Crossbows have a rich history, from the battlefields of ancient China to the hunting fields of the modern world.
A delicate balance between tradition and modern technology, crossbows offer a unique combination of power, precision, and challenge that can captivate any outdoors enthusiast.
As a dedicated crossbow enthusiast, I'm always eager to test out the latest offerings in the market.
Recently, I had the opportunity to spend some quality time with the CenterPoint Dagger 390, a crossbow that promises to deliver performance at a reasonable price point.
The Dagger 390 looks promising, but as any seasoned crossbow enthusiast will tell you, looks can only take you so far.
A crossbow's true worth is evaluated through its performance.
In the following sections, we'll delve deeper into the features of the Dagger 390 and assess whether it truly lives up to its promise.
Stay tuned for a comprehensive review where we'll explore speed, draw weight, included accessories, the unique whisper silencing system, and more.
Specifications:
- Price: $284.99
- Brand and Model: CenterPoint Dagger 390
- Speed: 390 Feet Per Second (FPS)
- Draw Weight: 185 lb
- Weight: 7.8 Pounds
- Included Accessories: (3) 20″ carbon bolts, CenterPoint 4×32 crossbow scope, parallel quiver, rope cocker, and rail lube
Now, let's discuss these features in more detail:
Speed (390 FPS): The Dagger 390 isn't called ‘390' for no reason.
With a speed of 390 FPS, this crossbow packs a serious punch.
This speed is an impressive feat for a crossbow in this price range, offering the power needed to take down larger game or hit those distant targets.
It's not just the speed, but the consistency of the speed that sets the Dagger 390 apart.
Draw Weight (185lb): The draw weight of 185 lbs might seem high for some, but the included rope cocker offsets this nicely.
It helps you cock the crossbow effortlessly, preparing for the next shot in no time. It's a sensible balance of power and usability.
Weight (7.8 Pounds): At 7.8 pounds, the Dagger 390 is not the lightest crossbow on the market, but it certainly doesn't feel cumbersome.
The weight is well distributed, providing a good balance when aiming and shooting.
Adjustable Tactical Stock with Adjustable Cheek Pad: This is where the Dagger 390 truly shines.
The adjustable stock and cheek pad allow you to customize the crossbow to your own shooting style and body size.
This feature helps ensure a comfortable, consistent, and accurate shooting experience.
Whisper Silencing System: This integrated system includes string suppressors, string stops, and limb dampeners, all designed to reduce noise and vibration.
This feature is particularly valuable for hunters, who need to maintain stealth when approaching and taking down game.
Included Accessories: The Dagger 390 comes with several accessories, including three 20″ carbon bolts, a 4×32 crossbow scope, a parallel quiver, a rope cocker, and rail lube.
These accessories add significant value to the package, providing everything you need to get started right out of the box.
The scope, in particular, is a notable inclusion, offering a clear sight picture and good low-light performance.
In summary, the CenterPoint Dagger 390 is a thoughtfully designed crossbow packed with features usually found in more expensive models.
Its speed, adjustable stock, silencing system, and included accessories make it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned crossbow users.
My Personal Experience
It was a crisp, early morning when I took the CenterPoint Dagger 390 out for its first field test.
The fog was still lifting off the ground as I ventured into the woods, the silence only punctuated by the distant call of a crow.
The anticipation of testing a new crossbow always brings a certain thrill, and that day was no different.
As I prepared to make my first shot, I was struck by how comfortable the Dagger 390 felt in my hands.
I adjusted the tactical stock and cheek pad to suit my frame, an easy process that took less than a minute.
The crossbow felt like an extension of myself, fitting snugly against my shoulder.
My target was a deer decoy placed roughly 50 yards away. I loaded one of the included 20″ carbon bolts, the rope cocker making the task effortless.
I looked through the 4×32 crossbow scope, the image clear and focused, the decoy standing stark against the green of the woods.
I took a deep breath, feeling the familiar adrenaline surge as I released the bolt.
The Dagger 390 lived up to its “Whisper” moniker.
The bolt left the crossbow with a muffled thud, the suppressors and dampeners doing their job admirably. The bolt flew true and fast, hitting the decoy dead center.
The speed and accuracy were impressive, the 390 FPS speed living up to its promise.
Throughout the day, the Dagger 390 continued to impress.
The weight, while slightly on the heavier side, provided a stability that I've come to appreciate.
The adjustable stock ensured a comfortable shooting experience, and the Whisper Silencing System allowed me to maintain stealth.
But it was during a real hunting situation that the Dagger 390 truly shined. I spotted a white-tailed deer approximately 40 yards away, grazing peacefully.
I aimed and released the bolt. The deer bolted at the sound, but it was too late.
The bolt struck true, demonstrating the power and precision of the Dagger 390.
The CenterPoint Dagger 390 has since become a mainstay in my hunting gear.
Its combination of power, accuracy, adjustability, and silence make it a reliable companion on my hunting trips.
Price and Value for Money
At a price of $284.99, the CenterPoint Dagger 390 offers incredible value for money.
Many crossbows in the market with similar features and capabilities tend to be priced much higher, making the Dagger 390 a cost-effective choice without sacrificing performance.
