Barnett vs Killer Instinct Crossbows

The Best Crossbow Brands

Do you love shooting and hunting? But not sure which crossbow is best suited for you?

If you know crossbows, you might know which brand is the better manufacturer, but to choose which model to go for can be daunting. Since there are many available in the hunting industry.

Manufacturers such as Killer Instinct Crossbows and Barnett Crossbows produce many top crossbow for both beginners and professionals at great price range. In fact, we think both brands have best crossbow models for under $500  and under $1000.

This hunting season both brands brought some awesome models. Some even made it to the list of 11 Best Crossbows for 2024. We will discuss them as well. Lets dive in. 

Who makes Killer Instinct Crossbows?

Killer Instinct is a relatively small and new company compared to a lot of crossbow manufacturers. Found in 2013 they do have an experienced engineers and minds thinking behind their crossbows. It didn’t take long for hunters to appreciate what Killer Instinct brand was doing. They manufacturing a variety on the budget crossbows. Assembled in USA with mostly imported parts, but appreciated by hunters for they price point and quality. 

Where Barnett Crossbows made?

Today Barnett Crossbows is owned by Plano Synergy Holdings, which also owns some other favorite and well knows hunting brands like Bloodsport Archery, Halo Optics, Tenzing

Believe it or not, but it all started back in around 1962 when Bernard Barnett began dabble  around with crossbows in his shed in, England. Long story short and today Barnett well respected brand in USA, responsible for such a innovations in hunting field as the break action cocker, and anti-dry fire device and the crank cocking device. They definitely been around and earned respect of the hunters people who loves the sport. 

In this article, we'll provide you with information about how you can identify which crossbow is best suited for you in terms of accuracy, size, price, and other essential factors. 

Barnett vs Killer Instinct Crossbows

Comparison between Barnett crossbows and Killer Instinct crossbow is difficult. Since both of them are magnificent with their specifications. However, there are some distinctive points among them.

With so much to talk about the size and accuracy of the crossbows, other factors also contribute to choosing the best crossbow for you, such as its price, safety measures, durability, preciseness, and so on.

Scope and Accuracy

The reason behind the popularity of Barnett crossbows among hunters is their accuracy and robust design. When we talk about Barnett crossbows, we talk accurate, precise, outstanding finish and great quality.

Take an example of Barnett TS380 Crossbow with a crank cocking mechanism. It has a power stroke of 12.625 inches and can shoot with a speed of 380 Frames Per Second. It comes with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope already sighted for at least 20 yards and fact that the stock is adjustable makes life easier for a bigger hunters. 

With a string restraining device and unique foot stirrup, the overall vibrational effect in Barnett Crossbow is reduced, which benefits the quiet shooting at the same target multiple times with the same accuracy. It is fantastic crossbow for less than $600. 

On the contrary, the Killer Instinct crossbows are famous due to their accurate details. They manufacture the fastest and most accurate crossbows with great power.

Many hunters have successfully tried their hands onKiller Instinct Ripper 425. It has a draw weight of 200 lbs. and a significant power stroke of 15 inches. You almost never miss a target with their such accurate manufacturing qualities.

With breakneck speed and accuracy, this crossbow can hit a target with 390 grains bolts with a velocity of 425 fps. Ultimately, it leaves behind a deep penetration with an impressive kinetic energy of 156 foot-lbs.

Comes with illuminated scope 1 and has an adjustable 5-position buttstock and forearm grip for custom comfort and optional use with a compact DSC crank (sold separately) crossbow for less $500 that's a winner. 

Size and Weight

 For excellent and errorless shooting, it is necessary to analyze and know the size and weight of your crossbow before using it.

Since not every size is suitable for everyone, you must consider which will enhance your shooting capabilities. The greater the size of the crossbow, the higher will be the stability of the crossbow. However, target shooters prefer using stands for distances.

Both Barnett and Killer Instinct have bows in different sizes. Barnett manufacturers crossbows with sizes that are easy to operate and handle. You can rely on these crossbows if you're searching for a compact size and suitable weight.

Moreover, Barnett proudly produces some finest compact crossbows in the hunting industry. TheBarnett Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow is one of those. It is a compound crossbow with 6.4 pounds weight and a total length of 32.88 inches (from one end to another), and works efficiently for small and bigger game hunting. We amazed how fast and smooth this crossbow shoots.

There is absolutely no trigger creep which we found in other crossbows in this price range. This is the best crossbow under $500 for sure, I choose this bow over again 10 times vs more expensive sets ups.

On the other side Killer Instinct has wide range of crossbows with various sizes and weight to facilitate young as well as older hunters. Their crossbows are designed to be more narrow and compact to make the hunting adventure to the fullest.

TheKiller Instinct Swat XP Crossbow is a narrow and high-performance crossbow. With 7.2 pounds in weight and a power stroke of 16.250 inches, they can dig deep in any place shoot your arrow. It is more expensive, it is actually nearly double in price.

It goes for $949 at our store with $50 off at the moment. You are getting an absolute machine for this price. Crossbow under $1000 with a 5x resolution IR-E archery scope this is sweet deal if you ask me. 

The Best Crossbow Arrows

Like every crossbow brand, Barnett and Killer Instinct also pay special attention to manufacturing of high performance arrows along with crossbows.

Since arrows play a vital role in making a crossbow purchase a success, whether they are manufactured with carbon or aluminium, both benefit the efficiency of crossbows in different ways.

Killer Instinct offers a wide range of more prolonged and smaller arrows under the name of KillerTech. Commonly, they sold a pack of six carbon arrows with a length of your choice.

Best of all,

These arrows are specifically designed to give you high-speed, accurate shots and tremendous kinetic energy. The packet also contains X vanes and moon nocks for better targeting and field points.

