Compact crossbows are increasingly popular among Canadian hunters for excellent reasons. Their reduced size makes them highly maneuverable in dense brush, comfortable in treestands or ground blinds, and easier to transport. Modern advancements mean you no longer sacrifice significant power or accuracy for a smaller footprint.
If you’re looking for the top compact crossbows for sale in Canada, here are some of the best options available, known for their narrow axle-to-axle measurements (cocked), shorter overall lengths, and integrated cocking systems that enhance usability in tight spaces.
Key Benefits of Compact Crossbows for Canadian Hunters
- Maneuverability in Dense Cover: Crucial for hunting in Canada’s thick forests and bush, allowing for easier movement and quicker target acquisition.
- Comfort in Blinds/Treestands: A compact design prevents limbs from hitting blind windows or stand rails, providing more comfortable and stable shooting positions.
- Easier Transport: Less bulky to carry in a case, in a truck, or strapped to a pack during long treks.
- Reduced Vibration and Noise: Often, a more compact design can contribute to less limb travel after the shot, potentially leading to reduced vibration and a quieter shot.
- Improved Balance: Many compact models are also well-balanced, making them easier to hold steady for extended periods.
Top Compact Crossbows for Sale in Canada
Here are some of the leading compact crossbows that excel in Canadian hunting conditions, available from reputable retailers like Crossbow Shop Canada:
1. Ravin Crossbows (e.g., Ravin R500, R470, R29X)
Ravin is synonymous with extreme compactness and speed. Their proprietary Helicoil technology allows for incredibly narrow designs, making them feel more like a rifle than a traditional crossbow.
- Why they’re great: Unmatched narrowness (e.g., R500 at 3.6 inches axle-to-axle cocked, R29X at 6 inches cocked), blazing speeds (up to 500 FPS+), and integrated silent cocking/de-cocking systems (VersaDraw) that are incredibly smooth and quiet. This combination is ideal for stealthy maneuvers in tight spaces.
- Models to look for: R500 series (R500, R500E, R500E Sniper), R29X, R470.
- Considerations: Premium price point.
2. TenPoint Crossbow Technologies (e.g., TenPoint TRX 26/28, Flatline 460)
TenPoint is a leader in crossbow innovation, offering several highly compact models with their cutting-edge ACUslide or ACUslide MAXX cocking and de-cocking systems.
- Why they’re great: Known for consistent accuracy and industry-leading integrated cocking systems that allow for easy, silent, and safe de-cocking. The new TRX 26 is exceptionally narrow at just 5.75 inches axle-to-axle cocked and offers 460 FPS. The Flatline 460 is another excellent compact option at 9 inches wide cocked, delivering 460 FPS.
- Models to look for: TRX 26, TX 28, Flatline 460, TenPoint Turbo X (also very compact for its price point).
- Considerations: Higher-end models come with a higher price tag.
3. Wicked Ridge Crossbows (e.g., Wicked Ridge Invader M1 De-Cock, Raider 400 De-Cock)
Wicked Ridge, a TenPoint brand, provides excellent compact options with integrated de-cocking capabilities at a more accessible price.
- Why they’re great: Offer fantastic value with features typically found in more expensive bows. The Invader M1 De-Cock is incredibly popular for its 9.5-inch cocked width, 32-inch length, and built-in ACUdraw De-Cock system. The Raider 400 De-Cock is another great option, offering 400 FPS and similar compact dimensions.
- Models to look for: Invader M1 De-Cock, Raider 400 De-Cock.
- Considerations: While compact, they are not as narrow as top-tier Ravins or TenPoints, but offer significant value.
4. Killer Instinct Crossbows (e.g., Killer Instinct Vital-X, LogiX 435 RDC)
Killer Instinct has gained popularity for delivering high-performance bows with competitive features at mid-range prices, often with very compact designs.
- Why they’re great: The Vital-X features an ultra-narrow 6.75 inches axle-to-axle cocked with its X-Cam system, making it extremely maneuverable. The LogiX 435 RDC offers 435 FPS and a very compact 6.75 inches cocked width, featuring a “Let-Down Triggerbox” for safe de-cocking.
- Models to look for: Vital-X 405/430, LogiX 435 RDC.
- Considerations: Ensure the specific model includes an integrated de-cocking system if that’s a priority.
5. Barnett Crossbows (e.g., Barnett Hyper Raptor BCX)
Barnett offers several powerful and compact options, often focusing on their HyperFlite micro-diameter arrows for increased penetration.
- Why they’re great: The Barnett Hyper Raptor BCX is a very compact option, measuring just over 7 inches axle-to-axle when cocked. It offers great speed (up to 425 FPS) and features like the TriggerTech trigger.
- Models to look for: Hyper Raptor BCX.
- Considerations: Some Barnett models may not include an integrated cocking device in the base package, though accessories are available.
Finding Your Compact Crossbow at Crossbow Shop Canada
When choosing among the top compact crossbows for sale in Canada, consider your primary hunting environment, your budget, and your preference for cocking/de-cocking systems. All the models listed above provide excellent performance and maneuverability suited for the diverse Canadian landscape.
At Crossbow Shop Canada, we offer a wide selection of these leading compact crossbows, along with the essential accessories like specialized bolts, broadheads, and cases. Our expert team can help you navigate the options, ensuring you find the perfect compact crossbow that meets your needs and enhances your hunting experience.
Visit Crossbow Shop Canada online or contact our specialists today to explore the best compact crossbows for your next adventure!
