As an avid archer and hunting enthusiast, I was thrilled when I got my hands on the Wicked Ridge by TenPoint NXT 400 crossbow.
After spending countless hours in the field and at the range with this sleek, high-performance piece of equipment, I'm excited to share my experience with you.
The NXT 400 not only boasts a modern, compact design but also offers remarkable power and accuracy, making it a top choice for seasoned crossbow users and novices alike.
In this review, we'll dive into the features that set this crossbow apart from its competitors, and I'll share some personal anecdotes about how it performed in various conditions.
So, grab a seat and get comfortable as we explore the ins and outs of the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 crossbow.
Specifications:
- Price: $1,199.99
- Brand and Model: Wicked Ridge by TenPoint NXT 400
- Overall Amazon Rating: 4.2
- Number of Reviews: 38
- Length (w/o foot stirrup): 33″
- Width Axle-to-Axle (uncocked/cocked): 11.3″ / 6″
- Power Stroke: 15.5″
- Weight (w/out accessories): 7.4 lbs.
- Speed/KE: Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrow (415-grains) 400 FPS / 142 FP KE
- Speed: Wicked Ridge XX75 Aluminum Arrow (460-grains) 380 FPS / 140 FP KE
- Draw Weight: 200lb
- FPS: 400
Now that we've covered the basic specs of the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 crossbow, let's delve into some of its standout features.
Compact Design:
One of the first things I noticed about the NXT 400 is its compact design.
The 33″ length and narrow 6″ axle-to-axle width when cocked make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, such as a hunting blind or dense forest.
This is especially beneficial when you need to quickly and quietly position yourself for the perfect shot.
Power and Speed:
Don't let the NXT 400's compact design fool you; this crossbow packs a serious punch.
With a draw weight of 200 pounds and speeds of up to 400 FPS, it delivers more than enough power to take down large game.
I was particularly impressed by the kinetic energy output of 142 foot-pounds with the Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrow.
That kind of power translates into clean, humane kills in the field.
Accuracy:
Accuracy is, of course, a vital component of any crossbow, and the NXT 400 does not disappoint.
I found it consistently hit the mark at various distances, even in windy conditions.
The combination of the 15.5″ power stroke and the quality of the arrows provided a stable, accurate shooting experience that I truly appreciated.
Weight and Balance:
Weighing in at 7.4 pounds without accessories, the NXT 400 is relatively lightweight for a crossbow of its power class. This makes it easier to carry on long hunting trips or treks through rough terrain.
Additionally, the balance of the crossbow felt comfortable in my hands, allowing for steady aiming and minimal fatigue.
My Personal Experience
One unforgettable experience I had with the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 took place during a hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains last fall.
The foliage was a stunning mix of red, orange, and yellow, providing the perfect backdrop for my adventure.
I had been tracking a large whitetail deer for a couple of hours, moving slowly and carefully through the dense forest.
As I approached a small clearing, I caught sight of the deer grazing about 50 yards away.
The NXT 400's compact design allowed me to move stealthily into position without disturbing any nearby branches or leaves.
As I settled into my spot, I noticed the deer becoming slightly alert, likely sensing my presence. I knew I had to act quickly.
With the crossbow's narrow 6″ axle-to-axle width when cocked, I was able to comfortably draw the bow and aim without feeling cramped by the surrounding brush.
Taking a deep breath, I steadied myself and released the Pro Elite 400 Carbon Arrow.
The arrow flew straight and true, thanks to the NXT 400's impressive accuracy, and struck the deer right behind its shoulder, providing a clean and humane kill.
Another memorable moment occurred during a target practice session at my local archery range.
I wanted to test the NXT 400's accuracy at various distances, so I set up targets at 20, 40, and 60 yards.
The crossbow's 15.5″ power stroke and 400 FPS speed allowed me to maintain remarkable accuracy and consistency at each distance.
At the 60-yard target, I was especially impressed by the NXT 400's performance.
Despite a moderate crosswind, the arrows consistently found their mark, often resulting in tight groupings.
A fellow archer at the range, an experienced crossbow user, was equally impressed by the NXT 400's accuracy and power.
We spent a good part of the afternoon exchanging tips and techniques, and he later told me he was considering purchasing an NXT 400 for himself.
These personal experiences have solidified my confidence in the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 as an exceptional crossbow.
