So, which choice wins this crossbow comparison? Both crossbows have excellent benefits that any shooter will appreciate using. Both also have an issue that may seem subjective, but still offers repercussions if not properly addressed.
Taking everything into consideration, the Killer Instinct Ripper wins by a really small margin over the Brawler. Both options are really excellent. But the Ripper trumps with its tech enhancements and better accessories! An exciting matchup, which proves that the Killer Instinct brand does produce some quality crossbows!
- Scope unreliable
- Heavy draw weight
- Compact, works for any hunting situation
- Reverse cams help with size and power
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with silencers
- Great adjustability
- Higher speed and KE
- CNC rail helps with performance
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with silencers
- Trigger works really well
- Scope unreliable
- Compact, works for any hunting situation
- Reverse cams help with size and power
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with silencers
- Great adjustability
- Heavy draw weight
- Higher speed and KE
- CNC rail helps with performance
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with silencers
- Trigger works really well
Killer Instinct Brawler Review
Whether you need a good crossbow to get into hunting or want something reliable when you’re up against bigger prey, the Killer Instinct Brawler has it all. The easy and no-frills setup means you get to save precious time during hunts. Also, there are no complicated features to deal with when both adjusting and shooting the crossbow. Cocking is also a highlight, with a simple and convenient way to get your crossbow ready. The power and speed are both excellent, leading to a higher chance for ethical kills. The only hurdle this crossbow has is its scope - a pity, considering that almost everything on it is excellent! And yet still, the Killer Instinct Brawler is a crossbow you can rely on in almost any hunting scenario.
Killer Instinct Brawler Technical Specifications and Features
- Speed: 400 fps
- Draw Weight: 185 lbs.
- Power Stroke: 15.25"
- Weight: 6.3 lbs.
- Kinetic Energy Generation: 131 ft./lb.
- Cocking Aid Mechanism: Rope-aided
Reviewing the Killer Instinct Brawler Crossbow Specs
We'll be matching up two impressive crossbows from a single manufacturer. The Killer Instinct brand is known for its reliable and powerful crossbows. Let us see how one of its models compares to another - doing so will help you and other shooters find out if these crossbows will best suit your needs when out hunting. Up first, we'll be focusing on the Killer Instinct Brawler. Below are some of its highlighted technical aspects.
Ease of Assembly
Built to offer ease for shooters of all levels, the Killer Instinct Brawler makes sure that both shooting and setup are easy. A simple process is all it takes to put the entire crossbow together. Perfect for beginners learning the ropes in archery; excellent for pro shooters who value time when chasing after pesky prey!
Checking the Bow Technology
Take a peek into some of the various innovative tech that Killer Instinct integrated into the Brawler:
Focusing on Safety
The Killer Instinct Brawler keeps it simple when it comes to keeping shooters and other hunters safe. Equipped with the standard safety features as seen with the leading crossbows in the industry, the Killer Instinct Brawler also makes sure that its variable components, such as the MAX Footpad Stirrup, offers total protection and convenience especially during the cocking process.
REVCAM Excellence
The Killer Instinct Brawler incorporates the use of the excellent REVCAM tech - the reversed cams are more compact than ordinary cams, and help with the power delivery too. This innovative feature allows for the crossbow's limbs to maximize both power and speed for each shot. Aside from offering these excellent benefits, the REVCAM tech also allows the crossbow to keep a narrow design, without losing out on balance or weight!
Killer Instinct Brawler Firepower Check
This crossbow is able to dish out an impressive shooting speed of 400 fps. With its compact and lightweight design, the Killer Instinct Brawler does stand out from similarly-constructed models, mainly with its amazing power generation.
Additionally, the integration of the brand's unique REVCAM tech increases the power output of the crossbow, without adding up unnecessary bulk towards the actual fixture. As such, the Killer Instinct Brawler does live up to its name - it can bring the fight (and win) towards larger prey when out hunting.
Killer Instinct Brawler Crossbow Ballistic Data
Another impressive factor that the Killer Instinct Brawler takes pride of is its kinetic energy generation. As noted among other crossbow models, the farther the target is, the lesser the potential impact and damage is. The Killer Instinct Brawler compensates for the lack of power with some impressive kinetic energy. At 131 ft./lb., the force generated is still enough to ethically bring down prey from afar.
Construction and Durability
Yet another impressive highlight that his crossbow has is its overall construction. Designed to be convenient to use, its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to use for both beginners and pro hunters. It's compact design does make it excellent to use for all situations: from shooting in tight quarters to open shooting, the Killer Instinct Brawler does make it easy for everyone to use.
The stock and the variable components of the crossbow are also made out of high quality materials. Expect this Killer Instinct Brawler to withstand all sorts of wear and tear!
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
Not only does this crossbow manage fast shots at 400 fps - consistency is also considered, making for rapid shooting when needed. The REVCAM tech does help out in both shooting speed and aiming - this functional design tech provides a clearer view towards targets.
