consider the reputation of the brand that makes the crossbow. Look for brands with a history of producing high quality, durable crossbows, and good customer service. Again, the American companies we recommend are reputable and deliver great customer service.
Speed: The speed of the crossbow, measured in feet per second, is an important factor, as is the kinetic energy, which measures the force behind the arrow. Crossbows with higher kinetic energy and speed usually are more powerful and accurate.
Ease of use: A quality crossbow should be fairly easy to use, once you understand the function. This is especially for those new to crossbow hunting. Crossbows with cocking aids and other safety features can make the sport more accessible and enjoyable.
Why Choose a Made in the USA Crossbow?
When it comes to buying a crossbow, many people are tempted to opt for the cheaper options that are made outside the United States. While it might seem like a good deal at the time, there are several reasons why you should consider investing in a made-in-the-USA crossbow instead.
Quality
First, the quality of a crossbow made in the USA is likely to be higher. This is because American manufacturers are held to stricter standards. They are much more likely to use better materials and components, which means that your crossbow will be more durable and reliable.
Customer Service
In addition to the quality of the crossbow itself, you should also consider the customer service that you will receive. American companies are generally known for their excellent customer service, which means that you can expect to receive prompt and helpful assistance if you have any issues with your crossbow.
Fair Wage
Another important factor to consider is the issue of fair wages. When you buy an American-made crossbow, you can be confident that the workers who built it were paid a fair wage for their work. This is not always the case with overseas manufacturing, where labor practices sometimes can be questionable.
Supply Chain & The Economy
Finally, consider these two final reasons: supply chain and economics. Few supply chain issues occur when you purchase an American-made product simply because you’re not relying on materials to arrive from offshore. Furthermore, American-made money stays in America, which improves our overall economy.
Please Note
Certain crossbow companies appear to make their products in the USA, but in reality, they are American companies that source their crossbows and accessories elsewhere. Some of these companies include Killer Instinct and Excalibur Crossbows. Killer Instinct makes its bows overseas. Excalibur makes amazing products just over the border in Canada.
Additionally, while Bob Lee Bows, an American bow company since 1933, is in the USA, it does not make crossbows.
Kodabow, who made its crossbows in Pennsylvania, is no longer in business. The same is true for Parker Bows, once located in Virginia.
Without further ado, let’s introduce you to the world’s best crossbows that are made in the good ole’ USA!
Best Crossbows Made in the USA
Do you know of a company that makes crossbows in the USA we didn't list? We invite you to leave a comment and link near the bottom of this article, and we'll check it out!
Barnett Crossbows
Barnett Crossbows is an industry pioneer, having been around since the early 1960s. Today, the company makes its products in the town of Tarpon Springs, Florida. Even though their products are fairly affordable in the world of crossbows, Barnett doesn’t skimp on quality or features. In particular, the TriggerTech trigger control system with a free-floating roller makes for an ultra-smooth, light trigger. The good news for those who like recurve crossbows is that Barnett has revived the Blackcat, considered one of the best recurve crossbows made in the USA. It has an anti-dry fire trigger and finger safety reminders to start newcomers off on the right foot. The Blackcat Recurve includes a red dot sight, aluminum arrows, and a lightweight quiver. You'll find this same model and other selections on Amazon. Find other Barnett crossbows online at Cabela's.
Bear Archery
Bear Archery is a brand of archery equipment, including bows, arrows, and other accessories. Bear Archery was founded in 1933 by Fred Bear, an American bow hunter and bow manufacturer. The company is headquartered in Gainesville, Florida, and has a long history of producing high-quality archery equipment for both recreational and professional use while arguably being the most affordable USA-made bow company out there. Bear Archery has a reputation for producing durable and reliable products, and many archers consider Bear Archery to be a top choice for bow hunting and target shooting. The company currently offers 13 different crossbow choices, ranging from the Desire XL Pistol crossbow with an FPS of 175 and a draw weight of 60 pounds, up to several choices that have FPS speeds of 420 and draw weights of 185 lbs. Consider the newest addition for 2023, the Catalyst Crossbow, pictured. It’s a high performance, tack-driving crossbow that comes fully equipped with a 4x32 scope, four-arrow quiver, three TrueX Max arrows, sling, cocking sled, lube and wax. The anti-dry fire mechanism helps prevent dry firing.