One of the key aspects contributing to this value is the comprehensive package the Dagger 390 offers. With the inclusion of three 20″ carbon bolts, a 4×32 crossbow scope, a parallel quiver, a rope cocker, and rail lube, the Dagger 390 provides everything you need to get started right out of the box.
This not only saves you the hassle of buying additional accessories but also adds significant savings.
The adjustable tactical stock with adjustable cheek pad, coupled with the Whisper Silencing System, are features that you typically find in higher-end models.
Their inclusion in the Dagger 390, at this price point, certainly adds to the value proposition.
When it comes to performance, the Dagger 390 doesn't disappoint either.
The speed of 390 FPS and the draw weight of 185 lbs provide a solid combination of power and precision, ensuring effective hunting or target practice.
In terms of durability, the Dagger 390 feels robust and well-built, hinting at longevity.
This is an essential aspect when considering value for money, as a durable crossbow will serve you well over many seasons.
In conclusion, the CenterPoint Dagger 390 provides excellent value for its price.
For beginners, it's a fantastic starter kit offering quality performance at an affordable price. For more experienced users, it's a cost-effective addition to your arsenal, providing the power and precision you'd expect from a high-end model without the hefty price tag.
As such, the Dagger 390 delivers a great return on investment, making your crossbow purchase a worthwhile venture.
The Drawbacks
While the CenterPoint Dagger 390 has plenty of strengths, no product is without its drawbacks. O
ne minor issue I encountered relates to its weight.
At 7.8 pounds, the Dagger 390 is slightly on the heavier side compared to some other crossbows in the market.
For those planning long hunting trips or anyone with physical limitations, this is something to consider.
However, it's worth noting that the weight also contributes to the stability of the crossbow, which can aid in improving accuracy, especially at longer distances.
Another minor inconvenience I noticed is that, while the Dagger 390 comes with a rope cocker, it does not come with a crank cocking device.
While the rope cocker does make the draw weight manageable, a crank device would have made cocking the bow even easier, especially for those with less upper body strength.
However, this is a minor issue and one that can be easily remedied with an aftermarket purchase.
All things considered, these minor issues do not significantly detract from the overall impressive performance and value of the Dagger 390.
Like any product, it's about balancing the benefits with any potential drawbacks.
What are people saying?
Crossbow enthusiasts and hunters have shared their experiences with the CenterPoint Dagger 390, with most reviews being overwhelmingly positive. Here are some key points from the user feedback:
Power and Penetration: Harrel Wiley's experience speaks volumes about the power of the Dagger 390.
His first shot at a hay bale from 20 yards not only hit the bullseye, but the bolt went through the hay bale and even penetrated his fence.
His exclamation “This crossbow is a BEAST” encapsulates the raw power and penetration capability of the Dagger 390.
Ideal for Beginners: For those new to bow hunting, the Dagger 390 seems to be a great choice.
DJ, a novice bow hunter, managed to achieve a clean kill on a deer at 30 yards on his first outing with the crossbow.
He found the bow easy to sight in, taking only about 45 minutes to calibrate at different yardages.
Quiet Operation: DJ also praised the Dagger 390's quiet operation, a testament to its Whisper Silencing System.
This feature is particularly important for hunters, as it allows them to maintain stealth and not startle their prey.
Adjustable Stock: The adjustable stock and cheek pad are appreciated by users with varying body sizes.
DJ, being 6'4″ with long arms, found the adjustability to be a significant advantage, allowing him to use the crossbow comfortably.
In conclusion, users seem to love the Dagger 390 for its power, ease of use for beginners, quiet operation, and adjustable features, proving its value and versatility across different user profiles.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
After spending considerable time with the CenterPoint Dagger 390 and weighing its pros and cons, I can confidently say that this crossbow is a strong contender in its price range.
For its relatively modest cost, you get a package that’s brimming with features typically found on higher-end models.
The impressive speed of 390 FPS and the reasonable draw weight of 185 lbs provide a compelling blend of power and precision.
The addition of the Whisper Silencing System brings the much-needed stealth factor into play, making it ideal for hunting.
The adjustable tactical stock, along with an adjustable cheek pad, lends a level of customization that can accommodate a wide range of body types and shooting preferences.
While it does have a few minor drawbacks such as the slightly heavier weight and the absence of a crank cocking device, these are far from being deal-breakers.
In fact, the weight contributes to stability and accuracy, turning a potential negative into a positive for many users.
The Dagger 390 also offers exceptional value for money.
The inclusion of quality accessories like carbon bolts, a 4×32 crossbow scope, a parallel quiver, a rope cocker, and rail lube add significant value and convenience to the package.
This crossbow is not only affordable, but it also ensures that you're well-equipped right out of the box.
Given all these factors, the CenterPoint Dagger 390 is a purchase that I believe most crossbow enthusiasts would not regret.
Whether you're a beginner looking to get started with bow hunting, or an experienced user seeking a powerful yet affordable crossbow, the Dagger 390 is a choice that delivers on all fronts.
It’s a crossbow that promises – and delivers – a blend of power, precision, stealth, and value.
Click here to learn more about the CenterPoint Dagger 390 and get the best price on Amazon.