In essence, what makes reverse crossbows a big hit among hunters can be summarized into these highlights:
Balance:Having the bow assembly positioned backwards to the stock, what you get from this unique orientation is better balance and control. The center of gravity granted by this design allows for better usage, making reverse crossbows as some of the most reliable tools out in the wild.
Accuracy:What you may notice with the options above are the nice accuracy the crossbows offer. Aside from a scope enhancement, the reverse crossbow design actually boosts marksmanship, mainly because of the better balance offered.
Silent ShootingLonger power stroke means quieter shots and these crossbows do offer this fine advantage. Minimal vibration generation allows for nice and silent shots - perfect for stealth shooters!
We hope that the choices above would suit your unique hunting needs!
- Manual safety needs getting used to
- A bit too heavy
- May have limb issues
- Scope may need replacement
- Tough construction
- Simple yet efficient performance
- Easy setup process
- Superior trigger tech
- Superior firepower
- Impressive accuracy
- Excellent scope integration
- Durable construction
- Lightweight yet tough
- Good entry-level crossbow
- Manual safety needs getting used to
- Tough construction
- Simple yet efficient performance
- Easy setup process
- Superior trigger tech
- A bit too heavy
- Superior firepower
- Impressive accuracy
- Excellent scope integration
- Durable construction
- May have limb issues
- Scope may need replacement
- Lightweight yet tough
- Good entry-level crossbow
Best Reverse Crossbow Reviews: Scorpyd Deathstalker LT Crossbow Review
This is a really excellent crossbow, mainly because of its high-quality construction and high emphasis on both safety and speed. Built to dish out nice damage without losing out on the crossbow's durability, the Deathstalker LT can truly be a reliable tool to have when hunting all sorts of prey. Just make sure to be aware of its manual safety setup to both save up on time and shooting efficiency!
Scorpyd Deathstalker Specs
- Speed: 415 fps (using a 370 gr arrow)
- Trigger: innovative Sear-LOC trigger tech
- Draw Weight: 130 lbs.
Scorpyd Deathstalker Details
Let's find out more on what makes this choice a great reverse crossbow option:
Ease of Assembly
Little to no assembly is needed with this crossbow - it's essentially ready to shoot straight out from the box. In any case, all that's needed for it to be hunt-worthy is a simple attachment of the scope, quiver bracket, and the sling. What makes this already easy process a blast for hunters is that the Scorpyd site doesn't only come with a Scorpyd Deathstalker LT crossbow manual download - lots of blog entries and video guides are available to help shooters know everything about this excellent crossbow.
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Here are some of the unique tech found in the Deathstalker LT.
Focusing on Safety
The Scorpyd Deathstalker LT comes with a nice silent safety feature, to avoid any mishaps out in the wild. The lightweight and fixed stock build of this crossbow means that even beginners wouldn't find this a struggle to use. String stops are included and a Limbsaver sling comes with this crossbow, making it not only a safe choice, but a durable one as well. Of course, this crossbow comes with a standard anti-dry fire mechanism, to cap off its focus on shooter safety.
ACUDraw Pro Integration
The Deathstalker LT also comes with an option for an ACUDraw enhancement, which, for hunting's sake, is highly recommended. This elite tech allows for a seamless integration onto the crossbow stock, which helps in drawing arrows in a smooth and secure manner. Additionally, having this tech installed reduces draw weight - a nice thought to consider when the action heats up during hunts!
Scorpyd Deathstalker Crossbow Firepower Check
Offering 415 fps using a 370 lbs arrow, the Deathstalker LT allows some quick and efficient damage to be done on targets. Coupled with the user-friendly performance and the accuracy provided by this crossbow, using this choice can be deadly in the right hands.
Construction and Durability
Another nice benefit of choosing this crossbow is its emphasis on durability and design. Scorpyd crossbows are mainly known for its investment on creating fast reverse draw tech, with the additional benefit of avoiding any wear and tear encountered in the wild. Also, the Deathstalker LT comes with another nice design edge - high customization is offered in this choice, with some excellent style grips to personalize and deck out the crossbow to your preference!