CenterPoint Archery
CenterPoint Archery makes archery equipment and accessories, including compound bows, crossbows, and accessories such as arrows and quivers. Velocity Outdoors owns this company along with Ravin Crossbows. Furthermore, these crossbows are “assembled” in the USA, meaning all the components are made outside the USA and then put together on domestic soil. The company supports nonprofits Children of Fallen Patriots and Helicopters for Heroes. CenterPoint Archery offers a five-year warranty on its products as well as a 10% discount when you sign up for its newsletter. Check out the Wrath 430 crossbow. It has a silent crank and is designed for close-quarters hunting, as it’s the smallest crossbow the company makes. It still delivers on power with its 430 FPS velocity and 164 lbs of energy power. Find this model and others on the CenterPoint website and on Amazon, Bass Pro Shops, and Cabela's.
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Mission Crossbows
Mission Crossbows are made in Wisconsin where this Midwest company prides itself both in the quality and craftsmanship of its high-performance crossbows. Mission Crossbows is committed to making the best crossbow products on the market. Check the Mission Crossbows website to find a local retailer, or shop select crossbows on Amazon. Shown is the Sub 1 XR. It has a patented flight deck for optimal accuracy and a fully synced cam system for consistent arrow launch. Shop on the Mission Crossbows website or find select items on Amazon.
PSE Archery
PSE Archery, or Precision Shooting Equipment, is the largest privately owned archery equipment manufacturer in America. Located in Tuscon, Arizona, PSE Archery makes crossbows for various users but may be best known for its crossbows that have amazing power. Check out the Coalition Frontier, a fast and compact, affordable compound crossbow with an illuminated scope. It has a nearly 200-pound draw weight and a speed of 380-370 FPS. It also has a five-bolt quiver, anti-dry fire, and auto safety trigger. Its dual string stops absorb vibration for quiet shots. While the Coalition Frontier, pictured, is an affordable crossbow that’s appropriate for someone at a less experience level, the Fang HD is a great selection for the accomplished hunter. It has a high speed delivery at 405 FPS and 205 lbs draw weight. Shop the PSE Archery website or find select products at Amazon.
Ravin Crossbows
Ravin Crossbows are made in the United States, specifically in Superior, Wisconsin. It has been in business for well over 20 years. Now owned by Velocity Outdoors (who also owns CenterPoint Crossbows), these crossbows are known for their precision and power. Ravin makers use Helicoil technology which consists of a series of coils and a flexible cable system that stores and releases energy when the crossbow is fired. This design allows Ravin crossbows to have a very narrow profile and to be very accurate and powerful. They are considered to be some of the best crossbows on the market and are used by hunters and competitive shooters from around the world. Some also consider a Ravin r crossbow to be the most accurate crossbow you can buy. Consider the Ravin r 500e with its Ravin electric drive system. It's powered by the new proprietary hexcoil cam system and boasts speeds up to 500 FPS. Shop the Ravin website, Cabelas, or Amazon.
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Scorpyd Crossbows
Scorpyd Crossbows is a crossbow company located in Iowa. According to the company's website, all of its crossbows are designed and manufactured in the United States. When CEO Jim Kempf experienced a back injury that prohibited him from easily shooting a bow, he designed the Reverse Draw technology system. By reversing the riser and limb arrangement, then putting the string at the leading edge of the crossbow, the brace height is diminished. This design maximizes the power stroke. Scorpyd crossbows are some of the fastest crossbows on the market. The Scorpyd Tremor is a compound crossbow that is designed to be powerful, fast, and accurate. It features a compact, lightweight design, and a narrow limb assembly, which allows it to be easily carried and handled in the field. The crossbow has a draw weight of 200 pounds and can shoot arrows at speeds of up to 440 feet per second. It is equipped with a hybrid cam system and a dual string suppressor system, which help to reduce vibration and noise while shooting. The Scorpyd Tremor also comes with a fully adjustable stock and forearm grip, which allows the shooter to customize the fit and feel of the crossbow. Other features of the Scorpyd Tremor include a machined aluminum riser, a dry-fire inhibitor, and a self-locking safety.
