Crossbow Vs Compound Bow: Which One Should You Get?

Regarding archery and hunting, the debate between crossbow vs compound bow has hunting fans engaged in a continuous discussion. These weapons offer unique advantages and cater to different preferences and skill levels. 

In this article, we explore the comparison of Crossbow VS Compound Bow, discussing their advantages, disadvantages, and considerations. 

Whether you’re a pro archer or a beginner looking, understanding the differences between these two popular choices can help you make an informed decision. Before we compare these two popular ancient weapons, let’s learn about them and their history.

What Is A Crossbow?

A crossbow is a unique bow that’s existed for a long time, even before the olden days. It’s like a bow lying flat on a frame that looks like a gun’s handle. For hunting enjoyment, the Crossbow has a trick to hold the string when you pull it back and a trigger to shoot it. Instead of arrows, it hits smaller ones called bolts. 

Read next: The History of crossbow

The best thing is you don’t need strong muscles to keep it ready to shoot, which sets crossbows apart from other bows.

Modern crossbows come in three different styles: the quiet and light one, the super powerful one, and the tiny one that’s not so strong. The quiet and light one is great for hunting animals. The super powerful one shoots fast, and the tiny one is just for fun and a small game like squirrels. 

When you want to buy a crossbow, there are many things to consider, like how wide it is, how strong you need to pull, and how fast it shoots.

Crossbows are suitable for many people because they are solid and accurate. They’re great for hunting big animals and even have special devices to help you pull the string if you need to be stronger. It’s nice because everyone in the fam ily can use the same crossbow, and you don’t need to practice a lot to get good at using it. 

Some places let anyone use crossbows for hunting, while others have special rules. Just check your local regulations to make sure you can use a crossbow.

Note: A crossbow is a unique bow that’s easy to handle and shoot. It’s been around for a long time and comes in different types. Many people can use it, and it’s suitable for hunting. Just follow the rules where you live and have fun with your crossbow adventure.

What Is A Compound Bow?

In the 1960s, Holless Wilbur Allen changed archery by creating the compound bow. He added pulleys and let-offs, making it easier to draw. With bowmaker Tom Jennings’ help, they started making compound bows in 1975, and today’s versions are even better. The bow’s wheels and cables give beginners an advantage in shooting quickly and accurately.

Compound Bows are modern bows that use cables and pulleys to make them super strong and shoot fast. They’re different from old-fashioned bows because of this remarkable system.

Compound bows are popular for hunting and shooting targets. They have an excellent “let-off” feature that makes drawing and steadying the bow easier. This type of bow has many options, so you can find one that fits you well.

When comparing a compound bow vs. crossbow, note their differences. A compound bow uses pulleys for power and accuracy, while a crossbow’s horizontal design offers stability and easy aiming. Both have unique benefits for various preferences and hunting scenarios.

Note: A compound bow is a robust modern bow that shoots fast. It’s great for hunting and target practice. It’s built with particular parts that make it easier to use and more powerful.

Compound Bow VS Crossbow: An Accurate & Mindful Comparison

The comparison of crossbow vs compound reveals distinct characteristics that set them apart. While each offers unique advantages, their differences can influence your choice based on ease of use, accuracy, portability, and cost.

By examining the following aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your archery and hunting preferences.

Comparable Aspects Between Compound VS Crossbow

1. Hunting Range

Crossbow: When we talk about range, we mean how far a bow can accurately shoot an arrow. Crossbows can shoot over long distances, even hundreds of yards, but the accuracy may not be significant. 

A crossbow’s effective range for ethical hunting is 50 yards or less. It means keeping shots within this distance for a quick and humane kill is best. Remember, a crossbow’s ability doesn’t replace the shooter’s skill.

Compound Bow: Range refers to how far a bow can shoot accurately. A compound bow can shoot up to 100 yards, but the effective range is usually between 30 to 60 yards. This carefully mentioned range is accurate enough for hunting. 

Skilled archers might hit targets up to 80 yards away, but most people have a safe and precise hunting range within 30 to 60 yards.

