Crossbows are the source of many debates in the archery world. But there’s no denying these are here to stay, and they help hunters get into the field that otherwise couldn’t or wouldn’t. That’s why, each year, the latest unveiling of new crossbows always creates exceptional buzz.
Perhaps the most impressive element of the current archery market, though, is the elevating crossbow space. These units continue to improve, and with a competitive atmosphere, it keeps pushing each brand to new heights. Read on for looks at new offerings from Barnett, Excalibur, Killer Instinct, Ravin, TenPoint and Wicked Ridge.
1. TenPoint TRX Ultra
The TRX Ultra is TenPoint’s 2026 flagship crossbow. It comes with numerous technologies. The Reverse-Draw Advantage improves balance, boosts speed, and flattens arrow trajectory. The Zero-Torsion Technology comes with the new 8mm axles, which is 175% stronger and 215% stiffer than standard axles. Plus, the new X-Wide Limbs are 20% wider and 120% stronger than standard limbs. This pairing eliminates all torsional movement along the limb axis.
Additionally, it comes with the new ACU-X RD arrow with snap-on nock, new brushless machined aluminum arrow rest, and new premium string. Interestingly, the brushless machined aluminum arrow rest secures to the barrel and updated riser rod, which isolates it from SDS vibration and eliminates shift and improves accuracy. The package includes a 100-yard EVO-X Marksman Elite Scope, three-pack of premium crossbow bolts, quiver, bow hanger, and more. Get it in Vektra Camo or Moss Green. Its MSRP range is $3,549.99-$3,649.99. Learn more at tenpointcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 515 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 6 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 11.75 inches
- Length: 29.5 inches
- Weight: 8.4 pounds
- Power stroke: 16.25 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 242 foot pounds of kinetic energy (410-grain Pro Elite 400 carbon arrow)
2. TenPoint TX Ultra 29.5
The TenPoint TX Ultra 29.5 includes some of the same tech as the flagship TRX Ultra, including Zero-Torsion Technology, ACU-X Arrow with snap-on nock, ACUslide Maxx, new premium string, and more. It implements the forward-draw format.
“It has the split riser and shoots 460 fps,” said Randy Wood with TenPoint. “It features the wider-set limbs, going from a 6mm axle to an 8mm axle, making the bow a lot more rigid, more stable, and a lot quieter when you pull the trigger. The crossbow also incorporates the ACUslide Max built into it. You can crank back the bow, and if you don’t shoot, de-cock it at the end of the day.”
The crossbow comes with the EVO-X variable power scope. MSRP ranges from $2,549.99-$2,649.99. Read and hear more about it at tenpointcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 460 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 6.5 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 11 inches
- Length: 29.5 inches
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Power stroke: 13.5 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 193 foot pounds of energy (410-grain Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrow)
3. TenPoint TX Ultra 26.5
The TenPoint TX Ultra 26.5 is a great, compact crossbow that shooters should love. This crossbow is ideal for tighter spots, such as ground blinds, saddle hunting (closer to tree trunks), and more. It continues the theme as the remainder of the 2026 lineup, and packs in several new technologies. Benefit from the previously noted Zero-Torsion Technology, ACUslide Maxx, TriggerTech precision, premium string upgrade, ACU-X Arrow with snap-on nock, and more.
“The TX Ultra 26.5 is an ultra-compact crossbow,” Wood said. “It’s 26.5 inches long. It has the built-in string dampening system, ACUslide cocking and de-cocking, and it shoots 410 fps. It comes with the RangeMaster variable power scope.”
It comes with the cocking and de-cocking system, scope, quiver, three-pack of premium bolts, bow hanger, etc. The price tag ranges from $2,049.99-$2,149.99. Check it out tenpointcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 410 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 7 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 10.75 inches
- Length: 26.5 inches
- Weight: 7.7 pounds
- Power stroke: 10.25 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 153 foot pounds of kinetic energy (410-grain Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrow)
4. TenPoint Phantom De-Cock
The Phantom De-Cock by Phantom is another excellent selection. It carries many of the technological advances TenPoint is known for, such as the Reverse-Draw Advantage, silent ACUdraw cocking and de-cocking system, D1 Trigger, and more. It’s built for lower vibration and noise, which deer hunters who pursue cagey whitetails will appreciate.
“This crossbow shoots 400 fps,” Wood said. “It has the reverse draw technology, shoots very quietly, and has the SDS string dampening system built into it. It safely cocks and de-cocks with the ACUdraw system. Plus, the crossbow is very lightweight, has the rubber butt plate, and rubber grip. This compact bow balances really well.”