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
As mentioned, speed is excellent for this nicely designed crossbow. Accuracy doesn't lose out as well, mainly because of the wide string angle design, which not only helps out in marksmanship, but reduces string wear as well.
Practical Hunting Usage
Simple and deadly, the main benefit the Scorpyd Deathstalker brings to the plate is its durable and reliable build. The ACUdraw Pro integration may be optional, but it's highly recommended to have to bring out the best out of this crossbow!
Scorpyd Deathstalker Accessory Check
Here are some of the nice accessories that come with this crossbow:
Scorpyd Deathstalker Bolts
6 excellent carbon bolts are packed with the Deathstalker LT. These arrows focus on speed, a perfect tandem with this crossbow!
String Stops
For the safety and reduction in string wear you deserve!
Scope Rail
Built to seamlessly line up crossbow bolts.
Rope Cocker
Quickly and safely cock your crossbow.
Scorpion Venom Lube Kit
Always make sure to lubricate your crossbow to prevent any mishaps.
Why the Scorpyd Deathstalker Crossbow is Recommended
Check these reasons out to try this choice:
Scorpyd Deathstalker for Sale
Scorpyd crossbows are definitely known to be prime contenders when it comes to the reverse configuration tech. If it's your first time to check this tech out, the Deathstalker LT may just be the perfect introductory choice for you to try out!
Made Locally
Not only is it nice to support local manufacturers, but that nice peace of mind knowing that your crossbow is made by professionals who actually know what you need during hunts is a priceless benefit you should definitely treasure!
An Issue that May Need to be Addressed in the Scorpyd Deathstalker Crossbow
Here is a potential problem you need to be aware of when using this crossbow:
Manual Safety Mode
It's subjective, but the Deathstalker LT is configured with a manual safety. It really isn't a problem, considering it is actually nice that you'll be aware of actually shooting your crossbow properly. But for shooters used to an automatic safety feature, it may take some time getting used to this sort of setup!
Best Reverse Crossbow for Elk: TenPoint Vapor RS470 Xero Elite Crossbow Review
One of the main factors elk hunters look for is power. You'd want to make sure that your gear can produce a high power output to truly take down a big target. The TenPoint Vapor RS470 does have the means to produce amazing firepower - it also comes with the really great benefit of outstanding accuracy! If anything, you'd need to be extra patient and bulk up to make the most out of this heavy crossbow (but it is worth it!)!
TenPoint Vapor RS470 Specs
- Speed: 470 fps
- Scope: Garmin XERO
- Draw Weight: 225 lbs.
TenPoint Vapor RS470 Details
Check out what makes this a great crossbow to hunt elk with:
TenPoint Vapor RS70 Assembly
Similar to the Scorpyd crossbow above, the Vapor RS70 is mainly assembled straight out of the box. All you need to attach before shooting would be this crossbow's quiver, string stop mechanism, and scope.
However, even with this crossbow assembled, there may be some struggle involved when actually setting everything up properly. This is because some of its parts, like the scope, would need some extra attention for it to be properly installed. Also, this crossbow is a bit heavy compared to others in the market, which can prove to be a challenge among beginners to use.
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Manual
Thankfully, the manufacturer does offer some nice resources on its website. A manual (such as this one) can simply be found online. Several videos on how to set the crossbow can also be quickly searched.
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Here are some unique hunting tech that makes this a great choice when going up against elk:
Focusing on Safety
The Tenpoint Vapor RS470 has some really nice safety features. Its S1 trigger doesn't only provide a nice smooth shooting sensation. This trigger has a lock hatch, which keeps the trigger box in place once the RS470 is cocked. This prevents any injury or damage to the crossbow!
An excellent ACUslide tech (again, like the Scorpyd crossbow above) is integrated, allowing for a silent and smooth way to crank the crossbow! As such, dry firing is safely prevented with this tech!
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Decocking
Aside from the ACUslide integration, the Vapor RS470 has a nice crank handle to help in both cocking and decocking the crossbow. It's a simple yet really efficient enhancement, considering this crossbow's weight consideration!
