It’s a really close match between these two excellent crossbows. Both are quite similar in terms of build, performance, and even power. Both have outstanding strengths. These crossbows also have issues that may seem to be a big hindrance among shooters!
And yet, even with a slight edge in power, weight, and even kinetic energy, the Ravin R10’s major defect seems to be heavier than the one the Tenpoint Shadow NXT.
Although it can be argued that both issues can be seen as subjective problems, the hassle of needing to spend too much time to cock the crossbow may make the Ravin R10 a troublesome crossbow to use.
And also, the Tenpoint Shadow NXT does have a really good advantage. The dampening system makes this crossbow a solid and reliable choice when out in the field!
With those factors said, it can be seen that the Tenpoint Shadow NXT rises above the competition with its innovative integration. Given that sound and vibration are both elements that need to be properly addressed during hunts, it does make sense that the Tenpoint Shadow NXT is the winner in this matchup! Not discounting the Ravin R10 (which is still a great crossbow), but this tight competition was won by Tenpoint Shadow NXT by just a really close margin!
- Clumsy cocking mechanism
- Cannot be manually decocked
- Superb construction
- Lightweight and compact
- Amazing firepower
- Excellent trigger mechanism
- ACUdraw cocking device works well
- Very accurate
- Clumsy cocking mechanism
- Superb construction
- Lightweight and compact
- Amazing firepower
- Cannot be manually decocked
- Excellent trigger mechanism
- ACUdraw cocking device works well
- Very accurate
Ravin R10 Review
When it comes to power and design, the Ravin R10 is definitely a great crossbow recommendation. The whopping power and kinetic energy are great factors to have during hunts. It’s compact construction makes it easy to use for almost any kind of situation in the wilderness. Also, the integration of nifty archery tech, such as Helicoil, makes this an exciting crossbow to shoot.
It's just the cranking mechanism that we all hope can be replaced for future variants. Instead of adjusting for the shooter, the hunter needs to adjust for the enhancement instead.
Nevertheless, and if you do adjust to the cocking device, then this is one solid crossbow that anyone can rely on.
Ravin R10 Technical Specifications and Features
- Kinetic Energy Generation: 142
- Power Stroke: 11"
- Speed: 400 fps
- Cocking Aid Tech: crank-based
Reviewing the Ravin R10 Crossbow Specs
What's a great crossbow that both beginners and pro hunters can make the most out of? For this particular writeup, we'll be matching two awesome crossbows that do not only serve as excellent gateways to crossbow shooting. These two crossbows are also deadly and can bring out the A-game among seasoned hunters! First on our matchup is the Ravin R10. Let us find out how this crossbow's technical specs will fare in this comparison!
Ease of Assembly
The Ravin R10 takes assembly to a whole new level of ease. This crossbow is mounted and tuned by default. For beginners, this does save a lot of time when it comes in setting up his or her gear. Pro hunters stand to gain much as well, saving time to focus on what really matters the most when out in the wild - shooting.
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Let’s find out some of the innovative features found on this crossbow below:
Focusing on Safety
Treating safety as one of its highest priorities, the Ravin R10 comes with a reliable auto safety feature. Coupled with an anti-dry fire system, shooters are assured that no dangerous misfires can happen. Also, a trigger track-firing system comes with the setup, giving some much-needed space for the crossbow string to retract safely, even on repeat.
Additionally, the Ravin R10 is built in such a way to be handled with ease, even with gloved hands. This thoughtful design aspect is often overlooked by other models. Lastly, this crossbow also has oversized safety wings located just right above the grip. This design decision does help keep a shooter's finger safe from harm.
Ravin R10 Firepower Check
With a speed of 400 fps, the Ravin R10 can deliver massive damage that can bring down even the largest and toughest prey. Also able to handle 400 grain bolts, this crossbow is a powerhouse perfect during hunts.
