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

Scott Olmsted
Scott Olmsted

Says You: Trail Camera Overkill?

Editor-in-Chief Scott Olmsted's monthly response column to questions posed by our members. This week, we're discussing mountain lions, poaching and trail camera use.

New for 2026: Trijicon SRO Green Dot

Trijicon has announced a 2.5 MOA, Green Dot version of the SRO reflex sight. The new model will be available in Black and Coyote Brown anodized finishes.

More Than $6.6 Million in Tribal Wildlife Grants to Advance Conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is awarding more than $6.6 million to federally recognized Native American and Alaska Native tribes to benefit fish and wildlife resources and their habitats. This year’s funding will support 35 tribes for conservation projects across 15 states, benefiting a wide range of wildlife and habitat, including species of cultural or traditional importance to Indigenous communities.

Hardware Review: TriStar KR.22

TriStar is noted for shotguns, but Bryce Towsley recently received a test gun from them that’s much different. Check out his review on the TriStar KR.22.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras' Security Tree Strap

Browning Trail Cameras has released a Security Tree Strap, a durable and dependable mounting solution to keep trail cameras in place in nearly any environment.

Proof Research Introduces PXT Rifle Barrel Technology

Proof Research has launched Proof Exponential Twist (PXT), an advancement in rifling that promises to improve durability, accuracy and shootability. Further, Proof has backed this new technology with extensive military testing and research. Engineered to meet the demands of modern high-pressure ammunition, PXT is billed as delivering longer barrel life, improved consistency and enhanced performance.  

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.