TenPoint Vapor RS470 Crossbow Firepower Check
You're hunting elk, so you'd need to make sure that you've got some heavy firepower to dish out some clean and fatal shots! The Vapor RS470 doesn't disappoint in this department, with its impressive 470 output. It definitely is a heavyweight - and it gets even better, with its nice emphasis on accuracy (more on this below):
Construction and Durability
Although heavy, the Vapor RS470 is actually lighter than the olders TenPoint releases. This is because this crossbow incorporates the innovative TEC-X enhancement. A lighter still durable stock, this unique design does reduce overall weight by almost half a pound!
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
The S1 trigger enhancement mentioned offers zero creep and is designed to improve down range accuracy - excellent factors when you need to get the right shot out towards elks! In fact, it has been noted that this trigger can actually improve accuracy by as much as 48%!
XERO Scope
Aside from the trigger, the Vapor RS470 has one more part that makes it one of the most accurate crossbows in the market. Big and accurate, the Garmin XERO scope allows 3.5 magnification, giving you a good view on your prized elk! Additionally, this scope brings in some really nice marksmanship tech - besides giving you several aiming points, the XERO scope can also analyze your shots, helping you create a nice shooting plan while on the go!
TenPoint Vapor RS470 Draw Weight
At 225 lbs., the draw weight may be intimidating, especially if you're thinking that you may struggle before taking a shot. Luckily enough, the ACUslide tech and crank system tandem should help you take a steady and accurate aim!
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Range
Even at a 100-yard distance, this crossbow can quickly get some really nice shots in - it's all because of the stability and accurate gauge offered by the XERO scope!
Practical Hunting Usage
When hunting elk, you'd want to make sure that you're able to dish out massive damage. The Vapor RS470 doesn't fail when it comes to firepower, making it a reliable choice when hunting these strong beasts. The added benefit of impressive accuracy offers a nice balance to the force generated, making it a soon-to-be-favorite among hunters. Just be wary of its weight - you may need to bring in some extra muscle using this choice!
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 ACUslide Elite Crossbow Package Accessory Check
Here are some of the nice accessories that come with this crossbow:
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Bolts
An amazing arrow combination comes packed with the Vapor RS470, six EVO-X CenterPunch Carbon Arrows and another six lighted arrow variants give you more than enough ammo to hunt elk!
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Scope
Perhaps the biggest steal you'll get from a crossbow, the amazing scope that comes with the Vapor RS470 is definitely a keeper!
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Warranty
The limited lifetime warranty in this crossbow should offer you the peace of mind you deserve when shooting it!
Why the Tenpoint Vapor RS470 is Recommended
Here are some good reasons to get this crossbow:
Heavyweight Shooter
The amazing firepower makes this an exciting crossbow to shoot (and rightly deserving for elk hunters who need every amount of force when out in the wild!)!
Pinpoint Accuracy
It's mainly the scope that makes the RS470 a really good crossbow. Paired with the outstanding power, you're bound to drop elk in a clean and fast manner.
Made Locally
The TenPoint Vapor RS470 is made in the USA - a nice thought knowing the manufacturer really knows what hunters need!
Tenpoint Vapor RS470 Problems
Have these potential issues in mind when choosing this crossbow:
May Be Really Heavy
With great power comes a great catch - this crossbow may be too heavy to handle, which may prove to be a struggle among hunters used to lighter gear.
Limited Arrows
Although the bolts that come with this crossbow are amazing, the RS470 is only limited to TenPoint arrows. Sure, you may want to try out other arrows - but doing so may void the warranty (or worse, damage the crossbow!).
Best Reverse Limb Crossbow for the Money: Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Review
To sum it up, what makes this crossbow a really reasonable choice for your money is the power and functions that it presents. Especially among beginners, the many fine features the RDX 400 has makes this crossbow a nice gateway into the world of hunting. Of course, it isn't a perfect crossbow - but it does have the nice assets that'll make hunting a fun activity even among seasoned shooters.
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Specs
- Speed: 400 fps
- Unique Hunting Tech: Reaper Cam System
- Draw Weight: 175 lbs.