2. Speed & Energy

Crossbow: Crossbows use a measure called “feet per second“ (fps) to show how fast they shoot arrows. But to understand how vital the shot is, we look at “foot-pounds of kinetic energy” (FPKE), which considers both speed and arrow weight. FPKE helps us know what animals can be hunted using the crossbow. 

Unlike compound bows, crossbows don’t have a standard way to compare speeds, so it’s accurate when they give an fps number, but we might not know all the details about the shot.

Compound Bow: Compound bows use an “IBO standard“ for fair speed comparisons. This standard checks the speed of a 350-grain arrow shot from a 70-pound bow with a 30-inch draw length. 

The fastest ones usually stay around 350 fps when talking about compound bows. However, with compound crossbows, some models go beyond 400 fps, and even the less expensive ones often shoot between 350 and 370 fps. In terms of speed, crossbows usually take the lead.

3. Aiming & Accuracy

Crossbow: Using a crossbow has benefits like having a scope for aiming and the advantage of holding the draw weight once cocked. Crossbows might be heavier, they require less practice than compound bows. 

Most crossbow scopes have fixed magnification and markers for different distances, making it easier to aim accurately. You range your target, align the dot, and shoot.

Take a Look: We’ve Rounded Up the Best Crossbow Scopes.

Compound Bow: With a compound bow, you need to hold the draw while aiming, which can be tiring and impact accuracy. However, compound bows are generally lighter and easier to control. 

They also offer a consistent anchor point for each shot, enhancing accuracy. Regarding aiming and accuracy, opinions vary, with some favoring crossbows and others believing compound bows are more precise.

4. Learning Curve

Crossbow: Learning to use a crossbow is relatively straightforward. After mastering cocking, aiming, and pulling the trigger, you can shoot accurately. 

The familiar feel of a crossbow’s components and the assistance of a scope make aiming easier. Regular practice ensures you maintain proficiency.

Compound Bow: Mastering a compound bow requires more effort. Achieving proper form, aligning sight pins, and using a release aid demand practice. Consistent practice is essential to maintain accuracy and proficiency even after grasping the basics.

5. Handling

Crossbow: Crossbows are generally bulkier and heavier than compound bows, except for high-end models. Quick follow-up shots are more challenging due to slower reloading times. A miss with a crossbow can be noisier, increasing the risk of scaring away game animals.

Compound Bow: Compact and lightweight, compound bows are versatile for ground blinds, tree stands, or moving hunts. If you miss a shot, preparing for another is smooth and swift. Transporting a compound bow is hassle-free, especially with available slings and packs for easy carrying.

6. Hunting Needs

Crossbow: When deciding between a crossbow and a compound bow for hunting, weighing the pros and cons is essential. Crossbows are great for short-range hunting, especially from ground blinds or tree stands. 

They’re easier to hold for extended periods than a drawn compound bow. However, you might have limited chances for follow-up shots in tree stands due to reloading time.

Compound Bow: Many prefer compound bows for hunting due to their popularity and versatility. They are legal in most states’ archery seasons and offer portability. While they may not shoot as far or fast as crossbows, they are generally lighter and more manageable in the woods. Compound bows allow for follow-up shots, making them a reliable choice for hunters.

7. Noise

Crossbow: When it comes to noise, crossbows can sometimes be louder, potentially affecting your presence in the woods. However, you can reduce crossbow noise by adding accessories like a crossbow silencer.

Compound Bow: Compound bows tend to be quieter, making them favorable for maintaining a stealthy approach in the woods. Their more silent nature can be advantageous during hunting scenarios.

8. Maintenance

Crossbow: Extra care is needed for a crossbow due to its additional parts. Inspect and lubricate moving components, wax the bowstring, and perform regular professional checks. Clean and maintain the trigger box, scope, and safety for optimal performance.

Compound Bow: Just like crossbows, compound bows require careful upkeep. Regularly inspect and lubricate all moving parts, wax the bowstring, and seek professional checks annually. 

Compound bows are generally simpler to maintain, making it easier to keep them in good shape for accurate shooting and reliable hunting.

