The Complete Crossbow Pistol Buying Guide for Preppers (2026)

When SHTF, having versatile tools that don’t rely on gunpowder or batteries becomes crucial. Crossbow pistols offer preppers a compact, reliable option for small game hunting, pest control, and quiet self-defense. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the right crossbow pistol for your survival kit.

What Is a Crossbow Pistol?

A crossbow pistol (also called a hand crossbow or mini crossbow) is a compact version of a traditional crossbow designed to be held and fired with one or two hands. Despite their small size, quality models pack surprising power—typically ranging from 50 to 80 pounds of draw weight and launching bolts at speeds between 150-230 feet per second.

Don’t let the compact design fool you. These aren’t toys. A properly chosen crossbow pistol can humanely take down small game like rabbits, squirrels, and birds at ranges up to 20-40 yards, making them valuable additions to any prepper’s arsenal.

Why Preppers Should Consider Crossbow Pistols

Advantages for Survival Situations

Silent Operation: Unlike firearms, crossbow pistols operate nearly silently. This is critical when you don’t want to attract attention or alert game in the area.
No Ammunition Dependency: Bolts can be crafted from available materials or retrieved and reused multiple times. You’re not dependent on factory ammunition that may become scarce.
Legal Flexibility: In many jurisdictions where firearms face restrictions, crossbow pistols remain legal. They’re also easier to carry across state lines without legal complications.
Compact Storage: Most pistol crossbows measure 16-20 inches in length, making them ideal for bug-out bags, vehicle storage, or small survival caches.
Minimal Maintenance: Unlike firearms that require regular cleaning and lubrication, crossbow pistols need minimal upkeep—mainly string waxing and occasional limb inspection.
Learning Curve: Beginners can achieve reasonable accuracy within hours rather than the days or weeks required to master firearms or traditional archery.

Practical Applications

Small Game Hunting: Effective for rabbits, squirrels, birds, and similar-sized game
Pest Control: Managing rodents, raccoons, and other nuisance animals around your homestead
Practice and Training: Affordable way to maintain shooting skills
Backup Weapon: Silent option for close-quarters situations
Teaching Tool: Safe introduction to projectile weapons for family members

Key Features to Consider

Draw Weight

Draw weight determines the power behind each shot. For crossbow pistols:

50-60 lbs: Entry-level, suitable for target practice and very small game
80 lbs: Sweet spot for most preppers—powerful enough for small game hunting while remaining easy to cock

Higher draw weight means more power and range, but also requires more strength to cock. Most adults can comfortably handle 80-pound models, which deliver sufficient energy for ethical small game hunting.

Velocity (FPS)

Feet per second measures how fast the bolt travels:

150-175 FPS: Basic models, limited hunting applications
180-225 FPS: Recommended range for hunting and serious use
230+ FPS: High-performance models offering maximum power

Cocking Mechanism

Self-Cocking (Break-Action): A lever mechanism allows you to cock the bow by pushing down on the grip. Fastest and easiest method, ideal for rapid follow-up shots.

Manual Cocking: You pull the string back by hand or with assistance from a cocking lever. More traditional but slower.

Pistol Grip vs Stock: Some models feature adjustable stocks that extend up to 2.5 inches, providing better stability and accuracy. Others use pure pistol grips for maximum compactness.

Build Quality and Materials

Limbs: Fiberglass and composite materials offer the best combination of power, durability, and weight. Avoid cheap plastic limbs that can crack under stress.

Frame: Aluminum and reinforced polymer frames provide strength without excessive weight. Full metal frames are durable but heavier.

String: Quality strings last longer and provide consistent performance. Keep spare strings in your kit.

