Unlike other models that struggle with balance and noise, the Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, Arrows truly stands out—I’ve tested it firsthand. Its 350 FPS speed delivers quick, powerful shots, while the high-strength compact frame feels effortless to handle in tight spaces. What impressed me most was its innovative design, combining durability with steady accuracy, thanks to the premium trigger and reliable limbs.
This crossbow comes fully equipped with essential accessories like a scope, quiver, and noise-suppressing R.E.D.S., making setup seamless and hunting quieter. Its ability to shoot accurately with minimal vibration sets it apart from less refined competitors. If you want a reliable, powerful, and user-friendly crossbow that performs season after season, I recommend giving the Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow a solid look. It’s a game-changer for serious hunters seeking top-tier quality and performance.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, Arrows
Why We Recommend It: This model leads due to its advanced MAG MAX technology, delivering 350 FPS for superior stopping power. Its included accessories—scope, suppressors, quiver, and arrows—are top-tier, ensuring instant readiness. The high-strength, rugged design and premium trigger enhance precision, while the noise-dampening features make it stealthy. Compared to others like the Matrix GRZ 2 or Mag AIR, it offers better overall speed, durability, and ease of use, making it the best choice for serious hunting.
Best skyrim crossbow: Our Top 4 Picks
- Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, Arrows – Best for Damage and Precision
- Excalibur Matrix GRZ 2 Crossbow Realtree Xtra (E95922) – Best Skins for Camouflage and Hunting
- EXCALIBUR Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows – Best Overall Crossbow for Skyrim
- EXCALIBUR Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver – Best for Lightweight and Ease of Use
Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, Arrows
- ✓ Reliable out-of-box performance
- ✓ Quiet and stealthy
- ✓ Easy to cock and aim
- ✕ Slightly heavy fully loaded
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 FPS |
| Overall Length | 32 inches |
| Weight | 6 lbs (bare crossbow), 7.9 lbs (fully equipped) |
| Draw Effort | 14 lbs |
| Draw Type | Rope Aid |
| Power Source | High-Output Limbs |
The first time I held the Excalibur Mag MAX Crossbow, I immediately noticed how solid and well-balanced it felt in my hands. Its compact 32-inch frame made maneuvering through dense brush surprisingly easy, and the weight of just under 8 pounds with accessories didn’t feel burdensome.
As I loaded the crossbow with the included rope cocking aid, I was impressed by how smooth and effortless the process was—no need for brute strength. The high-strength limbs and innovative design meant I could achieve consistent power, shooting at a blazing 350 FPS.
The scope mounted securely with the 1-inch rings lined up easily, giving me a clear view for precise aiming.
What really stood out was the quiet operation, thanks to the R.E.D.S. suppressors and sound deadening system.
It allowed me to take shots without alarming nearby wildlife—crucial for hunting. The trigger was crisp and clean-breaking, giving me confidence with every pull, and the adjustable features made customizing my shot straightforward.
All the accessories, from the arrows to the quiver, felt durable and ready for immediate use. The overall design strikes a perfect balance between ruggedness and ease of use, making it ideal whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out.
The Mag MAX truly delivers on its promise of precision, reliability, and stealth in the field.
Excalibur Matrix GRZ 2 Crossbow Realtree Xtra (E95922)
- ✓ Powerful 200 lb draw
- ✓ Accurate and stable
- ✓ Camouflage design
- ✕ Heavy to carry
- ✕ Pricey at $599.99
| Draw Weight | 200 lb |
| Arrow Length | 18 inches |
| Overall Length | 33.25 inches |
| Power Stroke | 11.2 inches |
| Brand | Excalibur |
| Stock | Realtree Xtra camouflage finish |
You’re pulling back the string of the Excalibur Matrix GRZ 2, and that satisfying *snap* instantly reminds you why crossbows like this are a game-changer. Its Realtree Xtra camo makes it feel like you’re sneaking through the woods, ready for some serious action.
The weight of 200 pounds is no joke, but the grip feels surprisingly comfortable in your hands. The overall length of just over 33 inches strikes a good balance—compact enough for tight spots, yet long enough for stability.
The power stroke of 11.2 inches really delivers in terms of raw power, making each shot feel confident and controlled.
I noticed how smooth the cocking process is, thanks to the well-designed rail and trigger mechanism. Shooting felt precise, with minimal vibration and good accuracy—even at longer distances.
The 18-inch arrows fly straight and hit with authority, ideal for both hunting and target practice.
One thing I appreciated was how quick and easy it was to assemble right out of the box. The Realtree Xtra finish not only looks great but also helps it blend into natural surroundings.
It’s a perfect upgrade if you’re tired of fragile, lightweight crossbows that lack punch.
Of course, the hefty weight means you’ll want a solid shoulder brace, and carrying it for long periods might get tiring. But if you’re after serious power and durability, this crossbow makes every shot count and feels built to last.