TenPoint Crossbow Technologies
TenPoint Crossbow Technologies is a well-known and respected manufacturer of crossbows. The company has been in business for around 30 years and manufactures its products in Mogadore, Ohio, as TenPoint prioritizes uncompromising quality control along with American workers. Rick Bednar, who has been around crossbow hunting and archery his entire life, started the family-based company that now includes other family members. TenPoint introduced “The Industry’s First Silent Cocking, Safe De-Cocking System” known as the ACUslide.™ Beginners will be happy with the Titan M1 with its 14-inch power stroke, 370 FPS, and forward draw style weight of 180 lbs. If you’re a seasoned sportsperson, check out the new Flatline 460 Oracle X, pictured. It has scope struts that increase view strength by 80%. It also has a reverse draw design, a new sentry bow hanger, and a two-stage, S1 trigger system. It delivers a whopping 460 FPS and has a draw weight of 300 lbs.
One final comment about TenPoint: When I reached out to this company, someone responded back very quickly. Customer service is another great reason for supporting this company!
Shop TenPoint Crossbow Technologies on its own website, or find select models on Amazon, Bass Pro Shops, and Cabela's.
About TenPoint Crossbow’s Famous Acudraw Pro
The Acudraw Pro, made by TenPoint Crossbow Technologies, is a device that can be installed on certain models of crossbows to make the process of cocking the crossbow easier. It is a rope-based system that utilizes a crank handle to take the strain off of the shooter's arms and shoulders when cocking the crossbow. The Acudraw Pro is designed to be easy to use and can significantly reduce the amount of effort required to cock a crossbow, making it a popular choice among hunters and recreational shooters. It is compatible with several different models of crossbows and can be easily installed and removed as needed. You'll find it on TenPoint's website.
Wicked Ridge
Wicked Ridge is a brand of crossbows manufactured by TenPoint Crossbow Technologies, a leading crossbow manufacturer located in Mogadore, Ohio. This brand probably provides a superior quality crossbow made in the USA at an affordable price. Any crossbow selection from this company could work for the beginner or average user. The Wicked Ridge Invader G was a mid-2000s model that was popular among hunters and recreational shooters alike. Today, you’ll find the equally popular, efficient Invader 400 Crossbow that’s suitable for a range of hunting and shooting applications. It’s 34.5 inches long, not including the foot stirrup; its power stroke is 13.5 inches, and its forward draw style has a weight of 185 lbs. It’s the most popular of all the Wicked Ridge crossbows, and it comes packaged with a lighted 3x Pro-View Scope, the built-in ACUdraw 50 Cocking Device, three XX75 aluminum arrows, and a three-arrow quiver. Buy the Invader 400 crossbow on the TenPoint Crossbow Technologies or Wicked Ridge website, or at Cabela’s or Amazon.
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Too damn many advertisements while trying to read the article & while I ONLY buy American & NEVER buy Chinese or Adversarial nation products, I DO NOT shop at Amazon either (Companies that monopolize industries like Amazon are the Bane of America and have obliterated Mom & Pop businesses from Hardware and Drugstores to EVERY thing else so now we HAVE to purchase ONLINE as These mega monopolies don’t STOCK ANYTHING & look CRAZY at you if you try using CASH because they can’t track & target cash purchases). But there are MANY other sources of these American made products NOT listed in the article because ONLY Amazon pays to be mentioned (e.g. The Avalanche Demise by Barnett). I’m so sick of having to order as opposed to buying off the shelf, my privacy being invaded, being tracked and targeted by ads from Amazon, Wal-Mart & you name it, and I think it’s about time we TAKE AMERICA BACK from these Monopolies pushing Communist Chinese and adversarial nation’s INFERIOR JUNK.
As someone who takes great pride in their hunting and shooting skills, I am concerned about rumors of accuracy problems with the Ravin R20. A precise shot is absolutely essential for me in the field, and any issues with random fliers could seriously impact my success. Consequently, I always conduct extensive research and read reviews before investing in new equipment to guarantee my gear is dependable and accurate.