9. Safety

Crossbow: Using a crossbow means safety comes first. When you shoot, keep your fingers away from the bowstring’s path. Make sure nothing is blocking the limbs and cams when it’s cocked. Don’t carry a loaded crossbow when entering the woods or climbing a stand. 

Always follow proper uncocking steps to release tension safely. Stay cautious and learn about crossbow safety to avoid accidents.

Compound Bow: When it comes to using a compound bow, safety is of utmost importance. While compound bows aren’t constantly loaded like crossbows, there are still essential safety measures to observe. 

Before hunting season, inspect your bow by a certified pro to catch hidden wear and ensure proper setup. Regular checks reduce the risk of malfunctions and keep you and others safe while hunting.

10. Size & Weight

Crossbow: When deciding on a crossbow, think about how you’ll be hunting. If you plan to move a lot during the hunt, a crossbow might be bulkier and heavier, making it harder to carry around all day. But if you mostly sit in a blind or stand, the weight might not be as big of an issue.

Compound Bow: Compound bows are generally more portable, especially if you’ll be on the move during your hunt. While crossbows are getting lighter, compound bows still have the upper hand regarding ease of carrying and handling.

11. Price Comparison

Crossbow: When comparing the cost of powerful crossbows to powerful compound bows, you’ll notice that high-end crossbows can be around $300-$1,000. However, in the lower and mid-range models, the prices tend to even out, making it a balanced choice in terms of cost.

Compound Bow: Top-rated compound bows often come with a price tag of about $1,000, while budget-friendly options are available for half that amount. These budget bows still perform well and often come with essential accessories. 

Comparatively, mid-priced crossbows also offer good value. Flagship compound bows hold a slight advantage due to their comprehensive kits and overall performance, making them a favorable choice within the given budget.

Pro Tips For Choosing Between Crossbows & Compound Bows

When exploring the world of archery and hunting equipment, carefully evaluating the differences between crossbows and compound bows is necessary. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind as you navigate the comparison between these two popular options:

• Purpose: Decide how you’ll use it – for hunting or target shooting. Crossbows can be easier for beginners, while compound bows offer a deeper challenge.
• Learning Curve: Crossbows are quicker to learn, but compound bows require practice for accuracy.
• Aiming: Crossbows have scopes, making aiming easier, while compound bows demand form and technique.
• Range: Crossbows can be more effective but compound bows offer quicker follow-up shots.
• Portability: A lighter compound bow might suit you better if you’re on the move.
• Noise: Compound bows are quieter, but you can make crossbows more peaceful with accessories.
• Regulations: Check local hunting laws like crossbows might have restrictions during archery seasons.
• Safety: Both need proper maintenance, so inspect and store them safely.
• Cost: Compare prices because crossbows can get expensive, while compound bows offer budget-friendly options.
• Personal Preference: Choose what feels suitable for you and aligns with your hunting style and goals.

Crossbow vs. Compound Bow: Whice One Should You Buy?

Choosing between crossbow versus compound bow is a decision that depends on your needs and preferences. 

If you’re a professional hunter, Crossbow is the best option to choose. Crossbows offer easier aiming and shooting with their scopes and more straightforward trigger action. They’re suitable for those new to archery or if you prefer a firearm-like experience. If you’re starting crossbow hunting, you can try a Crossbow with a power of 120 to 150 lbs.

For fun and entertainment purposes I suggest choosing Compound Bow. Though, Compound bows require more practice and technique but can be more accurate due to consistent anchor points. Due to their lightweight even kids can use that. They’re lighter and versatile for different hunting situations. 

Before you decide, consider your area’s hunting style, skill level, and regulations to choose the right bow for a successful and enjoyable hunting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrap Up!

In a nutshell, choosing between a crossbow and a compound bow comes to your personal preferences. 

Both bows come with some similar features but also have their unique benefits. If you are looking for a professional hunting start, the crossbow is handy, as it has more accuracy, durability, and stability. 

In contrast, a compound bow can be a perfect choice if you’re searching for a useful bow for fun, playing hunting games, lightweight and cheap.’