8 Best Crossbow Under 400 of 2026 For Deer Hunting

1

CenterPoint AT400 400 FPS 200 LBS Composite Crossbow - 14.5

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• ARS Mark

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  9.0
• Brand
  CenterPoint

Key specs3

Cocking System

Integrated silent crank

Cocked Width

14.5 inches

Limb Draw Weight

200 LBS

Pros & cons53

Pros

• Silent crank device provides smooth, low-effort drawing for high-poundage 200 lb limbs
• Slim 14.5-inch cocked profile offers excellent clearance inside narrow ground blinds
• Propels arrows at a listed 400 FPS for flatter downrange flight trajectories
• Includes a matched 4x32 optic directly in the package for sighting targets
• Durable composite construction provides dependable frame strength in outdoor conditions

Cons

• Heavy 200-pound limb draw weight makes manual rope cocking strenuous if the crank is detached
• Package excludes essential hunting items such as broadheads, a quiver, and a carry case
• Manufacturer listing omits arrow count and exact length, requiring extra confirmation

2

CenterPoint Hellion 400 HRK 400 FPS 185 LBS Hunt Ready

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• ARS Mark

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  8.5
• Brand
  CenterPoint

Key specs2

Bundled Hunting Gear

• Protective storage case
• Shoulder carry sling
• Hunting broadheads

Limb Draw Weight

185 LBS

Pros & cons43

Pros

• Complete Hunt Ready Kit includes broadheads, sling, and protective case right out of the box
• Lighter 185-pound draw weight demands less physical cocking effort than 200-pound models
• Delivers 400 FPS arrow velocity suitable for big game hunting setups
• Included shoulder sling allows comfortable hands-free transport to and from tree stands

Cons

• Package does not list an integrated crank cocking aid to assist with the 185 lb draw
• Scope specifications and reticle details are not detailed in the kit listing
• Buyers need to confirm exact broadhead grain weight matches the included arrow shafts

3

TenPoint Titan X De-Cock, Moss Green - 400 FPS -

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• ARS Mark

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  8.4
• Brand
  TenPoint

Key specs2

De-Cocking Mechanism

The ACUdraw De-Cock system allows shooters to safely uncock the crossbow mechanically, eliminating the need for a discharge arrow or target.

Included Scope

Pro-View 400 lighted scope

Pros & cons43

Pros

• ACUdraw De-Cock system provides safe mechanical uncocking without firing an arrow
• Pro-View 400 lighted scope improves reticle visibility during low-light dawn and dusk hours
• Generates 400 FPS arrow velocity for consistent downrange trajectory
• Moss Green finish offers effective camouflage concealment in heavy timber

Cons

• Represents an elevated investment level far above entry-tier budget models
• Package does not include a protective soft or hard case for equipment transport
• Listing omits included arrow count, quiver, and field point accessories

4

Wicked Ridge Invader 400 Crossbow with Acudraw, Pro View Scope

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• ARS Mark

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  8.3
• Brand
  Wicked Ridge

Key specs2

Cocking System

Acudraw integrated system

Optic Package

Pro View scope package calibrated to provide clear aiming references at 400 FPS arrow speeds.

Pros & cons33

Pros

• Built-in Acudraw cocking system substantially reduces the draw effort required to cock the bow
• Pro View scope package comes factory-paired for accurate reticle alignment at 400 FPS
• Produces 400 FPS velocity for high-speed arrow delivery in hunting scenarios

Cons

• Requires a higher financial commitment than strictly budget-focused packages
• Listing lacks details on included hunting arrows, quivers, or broadheads
• Cocked width and overall physical dimensions are unstated and must be checked

5

Xpedition Archery Xtraction 400X Crossbow, Premium 4X32 Scope, 400 FPS

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• ARS Mark

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  7.9
• Brand
  Xpedition Archery

Key specs2

Included Optic

Premium 4x32 scope

Velocity Rating

400 FPS

Pros & cons33

Pros

• Achieves 400 FPS arrow speed while remaining easily accessible for cost-conscious hunters
• Includes a premium 4x32 scope to ensure target magnification right out of the box
• Dedicated hunting platform provides full velocity without forcing expensive accessories

Cons

• Listing does not include a silent crank cocking aid, meaning manual rope cocking is required
• Lacks bundled accessories such as a carry sling, travel case, or broadheads
• Draw weight and cocked axle-to-axle width are omitted from manufacturer specifications

6

CenterPoint Hellion 400 FPS Compound Crossbow

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• ARS Mark

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  7.7
• Brand
  CenterPoint

Key specs2

Bow Platform

Compound crossbow

Accessory Inclusions

Base model requires checking whether cocking ropes, optics, or arrows are included or need to be acquired separately.