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Details
Get the bang for your buck - here are some nice things to say with this crossbow:
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Assembly
A ready-to-shoot variant, the RDX 400 is actually really easy to set up - although, you may want to take note that some of its essential parts may take some time assembling! Aside from the quick installation of the foot stirrup, you may want to take note of a potential issue when having this choice's quiver up and ready:
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Quiver Installation
As much as this is a nice crossbow to hunt with, one of its most common issues would be the quiver. If not properly placed, this part tends to stick out a tad bit too much, which may disrupt the entire cocking process. As such, please always refer to the Wicked ridge RDX 400 owner's manual or the official quiver installation guide video from TenPoint!
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Here are some of the innovative hunting surprises you can get out from this choice:
Focusing on Safety
The RDX 400 comes with a nice auto-engaging T4 trigger. Coupled with the anti-dry fire system, hunters are assured that accidental releases are prevented in this crossbow.
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Crossbow Firepower Check
Given its a TenPoint product, the Wicked Ridge RDX 400 dishes out exceptional force in each shot. At 400 fps (and a kinetic energy output of up to 140 fp ke), you're bound to bring down all sorts of prey with this choice.
Construction and Durability
Lightweight and compact, this is a nice choice especially among hunters aiming to shoot from tight spots. Additionally, the machined aluminum construction makes the RDX 400 a pretty durable choice, capable of withstanding all sorts of elements expected out in the wild. There's just one minor issue, though - given that this crossbow is focused on compact usage, the short stock orientation may be a bit of a challenge to be used by long-limbed shooters!
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
It all boils down to this crossbow's good power stroke (15.5"). Because of the elongated figure, draw weight isn't compromised, granting fast and accurate shots at all times! However, the RDX 400's scope seems to be too basic for its own good - if possible, replace this part for the accuracy boost you deserve!
Practical Hunting Usage
For your money's worth, the Wicked Ridge RDX 400 delivers satisfaction with its fast and hard-hitting firepower! The compact design makes this a good choice among beginners as well. Do take note that some parts may be better off replaced!
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Accessory Check
Here are some of the accessories that come packed with this crossbow:
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Cocking Device
Thanks to the ACUdraw enhancement, this integrated crank can actually drop draw weight to just 5 lbs!
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Crank (Rope Sled)
The ACUdraw Pro crank is actually an optional variant. If you do choose not to have it (we highly recommend that you do, though!), you'll get a standard rope sled for cocking purposes.
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Warranty
This crossbow comes with a limited warranty coverage.
Best Arrows for Wicked Ridge RDX 400
The RDX 400 comes with 3 XX75 aluminum arrows. To make the most out of the potential firepower, it's actually recommended to use durable bolts (preferably carbon).
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Arrow Length
Take note that 20" arrows are recommended for this crossbow. Additionally, please make sure that your bolts come integrated with the Alpha-Nock system. Otherwise, you'll be voiding your warranty!
Why the Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Crossbow is Recommended
Here are some really good reasons why this crossbow is truly worth your money:
Entry-Level Crossbow
The compact design and relatively easy to assemble system this crossbow has makes this a nice choice for novice shooters to learn the ins and outs of hunting!
Easy to Cock
Going with its beginner-friendly nature, the Wicked Ridge RDX 400 is easy to cock (especially with the ACUdraw enhancement!).
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Problems
On the other hand, here are problems you may face when using this crossbow:
Wicked Ridge RDX 400 Limb Problems
Although this crossbow does have some pockets to keep limb stability up, it has been noted in several instances that the RDX 400's limbs tend to fail and break apart. This may happen mostly because of a faulty scope installation. Although covered by warranty, it may be a chore going through this problem, considering that labor isn't included!
Scope Upgrade
Perhaps one of the most common Wicked Ridge RDX 400 crossbow problems noted by hunters would be the actual scope itself. It'll be better to replace this with something else - just make sure to properly have this installed, to avoid the issue above!
Read More
Here are some nice resources to learn more about reverse crossbows:
- As reverse crossbow specialists, experts at TenPoint have listed down some nice advantages of why you ought to try this type!
- This nice Archery Talk forum thread discusses the many pros and cons of using a reverse crossbow (versus a standard one, that is!).
- This Deer and Deer Hunting video has a nice overview on reverse crossbow tech.