Its power, accuracy, and user-friendly design make it a pleasure to use in the field or at the range, and I'm looking forward to many more adventures with it in the future.
Price and Value for Money
While the Wicked Ridge NXT 400's price tag of $1,199.99 might seem steep at first glance, it's essential to consider the value for money it offers.
When you invest in a high-quality crossbow like the NXT 400, you're not just paying for its remarkable features and performance but also for its durability and reliability.
As an experienced archer, I've had my fair share of encounters with budget crossbows that may seem like a good deal initially, but often lack the power, accuracy, or durability necessary for serious hunting or target shooting.
With the NXT 400, you can be confident that you're investing in a crossbow that will withstand the test of time and provide a consistent shooting experience.
The compact design, power, speed, and accuracy of the NXT 400 are truly impressive, as are its weight and balance.
These features make it a versatile option for hunters and target shooters alike, catering to various skill levels and preferences.
Additionally, the quality of the materials and craftsmanship ensure that you're getting a product that can handle the rigors of extended use in the field or at the range.
While there may be cheaper crossbows available on the market, it's essential to remember that you often get what you pay for.
The Wicked Ridge NXT 400 provides a level of performance and durability that, in my opinion, justifies the investment.
If you're serious about archery and want a crossbow that will last, the NXT 400 offers excellent value for money and is well worth considering.
The Drawbacks
As with any product, the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 does have a few drawbacks. While these may not be deal-breakers for most users, it's essential to be aware of them before making a purchase.
One of the main drawbacks is the 200-pound draw weight, which may be challenging for some users, particularly those with less upper body strength.
The use of a rope cocking device or crank can help mitigate this issue, but it's worth considering whether the draw weight will be manageable for you before purchasing.
A minor personal anecdote I'd like to share involves the initial assembly of the crossbow.
While the included instructions were relatively clear, I did find the process slightly more time-consuming and challenging than I expected.
It's worth noting that this is a one-time process, and once completed, I had no issues with the crossbow's performance or reliability.
Lastly, some users may feel that the crossbow's price is a drawback in itself.
However, as I mentioned earlier, the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 offers excellent value for money when you consider its performance, durability, and the quality of its components.
In conclusion, while there are a few drawbacks to the NXT 400, they are relatively minor when weighed against the many benefits this crossbow offers.
It's important to consider these drawbacks in the context of your own preferences and needs, but I believe that for many users, the positives will far outweigh the negatives.
What are people saying?
Here are some highlights from positive reviews that showcase the key points:
Amazon Customer: “Love this bow! […] it is so easy to use and dead on accurate at 30/40yds. […] I'm a big guy at 6'7″ and the size is the best I have found without paying for a custom build.”
Key points: Ease of use, accuracy, and suitable size for taller users.
AJ: “Well designed, well-built, and well packaged all add up to a fast and accurate shooting bow right out of the box. […] Served me well on my first sit with it, as I was able to take a nice 8 pointer. This is by far the best crossbow for the money.”
Key points: Quality design and build, fast and accurate shooting, great value for the price.
These positive reviews further emphasize the Wicked Ridge NXT 400's reputation as a powerful, accurate, and user-friendly crossbow that offers great value for the money.
Should You Buy? Concluding the Review
Taking into account both the positives and negatives, the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 is undoubtedly a compelling option for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality crossbow.
Its compact design, impressive power and speed, exceptional accuracy, and comfortable weight and balance make it a versatile and reliable choice for both hunting and target shooting.
While the 200-pound draw weight may be a challenge for some users, the use of a rope cocking device or crank can help overcome this issue.
Additionally, the initial assembly might require some time and patience, but this is a one-time process, and the resulting performance more than makes up for it.
The price of the crossbow may seem high, but when considering the value for money it offers in terms of performance, durability, and quality, it's a worthy investment for those serious about archery.
The overwhelmingly positive reviews from other users and my own personal experiences with the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 provide further evidence of its exceptional capabilities.
In conclusion, if you're in the market for a reliable, powerful, and accurate crossbow that offers excellent value for money, the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 is a top contender.
While it's essential to consider the few drawbacks mentioned earlier, the numerous positives far outweigh the negatives, making the NXT 400 a fantastic choice for both seasoned crossbow users and novices alike.
Click here to learn more the Wicked Ridge NXT 400 about and get the best price on Amazon.
