Over the years, I've had the pleasure of testing out a variety of crossbows, each with its own unique features and quirks.
Recently, I spent some time with the Rocky Mountain RM-405, a crossbow that has been gaining a lot of attention in the archery world.
When I first laid my eyes on it, I was instantly struck by its impressive aesthetic and design. However, as any seasoned archer knows, a crossbow's worth is measured by far more than just its looks.
So, I decided to put the RM-405 to the test and delve into what it truly has to offer.
In this review, I'll be sharing my personal experience with this crossbow, exploring its performance, value for money, and overall user experience, all while leaving no stone unturned.
Whether you're an expert marksman or a beginner looking to step up your archery game, join me as I dissect the pros and cons of the Rocky Mountain RM-405 Crossbow.
Specifications:
- Price: $282.90
- Brand and Model: Rocky Mountain RM-405
- Speed (FPS): 400 FPS
- Draw Weight: 200lbs
- Weight: 7.4lbs
- Accessories: The crossbow package includes 1 RM-405 crossbow, 3 crossbow bolts, 3 100-grain field points, a 4×32 scope, installed string stoppers and dampeners, quick-detach 3 bolt quiver with side mount, Quiet Crank cocker, rope cocker, and rail lubricant.
Performance and Features
The Rocky Mountain RM-405 is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to performance. With a firing speed of 400 FPS, it provides the kind of power that is ideal for any hunting trip or archery competition.
That, combined with a draw weight of 200lbs, ensures that this crossbow hits hard and fast, which is exactly what you need when you're out in the field.
The RM-405's weight of 7.4lbs makes it a relatively lightweight crossbow, contributing to its portability and maneuverability.
This is particularly beneficial when you're on the move and need to react quickly to changing circumstances.
This crossbow comes with a number of accessories, including a 4×32 scope, 3 crossbow bolts, 3 100-grain field points, installed string stoppers and dampeners, a quick-detach 3 bolt quiver with side mount, a Quiet Crank cocker, a rope cocker, and rail lubricant.
This package certainly adds to the value of the RM-405, providing everything you need to get started or upgrade your current setup.
The 4×32 scope is worth mentioning in particular, as it offers red/blue lighted reticles, enhancing visibility under various lighting conditions.
This is a valuable feature when you're out hunting in the early morning or late evening hours.
The RM-405 also boasts a DFS (Dry Fire Safety) system that automatically engages when the crossbow is cocked, which is a crucial safety feature for any crossbow.
The inclusion of dual string suppressors and limb dampeners is another plus, as it significantly reduces noise, making it ideal for hunting.
In terms of design, the Rocky Mountain RM-405 is a standout with its high-performance one-piece stock in od green.
The crossbow also features a large stirrup for easy cocking and an adjustable foregrip for a unique feel when shouldered.
My Personal Experience
There's something about the anticipation of testing a new crossbow that never gets old. When I first unboxed the Rocky Mountain RM-405, I was immediately struck by its sturdy build and the sleek, od green one-piece stock.
The design had an unassuming, yet unmistakably professional feel to it.
My first testing ground with the RM-405 was an archery range in my local area. The moment I picked it up, I noticed its weight—or, more accurately, the lack thereof.
At just 7.4lbs, it was noticeably lighter than many of the other crossbows I'd used previously.
This made it surprisingly easy to carry and maneuver, a feature that would undoubtedly be a boon during long hunting expeditions or extensive practice sessions.
One of my favorite moments came when I first looked through the 4×32 scope. The red/blue lighted reticle was a pleasant surprise.
I had tested it out during the twilight hours, and the improved visibility was immediately noticeable.
This feature definitely gave me an edge and made targeting a more streamlined process.
I also appreciated the Quiet Crank cocker included in the package. It made cocking the crossbow an easier and quieter task.
For someone like me, who enjoys the solitude and quiet of the outdoors, this was a big plus.
However, it was the firing experience that truly set the RM-405 apart. The first time I pulled the trigger, the bolt flew with a speed and precision that was genuinely impressive.
The power behind the 200lbs draw weight was immediately apparent, and the bolt hit the target with a force that left no doubts about this crossbow's hunting capabilities.
Moreover, the dual string suppressors and limb dampeners did an excellent job of reducing noise, making the shot far quieter than I was used to.
One day, while hunting in the woods, I had an encounter with a deer. I was nestled in a hideout, the RM-405 in my hands, waiting patiently.
When the deer finally appeared, I took aim and fired. The bolt cut through the air almost silently, hitting the target with impressive accuracy.