Ravin R10 Crossbow Ballistic Data
Harnessing efficient kinetic energy is one of the highlights of the Ravin R10. This crossbow has a high kinetic energy output of 142, which does add some noticeable force from the already outstanding firepower it holds. As such, even with a target located at a far distance, the Ravin R10 should generate more than enough impact to bring down prey. Even at 100 yards, the Ravin R10 should still produce an impact that will deal fatal damage.
Construction and Durability
Lightweight and compact, the design of the Ravin R10 may actually surprise most shooters, since it really isn't normal to be able to harness so much power from a relatively small crossbow. Because of how it's built, the Ravin R10 is perfect for both open field shooting when you're chasing down targets and shooting from a cramped area.
For design, the Ravin R10 comes in two stock variants: predator camouflage and black. This crossbow incorporates a setup similar to a rifle and has an impressive axle-to-axle of 6.5" when fully cocked.
The use of carbon fiber on the crossbow's body makes the Ravin R10 a really tough choice. A durable yet light, carbon fiber is an excellent, advanced material for a compact crossbow such as this.
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
To make the best out of the power that this crossbow has, the Ravin R10 is designed and equipped with innovative tech to deliver outstanding accuracy. And one amazing integration it has is the Helicoil technology. This tech maximizes the kinetic energy even with the crossbow being shot from a tight or cramped position, the Helicoil tech also helps improve marksmanship, particularly downrange accuracy.
In effect, the Helicoil tech prevents the crossbow's cable from being caught between the top and bottom parts of the cam. Using helical grooves, the Ravin R10's cams are kept in perfect balance, which does help in making more accurate shots.
Additionally, the Ravin R10 also makes use of a frictionless flight system. By preventing friction to occur between the string and the arrow itself, both accuracy and consistent shooting can be assured.
Ravin R10 Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information
Aiming is quite easy with the Ravin R10. Shooting freely from this crossbow does still result in accurate shots. But to make the most out of this crossbow's potential, using the stock scope that comes packed with the Ravin R10 is essential.
The 100 yard illuminated stock scope does make shooting even from afar an easy and enjoyable affair. The scope itself can be customized with different settings: variable speed, distance calibration, windage and elevation windage, and magnification are some of the many setups hunters can fiddle around. Also, the Ravin R10's scope is tough: the protective cap and the scope's construction make it able to withstand all sorts of elements in the wild (it is shockproof, weatherproof, fogproof, and can withstand powerful recoil).
However, for all the amazing details that the Ravin R10 has, its cocking mechanism does seem to be lacking. Although it does make use of a Versa Draw cocking system that helps save time, perhaps the actual application of the tech tends to be awkward. Technically, this cocking handle is removable, but using it can seem to be quite clumsy and troublesome for most shooters.
Practical Hunting Usage
In essence, the Ravin R10 does make a good case on what a compact crossbow should be (and it does deliver more, in most aspects!). The small construction packs a punch, with accuracy and power balanced even when shooting from a distance.
These factors all play in making a great hunting experience. Both beginners and pro hunters can muster enough force from the Ravin R10 for an excellent experience!
However, the crank system that this crossbow has may be disappointing for most shooters. Given that it does have a unique tech to save up on time, the actual application of the cocking device can result in wasting more time just to make it work.
In the end, you'd need to factor in on how to properly use the cocking device, to gauge the timing of your shots.
Ravin R10 Crossbow Accessory Check
Here are the accessories that come packed with the Ravin R10:
- Mounting Bracket (quiver)
- 100 Yard Illuminated Scope
- Versa-Draw Cocking Handle
- 400 grain arrows (6 pieces; .003, comes with 6 field tips)
Miscellaneous Information on the Ravin R10 Crossbow
Here are some important details that may help you know more about the Ravin R10:
What makes the cocking handle a hassle to work with?
Essentially, the cocking device hits the area where the scope is located. Granted that the device is removable, it is still inconvenient that cranking may cause potential damage because of the design flaw.
Is this crossbow for left or right handed shooters?
The quiver is detachable from the mount. This means that the Ravin R10 is ambidextrous, and can be used with any hand orientation.