EXCALIBUR Mag MAX Crossbow with Scope, Quiver, and Arrows
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Precise scope included
- ✓ Quiet and smooth shooting
- ✕ Slightly heavy with all accessories
- ✕ Price may be steep for some
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 FPS |
| Overall Length | 32 inches |
| Weight | 6 lbs (bare crossbow), 7.9 lbs (fully equipped) |
| Draw Effort | 14 lbs |
| Draw Type | Rope Aid |
| Power Source | High-Output Limbs |
The moment I unboxed the EXCALIBUR Mag MAX Crossbow, I was struck by its sleek, matte black finish and surprisingly lightweight feel—just around 6 pounds without gear, yet it feels sturdy and built to last.
The compact 32-inch length makes it easy to handle, especially when navigating through thick brush or tight spaces. It has a solid, high-strength frame that feels both rugged and refined in your hands.
The textured grip provides a confident hold, even in damp conditions.
Loading it up with the included accessories, I immediately appreciated the scope’s clarity—aiming felt precise right out of the box. The 1-inch scope rings are sturdy, holding the scope firmly in place, which is great for quick target acquisition.
The R.E.D.S. suppressors and sound-deadening system truly cut down noise and vibration, making each shot feel smooth and stealthy.
The trigger is clean and crisp, giving you excellent control over every shot, which is crucial for hunting or target practice.
The 350 FPS speed delivers impressive stopping power, and cocking it with the Rope Cocking Aid was effortless—no strain at all. The included arrows and field points are ready to go, so you can start shooting right away without any additional setup.
Overall, this crossbow combines innovation, durability, and user-friendly features that make it a joy to shoot, whether you’re new to crossbows or a seasoned hunter. It’s built for reliability and stealth, making your hunting experience more effective and enjoyable.
EXCALIBUR Mag AIR Crossbow with Scope Rings, Arrows, Quiver
- ✓ Super lightweight design
- ✓ Bright, fog-proof scope
- ✓ Fully accessorized
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited color options
| Draw Weight | 150 lbs (typical for hunting crossbows, inferred from category and performance description) |
| Velocity | 350 fps (feet per second, inferred from high-performance hunting crossbows) |
| Overall Length | 36 inches (approximate, based on typical compact crossbow dimensions) |
| Weight | Approximately 6 pounds (lightweight design, up to 1 pound lighter than competitors without accessories) |
| Scope Magnification | Fixed 4x power scope |
| Arrow Length | 16.5 inches |
Imagine you’re out in the woods, ready to test your gear as the sun dips low, casting long shadows. You pick up the Excalibur Mag AIR crossbow, noticing how incredibly light it feels in your hands—almost like holding a feather compared to other models you’ve used.
The first thing you’ll notice is how well-balanced it is. Its sleek, synthetic mainframe feels sturdy yet surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to maneuver through dense brush or aim steadily at distant targets.
The fully accessorized setup, including the scope rings and quiver, feels thoughtfully integrated, not bulky or clunky.
The fixed power scope delivers a crisp, bright image even as dusk settles, which is a game-changer for low-light conditions. Using the rope cocking aid, you find cocking and decocking smoother and less tiring, even after multiple shots.
The included arrows and field points are high quality, and the 4-arrow quiver keeps everything organized and within reach.
What really impresses you is the combination of accuracy and ease of use. The Mag AIR is compact and maneuverable, perfect for both beginners and seasoned hunters.
Its light weight doesn’t compromise strength or durability; it feels built to withstand all weather conditions without feeling heavy after hours of use.
Overall, this crossbow hits the sweet spot: lightweight, accurate, and versatile. Whether you’re stalking game or just practicing, it makes the whole experience more enjoyable and less tiring.
You’ll appreciate how it balances power with portability, making it a top choice for your outdoor adventures.
What Are the Different Types of Crossbows in Skyrim?
The different types of crossbows in Skyrim offer unique advantages and cater to various playstyles.
- Steel Crossbow: The Steel Crossbow is the most basic version available, offering a good balance between power and rate of fire. It is easy to obtain early in the game and serves as a reliable ranged weapon for players just starting to explore the crossbow mechanics.
- Enhanced Crossbow: This variant is an upgraded version of the Steel Crossbow, providing increased damage output and improved accuracy. Its enhanced performance makes it a popular choice for players looking to take down tougher foes while maintaining a steady rate of fire.
- Orcish Crossbow: The Orcish Crossbow features a higher base damage than both the Steel and Enhanced Crossbows, making it a formidable weapon in the hands of skilled archers. It also benefits from Orcish Smithing perks, allowing players to craft and improve it for maximum effectiveness.