Also, the Killer Instinct Brawler is also designed to be adjusted to one's preferences. With the butt pad and foregrip both adjustable, shooters can set it up to an orientation that will best suit their preferences.
An illuminated scope also comes packed with this crossbow. Unfortunately, this particular scope's standard does not meet the excellent construction and design of the Killer Instinct Brawler. You are better off getting another scope in the market to maximize this crossbow's potential.
Killer Instinct Brawler Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information
In relation to accuracy, aiming in this crossbow is easy with both the REVCAM tech and actual construction in place. The focus on comfort this crossbow offers makes aiming easy and efficient.
This crossbow can be cocked with the well-known rope cocking device. Focusing again on comfort and convenience, the Killer Instinct Brawler also makes use of a footpad stirrup to make the cocking process an even easier method. This footpad, which comes in a large surface area, takes away the hassle from cocking the crossbow.
Also, the Killer Instinct Brawler is also designed to be compatible for cocking mechanisms to be installed onto it. If you choose so, a crank can easily be installed on the crossbow.
Practical Hunting Usage
Perhaps what makes the Killer Instinct Brawler a good choice when hunting is its simple yet very efficient approach. By taking the basics and enhancing it, this crossbow is a reliable gear that can be properly used in a number of situations by both novice and pro shooters.
The easy cocking method that this crossbow has assures of faster and better shots. Also, the fast and powerful shots do help in hunting all sorts of prey. Swift and ethical kills are assured from the Killer Instinct Brawler - an awesome benefit that makes it a tough contender.
Killer Instinct Brawler Accessory Check
Here are the accessories that come packed with this crossbow:
- Barrel Lube
- 4x32 Illuminated Scope
- String Dampeners
- Quiver (Fast Attach)
- Detachable Footpad Stirrup
- Rope Cocking Aid
Miscellaneous Information on the Killer Instinct Brawler
Here are other details that may help you get to this crossbow better (and to help in comparing with the competition below):
Is this crossbow noisy?
Fortunately, no. The manufacturer was thoughtful enough to include string dampeners to help reduce both vibration and sound.
What is the recommended arrow length for this crossbow?
The Killer Instinct Brawler is suggested and works best for arrows with a length of 20".
Why the Killer Instinct Brawler Crossbow is Recommended
Check out the amazing reasons on what makes this crossbow a hit.
Simple to Use
No frills about it, you get what you truly need in the Killer Instinct Brawler. No need to be bothered with complicated processes or accessories. Focusing and improving on the basics is what this crossbow is all about.
Underrated Power
It may seem small, but don't let its compact look fool you. In fact, the Killer Instinct Brawler is a powerhouse. Seasoned hunters will be delighted from the force that this crossbow can generate.
Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Killer Instinct Brawler Crossbow
Here is a problem that you need to identify and address with this crossbow:
Scope Problem
The 4x32 illuminated scope that comes with the Killer Instinct Brawler is problematic to use. It would be best to replace this immediately with something better instead.
Killer Instinct Ripper 415 Review
Taking the best out of the Brawler and improving it, the Ripper also brings innovative and trusted archery enhancements into the mix. Also, the “simple is the best” approach is best emphasized in this model. Now the only problem is the draw weight, aside from which the Killer Instinct Ripper is truly amazing.
With the many highlights of this crossbow, it’s just proof that it’s an option you can rely on for almost any sort of hunting situation.
Ripper 415 Technical Specifications and Features
- Speed: 415 fps
- Draw Weight: 200 lbs.
- Power Stroke: 15"
- Weight: 6.9 lbs.
- Kinetic Energy Generation: 149 ft./lb.
- Cocking Aid Mechanism: Rope-aided
Reviewing the Different Ripper 415 Crossbow Specs
Up next in this crossbow comparison is the Killer Instinct Ripper. With almost identical features (the Ripper has slightly higher stats in some of its features), will this choice beat the Killer Instinct Brawler? Let us find out below.
Ease of Assembly
Staying in line with the convenience offered for users, the Killer Instinct Ripper 415 is built to be a simple and easy crossbow to use. Setting the crossbow up is easy and does not require much work. As such, beginners and expert hunters save much time when using this crossbow!
Checking the Bow Technology
Let us find out if the archery tech integrations found on the Killer Instinct Ripper can match up against the Brawler:
Focusing on Safety
The Killer Instinct Ripper also follows the same direction on how it tackles safety as the Brawler did above. By keeping it simple and focusing on the basics, the Ripper delivers an excellent and safe shooting experience. Incorporating a design that balances efficiency and safety, the Ripper also involves excellent archery safety features such as auto-safety (which is ambidextrous), and an anti-dry fire system.
KillerTech Trigger
This crossbow also comes with an innovative trigger system. The 3.5 lb KillerTech trigger system allows for crisper and smoother shots. As a result, accuracy is boosted. Coupled with the crossbow's construction (which will be discussed below), the Killer Instinct Ripper does have a solid edge when it comes to making difficult shots!