Safety Features

Look for:

Automatic Safety: Engages when cocked, preventing accidental discharge
Finger Guards: Protect your hand from the string
Anti-Dry Fire: Prevents firing without a bolt loaded (can damage the bow)

Sight Systems

Adjustable Sights: Allow you to zero in at different distances (typically 10-30 yards)

Fiber Optic Sights: Gather light for better visibility in low-light conditions

Red Dot Compatibility: Picatinny rails let you mount red dot sights for faster target acquisition

Iron Sights: Most reliable—no batteries needed, won’t break easily

Top Crossbow Pistol Recommendations

Based on real-world testing, user reviews, and suitability for survival applications, here are the best crossbow pistols available on Amazon in 2026:

1. Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow

Best Overall for Preppers

Specifications:

Draw Weight: 60 lbs
Velocity: 175 FPS
Weight: 2.5 lbs
Length: Adjustable

Why It’s Great: The Bear X Desire XL strikes the perfect balance between power, portability, and ease of use. The adjustable stock extends up to 2.5 inches, providing stability that rivals larger crossbows while maintaining compact dimensions for your bug-out bag.

The self-cocking arm eliminates the need for separate cocking devices, reducing the number of tools you need to carry. The break-action design means you can reload quickly—critical when hunting multiple small game animals or dealing with multiple threats.

Best For: Beginners to intermediate users, bug-out bags, vehicle storage

Considerations: The 60-pound draw weight is manageable for most users but delivers slightly less power than 80-pound models. Perfect for close to medium-range hunting (15-25 yards).

Amazon Price Range: $60-$80

2. Snake Eye Tactical Cobra Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow

Best Value for Budget-Conscious Preppers

Specifications:

Draw Weight: 80 lbs
Velocity: 225 FPS
Weight: 2.8 lbs
Frame: Metal and fiberglass construction

Why It’s Great: The Cobra system delivers serious power at an affordable price point. At 80 pounds of draw weight and 225 FPS velocity, this crossbow provides enough energy to humanely harvest small game at ranges up to 30 yards.

The self-cocking mechanism is robust and reliable, tested through thousands of shots by users. The adjustable stock, sight system, and Weaver rails provide customization options, letting you tailor the setup to your specific needs.

Best For: Budget-conscious preppers, homestead pest control, multiple-unit purchases

Considerations: Assembly can be tricky for first-timers. Consider this a kit that requires some mechanical aptitude. The metal construction adds a bit of weight but enhances durability.

Amazon Price Range: $50-$70

3. Barnett Demun Tri-Strike Mini Crossbow

Best for Rapid Fire Capability

Specifications:

Draw Weight: 55 lbs (estimated)
Velocity: 180 FPS
Magazine: 3-shot repeating system
Length: Compact 7-inch design

Why It’s Great: Barnett’s innovative 3-shot magazine system is a game-changer for preppers. Load three bolts at once, then fire them in quick succession with simple break-action cocking between shots. This rapid-fire capability could be crucial in defensive scenarios or when hunting small game where follow-up shots matter.

The flip-down foregrip provides two shooting positions—traditional pistol grip or AR-style two-handed grip for maximum stability. Precision fiber optic sights deliver accuracy that exceeds many competitors.

Best For: Home defense, situations requiring multiple shots, users who value innovation

Considerations: The proprietary 7-inch Hyperbolt system means you’re locked into Barnett’s bolt ecosystem. Stock up on compatible ammunition. The magazine mechanism adds complexity that could potentially fail under extreme conditions.

Amazon Price Range: $80-$100

4. ManKung 80 lbs Self-Cocking Cobra Style Pistol Crossbow

Best Budget Alternative

Specifications:

Draw Weight: 80 lbs
Velocity: 225 FPS
Frame: Aluminum construction
Origin: Taiwan (quality manufacturing)

Why It’s Great: ManKung delivers 80 pounds of draw weight and respectable velocity at rock-bottom prices. The aluminum frame construction provides good durability without the weight penalty of full metal designs.

The self-cocking mechanism works reliably, and the adjustable sight system allows for basic zeroing. While not as refined as premium models, this crossbow gets the job done for pest control and emergency small game hunting.

