Sometimes, the best crossbow to use during hunts would be the simplest choices. You'd want something that will deliver what you need, without the hassle and complications of setting up and shooting. The Barnett Explorer XP 400 offers these essentials, with the additional benefit of being a force to be reckoned with. A pocket rocket, this crossbow may just be what hunters of all levels dream of.
- Scope isn't that great
- No pre-installed string dampeners
- Comes with only two arrows
- Fast and powerful
- Customization friendly
- TriggerTech enhancement is amazing
- Excellent safety features
- Scope isn't that great
- No pre-installed string dampeners
- Comes with only two arrows
- Fast and powerful
- Customization friendly
- TriggerTech enhancement is amazing
- Excellent safety features
Barnett Explorer XP 400 Crossbow Basic Specs
- Draw Weight: 200 lbs.
- Kinetic Energy Output: 135 ft/lbs.
- Power Stroke: 13.75"
Explorer XP 400 Crossbow Details
Powerhouse crossbows are expected from the Barnett brand. This manufacturer implements a nice balance of construction and shooting enhancements to deliver excellent firepower. Let us break down the many nice factors that the Barnett Explorer XP 400 has to offer for hunters below!
Ease of Assembly
A simple yet efficient assembly process is what makes the Explorer XP 400 a good choice. This crossbow comes actually pre-assembled - the actual setup process involves installing the riser to the single-bolt fixture. This ready-to-hunt benefit makes the Barnett Explorer XP 400 a nice option for beginner shooters to use during their first hunting trips!
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Barnett made sure to integrate some really efficient hunting tech in this crossbow. The first enhancement that most would notice is the innovative TriggerTech system. Essentially a trigger system that utilizes a metal-injection mold, the innovation lies on the frictionless release this component offers. Additionally, a free-floating roller is found right between the trigger and the crossbow's sear part, resulting in consistent and smoother shots. The TriggerTech system also allows for crisp and light shooting sensations, giving hunters better control on their shots.
Another hunting enhancement found in the Explorer XP 400 is the high energy cam system. Power is assured on the tough construction of these limbs, delivering enough force to take down larger prey. For extra convenience, Barnett also integrated adjustable butt stocks, allowing hunters to set up the crossbow to an orientation that will suit their unique shooting styles.
For additional and safer arrow alignment, the Barnett Explorer XP 400 also comes with a unique Soft Lok tech. Essentially a floating bristle arrow retainer system, this enhancement adjusts crossbow bolts to properly and securely align on the shaft. Using just the right amount of downward pressure, arrows are placed correctly, resulting in more accurate and safer shots.
Focusing on Safety
The Explorer XP 400 has a nice set of safety features that will give shooters the peace of mind they deserve when out in the wild. This crossbow makes use of a Soft Lok floating bristle that helps in securing bolts when placed in the flight track. Also, the Barnett Explorer XP 400 has a standard anti-dry fire mechanism (ADF - anti-dry fire trigger enhancement) that prevents dangerous misfires from happening. Another really cool safety feature found on the crossbow's design itself would be the finger reminders. These nice guides help remind hunters if their fingers are in the way of the crossbow's shooting trajectory.
Barnett Explorer XP 400 Crossbow Firepower Check
This is where this crossbow shines the brightest. The Explorer 400 is capable of producing 400 fps, a feat that can tear apart tough targets like a hot knife slicing on butter. Coupled with its kinetic energy generation (135 ft/lbs.), the Explorer XP 400 can dish out massive damage with the additional benefit of being a lightweight crossbow as well.
Construction and Durability
As mentioned, the single bolt assembly of this crossbow makes it a hit among hunters, especially beginner shooters. This particular assembly orientation isn't only easy to set up, its highly durable as well. The cams, as seen above too, are durable and able to bear the brunt of the powerful force on every shot. At 12 lbs., the Barnett Explorer XP 400 is relatively light, a nice touch considering carrying this crossbow during long hunting treks. The actual flight track of this crossbow is CNC machined, a good material when dealing with tension and arrow placement.
Another nice construction feature this crossbow has is potential for customization. The Explorer XP 400 has a Picatinny rail, which offers enough space to attach additional crossbow equipment and accessories if you choose to do so.