Why the Ravin R10 is Recommended
Let us list down factors why the Ravin R10 is an excellent crossbow to own:
Excellent Firepower
The power that this crossbow holds is so impressive, that for its size, it can bring down all sorts of prey you'll encounter out in the wild!
Compact Design
One of the best highlights that the Ravin R10 has is its construction. Lightweight and compact, yet deadly even in a beginner's hands, this crossbow offers versatile shooting options with its design.
Excellent Accessories
The Ravin R10's accessories are excellent, considering that these are stock parts. The scope is a fine enhancement in making those long-distance shots hit.
Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Ravin R10 Crossbow
Here is a potential problem that may be encountered in this crossbow:
Not a Versatile Cocking Device
The Versa-Draw cocking device can be reliable - if you manage to work around its design defects. Regardless of what it's supposed to provide, it's a pity that this tech doesn't live up to expectations.
Tenpoint Shadow NXT Review
All in all, the Tenpoint Shadow NXT is a really good choice to consider. Its excellent features showcase what a reliable crossbow should be, both for those starting out in hunting and for seasoned hunters.
But like the Ravin R10, a single issue may be a detrimental factor in making this crossbow a prime gear of choice. Its inability to be manually decocked is troubling. Not only can this be a hindrance among beginners, but it can also risk one to damage the crossbow itself.
Luckily enough, the additional factor of having a dampening system should sway more shooters to go for this crossbow. It's a subtle benefit - but the rewards outshine the issue, making the Tenpoint Shadow NXT a good consideration during hunts.
Tenpoint Shadow NXT Technical Specifications and Features
- Draw Weight: up to 200 lbs.
- Kinetic Energy Generation: 122
- Power Stroke: 12.2"
- Speed: 380 fps
- Cocking Aid Tech: ACUdraw tech
Reviewing the Tenpoint Shadow NXT Crossbow Specs
Next up on our crossbow matchup is the Tenpoint Shadow NXT. How will this choice fare against the small yet deadly beast that is the Ravin R10? Let's find out more about the Tenpoint Shadow NXT by checking out some of its key technical features below:
Ease of Assembly
Beginners and pro shooters alike will appreciate how the Tenpoint Shadow NXT is assembled. Aside from the variable setup, it doesn't take much time as well to assemble it and start shooting. All it takes is to equip the foot stirrup onto the stock, properly crank it, and align and mount the scope. At the very most, it'll take just around 15 minutes before actually shooting.
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Let us now see how the Tenpoint Shadow NXT's tech features compare against the Ravin R10 above:
Focusing on Safety
The Tenpoint Shadow NXT is designed to be safe. This crossbow has a foregrip that is thoughtfully designed to keep a shooter's fingers out of harm's way. The wings are built with this focus in mind as well, without losing out on functionality.
Of course, the Tenpoint Shadow NXT also comes with an anti-dry fire system to prevent those dangerous misfires from happening. What this brand takes to another level is including a simple yet efficient lever to disable the anti-dry fire feature. In effect, this makes both crossbow engagement and disengagement an easy and smooth process.
Additionally, this crossbow comes with a unique T5 trigger. This auto safety trigger mechanism not only helps keep shooters safe - it also helps in creating smooth and consistent shots. Best of all, the T5 trigger is ambidextrous - no more adjusting to a crossbow's specs!
Tenpoint Shadow NXT Firepower Check
As compared to the Ravin R10, the Shadow NXT has a relatively lower firepower rating. But that doesn't mean it'll disappoint when out in the wild.
In fact, both speed and power is ample enough in delivering the damage needed to bring down big prey. Able to handle 370 grain arrows, this crossbow definitely packs a punch.
Tenpoint Shadow NXT Crossbow Ballistic Data
It's another close call between the crossbows with the kinetic energy generation. The Tenpoint Shadow NXT can handle just enough kinetic energy to give shots an extra push, especially at longer distances. Still, the damage is close with the two crossbows - the Tenpoint Shadow NXT still delivers enough force to make an impact.