The crossbow comes with a new stock and barrel, 70-yard Pro View 400 Scope, three arrows, quiver, bow hanger, and more. It’s $1,049.99-$1,149.99. That’s a great price-point for a reverse-draw crossbow. Check it out at tenpointcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 400 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 8.4 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 12.4 inches
- Length: 28.5 inches
- Weight: 7.4 pounds
- Power stroke: 16 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 146 foot pounds of kinetic energy (410-grain Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrow)
5. TenPoint Titan X De-Cock
Rounding out the new TenPoint crop of crossbows, the Titan X De-Cock is another excellent choice for those in the market for a new bolt slinger. As with the others, it comes with patented TenPoint technologies, such as the D1 Trigger, Silent ACUdraw cocking and de-cocking system, new stock and barrel, lighted scope, and more. It sports solid accuracy, durability, reliability, and more. It comes with the cocking/de-cocking system, Pro-View 400 Lighted Scope, three carbon arrows, quiver, bow hanger, etc. Get it for $849.99-$949.99. See it and more at tenpointcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 400 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 9.75 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 13 inches
- Length: 33 inches
- Weight: 7.3 pounds
- Power stroke: 12.75 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 146 foot pounds of kinetic energy (410-grain Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrow)
6. Barnett Raptor GTX Series
Barnett is another reputable name in the crossbow business. This year, it released the Raptor GTX Series. The Raptor shoots 425 fps, has 142 foot pounds of energy, and is very accurate. The 3-pound TriggerTech system is a breeze to shoot. Most will like the step-through riser, and Halo System, which eliminates cable crossing and cam lean.
“It’s upgraded from the old 410,” said Austin Taylor with Barnett Crossbows. “It has new limbs, upgraded cams, upgraded color, and of course, it’s faster.”
Taylor points to how great this new series is for whitetail hunters. According to Taylor, you can get this new crossbow in the Buk Ops X-Factor Rangefinding Scope, Buk Ops Cycloptic X Prime Time Color Vision Scope, or more traditional scope options, such as the 2-7x36 Speed Dial with locking ring and illuminated scope. It comes with a quiver and three bolts. Get it for $1,199. Learn more at barnettcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 425 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 7.5 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 15.6 inches
- Length: 32.5 inches
- Weight: 6.9 pounds (without accessories)
- Power stroke: 14 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 142 foot pounds of kinetic energy
7. Excalibur RevX TD
Want a recurve-style crossbow? The Excalibur RevX TD is just that, and it even allows for partial disassembly, which those shooting traditional recurve bows benefit from. The Quick-Loc Technology is the linchpin for easy disassembly and reassembly — all with one button push. Plus, the CeaseFire Technology boosts safety, because the crossbow cannot be fired unless an arrow is nocked, safety is off, and trigger is pulled. It even features the advanced ChargerX integrated crank, which elevates convenience.
“The RevX has been in our lineup for a few years, and it’s most known for the integrated Charger X crank system,” said Jeff Baker with Excalibur Crossbows. “It shoots 400 fps. New for this year, it has the Take Down feature, which allows you to quickly take off the front end of the crossbow and store it in the case that comes with the bow. Fitting it inside the case makes it easy to throw it in the back of the truck or ATV when going to the stand. It allows the bow to travel in a way that’s really compact. Then, it clicks right back in, locks into the same position, and doesn’t change your point of impact. You can take off the front end, put it back on, and not have to worry about re-sighting in your crossbow.”
Without question, this has a crisp, clean-breaking trigger. It also comes with the Overwatch scope, three-bolt quiver, and the case. It’s available in Mossy Oak Bottomland camo or Stealth Gray. Get it for $1,999.99. Read more at excaliburcrossbow.com.
- Speed: 400 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 21 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 25 inches
- Length: 33 inches
- Weight: 7.5 pounds (without accessories) / 9.6 pounds (with accessories)
8. Killer Instinct NEO-X
The NEO-X by Killer Instinct is another no-brainer. It comes with the new DC trigger box, which makes for safe and easy cocking and de-cocking. The synchronized X-Cam System (with 56% let-off), reverse limb design, and overall build, elevates performance. A 3.5-pound trigger pull makes for sweet shooting.
It comes with two premium 20-inch, 390-grain bolts. The crossbow is topped off with an illuminated Lumix XLR 4x32 scope, three-arrow quiver, MaxPad foot stirrup, and more. Pick it up for $649.99. Check it out at killerinstinctcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 415 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 6.75 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 10.75 inches
- Length: 28 inches
- Weight: 8.2 pounds
- Power stroke: 15 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 141.53 foot pounds of kinetic energy
9. Killer Instinct STX Pro Series
The Killer Instinct STX Pro Series is loaded up with good tech, including the MRX Trigger Box, Focus Point Arrow Retention System, Gear-X Autobrake Drive System (start and stop cocking or de-cocking at any point), anti-dry-fire safety, 3-pound trigger, and more. The crossbow comes topped off with the MaxView Optics MV-36 scope, three premium bolts, quiver, etc. Get it for $1,099.99. See it at killerinstinctcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 405 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 6.75 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 10 inches
- Length: 31.25 inches
- Weight: 9.9 pounds
- Power stroke: 13.5 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 134.78 foot pounds of energy
10. Ravin R470
One of the most respected brands in the crossbow space, it certainly didn’t disappoint with the Ravin R470. It prioritizes accuracy and speed.
