Crossbows have come a long way over the years, with improvements in technology and design making them more efficient, accurate, and enjoyable to use.
Among the many options available to hunters and archery enthusiasts, the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 stands out as a high-performance crossbow that delivers an exceptional shooting experience.
As someone who has had the pleasure of using this crossbow, I am excited to share my thoughts on this remarkable piece of equipment in this conversational review.
In the following paragraphs, we will dive into the specific features that make the Invader 400 worth considering as your next crossbow purchase.
So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's chat about why this crossbow might just be the perfect addition to your arsenal.
Specifications
Before we dive into the detailed discussion of the features, let's take a quick look at the key specs of the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 crossbow:
- Price: $749.99
- Brand and Model: Wicked Ridge Invader 400
- Overall Amazon Rating: 4.6
- Number of Reviews: 225
- Weight (w/out accessories): 6 lbs.
- Speed: 400 FPS
- Draw Weight: 185 lbs.
- Dimensions: 15” wide and 35.5” long
Now that we have a general idea of the specifications, let's discuss some of the standout features of the Invader 400 that make it a great choice for any crossbow enthusiast.
Built-in Cocking Device
The ACUdraw cocking device is a game-changer for those who've experienced the inconvenience of losing or forgetting their cocking device on a hunt.
The built-in ACUdraw reduces the force required to cock the crossbow to just 5 pounds, making it much easier to use.
The crank handle is cleverly stored in the butt-stock, so you'll never have to worry about misplacing it again.
Lighted Optics
The 3x Pro-View Scope is an 8.5-inch lightweight scope that comes with the Invader 400.
It features 3 crosshairs and 4 dots calibrated for 20, 30, 40, and 50 yards.
The scope also offers fully-coated 3x optics, and you can choose between black dots or rheostat-controlled, illuminated red or green dots, depending on your preference.
Built-in Safety
Safety should always be a priority when handling any kind of weapon, and the Invader 400 has got you covered.
The integrated safety wings help keep your hand and fingers safely below the flight deck, while the fully enclosed trigger guard offers additional protection.
The crossbow also comes with a Dry-Fire Inhibitor (DFI) and a crisp, 3.5-pound trigger, ensuring a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.
What's Included
The Wicked Ridge Invader 400 package comes with everything you need to get started.
In addition to the crossbow itself, you'll receive a Lighted 3x Pro-View Scope, the built-in ACUdraw cocking device, three XX75 Aluminum Arrows, and a 3-Arrow Quiver.
This comprehensive package ensures that you'll have all the necessary accessories to make the most of your crossbow experience.
These features, combined with the impressive specs mentioned earlier, make the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 a solid choice for both beginners and experienced crossbow users alike.
The attention to detail and commitment to safety, performance, and convenience make this crossbow a valuable addition to any archery enthusiast's collection.
My Personal Experience
Last fall, I had the opportunity to take the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 crossbow on a deer hunting trip with some friends. Having used several crossbows in the past, I was eager to see how the Invader 400 would perform in a real-world hunting scenario.
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the crossbow was the quality of its construction. T
he Invader 400 felt sturdy and well-balanced, which gave me confidence that it would perform well in the field. Assembling the crossbow was a breeze, thanks to the clear instructions provided.
During the first morning of our hunt, I found myself in a tree stand overlooking a well-traveled deer trail.
As the sun began to rise, I spotted a nice buck about 40 yards away, slowly making its way towards my location.
I decided this would be the perfect opportunity to put the Invader to the test.
I quietly cocked the crossbow using the built-in ACUdraw device, which was remarkably easy and smooth, even in the tight confines of the tree stand.
The 5-pound cocking force was a welcome relief compared to the heavier draw weights I've experienced with other crossbows.
With the buck now standing broadside at about 30 yards, I carefully lined up the shot using the lighted 3x Pro-View Scope.
The illuminated green dot was clearly visible, even in the low-light conditions of the early morning.
The crisp, 3.5-pound trigger allowed me to execute a clean shot, and the Invader 400 sent the arrow flying with impressive speed and accuracy.
I watched in amazement as the buck dropped within seconds, just a few yards from where it had been standing.
Throughout the rest of the hunting trip, I continued to be impressed by the performance of the Invader 400.
Its light weight made it easy to carry through the woods, and the built-in safety features gave me peace of mind while navigating the terrain.
The crossbow was consistently accurate and powerful, allowing me to harvest two more deer during our week-long adventure.