Ripper 415 Firepower Check
This crossbow slightly delivers more power than the Killer Instinct Brawler. At 415 fps, that's more than enough power to take down large prey in an ethical manner. Couple that with the speed and precision that the Killer Instinct Ripper delivers, then you truly have a winner with this setup.
Ripper 415 Crossbow Ballistic Data
Again, the Killer Instinct Ripper slightly improves over the competition with a higher kinetic energy output of 149 ft./lb. The additional kinetic energy does allow for more force when it comes in dealing with tougher prey. Additionally, targets farther away will still get the destructive force necessary, because of the kinetic energy generated by the Ripper.
Construction and Durability
This is where the Killer Instinct Ripper also excels. The durable yet lightweight construction of this crossbow is a delight to use, for beginners and pro shooters alike. The narrow design offers a functional take on how crossbows should be made - boosting accuracy with its limbs and shooting rail, the Killer Instinct Ripper brings about an overall satisfying feel to it.
Of course, quality materials were also used in this crossbow, so expect it to be tough and reliable against all sorts of elements you may face when out in the wild.
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
Aside from the mentioned Killertech Trigger system, accuracy is further increased in the Killer Instinct Ripper with its flight rail. As the rail is made out of CNC-enhanced aluminum, this crossbow's barrel assures better downrange accuracy.
Additionally, the overall construction and design of the crossbow allows for proper aiming as well. Granted that that KillerTech system allows for fast and sharp shooting, then you're definitely in for a treat with this crossbow. Also, the scope that Ripper has is actually better than the one found in the Brawler - so it's a win for this round!
Ripper 415 Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information
Although the Killer Instinct Ripper does come with a cocking rope aid (simple does best!), its heavy draw weight may seem too much for smaller shooters to muster. It's the price one has to pay for the power and speed of this crossbow. But still, cocking is essential for proper shooting. So if this can't be resolved easily, then hunters lose out on opportunities to shoot.
Aiming, of course, is excellent! The mentioned construction and archery enhancements on the crossbow converge into an excellent marksmanship gear.
Practical Hunting Usage
The Killer Instinct Ripper shines the best as a crossbow of choice during hunts. The great combination of speed and power, coupled with the ease of control, makes this a reliable crossbow to have when chasing after even the largest prey. However, smaller or inexperienced hunters may need some time to properly cock this crossbow.
The overall construction of the Killer Instinct Ripper, though, makes it excellent for use even in the tightest areas. Having this crossbow out in the woods makes it a really good choice. You get to have power and speed in a compact-sized package.
Ripper 415 Accessory Check
Here are the additional gear you get with this crossbow:
- HYPR Bolts (3 arrows, comes with field points – note though that this may depend on the seller you purchase the crossbow from)
- Quiver
- Rail Lube
- Rope Cocking Device
- LUMIX 4 x 32 IR-W Scope
Miscellaneous Information on the Ripper 415
Here are other important details that will help you see how efficient the Killer Instinct Ripper is:
Is this crossbow noisy?
No! Like the Killer Instinct Brawler, the Ripper 415 comes equipped with a Dead Silent Kit of string and limb suppressors. This essential add-on allows for both a smooth and quieter time when handling this crossbow.
How far can this crossbow deal relevant damage?
Of course, one's skill plays a big part on how damage can be done on far targets. But at 80 yards, the Killer Instinct Ripper has been recorded to dish out satisfying results!
Is this crossbow's scope durable?
Yes. The LUMIX 4 x 32 IR-W Scope is designed to withstand wear and tear (it is fog, shock, and waterproof).
Why the Ripper 415 Crossbow is Recommended
Find out makes the Killer Instinct Ripper an excellent crossbow choice:
Excellent Archery Tech Enhancements
The KillerTech trigger system and the excellent aluminum rail complements the simple construction of this crossbow. The result, an excellent shooting performance and experience!
Impressive Firepower
Having additional power that you can control is always a good thing in crossbows. The Killer Instinct Ripper allows shooters of all skill levels a chance to use a powerhouse setup.
Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Ripper 415 Crossbow
Here is an important issue you need to know of when using this crossbow:
The Draw Weight Problem
Again, it's subjective, but a heavy draw weight is a burden too much to handle for smaller shooters. Aside from the time wasted, shooters may be prone to injury and gear damage because of the tension involved.
Read More
Want to know more about these crossbows? Check out these links:
- Al Escabedo of Crossbow Shooters shows his test shot from the Killer Instinct Brawler.
- Here’s a nice review of the Killer Instinct Ripper from Crossbow Nation!
- Need some broadhead recommendations for your Killer Instinct Ripper? Check this Archery Talk forum out.
- For other high-end crossbows, check our Excalibur Assassin 360 and 420 comparison, and our Ravin R26 and R20 comparison. You may also be interested in our recommended crossbows in various price-categories, and our reverse crossbow reviews.