Centerpoint Mercenary 390 crossbow review - if only this one step was made easier!

Ease of Assembly

Assembly of the Centerpoint Mercenary 390 is easy for both beginner and pro shooters alike. This mainly has got to do with the helpful manual that comes packed with the crossbow. The manual comes with easy to understand instructions. If anything, a really minor issue would be the pictures found on the manual - most are dark or have low resolution!

It's a subjective observation since the step by step instructions can be clearly followed. It's just that visual shooters would really want something to see for them to properly set up their gear.

Safety Features

The Mercenary 390 comes with well thought-out safety features.

The Centerpoint Mercenary 390 comes with standard (and of course, highly important) safety features such as automatic safety engagement and anti dry fire feature.

These features do allow not only additional layers of security and safety - you are also assured that you will have full control of the crossbow whenever it is fired. Additionally, these safety techs will also give you the peace of mind that an arrow is safely locked and loaded before actually being fired. It is these simple yet significant safety values that makes the Mercenary 390 a crossbow you can rely on out in the field.

The Centerpoint Mercenary 390 also comes with comfort grips and oversized finger guards. Again, these are minor or subtle enhancements - but do play a big part when it comes to overall archer safety (the proper grip, after all, may spell the difference between an accurate shot or a fatal situation when out hunting in the wild).

Centerpoint Mercenary 390 Firepower Check

Speed and power are both emphasized greatly with the Centerpoint Mercenary 390. It delivers what it advertises: 390 fps should be more than enough speed to take down small to medium game ethically. Additionally, the power this crossbow dishes out is quite impressive for its size.

Centerpoint Mercenary 390 Ballistic Data

This crossbow has a kinetic energy output of 135 ft-lbs. Combine this with the 390 fps and it results in an impressive power output that may even take down bigger game. To better understand the impact kinetic energy has for this crossbow, let us try and break down the figures below (based on the 400 grain arrow that comes packed with the Mercenary 390:

As seen with the figures above, even at a distance of 70 yards, this crossbow still gives out a respectable amount of 114 ft-lbs. Of course, weather elements still need to be considered when shooting - but the stats shown prove that this crossbow has the power you'd need for a more secured hunting experience.

Construction and Durability

The adjustable buttstock helps a lot with the ergonomics.

So far, the Centerpoint Mercenary 390 seems to be a basic crossbow with some extra firepower added onto it. But take a closer look on this crossbow's construction and you're bound to find something really nice.

This is because the manufacturer did focus on improving various archery technology in this crossbow. It's cam system, made out of CNC-machined aluminum, offers a stable and flexible build perfect for shooting.

In terms of the stock and overall design, the Mercenary 390 does have a streamlined and compact look. This is just perfect when you plan to go through hostile ground - built to withstand all sorts of elements in the wild, the small construction allows you to have a good grip on the crossbow itself.

Considering that the construction does focus on versatility, an adjustable MIL-SPEC AR-style rear stock allows you to get the right and most comfortable setting to suit your shooting style. Overall, a really impressive crossbow that focuses on the really small details (actually, there are even more that will be mentioned below!).

Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks

Accuracy is really excellent in this crossbow. For starters, this crossbow has proper weight balance which allows a more comfortable aiming position. The single bolt riser attachment found on the crossbow reduces any weight found on the riser and the rail. This configuration also allows for an easier and smoother access to your crossbow bolts.

Essentially, this is a really accurate and fast crossbow! The additional tech integrated into the crossbow did make a big difference in boosting its accuracy (surprisingly so, more tech will even be discussed below).

Centerpoint Mercenary 390 Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information

This is where most of the other archery tech innovations were integrated! The Centerpoint Mercenary 390 does not only have powerful and fast shoots - aiming assures you that shooting accuracy is excellent and consistent as well.

The Centerpoint Mercenary 390 comes with a rope cocker to help you cock the rather heavy pull on this crossbow. If there's another issue that needs to be addressed, then this would be it - the crossbow seems to have a heavier draw weight than what's necessary. Still, cocking is relatively easy with the right tools on this crossbow (additionally, the Mercenary 390 is compatible with crossbow cranking devices - a nice feature considering the many cranking tools available in the market today).

For better aiming, the Mercenary 390 also has an adjustable cheekpiece feature. This simple feature allows you to get a stable position for the proper eye alignment when aiming. And that small adjustment may spell the difference in getting the pinpoint accuracy you'd need during hunts.

Also, the Centerpoint Mercenary 390 provides another really important enhancement to help in aiming: silence. Several tech innovations have been used to help reduce both vibration and noise in this crossbow. The parallel quiver attachment, the unique Whisper Silencing System (composed of string silencers and limb dampeners), and rail mounted string stops all help you get into that stealth mode when hunting!

Practical Hunting Usage

The Centerpoint Mercenary 390 is a solid package when you need a crossbow you can rely on when hunting. Given the fast and powerful shots, you'll confidently take down all sorts of game you’ll encounter in the wild. The compact and lightweight (yet tough) design and construction works perfectly in the rugged outdoors. But best of all, the extra emphasis on both accuracy and silent shots proves that the manufacturer knows exactly what all hunters need. This is truly a crossbow that makes a difference in hunting.

Does the Centerpoint Mercenary 390 come with warranty?

Yes! This crossbow comes with a 5-year limited warranty.

I noticed that the manufacturer included a rail lube with this crossbow. Is there a recommended span of usage for this lube?

A rail lube is basically used to reduce wear and fraying. According to the manufacturer, application of a small amount of this lube should be done every 12-15 shots. To avoid wax buildup in the trigger mechanism, please make sure not to wax that portion of the crossbow string.

Why wasn't the scope included in the aiming or accuracy points of this article?

Unfortunately, there are some instances that this scope is faulty. We're actually considering this a disadvantage with this crossbow - consider replacing this accessory with something better in the market instead.