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

LEDEW H2026 08 Membershunt George Perryman Five Generations Strong
LEDEW H2026 08 Membershunt George Perryman Five Generations Strong

The Fox Model B That Keeps on Hunting

Do you have a favorite old firearm that just won't quit? Then this story, from George Perryman of Lexington, N.C., is for you.

Hardware Review: Marlin Trapper Model 1894 10mm Auto

Whenever a gunmaker introduces a new handgun or a carbine chambered in a pistol round, one of the social media comments to immediately follow will be: “Are you going to make it in 10mm?” Marlin Firearms has answered this question with a resounding "Yes!"

Top 5 Budget Hunting Riflescopes

There are few joys as great as a shooting with a high-end, premium optic, with its crystal-clear image from premium lenses. There are also the realities of a modest hunting budget, and staying within your financial means makes for a happier home. Curious about the latter? Check out this comprehensive list.

Range Review: DIY Howa Superlite 6.5 Creedmoor

Working with Brownells and Stocky's you can assemble this lightweight bolt gun just the way you want it!

Federal is the Official Ammunition of the Minnesota Wild

Federal Ammunition has announced it will be the official ammunition of the Minnesota Wild for the 2026-27 season. This agreement with the hometown NHL franchise is historic as it is the first partnership with a major league professional sports team in Federal's 104-year history.

#SundayGunday: CVA Cascade Rimfire

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Cascade Rimfire, from CVA, a lightweight rimfire absolutely perfect for tackling squirrel season. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the Cascade Rimfire sports an 18-inch barrel that hits the perfect sweet spot between easy accuracy and maneuverability. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.