Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are Barnett Bows faster if their draw weights are lighter?
A: Speeds are not only derived from the draw weight of the bow. The longer the power stroke, the faster the arrow will travel. This in conjunction with weight and harness assembly – i.e. high energy cams, synthetic cables and string store more energy than a heavier weight bow with a shorter power stroke. Barnett Bows incorporate these features with the longest power strokes in the industry to produce the fastest bows on the market.
Q: Which Barnett crossbow is the most popular and why?
A: The Ghost 400 is Barnett’s newest crossbow offering speeds of 400 FPS is primed to be our best selling crossbow. Currently, the Predator Bow and Buck Commander are the top selling models. The patented shoot through foot stirrup thrusts arrows 375 FPS on the Predator and 365 FPS for the Buck Commander. The Ghost 400, Predator and Buck Commander feature carbon riser technology, the AVI (anti-vibration) limb technology, a 3.5 lb trigger pull and much more. These crossbows offer pound for pound dollar for dollar the best performing bow at a price that is not out of range. The Revolution AVI, Quad AVI and Quad 400 are also very popular. The Revolution AVI is designed carefully to bring hunting to a new level of performance, comfort and efficiency. The Revolution AVI has 150-pound draw weight. With the CNC Cams and Crosswire Cable System this bow launches arrows at speeds of 345 feet per second. The Revolution also features a 3 ½” Adjustable Cheek Piece and 2” Adjustable Rear Stock. The Quick Detach front end sets up and breaks down in seconds with the push of a button, allowing for easy storage and transportation. The Quad 400 delivers speed, comfort, looks and value. The Quad 400 has an all new composite stock, vented quad limb assembly coupled with our CNC high-energy cam system, a thumbhole grip and a built in crank cocking device attachment (crank device optional). The Quad 400 also launches arrows at speeds of 345 feet per second. The AVI series bows offer the Anti Vibration Isolation technology, is a unique process that utilizes a special soft touch material that encapsulates each limb. This system not only absorbs the shock and vibration but also reduces noise caused from unintentional contact with other objects.
Q: What are the pull weight/ length of Barnett’s triggers?
A: Barnett’s new ADF (Anti-Dry-Fire) trigger mechanism offered on all models except the RC-150 and Panzer V will eliminate costly dry fires. The ADF trigger allows for a smooth 3.5 lb. pull.
Barnett’s extended trigger mechanism is designed for crossbows with long power strokes and allows the bow not to become large and unwieldy. This is accomplished through the addition of a transfer bar from the actual trigger pull back to the firing activator. This feature enables the production of high-performance crossbows that remain compact in stature. The pull weight on this style trigger is approximately 4 lbs. with a 5/16" pull length. This is standard on the RC-150 and Panzer V.
NOTE: All Barnett trigger mechanisms feature an automatic safety, which is engaged when the bow is cocked and must be released each time firing.
Q: What are the draw weights of Barnett’s bows?
A: The Ghost 400 has a 185 lb; Ghost 350, Predator and Buck Commander crossbows have a 175 lb and all other current Barnett bows are 150 lb.
Q: What is the difference between a compound and a recurve crossbow?
A: The difference between a compound and a recurve crossbow (or any archery bow) is that the compound bow incorporates a set of cams or wheels into the limb assembly. On the recurve bow the string attaches directly to the limbs.
The benefit of the compound bow is that it allows the user the benefit of "let-off." (Let-off is a term used to describe the reduction in draw weight by percentage when the wheels roll over from the action of drawing the string.) A compound bow will "let-off" about 33% on current models from a 150-lb draw weight to 75 lbs. when the wheels roll over. Not only is it easier for the user to cock a compound crossbow, but also it is less mechanical stress on the trigger mechanism.
Q: How do I replace a string on a recurve bow?
A: If using your cable stringer, place the loops of the cable stringer securely on the limb tips. Cock the bow using the cable stringer. Place the loop of the new string through the loop of the cable stringer and secure to the limb tip. (It is important to make sure the string loops are properly seated on the limb.) With assistance, you will need to slowly release the cable stringer by holding it securely in both hands while you have someone release the safety and then trigger of the bow. Once the string and cable are in the resting position you can remove the cable stringer. To ease this process you can pull up slightly on the new string as if you were cocking the bow, this will allow the stringer to be more easily removed. You may also use the string that you want to replace in the same fashion as above instead of using a cable stringer.
Q: How do I replace a string on a compound crossbow?
A: A bow press is required to change the string on Synthetic Cable Systems.
Q: How long should strings last?
A: With proper maintenance of the string and the crossbow itself, the string should last a minimum of 100 shots, with several hundred shots not uncommon. Proper maintenance includes applying lubricant to the area where the string touches the flight track, keeping the flight track surface area free of nicks, gouges, burrs, dirt, debris, etc. The string life can vary depending on the care and maintenance, the amount of shooting and weather extremes the string system is exposed to.
Q: What do I do to extend the life of my bows synthetic system?
A: Your owner’s kit contains a tube of lube wax, which should be applied to the flight track every 5 to 10 shots. Barnett Lube Wax should also be applied anywhere the cables make contact with the cable slide or Teflon tape, whichever is applicable, every 20 to 30 shots. To extend the life of your cables it is important to apply Barnett Lube Wax to all non-served areas of the cables and string every 30 to 50 shots or when white fuzz begins to appear. If the crossbow has been exposed to excessive moisture you may need to apply wax sooner.
Q: How long can I keep my bow cocked?
