First Look: Axe Crossbows AX440

by
posted on August 27, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
mainax440__378521619619930.jpg
Axe Crossbows has debuted the AX440, a crossbow that departs massively from traditional design elements to improve both maneuverability and stability in the field. Sitting at 30.5-inches long and less than 12-inches axle-to-axle (cocked), the weight of the 440 is centered over the shooter’s hand by way of a balanced shoot-through stock-and-riser design and reverse-limb system. This configuration empowers the most efficient part of the split-limb system from just 15 inches of power stroke to launch bolts at 440 feet-per-second.

The proprietary Axe cam system is linked by cables that run parallel to each other, rather than from the top of one cam to the bottom of the other. This configuration is designed to eliminate cam-lean, limb torque and is enhanced by a cable brace that engages the riser to aid in the limitation of flex away from the center of the crossbow. When combined, these features center the string to move along the same plane throughout the entire power stroke. Unlike the one-piece aluminum rail concepts of conventional crossbow designs, the stock of the AX440 also eliminates the rail and utilizes dual-carbon guide rods along the entire length of the stock. When combined with the shoot-through riser and a tunable roller-rest on the bow’s front end, these features create a free-floating arrow system that minimizes contact, friction and torque along the arrow’s entire path. The AX440 also puts to work the proven small diameter 19.5-inch (.166 I.D.) bolt system. The interaction between the bolt’s aluminum capture nock system and the bow’s string create an audible sound to note full connection and preparation to interface with the trigger system.
AX440 Side Profile on White
When it comes to safety, the Axe system is driven by a proprietary, silent, integrated crank system, and fail-safe trigger assembly with Dry-Fire Inhibiting technology. Prior to cocking, the trigger housing travels along the carbon guide rods engaging a series of safety features along its path before meeting with the backwall. The bow cannot be over cocked and features a hard stop upon achievement of full draw. The crank system can be stopped or continued from any position along the guide rail, and de-cocked in this same capacity. Beyond safety, the AX440 two-stage sliding trigger assembly is crisp, clean and factory-set to 3.5-pounds with less than .020 of trigger creep.
AX440 Top View on White
Finally, the crossbow can be customized to each individual user. An adjustable cheek rest boasts 1.25-inches of height adjustment, stock stand offs adjust length of pull, and an adjustable stirrup nests into the bow’s front end. The Axe 440 crossbow kit includes the new Axe scope system, with a reticle optimized for the crossbow’s trajectory, a compact, side-mount quiver, and three proprietary .166 Axe micro-diameter bolts.
AX440 loaded on White
For more information, please visit feradyne.com/axecrossbowsMSRP: $2,099.99

Latest

Editedscrewworm Gains Toehold
Editedscrewworm Gains Toehold

Screwworm Gains Toehold the United States

The New World Screwworm (NWS), which devastated wildlife populations and the Lone Star State’s livestock industry 60 year ago, has established two beachheads in Texas.

Field Shooting Positions & Real-World Hunting

Delivering a lethal shot with a rifle or handgun when afield requires an understanding of the various shooting positions, supports and realistic accuracy. This article is meant to serve as a primer.

New for 2026: Texas Hunter Products 300-lb. Cottonseed Feeder

Texas Hunter Products has released its 300‑lb. Cottonseed Feeder, a purpose‑built solution for land managers who rely on whole cottonseed to support healthy deer and wildlife year‑round.

#SundayGunday: Stoeger M3000 Freedom Series Tactical

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Stoeger M3000 Freedom Series Tactical shotgun. Based around an Inertia Driven system, this three-inch chambered shotgun can run a gamut of shotshells, from lightweight target loads to heavy turkey magnums. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Proof That Hunters’ Votes Matter

Hunter's rights are expanding across the country. Curious how? Read on for some great policies being enacted nationwide.

2026 Father's Day Gift Roundup

Father's Day is around the corner. With the summer heating up, Dad will soon be on his share of scouting trips, fishing outings, range days, and all the other sorts of summer excursions fans of the great outdoors partake in. Read on, for some great gifts to get Dad this Father's Day, to make his summer that much more fun.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.