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.
Why it’s important: If you can’t see it, you can’t shoot it. And if your range is off, you’re not hunting—you’re guessing.
Use case: “I was in a tree stand in Kansas when a bruiser stepped out at 43 yards. I didn’t have time to fumble with a rangefinder. The Xero ranged him automatically and gave me a pinpoint dot. One squeeze later, I was notching a tag.”
Brand Compatibility: Each pairs flawlessly with TenPoint’s Flatline 460 and Ravin’s R500 series due to compact size and easy mounting.
Pro’s Tip: Practice with rangefinding scopes in low light. The digital readouts can look different at dusk than they do on the range.
Durable Crossbow Bolts
Choosing the right crossbow bolts ensures optimal performance. The Carbon Express PileDriver is renowned for its heavy weight and deep penetration, making it ideal for big game hunting. Alternatively, the TenPoint EVO-X CenterPunch bolts are praised for their precision and consistency.
Why it’s important: Your broadhead is only as good as the bolt it rides in on. Cheap shafts shatter. Great ones drive deep and stay straight.
Use case: “On a recent hog hunt in Texas, I shot through a boar’s shield with a PileDriver bolt. That thick cartilage would’ve eaten lesser shafts alive. This one buried deep and stayed intact for the recovery.”
Brand Compatibility: Excellent with Barnett Hyper series and Killer Instinct 405+ FPS bows thanks to their heavy spine and high FOC. Obviously, the TenPoint CenterPunch pairs with TenPoint crossbows as well.
Pro’s Tip: Match your bolt weight to your bow’s speed. Heavy bolts tame loud bows and reduce broadhead planing.
Effective Broadheads
When it’s time to punch a tag, I don’t gamble with my broadhead choice—and SEVR Broadheads have earned their keep in my quiver. These rear-deploying mechanical heads fly like darts and cut like razors. The SEVR 1.5 and 2.0 heads feature a unique locking practice mode, so you can dial in your setup without wrecking your hunt-ready heads. I’ve watched these things bury deep and leave blood trails even a rookie could follow. Built for precision and punishment, SEVR heads are the real deal for crossbow hunters chasing bone and hide.
Why it’s important: Broadheads finish what you start. SEVR’s mechanical heads fly like field points and deliver wicked entrance/exit wounds.
Use case: “I double-lunged a bull elk with a SEVR 2.0 at 53 yards. The practice-mode feature meant I’d sighted in with the actual head. When the moment came, I didn’t hope—I knew. And the blood trail looked like it was painted.”
Brand Compatibility: SEVRs are deadly with Ravin crossbows and any bow launching bolts over 400 FPS—blades hold together on impact and open wide.
Cocking Devices
Cocking a crossbow can be challenging, especially in the field. The TenPoint ACUrope Rope Cocker is a lightweight and efficient tool that reduces the effort required to cock your crossbow. For those seeking a crank-style solution, the Killer Instinct DSC Compact Crossbow Crank offers smooth and silent operation.
Why it’s important: A cocking aid reduces strain and increases consistency. That equals better accuracy and fewer headaches.
Use case: “On a cold November morning, I missed a follow-up shot years ago because I couldn’t recock quietly or evenly. Since switching to the ACUrope, I cock clean every time—even bundled up in layers during late-season hunts.”
Brand Compatibility: Works with most crossbows but designed to integrate seamlessly with TenPoint Turbo S1 and Viper models.
Pro’s Tip: Always keep a spare rope cocker in your pack. If your crank or rope breaks, your hunt is over—unless you’re prepared.
Crossbow Quiver
A rattling, clunky quiver is a surefire way to blow a stalk. That’s why I lean on the TightSpot Rise Crossbow Quiver. Built to sit tight to the crossbow’s frame and eliminate torque, this quiver is whisper-quiet, lightweight, and adjustable for balance. The one-handed hood design makes loading and unloading bolts fast and clean—perfect when seconds matter. Whether I’m belly-crawling a prairie or perched in a stand, this quiver keeps my arrows locked in and ready to fly.
Why it’s important: A clunky quiver adds weight and noise, both of which can ruin a stalk.
Use case: “While belly-crawling across a sage flat in Wyoming, my TightSpot quiver hugged the rail and didn’t rattle once. When I finally got into range, my bolts were secure and silent—exactly how I needed them.”
Brand Compatibility: Great for Excalibur recurve-style crossbows and bows with Picatinny rail systems thanks to adjustable mount positions.
Pro’s Tip: Practice drawing bolts from your quiver. Muscle memory matters when you’re shaking in front of a big buck.
Crossbow Sling
Slings aren’t just about carrying your crossbow; it’s about enhancing your entire hunting experience. In my opinion – the best sling is the TenPoint Premium Grip Sling. What sets this sling apart is its versatility. The heavy-duty adjustable strap allows for a customized fit, accommodating hunters of all sizes and gear configurations.
Why it’s important: Lugging a crossbow through the woods or up a mountain sucks—unless your sling distributes weight comfortably and keeps the rig secure.
Use case: “On a spot-and-stalk hunt in Colorado’s high country, I climbed 1,500 vertical feet with the Premium Grip Sling. The neoprene shoulder pad didn’t slip once, even over a puffy jacket, and my crossbow never swung into rocks or brush.”
Brand Compatibility: Tailor-made for TenPoint models but fits most crossbows with standard sling studs.
Pro’s Tip: Wear your sling during practice sessions. Shooting with it on keeps you honest about how your bow will handle on the mountain.
Crossbow Case
Protecting your crossbow during transport and storage is essential. A hard-shell case with padded interiors safeguards your equipment from damage and the elements. It’s impossible to name one, because it really depends on your crossbow. Check out our article on choosing crossbow cases to see what would be best for your scenario.
Why it’s important: A quality case protects your investment from busted limbs, bumped scopes, and bad weather.
Use case: “I’ve watched airlines toss bow cases around like gym bags. Without my hard case, that cross-country deer hunt in Illinois would’ve been over before it started—because busted limbs don’t shoot straight.”
Brand Compatibility: Go custom-fit if possible. TenPoint, Ravin, and CenterPoint all make branded hard cases. For budget bows, SKB and Plano offer universal fits.
Pro’s Tip: Always stash your cocking device, wax, and a backup bolt inside the case. Keep your essentials together.
Target for Practice
Practicing with a quality target helps improve accuracy. The Morrell Kinetic 1.0 is designed to stop high-speed bolts and is durable enough for repeated use, making it a favorite among crossbow enthusiasts.
Why it’s important: You can’t shoot tight groups in the field unless you train smart at home. A good target stops bolts fast and holds up over time.
Use case: “Before elk season, I shoot 10–20 bolts daily. The Kinetic 1.0 handles broadheads and field points alike. I’ve had mine for three years and it’s still going strong.”
Brand Compatibility: Handles bolts up to 500 FPS, so it’s compatible with the Ravin R500, Excalibur Assassin Extreme, and other flamethrowers.
Pro’s Tip: Mark your practice bolts. That way, your hunting arrows stay razor sharp and ready.
Want better shots, more success, and fewer regrets? These 10 accessories don’t just help—they transform the way you hunt with a crossbow. You’re investing time, money, and energy in every hunt. Might as well finish the job with gear that pulls its weight.
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