Best For: Backup weapons, multiple cache locations, introducing family members to crossbow use

Considerations: Less refined than premium models. Expect basic functionality without advanced features. The stock components may need replacement sooner than higher-end models.

Amazon Price Range: $40-$60

Essential Accessories for Your Crossbow Pistol

Bolts (Arrows)

Quantity: Stock at least 50-100 bolts. They’re cheap, lightweight, and can be lost or damaged.

Types:

Aluminum Bolts with Field Points: Best for practice and small game (most common, 6-7 inches)
Replacement Tips: Keep extra field points and consider broadhead tips for hunting

What to Look For: Ensure bolts match your crossbow’s specifications (usually 6.25-7 inches for pistol crossbows). Cheaper bolts work fine for practice; invest in quality bolts for hunting.

Targets

Foam Block Targets: Catch bolts cleanly and allow easy removal Bag Targets: Filled with synthetic materials, highly durable DIY Options: Stacked cardboard, foam scraps, and old clothes work in a pinch

Maintenance Supplies

String Wax: Extends string life and maintains consistent performance (apply every 50-100 shots) Replacement Strings: Keep at least one spare string per crossbow Tools: Basic Allen wrench set for adjustments

Carrying Options

Soft Cases: Protect your crossbow during transport Hard Cases: Maximum protection for long-term storage Holsters: For carrying while hunting or patrolling

Optical Upgrades

Red Dot Sights: Faster target acquisition (check for Picatinny rail compatibility) Laser Sights: For low-light situations (consider battery dependency)

Using Your Crossbow Pistol Effectively

Proper Shooting Stance

Two-Handed Grip: Use your dominant hand on the pistol grip, support hand on the foregrip
Stable Platform: Brace against a solid object when possible
Sight Picture: Align front and rear sights with your target
Trigger Control: Smooth, steady squeeze—don’t jerk

Zeroing Your Sights

Most pistol crossbows perform best when zeroed at 15-20 yards. Start at 10 yards, adjust your sights, then verify at your intended hunting distance.

Steps:

Fire three bolts at a target from a stable rest
Adjust windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down) based on grouping
Repeat until bolts consistently hit your point of aim
Verify at hunting distance

Hunting Ethics and Shot Placement

Crossbow pistols are powerful enough for ethical small game hunting when used properly:

Maximum Range: 20-30 yards for most models
Vital Zone: Aim for the chest cavity (heart/lungs) for quick, humane kills
Wait for Clear Shots: Don’t take questionable shots that may wound game
Follow Up: Track wounded animals promptly

Safety Rules

Never Dry Fire: Always fire with a bolt loaded (can damage limbs and string)
Mind Your Fingers: Keep hands clear of the string path
Know Your Target: Ensure a safe backstop
Treat as a Weapon: Maintain the same safety discipline as with firearms
Check Before Cocking: Ensure no obstructions in the bolt channel

Maintenance and Storage

Regular Maintenance

After Each Use:

Wipe down with a dry cloth
Inspect string for wear or fraying
Check limbs for cracks

Monthly (or every 100 shots):

Apply string wax
Inspect all moving parts
Tighten any loose screws

Annually:

Replace string
Deep clean and lubricate
Inspect for structural issues

Long-Term Storage

Store in a cool, dry environment
Keep unloaded (releases tension on limbs and string)
Hang or store flat to prevent warping
Protect from moisture with silica gel packets
Check every 3-6 months even when not in use

Legal Considerations

Crossbow pistols occupy a legal gray area in some jurisdictions:

Most states allow crossbow pistols without special permits
Some areas restrict concealed carry of weapons including crossbows
Hunting regulations vary—check your state’s requirements for legal seasons and game
Some states prohibit hunting with crossbow pistols regardless of power
Always verify local laws before purchase and use

When in doubt, contact your local fish and game department for clarification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a crossbow pistol really take down small game?

