Barnett TS380 Review - if only it didn't have this awkward issue!

Ease of Assembly

Assembly of the Barnett TS380 is relatively easy, given the manual that comes with it. However, the black and white installation guide pictures may be confusing for novice hunters. Also, the manual is a universal guide - meaning, you get multiple sets of instructions of the different Barnett crossbows released. Additionally, some information found on the manual may be misleading. The Barnett TS380 hasn’t been clearly defined under what crossbow classification it belongs to.

Of course, this is a subjective observation. Anyone can work around with the instructions to set the Barnett TS380 up. As we've mentioned, however, beginners may struggle with the guide. Worse, damage that may occur during the assembly part may not be covered by insurance at all!

Quivers are usually complicated to install. But the Barnett TS380 simplifies this process by simply setting up this part on the picatinny rail itself. All it takes is one bolt to set it in. Also, the quiver can be either installed on the right or left side, depending on a shooter's preference. The one bolt construction is what makes the difference in making assembly easy - of course, beginners need to realize that, for them to avoid any mishaps!

Safety Features

The Barnett TS380 crossbow has a nice set of integrated safety features. The company's unique TriggerTech system incorporates an anti-dry fire tech. This gives you the peace of mind that the crossbow won't release any shots on its own.

On the stock itself, several finger reminders will keep your hand safe from harm's way. It's a really subtle enhancement, but well appreciated. Not all crossbows have these bearings on it, and it does help to let you know that your fingers are from the crossbow string's path. Using the same idea from the bearings, nock sensors have been installed, keeping you safe from harm. A safety release also comes with the Barnett TS380 crossbow - engaged as another extra layer of safety whenever you're shooting.

Barnett TS380 Firepower Check

This crossbow does pack a punch. The recommended 380 grain arrows work well in dishing out speed and damage while out in the woods. Additionally, for its size, the surprising power generated on each shot does seem overkill when you're hunting tough prey.

Barnett TS380 Crossbow Ballistic Data

It's a relatively new crossbow out in the market. However, with an amazing kinetic energy output of 121.82 ft-lbs., hunters will surely not complain with the additional force to bring down bigger game in the wild.

Let us break down the kinetic energy generated based on the information from the universal Barnett manual (crossbow speed if of the Barnett T380 specification of 380 fps):

This just shows how much kinetic energy buffer is released - it's more than enough!

Construction and Durability

Aside from the tough yet light construction, the Barnett TS380 is packed with tons of archery enhancements. A single bolt assembly, the Barnett TS380 comes with the standard (and efficient) manufacturer quality and testing control in checking for possible defects before release.

In terms of material, this crossbow's flight track is made out of CNC machined aluminum. This allows both for a tighter or more secured way to hold your arrows, without interfering on actual flight. The crossbow’s trigger is made out of metal injection mold, allowing you to withstand your own strength when you’re firing it. The riser is made out of magnesium, for a solid core that will last for a very long time!

It’s a subtle inclusion, but the camo finish of the Barnett TS380 truly brings out the tactical look it is aiming for. But on an even more functional appeal, the rubberized material that is used on key locations all over the crossbow construction offers great benefits. Not only will this material give shooters a good grip on the Barnett TS380 - it’ll be a good layer of protection, especially when hunting during cold conditions. Also, the rubberized material gives one additional benefit that’ll improve overall durability: confidence. A hunter who’s more confident gets to treat gear in a safer and more practical manner.

Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks

Here's where most of the Barnett TS380's features work their wonders. The mentioned CNC machined aluminum flight track, which safely secures your arrows, also helps prevent potential friction that may slow down the crossbow bolt's speed. Also, to help get those arrows in and for proper flight, the company also integrated the use of the innovative Soft-Loks Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer - great for getting those consistent and accurate shots.

The string dampeners found on the track of the crossbow and a special foot stirrup that reduces significant vibration will help you get those quiet and highly accurate shots. All in all, accuracy (and speed) is prioritized highly in the Barnett TS380 crossbow.

Barnett TS380 Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information

The buttstock is easy to adjust with a lever.

Here are several other features that bring out the best in this crossbow. Although the Barnett TS380 does come with its own rope cocking device, this crossbow is versatile enough to be compatible with various crank cocking devices in the market. All you'll need is to have a special adapter for this, then you're good to go!

As seen on other crossbows, the need of a cocking device can very well be an essential. Otherwise, you'll be facing a whole lot of pain and wasted time just to cock your crossbow right!

And when it comes to aiming, the Barnett TS380's special TriggerTech system uses a special frictionless release technology. This tech uses a special free-floating roller, which is located right between the actual trigger and the crossbow sear. This simple yet very important crossbow enhancement allows friction-less shots to happen.

Another well designed part is the Barnett TS380's adjustable buttstock. Coupled with the crossbow's pass-through foregrip, you can set up your crossbow's length for a comfy grip when aiming towards your target.

The adjustable buttstock helps every shooter - simply extending or making the length shorter will conform to a shooter's actual build. Whether it’s a pro or amateur hunter; even young or old, the Barnett TS380 can be adjusted to the right size for the occasion.

The feel of the crossbow matters. The inclusion of rubber gripping located on key spots makes holding and even aiming the crossbow a delight to the senses - helping one be more confident in making those shots! Additionally, the rubber surface also introduces a great factor: holding this crossbow in colder circumstances (such as hunting during the winter) will make hunting a safer and more convenient experience.

The foot stirrup is sized perfectly to make the cocking process a more comfortable and efficient motion. Unlike other models, Barnett makes sure that this part is sized right to work - no more having to worry of having your hunting boots snagged just because you’re dealing with a small foot stirrup!

Practical Hunting Usage

The trigger has zero-creep TriggerTech mechanics inside.

The TriggerTech system can very well be the sole reason why the Barnett TS380 is a crossbow you can rely on out in the wild. The act of shooting may be quick - but integrating several features for this seconds-old act is the key in making a shot count.

Also, the many crossbow enhancements prioritizing both noise and vibration reduction are all important. No one wants to face any threat in the wilderness. And the Barnett TS380 surely has the tools to improve a shooter’s skill, talent, and gear!

What's the mentioned confusion in the Barnett TS380 manual all about?

To be more specific, there is no clear distinction on what the Barnett TS380 is. Based on the specs and design (and previous releases), the Barnett TS380 should be classified as a solid X bow type.

Why is this important? Solid X bow types have strong and larger limbs than other crossbow types. These limbs allow for an easier motion when it comes to the cocking process. This is why a rope cocking device has been included in the pack - ideally, a rope cocker should be more than enough to cock the crossbow.

Of course, the option to use a crank device is still available (it's actually one of the many benefits in choosing the Barnett TS380). However, it's confusing and in the worse case scenario, may result in messy and damaging situations when using the Barnett TS380.

Does this crossbow come with warranty?

You do have to make sure that registration on the crossbow has been done within 10 days of the actual purchases. Modifications done on the crossbow will void the warranty coverage. Barnett crossbow coverage is limited.

Why is the TriggerTech system considered as a good choice?

This trigger has several subtle yet very efficient features that help in the actual shooting process. The frictionless release technology is the best feature, which does offer a crisp (and satisfying) break whenever you pull on the trigger. This also results in zero creep, giving you the accuracy you need during hunts.

Additionally, TriggerTech takes safety as a high priority. The system does not rely on polishing, lubricating, or coating to enhance its performance. This means you do not need to constantly fiddle or maintain this system - it works excellently on its own. Also, it is built tough. Since it doesn't deal with friction, there are lesser instances of it being contaminated or damaged out in the wild.