A: It is safe to keep your bow cocked while you are hunting in a stationary position. FOR PERSONAL SAFETY REASONS, DO NOT STALK OR WALK TO AND FROM YOUR STAND WITH YOUR BOW COCKED. We do recommend that if you break from your hunt that you let the bow down to the un-cocked position by shooting a target arrow into a safe backstop. It would be good practice to let the bow down every 4 hours relax it for about ½ hour. If ending your hunt without having taken a shot, it is recommended you keep a practice arrow at your camp to fire the crossbow safely into a target.
Q: Why does my bow shoot to the right or to the left?
A: This question can be answered as simply as checking to see if the bow is being cocked off center. If the string is cocked off center to the left or right, the arrow will shoot off to the left or right. The string being off center by as little as 1/8" could result in the shot being off several inches down range. To remedy this, put a mark on the string's center serving where it crosses over the flight track when the bow is not cocked. When you cock the bow to shoot again, make it a priority to have the string's marks centered in the trigger mechanism. If it is cocked and still off center, grasp the string and nudge it into the centered position, with the safety still engaged.
The other problem may be slightly more technical. Your bow could be out of till (out of square). If you have made any adjustments to the limb bolts (the bolts that secure the limbs onto the bow) this is a possibility. To accurately measure your tiller, begin from the point where the limb meets the prod housing back to the string. Do this on each side of the prod housing. If the measurement is not equal then the bow is out of till. It would be best to have a dealer make the till adjustment to correct the problem. All Barnett Compound Crossbows are pre-set for tiller and proper draw weight at the factory.
Q: Why does my bow shoot high or low?
A: If you are using field points, you can simply adjust the sights to correct the problem. Also check that all of your arrows are the same length and shaft size (i.e., 20" - 2219 with 125 grain field tip). You can determine the correct bolt length in your owner’s manual.
If you are using broadheads, you may be experiencing planing, which means that the blades of the broadhead catch air as they fly. This problem is only correctable by using a different type or brand of broadhead.
Q: What kind of broad heads should I use and what are the recommended grain weights?
A: The following recommendations are based on results of field-testing by our Service Department. Various broadheads were used on our crossbows, shooting at 30' on an outdoor range.
XBlades by Barnett: 3-blade plunger style mechanical broadhead, 1-3/8” Cutting diameter, no O-Ring
Spitfire by New Archery Products: 3-blade mechanical broadhead with a 1-1/2" cutting diameter, 125 grain.
HI-Tech Cam-Lok by WASP: 3-bladebroad head with a 1-3/16" cutting diameter, 125 grain, used with O-ring.
Cam-Lok by WASP: 3-blade broadhead with a 1-1/16" cutting diameter, 130 grain, used with O-ring.
Muzzy by Muzzy Products: 3-bladebroad head with a 1-3/16" cutting diameter, 125 grain, used with O-ring.
The following broadheads are recommended for use on crossbows requiring a 16" 2117 bolt:
Spitfire by New Archery Products: 3-blade mechanical broad head with a 1-1/2" cutting diameter, 125 grain.
Jack Hammer by WASP: 3-blade mechanical broadhead with a 1-3/4" cutting diameter, 125 grain.
Ventilator by Satellite Archery: 3-blade mechanical broadhead with a 1-3/4" cutting diameter, 125 grain.
Cam-Lok by WASP: 3-blade broadhead with a 1-1/16" cutting diameter, 130 grain, used with O-ring.
Tri- Lok by Game Tracker: 3-blade broadhead with a 1-3/16" cutting diameter, 125 grain, used with O-ring.
Q: Why are some 3-blade broadheads inaccurate?
A: The design of some 3-blade broad heads is not conducive to accurate shooting with a crossbow. Some broad heads have an extremely large surface area, blade shape, or other design characteristics that, when used on an arrow shaft of 20" or less will not fly well.
The shorter the arrow you are shooting, the more difficult it is to get extremely tight groups with some broadheads. If the heads have too much surface area or a very large cutting diameter, they will plane easily from catching air in flight.
Q: What type of arrows should I use with my crossbow?
A: When using a Ghost 400, Predator, Buck Commander Revolution Avi, Quad Avi and Quad 400 a 22” carbon shaft with half moon nock is recommended. (The total grain weight of the arrow should be about 475.)
When using the Ghost 350, Jackal or Wildcat C5 a 20" carbon shaft with half moon nock is recommended. (The total grain weight of the arrow should be about 454.)
When using the Panzer V and RC-150, 16" 2216 shaft with half moon nock is recommended (Stay with a total grain weight of about 372).
It is always recommended that you use Barnett arrows.
Q: What size dovetail is on the scope mount?
A: The size of the dovetail on all Barnett crossbows is 3/8". 2010 and forward some models will offer a 7/8” dovetail.
Q: Are the scope mounts a weaver style mount?
A: Weaver mounts vary in size; Barnett’s is 3/8” and 2010 and forward some models will offer a 7/8” dovetail.
Q: How long is the warranty on a Barnett Crossbow?
A: Barnett crossbows produced in 2010 offer a 5 year limited warranty with exception to the RC150 and Panzer V which offer a 1 year limited warranty. The warranty covers manufacturer's defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty excludes the normal wear and tear on the cables and strings, dry firing, and misuse.
Q: How do I obtain service for my crossbow?
A: To obtain service you must call our Customer Service toll-free number (1-800-237-4507) for a Return Authorization Number (RA#) prior to sending the unit. Write the RA# on the outside of the package, along with the words "Service Return." Attach a note to the product containing your name, address, telephone number and description of the problem. Carefully package and return the product, transportation charges pre-paid, to the factory: Barnett Outdoors, Inc., 955 Live Oak St., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. Collect shipments will not be accepted.