Best Budget xbow.

[Moog5050]

I want to buy one for use in a blind but that would likely be the only time I use it.  So suggestions for a $500 or less xbow appreciated.  Was looking at center point and killer instinct.   Lots of options.  Not too worried about a crank.   

[Swamp_bucks]

Centerpoint 370 @grampy put me onto this one and it works great, inexpensive. Just needs better scope than what it comes with but still not bad. 

[Moog5050]

19 minutes ago, Swamp_bucks said:

Centerpoint 370 @grampy put me onto this one and it works great, inexpensive. Just needs better scope than what it comes with but still not bad. 

Does the scope not hold 0.  I was looking at the Centerpoint amp 425.   

Edited January 7 by Moog5050

[Swamp_bucks]

50 minutes ago, Moog5050 said:

Does the scope not hold 0.  I was looking at the Centerpoint amp 425.   

it does just not very clear.  I’m also used to vortex scopes that are nice and clear.  I took a doe with it this year without any issues with the scope or xbow. It’s just a low end scope.

[grampy]

55 minutes ago, Moog5050 said:

Does the scope not hold 0.  I was looking at the Centerpoint amp 425.   

The Centerpoint crossbows are really good for the money! In fact my opinion is there is no better crossbow for the money. Yes, the scope that comes with it is not the clearest. But it will hold zero well enough. I updated mine with a Nikon Bolt scope. There are a number of options to upgrade the scope, but for limited use, you don't really need to.

I am looking to possibly upgrade from my Sniper 370, to the Amp 425. I really see no reason to spend 100's more on a crossbow, when the CenterPoints work just fine, and are very reliable too.

[Robhuntandfish]

following as i am possibly in the market as well and this is about where i am looking for price. 

I'm eyeing wicked ridge by Tenpoint as of right now.  Definitely nothing by Barnett 

[mowin]

My CP scope holds zero, but as others said, not very clear or good during the first or last half hr of light.  

My CP splinter a limb on it's second year.  Actually splintered while I was on stand, and I shot a 8pt with it, lol.  Got a new set, but haven't had them installed.  Cut the splinter off, sanded it smooth and put a dab of glue on it.  Use it as a backup bow. 

[2BuckBizCT]

People forget I bought an xbow in 2011 to extend my hunting season out in PA, then finally NY allowed it. I retired mine in 2019 and went to compound. I guess I was a pioneer?

I'm not versed well on the new xbows, but when I did the research in 2011 I wanted a recurve (no cams) and went with excalibur vortex (2oolb.). The two bucks I shot with it died instantly. Combined they moved maybe 10 yards. The scope had a knob to turn the reticles red light for low light conditions. My Dad still uses his yearly (Ibex, 175lbs.)

Edited January 7 by 2BuckBizCT

[Rob-c]

My wicked ridge Blackhawk has been great. Not made anymore,  but  the rampage xs is NY legal looks good  with the adjustable  stock . 

Edited January 7 by Rob-c

[mlamm24]

I also recommend the CP 370.

I believe I still have the stock scope on it and have it dialed in at 45 yards. The last two years my kill shots have been under 40 yards. The one thing that was recommended on the old site years ago was to switch to carbon express bolts. They shoot like darts out of my CP tiped with 125 muzzy trocars. 

[Robhuntandfish]

My buddy has a center point and I never cared for it because it's just a heavy piece.  Arent they like 8-9 lbs?  

My parker is 6lbs.  

[mowin]

34 minutes ago, Robhuntandfish said:

My buddy has a center point and I never cared for it because it's just a heavy piece.  Arent they like 8-9 lbs?  

My parker is 6lbs.  

Mine is definitely front heavy.  It's also long, even with the stock in the shortest position.  

[Buckmaster7600]

There’s a lot going on with a crossbow and it’s all happening too close to my face for me to cheap out/trust 3rd world Q/C. I’ll go against the grain and advise you to look around for a used name brand model, luckily Xbows don’t hold their value very well. I’ve probably owned 15 different ones since 2006 and have settled on my mission that’s from 2018. Budget a new string and cable and you’ll have a great setup for the money.

[Wolc123]

2 hours ago, Robhuntandfish said:

My buddy has a center point and I never cared for it because it's just a heavy piece.  Arent they like 8-9 lbs?  

My parker is 6lbs.  

I definitely prefer my Barnett Recruit, which handles almost as easily offhand as my Ruger 10/22 carbine over my CP Sniper 370, for exactly that reason.  
 

[Robhuntandfish]

28 minutes ago, Wolc123 said:

I definitely prefer my Barnett Recruit, which handles almost as easily offhand as my Ruger 10/22 carbine over my CP Sniper 370, for exactly that reason.  
 

I would never buy a Barnett cause I can't stand the Busbices.