Ravin LR Long Range Crossbow Review 2026

The Ravin LR is built around one idea: precision at distance. It shares the R29X's 450 FPS and 180 ft-lb rating, then adds an adjustable stock, a dialing turret scope and a longer, steadier 34-inch frame. At $2,449–$2,499 it is aimed at shooters who practice at long range and want a crossbow set up for it out of the box. I score it 4.5 out of 5.

This review covers the full specifications, what makes the LR different from Ravin's compact models, how its scope and stock work, what published tests found, and how it compares with the R29X and TenPoint's fastest crossbows. Speed and energy figures are Ravin's ratings unless I say otherwise.

If you are weighing speed figures, our how fast does a crossbow bolt travel guide explains what FPS means in practice.

Ravin LR Specifications

These are Ravin's published specifications for the LR package.

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What We Like

Flagship Speed and Energy

At 450 FPS and 180 ft-lbs with a 400-grain arrow, the LR matches the Ravin R29X, and only a few crossbows I have reviewed go faster. More speed flattens the trajectory, which reduces how much range-estimation errors affect point of impact. See kinetic energy for what the energy figure means.

A Stock You Can Actually Fit

Most crossbows have a fixed stock, so you adapt to it. The LR's cheek comb and length of pull both adjust. That lets you get your eye in line with the scope the same way every shot, which is one of the biggest factors in long-range consistency.

A Turret Scope Instead of Stacked Lines

The 1-8x24 scope dials for distance instead of using a stack of aiming points. That keeps the reticle clean, with a single crosshair and centre dot, and changing magnification does not shift point of impact. Our windage and elevation and reticle glossary entries explain the difference.

Silent Cocking and De-Cocking

The integrated Silent Cocking system brings cocking effort down to about 12 lbs. A one-way bearing lets you stop at any point, and you can de-cock silently without firing an arrow, which is a real advantage at the end of a hunt with no shot taken.

Potential Drawbacks

• Length and weight. At 34 inches and 8.1 lbs, the LR is 5 inches longer and about 1.35 lbs heavier than the R29X. That adds stability, but it is a lot to carry and swing in a blind.
• Price. At $2,449–$2,499, it costs about the same as the R29X, which offers the same rated speed in a shorter, lighter frame.
• The 135-yard claim. Ravin lists an effective distance of up to 135 yards. That describes what the crossbow can do on a target range, not a sensible hunting distance. Most hunters should stay well inside their practiced range and local rules.
• Proprietary cocking. Like other Ravins, serious repairs to the cocking system mean dealer service.
• Only three arrows. You will need more for distance practice.

Key Features Explained

What Makes the LR Different From the R29X?

Both carry the same 450 FPS and 180 ft-lb rating. The R29X is built to be compact at 29 inches and 6.75 lbs. The LR adds 5 inches of length, an adjustable stock, a turret scope and a full-length Picatinny rail. In short, the R29X is a compact hunting crossbow, while the LR is a precision platform.

How Does the HeliCoil Cam System Work?

Ravin's HeliCoil cams rotate 340 degrees and wind the cables around themselves, keeping the cables clear of the centre of the crossbow. That allows a very narrow cocked width (6 inches here) and keeps the arrow traveling in a straight line. Ravin says this design is a key part of its accuracy. See cam for the basics.

How Does the Trac Trigger Work?

The Trac Trigger firing system rides along the rail with the string during cocking, so the string is captured right at the trigger. Ravin lists a 2.5 lb pull. In published testing it broke at about 1 lb 15 oz, lighter than the listed figure. Our trigger pull entry explains why a light, crisp break matters.

How Does the Turret Scope Work?

You zero at a base distance, then turn the elevation turret to the marked distance for each shot. This keeps one aiming point instead of choosing between reticle lines. The trade-off is that you must know the distance and adjust before shooting, so a rangefinder is close to essential. Our how to sight in a crossbow scope guide covers zeroing.

Why the Included Scope Level Matters

Canting the crossbow even slightly shifts point of impact sideways, and the error grows with distance. The included scope level helps you keep the crossbow upright on every shot.

Performance and Usability

How Fast Is the Ravin LR?

Ravin rates it at 450 FPS with a 400-grain arrow. Published chronograph tests put it at about 448 FPS with a 400-grain bolt, very close to the rating.

How Accurate Is It?

In published accuracy testing it put three arrows inside an inch at 75 yards. Another published test averaged about 1.6-inch groups at 50 yards. Accuracy at long range is impressive on a target range, but it does not make very long shots wise in the field.