Price and Value for Money
When it comes to the price and value for money of the Wicked Ridge Invader 400, it is important to consider the features and performance it offers in relation to its cost.
Priced at $749.99, the Invader 400 is positioned as a mid-range crossbow, making it accessible to a wider range of archery enthusiasts.
In terms of value for money, the Invader 400 stands out due to its impressive set of features and capabilities.
The built-in ACUdraw cocking device, lighted optics, safety features, and high-quality construction are all factors that contribute to the crossbow's overall value.
Additionally, the package includes a Lighted 3x Pro-View Scope, three XX75 Aluminum Arrows, and a 3-Arrow Quiver, which means you won't have to spend extra on essential accessories.
The performance of the Invader 400 also plays a significant role in its value for money.
With a speed of 400 FPS and a draw weight of 185 lbs., it offers a powerful and accurate shooting experience, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting.
Its lightweight design (6 lbs. without accessories) and compact dimensions (15” wide and 35.5” long) make it convenient to carry and maneuver in the field.
Given the quality, features, and performance of the Wicked Ridge Invader 400, it offers excellent value for money, especially when compared to other crossbows in the same price range.
While there are cheaper options available, the Invader 400 provides a well-rounded package that is suitable for both beginners and experienced users alike.
Investing in this crossbow is a wise choice for those looking for a reliable and high-performing crossbow that won't break the bank.
The Drawbacks
While the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 has many impressive features and offers excellent value for money, it is important to mention a few minor drawbacks that I've noticed during my time with the crossbow.
One of the slight issues I encountered was the noise level when shooting. While it's not extremely loud, it is a bit noisier than some other crossbows I've used in the past.
During one of my hunting trips, I remember taking a shot at a target, and the sound seemed to spook a nearby deer that I hadn't noticed before.
While this didn't ruin my overall experience, it's something to keep in mind for those who prioritize stealth when hunting.
Another minor drawback is the limited adjustment options for the butt-stock.
Although the Invader 400 is comfortable to shoot for most users, having some adjustability in the stock could make it even more versatile and accommodating for shooters of different sizes and preferences.
Lastly, while the included XX75 Aluminum Arrows are of decent quality, some experienced users might prefer to upgrade to higher-end arrows for better performance and accuracy.
This is not a deal-breaker, as the included arrows are still suitable for most applications, but it's worth considering if you're looking to maximize your crossbow's potential.
What are people saying?
Here are a couple of highlights from positive Amazon reviews of the Wicked Ridge Invader 400:
Jackson, a first-time crossbow user, praises the Invader 400 for its easy assembly and accuracy.
He mentions that the crossbow is capable of splitting arrows if shot at the same target.
Jackson also shares his experience of successfully taking a deer at 65 yards, noting that the arrow went all the way through the deer and traveled an additional 50 yards.
He confirms that the crossbow shoots at 400+ FPS as advertised and highly recommends the Invader 400.
Dm, another satisfied customer, shares their experience after shooting the Invader 400 over 60 times in a single day. T
hey found the crossbow to be fast and not as difficult to cock as initially anticipated.
Dm does mention that the scope's calibration could be improved, but they offer a helpful tip on how to adjust it for better accuracy: aim one inch low at 20 yards and one inch high at 50 yards.
Overall, they are pleased with the performance of the crossbow.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
In conclusion, the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to invest in a reliable, high-performance crossbow.
The combination of its impressive features, easy assembly, and overall convenience makes it a great option for both beginners and experienced users alike.
The built-in ACUdraw cocking device, lighted optics, and integrated safety features provide a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.
While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the noise level and limited adjustability of the butt-stock, these issues are far outweighed by the numerous positive aspects of the Invader 400.
Customer reviews on Amazon also attest to the crossbow's quality, with many users praising its accuracy, speed, and ease of use.
Considering the reasonable price point of $749.99 and the comprehensive package that includes the Lighted 3x Pro-View Scope, built-in ACUdraw cocking device, three XX75 Aluminum Arrows, and a 3-Arrow Quiver, the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 offers excellent value for money.
In summary, if you're in the market for a dependable, high-quality crossbow that won't break the bank, the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 is definitely worth considering.
Its performance, features, and overall value make it a solid investment that is sure to enhance your archery and hunting experiences.
Click here to learn more about the Wicked Ridge Invader 400 and get the best price on Amazon.