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
To complement the force this crossbow offers, the Barnett Explorer is crafted to be accurate as well! The TriggerTech enhancement integrated in this crossbow allows for consistent and stabler shots, a good consideration when taking time to get those pesky targets. The Soft Lok tech (the floating bristle arrow retainer system) assures shooters that arrows are aligned on the flight track, which does help boost marksmanship.
For optimum force and speed, it is recommended to use 3980 grain arrows. Flight performance is assured with this crossbow and arrow tandem, which should help out hunters plan ahead when chasing prey. Also, the actual sighting in process with the stock scope that comes with the Explorer XP 400 is easy. If anything, you may want to replace the scope with something better in the market to make the most out of this crossbow's tech and inherent accuracy!
Practical Hunting Usage
In essence, what makes the Barnett Explorer XP 400 a reliable choice during hunts is its simplistic yet efficient nature. There really isn't much to consider when both setting up and actually shooting bolts from the crossbow. The ease of use allows hunters to focus on what truly matters, which is to stalk and actually get shots in. Additionally, the option to customize is always open with this choice. This makes the Explorer XP 400 a nice consideration that will fit a hunter's unique style.
Barnett Explorer XP 400 Crossbow Accessory Check
These are the various accessories and equipment that come bundled with the crossbow:
- 2 pieces of 20" carbon arrows (half moon nock oriented)
- Multi-reticle scope (4 x 32 mm)
- Rope cocking device
- Lubricant
- Quiver (to be mounted in a sideway manner)
Miscellaneous Information on the Explorer XP 400 Crossbow
Here are some more details that would help you know more about this crossbow choice:
Does this have a crank kit feature?
No. But this crossbow has a crank access for potential installations. You can choose from official Barnett cranks or third-party cranks that are compatible with this crossbow. The option to add a crank kit falls on Barnett’s feature for hunters to customize the Explorer XP 400 as they see fit.
Is this crossbow's scope pre-sighted?
No. It is highly advisable to properly sight the scope during the assembly stage. As mentioned, sighting-in is fairly easy and may take just 10 minutes to get the right setting.
What nock styles does this crossbow use?
The Barnett Explorer XP 400 is compatible with arrows that use half moon nocks.
Why the Barnett Explorer XP 400 Crossbow is Recommended
Here are some amazing reasons on why you ought to get this crossbow:
Smooth Shooting Action
The TriggerTech enhancement found in this crossbow delivers amazing results. The zero creep and consistent shooting sensation will help you get more accurate shots.
Potential to Customize
As mentioned earlier, the Barnett Explorer XP 400 offers lots of customization options. A nice additional installation that hunters add to this crossbow would be a crank. Although the rope cocker that comes with this crossbow is easy to use, some shooters opt to have a crank installed for a more efficient process. The way you customize this crossbow is virtually endless!
Lightweight Cannon
The power this crossbow dishes out is outstanding. And this force is further emphasized with the lightweight construction of the Explorer XP 400!
The Bare Necessities Matter
The simple nature of this crossbow means only the basic nature of what’s needed in a hunt is offered. And this is a good thing - the most important aspects are emphasized, highlighting the true nature of what’s needed in a crossbow. This also means that beginners stand to learn a lot with this choice. Veteran shooters can also make the most out of the Explorer XP 400, with the option to further customize it to their liking.
Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Explorer XP 400 Crossbow
On the other hand, it would be great to know these potential issues as well before getting this crossbow:
Scope is Not that Great
It may be easy to sight in, but the stock scope that comes bundled with the Explorer XP 400 seems to be an inferior part. For all the nice benefits and enhancements that the crossbow has to offer, you may want to get a scope that will match these factors. It is strongly recommended to get a better scope to pair with this crossbow!
No String Dampeners
Although fairly quiet and does not produce that much vibration, some string dampeners may help shooters get that much needed edge for better shots. Hunters can of course install their own dampeners on the Explorer XP 400 for a better shooting experience. Still, it would have helped if Barnett actually decided to have these key components pre-installed to prevent any hassle!
Only 2 Arrows
The Barnett Explorer XP 400 is a joy to handle and shoot. It's a minor issue, but most would have wished that there were more arrows included in this crossbow package.
Read More
Here are more interesting resources to check out connected to the Barnett Explorer XP 400:
- Get the right information you need for this crossbow. Here is Barnett's official manual for their crossbow offerings.
- John Dewey Outdoors has a nice overview on this amazing crossbow.
- This good Crossbow Nation forum thread may convince you to get the Explorer XP 400!