Best Archery Crossbows for Small Game Hunting (2026)

We ranked compact and pistol-grip crossbows by fit for small-game hunting based on draw weight, stated projectile speed, handling (pistol vs carbine), self-cocking features, user ratings, and overall value

This roundup covers compact archery crossbows suited for small-game hunting, emphasizing draw weight, projectile speed, and handling for close-range targets. Selections prioritize models that balance practical power, light weight, and value for hunters seeking maneuverable pistol-style or self-cocking options

Top Picks

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    Snake Eye Tactical Cobra-System Self-Cocking Crossbow

    Snake Eye Tactical Cobra-System Self-Cocking Crossbow

    Snake Eye Tactical • ★ 4.1/5 • Mid-Range

    Self-cocking pistol grip crossbow with 80 lb draw and 225+ fps. Ideal for turkey/small game hunting and target practice. Customers note good accuracy and value for money, with mixed durability

    • pistol grip design
    • self-cocking feature
    • high velocity for size
    Buy at Amazon →
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    Snake Eye Tactical Cobra System Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow

    Snake Eye Tactical Cobra System Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow

    Snake Eye Tactical • ★ 4.1/5 • Mid-Range

    Self-cocking pistol grip crossbow with 80 lb draw and 225+ fps. Key benefit: ease of use with safety features. Customer insight: praised for quality and accuracy, mixed feedback on assembly and durability

    • self-cocking pistol grip
    • 80 lb draw for power
    • high speed 225 fps
    Buy at Amazon →
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    Snake Eye Tactical Cobra System Self-Cocking Crossbow

    Snake Eye Tactical Cobra System Self-Cocking Crossbow

    Snake Eye Tactical • ★ 4.0/5 • Mid-Range

    Compact pistol-grip crossbow with 80 lb draw and 225 fps. Includes easy cocking stock, automatic safety, and fore grip with finger guard. Customers note quality and accuracy, but some report durability concerns and mixed assembly guidance

    • pistol-grip design
    • 80 lb draw with 225+ fps
    • self-cocking stock
    Check current price on Amazon →

Buying Guide

Choose appropriate draw weight

For small game, 80-lb draw models common here provide sufficient penetration while remaining manageable for repeated shots

Consider projectile speed (fps)

Higher feet-per-second ratings improve downrange energy and flatter trajectories; compare published fps when available for consistent performance

Pistol vs. carbine style

Pistol-crossbows offer compact handling and quick shoulder/hand shooting, while longer pistol-grip crossbows can improve accuracy and cheek weld

Self-cocking convenience

Self-cocking mechanisms reduce the physical effort to cock the bow, useful for solo hunters or repeated field shots

Evaluate overall value

Balance features like draw weight, self-cocking, and build with price range expectations to find models that meet both budget and performance needs