2016 Crossbow of the Year: Barnett Raptor FX

by
posted on May 5, 2016
** 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. **
raptor_gba_crossbow.jpg

“Best in class” just about says it all. It announces to the world that you stand head and shoulders above your peers. To those companies whose products are featured herein, we say, “Welcome to the ‘best’ class.”

Ammo of the Year: Winchester Shot-Lok
Barnett’s recurve-style Commando crossbow, introduced more than 50 years ago and featured in several action flicks, remains the object of supreme stealth many people associate with the term crossbow. Nonetheless, the composite quad limbs and cam system of the compact Raptor FX make the Commando seem like a Cub Scout. The pass-through fore-grip integral to the synthetic stock provides a solid—and safe—place to anchor your support hand, while the adjustable buttpad allows length of pull to extend from 13.5-14.5 inches. Recesses in the rear of the buttstock accept Barnett’s Crank Cocking Device (sold separately), which reduces the tension required to cock the Raptor FX to just 17 pounds. Speed is 330 fps—the fastest of all crossbows we tested last year. The whole $400 package includes a 4X-32mm scope, scope rings, three carbon arrows with 100-grain field points, a quiver and mount and a cocking rope.

Editor's Note: Winning products must be tested by the editors, meet or exceed expectations on innovation, and provide hunters and shooters with value for their money. NRA Publications will present the annual Golden Bullseye Awards at an invitation-only breakfast during the 2016 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Louisville, Ky., May 20-22.

Latest

Speedgoat 2 On Goose
Speedgoat 2 On Goose

Reviewed: Montana Knife Company Speedgoat 2.0

There are thousands of knives out there to choose from. Out of the dozens of knives I personally own, this one from Montana Knife Company clearly stands out as a hunter’s top-tier tool.

Hardware Review: Henry SPD HUSH

If you’re a lever action traditionalist, the Henry Special Product Division (SPD) HUSH may befuddle you. Not only does the SPD HUSH eschew traditional features, but it’s also purpose built for something that ol’ Benjamin Tyler Henry could never have imagined. HUSH is short for Henry’s Ultimate Suppressor Host.

Speer Announces New Products That Will Be Showcased at SHOT Show 2026

Speer Ammunition has announced several new loads for 2026, which include one new addition of Lawman TMJ and two new additions of Speer Impact component bullets for reloaders.

New for 2026: Ruger Red Label III

Ruger has announced the return of one of America's most iconic over/under shotguns with the Red Label III. First launched in 1977, the original Ruger Red Label earned a reputation for rugged reliability, classic lines, and American-made quality. Decades later, the Red Label III strives to continue that legacy.

New for 2026: Armageddon Gear Gun Slinger Chest Rig

The Gun Slinger Chest Rig, is now offered alongside the original Big Game Chest Rig for hunters who want sidearm carry built in from the start.

#SundayGunday: Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide HD Gen 2

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the SX-4 Pro Guide HD Gen 2, the latest iteration of hunter-focused spotting scope from Leupold. Coming in both straight and angled configurations, and the buyer’s choice of 20-60x85mm or 15-45x65mm zoom ratio’s the SX-4 Pro Guide HD Gen 2 has a configuration for any preference and set of circumstances.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.