The HexCoil Cam System is a great feature, which rotates the cams 300 degrees and makes the bow ultra-narrow. It comes with a 100-yard illuminated scope, three arrows, removable draw handle, quiver (and mounting bracket), and more. Take it home for $2,549.99. Learn more at ravincrossbows.com.
- Speed: 470 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 4.3 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 7.6 inches
- Length: 26.75 inches
- Weight: 8.4 pounds
- Power stroke: 13 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 196 foot pounds of energy
11. Wicked Ridge Commander 400
An excellent pick from Wicked Ridge, the Commander 400 is a surefire bet. It’s loaded up with great tech, including the built-in ACUdraw cocking device. The MDX Cam System is reliable and effective (elongated power stroke and increased rotation for better speed). The Gordon Glass double-laminated limbs are big factors, too. Elevated ergonomics are features as well, with a better comb height, length-of-pull, grips, and more.
This crossbow comes topped off with a 70-Yard Pro-View 400 Lighted Scope, three carbon arrows, quiver, etc. The crossbow comes pre-sighted at 20 yards. It’s built in America and only $599.99 off the shelf. Take it home from tenpointcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 400 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 11 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 14.5 inches
- Length: 35.75 inches
- Weight: 7.3 pounds
- Power stroke: 12.5 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 146 foot pounds of energy (Wicked Ridge Match 400 Carbon Arrow)
12. Wicked Ridge Warrior 400
The Wicked Ridge Warrior 400 is one of the best options in the “budget” category and offers solid numbers for the price-point. Incredibly, the Gordon Glass Double Laminated Limbs isn’t something you typically see on a $500 crossbow, but this one has it. It’s arguably the best budget crossbow currently available.
This crossbow comes with several beneficial features, including an adjustable butt stock with 2.5 inches of extra adjustability. Tack on the Pro View 400 Scope (illuminates red or green), three carbon arrows, quiver, and rope cocker, and it’s the total package. It’s built in America. Get it for $499.99. Head over to tenpointcrossbows.com.
- Speed: 400 fps
- Axle-to-axle (Cocked): 11 inches
- Axle-to-axle (Uncocked): 14.5 inches
- Length: 33.5 inches
- Weight: 6.4 pounds
- Power stroke: 12.625 inches
- Foot pounds of energy: 146 foot pounds of energy (410-grain Wicked Ridge Match 400 Carbon Arrow)
Take Your Pick
Blown away by the 2026 crop of crossbows? Take your pick. Sift through the offerings and find the one that’s right for you. Spend some time with it during the off-season and be completely prepared for the fall hunting seasons. These will be here soon enough.
Sidebar: Treestand vs. Ground Crossbow Hunting
Hunting with a crossbow is different when hunting from a treestand and from the ground. Both come with advantages and disadvantages. From a stand, the advantages are the same as elevated hunting with any weapon — visibility, concealment, and scent flow. The major disadvantage? Steadying for the shot. From the ground, you lose several elevated-centric advantages, but it’s much easier to stabilize for the shot.
Regardless of whether you’re hunting from eye level or above, consider the new crossbow monopod rest from TenPoint. It’s an excellent option for executing a more stabilized shot process. It’s a great way to improve accuracy and shot ethics.
“We have the new TenPoint DeadRest Carbon Stability System,” said Randy Wood with TenPoint. “It fits virtually any bow with a picatinny rail. It takes all of the weight off the front of your bow. It comes with a lot of flexibility.”
When hunting from above, shorten the monopod and tuck the base of it into your mid-section for elevated stability. It’s great for use in treestands and saddle systems. If hunting from the ground, extend it out into a standard monopod format. It adjusts from 20-42 inches with a simple twist-lock application. MSRP: $99.95
Sidebar: How to Optimize Your Crossbow Treestand Locations
Those planning to primarily hunt with a crossbow should optimize their treestand locations. There are several objectives to complete to make these spots better suited for horizontal stick slingers. Some of these include:
- Choose setups that put deer in crossbow range (funnels, pinch-points, saddles, the right trails, etc.).
- Place stands on the downwind sides of anticipated deer travel routes and patterns.
- Orient stands for the primary shooter’s strong-side shot opportunities.
- Shooting back behind the stand (tree trunk) is very difficult, so hang the treestand accordingly.
- Clear shooting lanes in various spots at varying yardages.
- Buy treestands that are more suited for gun hunting than compound bow hunting.
- Use treestands that have integrated shooting rails or other rests.
- Place yardage marker tape for situations when there isn’t time to use a rangefinder.
- Choose trees with trunks offering adequate profile cover and add additional back cover as needed.