How Loud Is It?

Published tests do not give a decibel figure. Ravin's Silent Cocking system makes cocking and de-cocking quiet. At the shot, 450 FPS crossbows tend to be loud, though heavier arrows usually absorb more energy and reduce noise. See noise and vibration.

How Does It Handle?

The extra length and weight make the LR noticeably steadier from a tripod, bipod or shooting bag. It is less suited to tight ground blinds and steep walks in, where the R29X's 29-inch frame is easier to manage. The reviewer noted it may not suit smaller-framed hunters, which matches what the specifications suggest.

How Hard Is It to Cock?

Easy. The integrated system brings effort down to about 12 lbs, and you can pause at any point. There is no rope or external crank to carry. Our how to cock a crossbow guide compares integrated systems with ropes and cranks.

What Is the Trigger Like?

Ravin lists a 2.5 lb pull, and published testing measured a break of about 1 lb 15 oz. A light, predictable break is a major advantage at distance.

Who Is the Ravin LR For?

• Experienced shooters who practice regularly at 60 yards and beyond.
• Open-country hunters who shoot from tripods or bipods rather than tight blinds.
• Shooters who want a fitted stock and adjustable cheek comb.
• Buyers who prefer dialing distance to choosing between reticle lines.

Who Should Skip the Ravin LR

• You hunt mostly from ground blinds or treestands, where a shorter crossbow handles better. Consider the Ravin R29X or R26X.
• You want the lightest crossbow you can carry.
• You rarely shoot past 40 yards, where the LR's long-range features add cost without much benefit.
• You want to spend under $2,000. See our best crossbows guide for other options.

Ravin LR vs Alternatives

Figures for the rivals come from their own reviews on this site.

Ravin LR vs Ravin R29X

Same rated speed and energy. The R29X is 5 inches shorter and 1.35 lbs lighter, which makes it the better hunting crossbow for most people. The LR adds the adjustable stock, turret scope and longer, steadier frame for precision shooting.

Ravin LR vs TenPoint TX Ultra 29.5

The TX Ultra 29.5 is faster on paper, shorter and similar in weight, and I measured tight 100-yard groups with it. The LR's advantages are the adjustable stock, the dialing turret scope and Ravin's silent integrated cocking.

Ravin LR vs Ravin R470 Stealth Gray

The R470 is rated faster, lighter and almost as long. Choose the LR if you specifically want the adjustable stock and turret-scope setup for precision work.

Read nextCompare flagship crossbowsSee how the fastest crossbows I have reviewed compare on speed, accuracy and handling.

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What Is in the Box and What Else You Need

Included in the Package

• Ravin LR crossbow, fully assembled
• 1-8x24 adjustable-turret scope and scope level
• Three .001 premium arrows with field points
• Three-arrow quiver and mounting bracket
• Removable draw handle
• Premium arrow rest
• Built-in sling mounts

What to Budget For

• More arrows. Use Ravin's specified arrows and nocks. Our how to choose crossbow bolts guide explains the specs.
• A rangefinder. A turret scope depends on knowing the exact distance.
• A target rated for 450 FPS arrows, plus a safe backstop.
• A tripod or shooting bag to get the most from the LR's stability.
• A soft or hard case for transport.
• Broadheads if you plan to hunt, where legal. See fixed-blade hunting broadheads.

Setup and First Session

1. Read the manual, especially the arrow specifications and de-cocking steps.
2. Adjust the length of pull and cheek comb so your eye lines up naturally with the scope.
3. Level the scope with the included scope level.
4. Zero at 20 yards, then confirm at 30 and 50 yards.
5. Record the turret settings for each distance you plan to shoot.
6. Practice at distance from a stable rest before extending your range.
7. End the session by de-cocking with the integrated system.

Ownership and Care

• Lubricate and inspect the rail and string on Ravin's schedule. Our how to maintain a crossbow guide covers the routine.
• Check scope mounts and turret settings before each session.
• Store the crossbow uncocked in a cool, dry place.
• Use Ravin-approved arrows only, and never dry-fire.
• Register the crossbow and keep your receipt for warranty support.

If it ever refuses to fire, start with our crossbow won't fire troubleshooting guide.

Value for Money

At $2,449–$2,499, the LR costs about the same as the R29X and TX Ultra 29.5. You are not paying extra for speed; you are paying for the adjustable stock, turret scope and stable long frame. For shooters who will use those features, that is fair value. For most hunters, the shorter and lighter R29X delivers the same power in a more practical package.