Barnett arrows are good for beginners or kid shooters as they are lightweight and easy to break. However, many models of Barnett do contain arrows with greater length and weight with more penetration power. Like HyperFlite arrows. You can hit the speed of around 400fps with these. 

Which One is a Better Brand?

Barnett has fulfilled their commitment to producing high-performance products with the latest technology and designs for years. Their engineering skills have manufactured modern compound crossbows worldwide.

Price point is very attractive. You can have a crossbow for under $300, or under $1000 

Among many Barnett crossbows, all of them consist of the powerful and fastest striking technology. By utilizing Barnett crossbows, you can experience ingenuity, creative designs, and advanced mechanisms.

They are keen on delivering the best experience with high-speed, accuracy, precision, and power strokes to their users. Whether you're opting to shoot from a long distance or close targets, they have manufactured products for all kinds of shooting adventures.

On the other hand, the Killer Instinct crossbows feature a versatile range of crossbows with multiple targeting and shooting techniques. Whether related to enhancing the shooting experience or safety measures, they never fail to impress their users.

Killer instinct provide excellent accuracy and scoping with the installation of illuminated reticle glass. They are perfect for long-distance as well as nearer hunting explorations. You don't have to compromise on the quality. Just aim at the target and fire.

Best Price Range Buying a Crossbow

Before purchasing any crossbow, their prices own a significant place. You must analyze either the amount you're paying, is it worth it? Is the crossbow long-lasting to pay your money back? Or you'll end up wasting bucks on a useless and frustrating product. Killer instinct lethal 405 is  great example where performance meant the price. 

Fortunately, both Barnett crossbows and Killer Instinct have been cautious about their crossbow quality and costs. Typically, the Barnett crossbows are relatively higher in price, but the amount you'll spend on the product will totally pay you back in terms of high accuracy and precision.

When it comes to Barnett crossbows, you can't find a better crossbow at that price. When you shoot your first arrow, you are going to thank us.

While Barnett crossbows are heavier on the pocket, killer instinct  are lighter ones. If you are tight on budget, Killer Instinct Crossbow can be your go-to selection. You can confidently go smaller or bigger game animals. 

Most Durable Crossbow Brand

Despite all the qualities and incredible features, if the crossbow is not durable, then it's all in vain. Barnett and Killer Instinct are the renowned names of the crossbow industry. Any hunter who has a passion for hunting and shooting will know the worth of a single crossbow.

For Barnett crossbows, there's no calculated and defined time to measure the durability. However, if the crossbow is handled with care and constant maintenance procedures are applied, it can last for a few years.

Moreover, a Killer Instinct has maintained the quality of the crossbow with a modern, lightweight, compact design and durable quality. Mostly the Killer Instinct crossbow are reliable. It could depend on the exposure and shots per frame. Both are solid regarding durability and longevity. 

Crossbow Safety Precautions

Besides, hunting is a fun and relaxing activity. There are some safety precautions you need to take care of. Always follow the instructions mentioned in the manual to protect yourself and your loved ones from damage. If you're a young shooter, seek professional help to ensure all the safety measures before using the crossbow.

Lifetime warranty offered by Killer instinct. 

All the Barnett crossbows are installed with an automatic safety mechanism which is known as Anti-Dry Fire Mechanism. It prohibits the crossbow from firing if it is cocked but left unattended. Once the tool is turned off, only then you'll be able to shoot. Crank Cocking device is one of the major features as well, reducing tension while coking is it big deal and help.

Similarly, the Killer Instinct crossbow do have safety mechanisms to avoid accidents. Standard KillerTech Trigger is proven deadly performance by the brand. The all-metal design utilizes  reliable Trigger Technology and provides a respectably smooth and crisp pull. An Integrated Anti-Dry Fire prevents dry firing the crossbow when unloaded.

Barnett Crossbows 2023

Barnett for this hunting season is bringing the all new Hyper Raptor 410. Much anticipated crossbow from the brand will be released the fall of 2023. Right for the hunting season. 

The Hyper Raptor comes hunt-ready with a Premium 4x36 Illuminated Scope,3 Hyper Flite TM arrows, a matching Premium Side-Mount Quiver, and a Sled
Rope Cocking Device (RDC). The new Rope Hold Roller Ball Technology keeps the RCD rope in place as you attach hooks to string for more consistent cocking. We can not wait to try this model. 

With lightning speeds of 410fps the Hyper Raptor weights only 7.1lbs and with kinetic energy 142(ft lbs) this crossbow should be priced around $550. 

Killer Instinct Crossbows 2023 

Killer brand on the other hand introduced several models for 2023 and upgraded the old ones. with much powerful Scope. The new models are Killer Instinct Rapid 420, Diesel-X Eliteand Vital-X. That is great lineup for this hunting season. Also models Killer Instinct Fatal-Xand Boss 405 available with Omega 3 Scope. 

The Omega 3 Sight is more than just an optics machine, it’s also a rangefinder and HD video camera all-in-one! The Omega 3 scope includes a rechargeable battery which extends the use up to 12 hours. The rangefinder features continuous on-target ranging and an inclinometer for shooting at different angles. The Omega 3 scope  also offers a 2-button remote control which limits hand and body movement.

What we think

This comparison has provided you with articulated and precise knowledge about the Barnett crossbow vs Killer Instinct, so you don't have to make unnecessary  speculations about their qualities and features. We used both brands on the hunts and we can say that Barnett gave us more troubles in the process. Trigger got screwed up, cables not the best even though we had custom set. 

Both crossbow brands have some characteristic features that discriminate among them. However, you can use this information according to your desire and needs to boost your hunting experience. All we can say from our experience is that Barnett gave us more problems and it is subject to repairs. 

Fear of buying a wrong crossbow shouldn't be an issue when investing in either crossbow. 

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