Author: Crossbow Magazine Staff

For centuries, people dreamed of being able to see in the dark. To this end, they conducted hundreds of experiments with light and invented dozens of unusual devices. Thanks to this, about 80 years ago, this dream became a reality. The equipment available at that time was used exclusively for professional purposes. However, several decades later, it became accessible to ordinary people. Hobbyist models, although inferior in many ways to professional ones, nevertheless changed attitudes toward darkness and opened up unlimited possibilities for exploring the night. Today, professional night vision optics and hobbyist devices have much in common, yet remain…

Whenever you see someone heading out to hunt with a bow, there’s always one key detail to notice — are they using a traditional bow or a crossbow? At first glance, both serve the same purpose, but the shooting experience is completely different. One depends heavily on instinct, while the other leans on calculated precision. That raises an interesting question: which of the two actually requires more strategy and skill to master? We aim to have a deeper look at how each bow works and what kind of mindset their users need. The Difference Between the Crossbow and Traditional Bow…

Crossbow hunting laws are rapidly evolving with many states modernizing to increase hunter access while maintaining safety. Yet some states remain restrictive or outright prohibit hunting with crossbows. If you’re planning a hunt in 2025, always check your state wildlife agency for current regulations in your area. Here’s a refined and updated guide to U.S. crossbow hunting laws by state, as of June 2025, using information from Barnett, TenPoint, and other sources, including various State Departments of Wildlife conservation. Each state is summarized in a short bullet list with a follow‑up paragraph. Click each State for a Link to their…

2025 Crossbow Tech Preview: What’s Coming and What Matters When it comes to crossbows, innovation doesn’t sleep. Every year, manufacturers push the limits of speed, silence, and shooter-friendly features. And if the early reveals and whispers around the 2025 lineup are any indication, we’re on the brink of another gear revolution. But let’s cut through the marketing smoke. You don’t need gimmicks; you need gear that works in the field, under pressure, with cold fingers and adrenaline pumping. Here’s your no-BS guide to the crossbow tech hitting shelves in 2025—what to watch for, what actually matters, and what might be…

Regarding crossbow hunting, having the right accessories can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. We asked 34 outdoor writers to name their favorite/most important accessories, here’s a list of the top 8 crossbow accessories named that can enhance your hunting experience and when it matters most. High-Quality Crossbow Scope A reliable crossbow scope is paramount for accurate shooting. The Garmin Xero X1i Crossbow Scope stands out with its auto-ranging digital capabilities, providing precise distance measurements and aiming points. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Vortex Crossfire II offers clear optics and durability.…

The crisp mountain air carried the scent of pine and the distant call of a bull moose. Deep in the backcountry, in some of Colorado’s most unforgiving terrain, Vince Rafferty was closing in on the hunt of a lifetime—one that would not only test his limits but, unbeknownst to him, would etch his name into the record books. For decades, Vince had pursued big game with a compound bow, a dedicated athlete in both the hunting world and beyond. But years of pushing his body to the extreme—as a firefighter, powerlifter, and as a former professional athlete—had taken a toll. A torn bicep…

Best Crossbow Scopes for 2025 Precision, Accuracy, Weight, Situation, Budget, and more Best Crossbow Scopes for Precision, Accuracy, Weight, Situation, Budget, and more. When you’re on the hunt, your crossbow is only as good as the glass you mount on top of it. I’ve chased game with enough rigs to know: the right scope makes all the difference. Whether you’re looking for extra reach, better clarity, or a featherweight optic that won’t bog you down in thick timber, you need gear that works just as hard as you do. Most crossbows come bundled with an optic—and while that…

Choosing the perfect pair of binoculars can elevate your outdoor experience, whether you’re a hunter, birdwatcher, or nature enthusiast. With a trusted name like Vortex Optics, you’re assured of high-quality, durable binoculars designed to meet specific viewing needs. From long-range precision to compact models ideal for travel, Vortex binoculars offer a range of options that cater to various activities and environments. This guide will walk you through essential features, from magnification and lens quality to durability and weight, helping you find the ideal Vortex binoculars to suit your adventures and enhance every sighting. Vortex Bantam – The Vortex Bantam family…

Hunting isn’t just about the harvest—it’s about the stories, the lessons learned, and the unforgettable moments. For seasoned hunter Jace Cowell, a late-season black bear hunt turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What started as a routine day in the woods ended with the harvest of a massive Boone and Crockett bear, measuring over seven feet tall and weighing 500 pounds. In this personal account, Jace shares the thrill of the hunt, the Boone and Crockett scoring process, and the rich appreciation he gained for the anatomy and resilience of black bears. Whether you’re a hunter or an outdoor enthusiast, this…

Every seasoned hunter knows that the right tools can make or break a successful hunt. Among these tools, the deer hunting knife stands out as one of the most crucial. It’s not just a blade; it’s an extension of your skills and a key to ensuring a clean, efficient, and respectful process when handling your game. The Importance of a Quality Deer Hunting Knife When you’re deep in the woods and the thrill of the hunt has reached its peak, you need a knife that won’t let you down. The best deer hunting knife is more than a mere cutting…