Pros & cons33

Pros

• Compound cam system delivers 400 FPS arrow speeds with reliable mechanical efficiency
• Provides a high-velocity compound hunting base while preserving essential budget limits
• Proven Hellion platform allows bowhunters to select custom aftermarket optics and arrows

Cons

• Base crossbow package omits broadheads, case, and sling found on the HRK version
• Specific cocking aid inclusions are not listed and must be confirmed prior to purchase
• Draw weight specification is not stated on this individual compound model listing

7

TenPoint Phantom De-Cock, Vektra - 400 FPS - Our Lightest

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• ARS Mark

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  7.5
• Brand
  TenPoint

Key specs2

De-Cocking Mechanism

Equipped with the ACUdraw De-Cock system for controlled, silent mechanical uncocking without needing a discharge arrow.

Limb Architecture

Lightweight reverse draw design

Pros & cons53

Pros

• Reverse draw configuration balances center of gravity closer to the shooter for steady aiming
• Lightest reverse draw design from the manufacturer reduces fatigue during long woodland carries
• ACUdraw De-Cock system provides silent, effortless mechanical uncocking from tree stands
• Pro-View 400 lighted scope offers high reticle clarity during low-light dawn and dusk hunts
• Vektra camo pattern delivers premium visual breakup in diverse hunting terrain

Cons

• Demands a premium investment level far beyond budget hunting thresholds
• Unique reverse limb layout may require specialized cases or press equipment for servicing
• Package does not list included arrows or hunting broadheads in the core specification

8

TenPoint Titan 400 Crossbow, Vektra - 400 FPS - Includes

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• ARS Mark

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  7.3
• Brand
  TenPoint

Key specs3

Included Scope

Pro-View 400 scope

Arrow Package

Three Pro Elite 400 carbon arrows

Cock Assist

ACUdraw Silent cocking device

Pros & cons43

Pros

• ACUdraw Silent cocking device eliminates noisy ratchet clicks during stand setup
• Includes three Pro Elite 400 carbon arrows matched to the bow for immediate target readiness
• Pro-View 400 scope provides multi-reticle aiming points calibrated for 400 FPS velocity
• Finished in Vektra camouflage to blend naturally into timber and brush cover

Cons

• Positions itself at an investment level significantly above strict budget limits
• Lacks de-cocking functionality found on higher-tier De-Cock models from the same line
• Excludes a protective soft travel case, shoulder sling, and hunting broadheads

Last update on 2026-10-22 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Can an affordable hunting crossbow safely generate 400 FPS arrow speed?

Yes, modern compound designs routinely reach 400 FPS arrow velocity while maintaining shooter safety. Crossbows like the CenterPoint AT400 and CenterPoint Hellion 400 achieve 400 FPS using heavy limb assemblies rated at 185 LBS or 200 LBS draw weight. To preserve equipment integrity and ensure clean arrow flight at these high velocities, confirm the exact arrow weight and nock styles specified in the manufacturer manual.

How can you safely handle heavy 185 LBS to 200 LBS draw weights in a treestand?

Integrated silent cranks and mechanical cocking devices drastically lower the effort required to pull high-poundage limbs. The CenterPoint AT400 incorporates a silent crank to cock its 200 LBS composite frame smoothly, while the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 utilizes an ACUdraw mechanism. Reviewing how to choose a crossbow that fits your strength helps determine whether an integrated crank device or a standard cocking aid matches your physical needs in tight hunting spots.

Do budget-conscious crossbow packages include dependable hunting scopes?

Most complete packages include dedicated optics matched to high arrow speeds. Models like the Xpedition Archery Xtraction 400X bundle a 4x32 scope, while TenPoint packages include a Pro-View 400 lighted scope. Check that the sight bracket mounts securely to the receiver rail, and verify zero with matched hunting points before heading out for the 2026 season.

What hidden gear should you account for when buying a base package?

Base packages often supply only the bare bow and basic carbon arrows, leaving you to acquire broadheads, a transport case, and a shoulder strap on your own. All-in-one bundles like the CenterPoint Hellion 400 HRK solve this gap by providing a complete hunt-ready kit equipped with a case, sling, and broadheads. Checking what comes in the box clarifies which essential crossbow accessories you still need to purchase before opening morning.

Is a 400 FPS crossbow compact enough for ground blind hunting?

Yes, several compound models feature narrow widths engineered specifically for tight hunting quarters. The CenterPoint AT400 measures 14.5 inches cocked, giving shooters sufficient clearance against blind fabric and window frames. Always verify both uncocked and cocked dimensions on the manufacturer specification sheet to ensure your limbs clear blind corners and shooting rails cleanly.

Can you de-cock high-poundage hunting crossbows without firing an arrow?

Only crossbows built with dedicated de-cocking systems allow you to release limb tension safely without firing a bolt. Crossbows such as the TenPoint Titan X De-Cock incorporate an ACUdraw De-Cock system that lets you wind down string pressure under full mechanical control. If your setup lacks an integrated de-cock feature, check the manufacturer instructions for safely discharging the bow into an approved field target after your hunt.