Construction and Durability
Just slightly heavier than the Ravin R10 (but still light!) and just as compact as well, the Tenpoint Shadow NXT does have the right design and feel to be comfy on any shooter's hands.
Also, the Tenpoint Shadow NXT follows a pistol profile for an easier shooting motion. Maneuverability is also enhanced with its profile, a great factor to consider that is best used on almost any hunting situation.
This crossbow is also made out of premium materials. Looking sleek and built tough, this crossbow can withstand even the harshest elements outdoors.
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
The Tenpoint Shadow NXT definitely takes pride in its accuracy. With a guarantee of being accurate straight out of the box, groupings are pretty tight even without any additional enhancements.
What more, once the other gear and accessories come into the picture! The mentioned T5 trigger works wonders on improving one's marksmanship. Also, the overall design of the crossbow also enhances shooting, with a reduction in friction done for smoother and more accurate shots.
Tenpoint Shadow NXT Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information
Here's probably how the Tenpoint Shadow NXT edges out against the Ravin R10. Cocking is excellent with this crossbow, primarily with the efficient and user-friendly ACUdraw system. A simple crank is all it takes to get everything done - no need to be bothered by awkward positioning!
With its ease in cocking, a relatively irritating issue can be seen as well. For some reason, this crossbow cannot be manually decocked! It may not seem to be a big issue, but not being able to properly disengage manually may lead to major damage to the crossbow!
Aiming, as mentioned in accuracy, is as easy as it gets. Coupled with an illuminated scope, then you'll be shooting bullseye, even towards targets at far distances.
Practical Hunting Usage
In terms of hunting, the Tenpoint Shadow NXT brings a lot to the plate. With reliable speed and power, and excellent accuracy, this just may be one of the best crossbows to have when hunting against all sorts of prey.
But what makes this a great crossbow for hunts is it’s silence. The Tenpoint Shadow NXT is actually integrated with an innovative sound dampening system, that helps reduce both vibration and noise. This efficiently makes it a go-to crossbow when you need the stealth!
Tenpoint Shadow NXT Crossbow Accessory Check
Check out some of the accessories that come with this crossbow (note though these may depend on the seller you buy from):
- Tenpoint Pro Elite Carbon Arrows – (3 pieces, with 3 100 grain field tips)
- TenPoint 3x Pro-View 3 Scope
- Quiver (hold 3 arrows)
Miscellaneous Information on the Tenpoint Shadow NXT Crossbow
Find out more about this crossbow with these details below:
How can the manufacturer assure of this crossbow's accuracy straight out of the box?
Simply put, it all boils down to the construction and design. The cams and cable system all promote the noticeable accuracy of this crossbow.
Is this a local product?
Yes! The Tenpoint Shadow NXT is proudly made in the USA.
Why the Tenpoint Shadow NXT is Recommended
Here are some reasons why this crossbow is a really good choice:
Silent and Deadly
It’s a close match with the Ravin R10, but what truly makes the Tenpoint Shadow NXT crossbow an excellent choice is it's silence. The pre-installed dampening system is worth every reason why you need to hunt with this choice!
Superb Accuracy
With a construction that focuses not only on user efficiency but on accuracy as well, all kinds of shooters will definitely feel the difference.
Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Tenpoint Shadow NXT Crossbow
Here is an issue that you may need to know more about to properly use this crossbow:
No to Manual Disengagement
With no option to manually decock the crossbow, shooters may leave themselves open to gear damage. Worse, the risk of being injured is higher as well! Beginners may also find themselves in a pinch, if ever they need to disengage their crossbows properly.
Read More
Want to know more about these crossbows? Check these links out:
- Bean Outdoors takes a shot on reviewing the Ravin R10.
- Borkholder Archery tries out how accurate the Tenpoint Shadow NXT is.
- This Archery Talk forum responses show that Tenpoint has an excellent customer service support!