Yes, when used within appropriate ranges (20-30 yards) and with proper shot placement. An 80-pound crossbow pistol delivers sufficient energy to humanely harvest rabbits, squirrels, birds, and similar-sized game. Many preppers successfully use them for pest control around their homesteads.

How loud are crossbow pistols?

Significantly quieter than firearms. The primary sounds are the mechanical “click” of the trigger and the “thwap” of the string. You’ll hear more noise from the bolt impacting the target than from the shot itself.

Can I make my own bolts?

In a survival situation, yes, though commercial bolts perform better. You’ll need straight hardwood dowels (approximately 1/4 inch diameter), proper weight distribution, and fletching. The challenge is achieving consistent accuracy with improvised bolts.

How long will a crossbow pistol last?

With proper maintenance, expect 5-10+ years of regular use. The string is the primary wear component, typically needing replacement every 1,000-2,000 shots. Limbs can last the life of the crossbow if not abused.

What’s the effective range?

20-30 yards for hunting. Target shooting can extend to 40+ yards, but accuracy decreases and energy drops below ethical hunting levels.

Can crossbow pistols penetrate body armor?

While powerful, crossbow pistol bolts lack the energy to penetrate modern body armor. They’re not designed or suitable for anti-personnel use against protected targets.

Are they legal for hunting?

Varies by state and game species. Many states allow crossbow pistols for small game during appropriate seasons, but regulations differ widely. Always check current state regulations.

Building Your Crossbow Pistol Kit

For preppers, redundancy matters. Consider this tiered approach:

Tier 1 – Minimal Setup ($80-$120):

One quality crossbow pistol (Bear X Desire XL or Snake Eye Cobra)
50 aluminum bolts
Basic foam target
String wax
Soft case

Tier 2 – Standard Setup ($150-$200):

Two crossbow pistols (one primary, one backup)
100 bolts with mix of field points and broadheads
Target and replacement strings
Maintenance kit
Hard case for storage

Tier 3 – Advanced Setup ($250-$350):

Three crossbow pistols (primary, backup, cache)
150-200 bolts with multiple tip types
Red dot sight or upgraded optics
Full maintenance kit with spare parts
Multiple cases for different locations
Reference materials and training aids

Final Recommendations

For most preppers, the Bear X Desire XL offers the best combination of reliability, ease of use, and portability. Its self-cocking mechanism and adjustable stock make it suitable for users of different sizes and skill levels.

If budget is your primary concern, the Snake Eye Tactical Cobra delivers legitimate 80-pound performance at an affordable price. Buy two for the price of one premium model and stash one in your vehicle.

For those who value innovation and rapid-fire capability, the Barnett Demun Tri-Strike provides a unique advantage, though at a premium price point.

Regardless of which model you choose, remember that your crossbow pistol is only as good as your skill with it. Practice regularly, maintain your equipment properly, and understand its limitations. A $60 crossbow pistol in trained hands beats a $200 model gathering dust in a closet.

Stock up on bolts, learn proper technique, and integrate this versatile tool into your overall preparedness strategy. When ammunition becomes scarce and noise discipline matters, you’ll appreciate having a reliable, silent option for putting food on the table.

You might also want to get the following weapons to be fully prepared:

Build Real Skills – Not Just Gear

Owning tools is important. Knowing how to survive when modern systems fail is what truly matters.

A crossbow pistol is a valuable addition to your kit — but survival isn’t about a single tool. It’s about systems, skills, and preparation layers that work together when the grid goes down.

That’s exactly why No Grid Survival Projects exists.

Inside, you’ll discover practical, step-by-step projects designed for real-world emergencies:

✔ DIY off-grid power solutions
✔ Food production & preservation systems
✔ Water collection & purification setups
✔ Low-tech heating & cooking methods
✔ Security & property protection strategies
✔ Communication alternatives when networks fail
✔ Self-reliance skills most people never learn

These aren’t theories. These are field-tested, realistic projects you can actually build — even on a modest budget.

Because when SHTF: