As an avid archery enthusiast, I've had the pleasure of trying out various crossbows in my time.
Recently, I got my hands on the Barnett Archery Raptor Pro STR Crossbow, and I must say, it's been an absolute delight to use.
In this review, I'll be sharing my personal experience and insights about this remarkable piece of equipment, which has not only impressed me with its performance but also with its value for money.
So, whether you're a seasoned archer or a beginner just starting out in the world of crossbow hunting, sit back and join me as I delve deeper into what makes the Barnett Raptor Pro STR Crossbow an outstanding choice for your next adventure.
Specs:
- Price: $299.99
- Brand and Model: Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow
- Overall Amazon Rating: 4.6
- Number of Reviews: 119
- Speed (FPS): 400
- Draw Weight: 187 lbs
- Dimensions: 36.5″L x 20″W
- Color: Realtree Edge Frame
- Included Accessories: READY TO HUNT PACKAGE
- Safety Features: Soft Look floating bristle arrow retainer, Finger Safety reminders, String and rail lube wax
- Item Weight: 6.9 Pounds
- Warranty Description: 1 year manufacturer
Now, let's discuss some of the standout features of the Barnett Raptor Pro STR Crossbow in greater detail:
Performance and Speed:
The Raptor Pro STR is designed with performance in mind, boasting an impressive speed of 400 feet per second.
This high velocity ensures that your arrows hit the target with maximum impact and accuracy, making it perfect for both target shooting and hunting.
Draw Weight:
At 187 pounds, the draw weight of this crossbow is on the higher side, providing ample power for taking down game effectively.
While it might be a little challenging for beginners, the included rope cocking device significantly reduces the effort required to cock the crossbow, making it more accessible for a wide range of users.
Design and Dimensions:
The crossbow sports a sleek, compact design with dimensions of 36.5″ in length and 20″ in width.
This makes it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spots, especially during hunting trips. The Realtree Edge Frame color adds a touch of camouflage, further enhancing its appeal to hunters.
Included Accessories:
The Raptor Pro STR comes with a READY TO HUNT PACKAGE, which includes a 4×32 millimeters Multi-Reticle Scope, two 22-inch Headhunter Arrows, a lightweight quiver, a rope cocking device, and lube wax.
This comprehensive package ensures that you have everything you need to get started right out of the box.
Safety Features:
Safety is paramount when dealing with powerful weapons like crossbows, and Barnett has taken great care to include several safety features.
The Soft Look floating bristle arrow retainer prevents dry-firing, while finger safety reminders help you maintain proper hand placement during use.
Additionally, the package comes with string and rail lube wax to ensure optimal performance and prolong the life of your crossbow.
My Personal Experience
Last fall, I had the opportunity to take the Barnett Raptor Pro STR Crossbow on a week-long hunting trip with a few close friends.
We were after deer in the dense forests of the Appalachian Mountains, and I was eager to put the crossbow to the test.
Little did I know that this hunting trip would turn out to be one of my most memorable experiences, largely thanks to the Raptor Pro STR.
On the second day of our trip, just as the sun began to rise, I found myself perched in a tree stand overlooking a small clearing.
The morning was crisp and cool, and a thin layer of fog clung to the forest floor.
As I settled in, I silently assembled the Raptor Pro STR, appreciating its compact design and the ease with which I could put it together.
After about an hour, I noticed movement at the edge of the clearing.
A beautiful, mature buck cautiously emerged from the underbrush, its antlers glinting in the morning light.
My heart raced as I carefully raised the crossbow, mindful of the safety features that ensured I wouldn't accidentally dry-fire or injure my fingers.
Taking a deep breath, I lined up the shot using the 4×32 millimeters Multi-Reticle Scope, which provided a crystal-clear view of the deer.
As the buck paused, seemingly posing for a perfect broadside shot, I squeezed the trigger.
The crossbow's 400 FPS speed and 187-pound draw weight worked in perfect harmony, sending the 22-inch Headhunter Arrow flying towards its target.
The arrow found its mark with a resounding thud, and the buck bolted, disappearing back into the forest.
My friends and I tracked it for about 200 yards before finding it lying motionless, the arrow having penetrated its heart with precision and power.
Throughout the week, I continued to be impressed with the Raptor Pro STR's performance.
Its compact size and Realtree Edge Frame color allowed me to move stealthily through the woods, while the included lightweight quiver made carrying and accessing my arrows a breeze.