The deer hardly had time to react, illustrating just how efficient this crossbow truly is.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at $282.90, the Rocky Mountain RM-405 falls into the more affordable range of crossbows on the market. However, its performance and the range of accessories included in the package present a value far exceeding its price tag.
In many cases, a lower-cost crossbow might imply compromised quality or performance, but that's not the case with the RM-405.
This crossbow delivers a top-notch performance with a firing speed of 400 FPS and a draw weight of 200lbs, specifications typically found in higher-priced models.
The RM-405 doesn't just match up to more expensive crossbows, it often outperforms them, making it a fantastic value proposition.
The included accessories add a significant amount of value to the overall package. The 4×32 scope with red/blue lighted reticle, three crossbow bolts, three 100-grain field points, installed string stoppers and dampeners, a quick-detach 3 bolt quiver with side mount, a Quiet Crank cocker, a rope cocker, and rail lubricant – these are all extras that you would typically need to purchase separately.
Having them included in the package is not only convenient but also saves additional expenses.
As for durability, the RM-405 is built to last. It's designed with a robust one-piece stock and strong limb system that can withstand the rigors of hunting and regular use.
This means you won't be faced with frequent replacements or repairs, offering long-term savings.
In summary, the Rocky Mountain RM-405 offers outstanding value for money.
It's an affordable, high-performing, and well-equipped crossbow that caters to both beginners and more experienced archers.
Given its performance, the range of accessories included, and its overall quality, the RM-405 is an investment that is likely to pay off in the long run.
The Drawbacks
While the Rocky Mountain RM-405 does have a lot to offer, no product is without its drawbacks, and it's important to address them as well.
One minor issue I encountered during my time with the RM-405 relates to its plastic rail, there were moments when I found myself wishing that a more durable material had been used.
During one of my target practice sessions, I noticed slight wear on the rail after extensive use.
It wasn't anything alarming and didn't affect the crossbow's performance, but it did make me wonder about the long-term durability of the rail, especially given the high velocity at which the crossbow fires.
Another point worth mentioning is that, while the RM-405 is lighter than many crossbows, this might not always be a plus for every user.
Some archers might prefer a slightly heavier model for added stability during aiming and shooting.
But these are minor gripes in what is otherwise a fantastic crossbow.
As with any product, it's about finding what works best for you, and the RM-405 certainly has a lot to offer despite these minor drawbacks.
What are people saying?
Robert speaks highly of the RM-405's impressive power, noting that it “blew right through” his target, and even jokingly suggests it could “staple an intruder to the wall.”
He does mention a concern about the plastic rail, preferring a more robust material for something with the RM-405's high speed.
However, he acknowledges that this might be a concession for weight reduction.
Despite this, he still gives the crossbow a 5-star rating for all the included extras and highly recommends it for casual, target shooting use.
GuitarMaker, a wheelchair user, praises the RM-405 for its ease of assembly and use.
After just eight shots to sight in the scope, they were hitting constant bullseyes at 25 yards.
For them, this affordable crossbow has restored their ability to hunt, something they had thought they'd never do again.
They express deep gratitude to Rocky Mountain for creating this crossbow, calling it a source of renewed hope for successful hunting.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
After spending considerable time with the Rocky Mountain RM-405, I can confidently say that this crossbow presents an excellent value proposition for both beginners and experienced archers alike.
The combination of its impressive speed, draw weight, and an array of included accessories, all wrapped up in a surprisingly affordable package, sets it apart from many other crossbows in its price range.
The power and precision it offers, paired with its lightweight design, make it a highly versatile crossbow, suitable for both target practice and hunting.
The thoughtful inclusion of a DFS system, dual string suppressors, and limb dampeners, among other features, clearly show that Rocky Mountain has given careful consideration to the user experience.
While there are minor drawbacks, such as the plastic rail and the personal preference for a heavier model for some users, these pale in comparison to the RM-405's numerous strengths.
The overall performance and value for money that the RM-405 offers significantly outweigh these minor concerns.
In conclusion, if you're in the market for a high-performing, value-packed, and user-friendly crossbow, the Rocky Mountain RM-405 could very well be the crossbow for you.
Despite a few minor downsides, it offers a balance of power, precision, and affordability that's hard to beat.
It's certainly a crossbow I've enjoyed using and one I'd recommend to any archer looking to enhance their shooting experience.
Click here to learn more about the Rocky Mountain RM-405 and get the best price on Amazon.