What Is Pistol Crossbow?

Pistol Crossbow: definition

Also called: handheld crossbow, mini crossbow, repeating pistol crossbow

A pistol crossbow is a compact crossbow with a pistol-style grip, designed to be held in one or two hands. It has the same basic parts as a full-size crossbow: a rail, a string latch, limbs and a trigger. It is smaller, lighter and much lower in power.

Draw weights are far lower than on rifle-style crossbows. The reviewed pistol models on this site range from 55 to 130 lbs, with rated speeds from 165 to 300 FPS. Many are cocked by a lever, a break-action hinge or a cord tensioner, and some use a magazine to feed bolts.

They are generally sold for backyard target practice and plinking. Pistol crossbows are not a substitute for a hunting crossbow, and legal status varies by location, so verify with your local authority before buying or using one.

Reviewed pistol crossbows at a glance

Values come from the review files. Speed ratings use each manufacturer's own bolt.

Why Pistol Crossbow matters

The pistol label tells you what the crossbow is for. A tool with a short power stroke, modest draw weight and low kinetic energy suits close targets, not long-range work. Buyers who confuse the categories end up disappointed or unsafe.

It also changes the safety picture. A pistol crossbow is still a projectile launcher, and the same habits apply: safe direction, a proper backstop, fingers clear of the string and the rail, and adult supervision for younger users. The crossbow safety rules for beginners apply in full.

How to read it on a spec sheet

• Check the draw weight and what cocks it. A self-cocking mechanism can make a pistol easy to use repeatedly.
• Read the rated FPS and ask what bolt weight it assumes. Pistol bolts are light.
• Look for magazine capacity if you want a repeater, and read how reliably it feeds in reviews.
• Check sights. Many pistols ship with basic sights, and a mounted red dot can help at short range.
• Note the weight and balance, because a one-handed grip tires quickly.

Common mistakes

• Expecting hunting performance from a pistol crossbow.
• Ignoring local rules on ownership and use. Verify with your local authority.
• Using bolts other than those the manufacturer specifies.
• Dry firing. Pistol crossbows can be damaged by it just like larger ones. See dry fire.
• Skipping a backstop because the power is modest.

How to choose a pistol crossbow for backyard practice

1. Confirm the local rules for ownership and use with your local authority.
2. Decide whether you want single-shot or magazine-fed.
3. Compare draw weight and the cocking method for the person who will shoot it.
4. Check what bolts and sights are included.
5. Set up a safe backstop and read the manual before the first shot.

In my testing

For the SAS Prophecy 80 I chronographed speeds at or near the rated 165 FPS ceiling, and I judged it a low-power plinking platform. I also logged cocking effort and magazine feeding, where seating the bolt correctly improved reliability. How I test.

See it in our reviews

• SAS Prophecy 80 Crossbow — rated 3.8/5
• Steambow AR-6 Stinger II — rated 4.4/5
• Barnett Demun Accu Strike — rated 4.1/5
• Ballista Bat — rated 4.2/5