The rope cocking device proved to be a godsend, as it significantly reduced the effort required to cock the crossbow, even after repeated use.
One evening, as we gathered around the campfire and recounted our hunting successes, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the Raptor Pro STR.
Its combination of power, accuracy, and safety features had not only contributed to a successful hunting trip, but it had also provided me with memories that would last a lifetime.
With every story shared, it became increasingly clear that the Barnett Raptor Pro STR Crossbow had earned its place as a trusted companion on my future hunting adventures.
The Price and Value for Money
When it comes to the price and value for money of the Barnett Raptor Pro STR Crossbow, I can confidently say that it is an exceptional deal.
Priced at $299.99, this crossbow offers a perfect balance of quality, performance, and safety features, all while remaining accessible to a wide range of users.
In the world of crossbows, it is not uncommon to find models with similar specifications and features priced significantly higher.
The Raptor Pro STR, however, delivers the same level of performance as some of its more expensive counterparts, making it an attractive option for both beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
The value for money is further enhanced by the READY TO HUNT PACKAGE, which includes essential accessories such as a 4×32 millimeters Multi-Reticle Scope, two 22-inch Headhunter Arrows, a lightweight quiver, a rope cocking device, and lube wax.
This comprehensive package ensures that you have everything you need to get started right out of the box, saving you the time and money that you would otherwise spend on purchasing these accessories separately.
Moreover, the one-year manufacturer warranty adds an extra layer of assurance, allowing you to invest in the Raptor Pro STR with confidence in its durability and long-lasting performance.
The Drawbacks
As with any product, the Barnett Raptor Pro STR Crossbow does come with a few drawbacks, though they are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things.
One of the potential issues that some users may face is the 187-pound draw weight.
While this high draw weight is a significant factor in the crossbow's power and performance, it may prove to be challenging for beginners or those with limited upper body strength.
That being said, the included rope cocking device does alleviate much of the strain, making it more manageable for a broader range of users.
On a personal note, I experienced a minor hiccup during my hunting trip with the Raptor Pro STR. While traversing the dense forest, I accidentally snagged the crossbow's limbs on a tree branch.
It caused a slight scratch on the surface of the limb, but fortunately, it did not impact the crossbow's performance in any way.
This experience served as a reminder to be more mindful of my surroundings while navigating through tight spaces with the crossbow.
Another potential drawback is the noise level. While the Raptor Pro STR is not excessively loud, it is not the quietest crossbow on the market either.
For some hunters, this could be a concern when stalking skittish game.
However, with proper technique and careful movement, this issue can be mitigated to a certain extent.
In summary, while the Barnett Raptor Pro STR Crossbow does have a few minor drawbacks, they do not significantly detract from the overall experience and value of the product.
When considering the crossbow's impressive performance, safety features, and affordability, these drawbacks are easily overshadowed by the benefits that the Raptor Pro STR has to offer.
What are people saying? Amazon Highlights
engledow1 praises the Raptor Pro STR as the best Barnett crossbow they've ever shot, highlighting its accuracy and improved trigger compared to the Barnett Raptor Reverse. They replaced the scope with an Excalibur and used CarbonExpress Pile Driver arrows, which resulted in impressive speeds between 333-335 feet per second. Engledow1 would definitely buy the Raptor Pro STR again.
Amazon Buyer emphasizes their accuracy with the crossbow and shares that the scope was almost zeroed in right out of the box. They also mention getting full penetration on a newer target over a 24-hour period, shooting at different times of the day. The buyer is extremely pleased with the Raptor Pro STR, stating it's “amazballs,” despite acknowledging that the instructions could be better.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
In conclusion, the BARNETT Raptor Pro STR Crossbow is an excellent choice for both experienced hunters and beginners looking to venture into the world of archery.
With its impressive performance, accuracy, safety features, and included accessories, this crossbow offers outstanding value for money at a reasonable price of $299.99.
While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the relatively high draw weight and noise level, these issues can be mitigated with proper technique and the use of the included rope cocking device.
Furthermore, the positive feedback from Amazon reviewers and personal experiences shared in this review attest to the overall quality and satisfaction that the Raptor Pro STR provides.
If you're in the market for a reliable, powerful, and affordable crossbow that delivers consistent performance without breaking the bank, the BARNETT Raptor Pro STR Crossbow is a solid choice.
So, should you buy it? Absolutely. The Raptor Pro STR is an investment that is sure to enhance your archery and hunting experiences, making it a worthy addition to your gear collection.