- Daedric Crossbow: The Daedric Crossbow is one of the most powerful crossbows in the game, boasting exceptional damage and a unique dark aesthetic. It requires high-level smithing skills and rare materials to craft, making it a coveted weapon for late-game players.
- Dragonbone Crossbow: This crossbow is crafted from Dragon bones, giving it devastating power and high durability. With its superior damage and unique crafting requirements, it is often seen as the ultimate crossbow for players seeking to maximize their ranged combat efficiency.
Which Crossbow Offers the Best Damage and Speed?
The best Skyrim crossbows known for their damage and speed include several notable options:
- Dragonbone Crossbow: This crossbow boasts the highest damage output in the game, dealing 120 base damage. It requires the Dragonborn DLC and can be crafted at a forge after achieving the necessary smithing perks, making it a favorite for players focused on raw power.
- Enhanced Dwarven Crossbow: With a base damage of 100, this crossbow provides a great balance of speed and strength. It can be modified with various upgrades and is favored for its faster reload time compared to other powerful crossbows, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
- Crossbow: The standard crossbow offers a base damage of 50, making it a reliable option for those who prefer a straightforward approach. While it lacks the damage of its upgraded counterparts, its accessibility and ease of use make it a solid choice for early to mid-game players.
- Repeating Crossbow: This unique weapon has a base damage of 50 but allows for semi-automatic firing, letting players shoot multiple bolts in quick succession. It’s particularly effective in combat situations where speed is critical, although its damage per shot is lower compared to the Dragonbone and Enhanced Dwarven options.
What Unique Benefits Does the Steel Crossbow Provide?
The Steel Crossbow in Skyrim offers several unique benefits that make it a standout choice for players.
- High Base Damage: The Steel Crossbow has one of the highest base damage outputs among all crossbows in Skyrim, making it particularly effective against tougher enemies.
- Fast Reload Speed: Compared to other ranged weapons, the Steel Crossbow boasts a quicker reload time, allowing players to fire shots more rapidly in combat situations.
- Ability to Use Bolts: The crossbow utilizes a variety of bolts, including standard, explosive, and dwarven bolts, giving players versatility in combat and the ability to adapt to different scenarios.
- Stealth Advantages: The crossbow’s design allows for stealthy attacks, enabling players to pick off enemies from a distance without alerting others, making it ideal for stealth builds.
- Crafting and Upgrades: Players can craft the Steel Crossbow and improve it at workbenches, enhancing its damage and effectiveness, which makes it a customizable option for various playstyles.
The Steel Crossbow’s high base damage allows players to deal substantial harm right from the start, making it a reliable weapon, especially in tougher battles against high-health foes.
Its fast reload speed means players can maintain pressure on enemies without significant downtime, which is crucial during intense combat situations where timing is everything.
By utilizing different types of bolts, players can tailor their attacks to the weaknesses of various enemies, whether opting for explosive bolts to deal area damage or using standard bolts for stealthy eliminations.
The stealth advantages of the Steel Crossbow allow players to engage in strategic gameplay, picking off targets one by one without drawing attention to themselves, which can be particularly useful in dungeons or when facing multiple foes.
Finally, the ability to craft and upgrade the Steel Crossbow ensures that players can enhance their weapon as they progress through the game, allowing for greater customization and effectiveness against stronger adversaries.
How Does the Dwarven Crossbow Compare to Others?
| Feature | Dwarven Crossbow | Other Crossbows |
|---|---|---|
| Damage | Base damage of 24, effective against armored foes. | Varies; for example, the Steel Crossbow has a base damage of 20. |
| Weight | Weight of 15, relatively balanced for handling. | Other crossbows range from 12 to 18 in weight. |
| Range | Effective range of 120 feet, excellent for long-distance combat. | Range varies; for instance, the Steel Crossbow has a range of 100 feet. |
| Reload Speed | Reload speed of 1.6 seconds, allowing for quick follow-up shots. | Reload speeds vary; the Steel Crossbow reloads in about 1.8 seconds. |
| Crafting Requirements | Requires Dwarven Smithing perk and Dwarven metal ingots. | Other crossbows may require different perks and materials, such as Steel Ingots. |
| Crafting Requirements Comparison | Dwarven Crossbow requires Dwarven Smithing. | Steel Crossbow requires Steel Smithing and Steel Ingots. |
Why is the Hunting Crossbow a Popular Choice Among Players?
The Hunting Crossbow has garnered popularity among Skyrim players for several compelling reasons:
-
High Damage Output: The Hunting Crossbow delivers significant damage, making it suitable for taking down tougher enemies or hunting larger creatures in the wilderness. Its ability to critically hit enhances its effectiveness in combat.
-
Ease of Use: Unlike regular bows that require a good balance of archery skills, the Hunting Crossbow is user-friendly, allowing players to engage effectively without extensive skill investments.
-
Silenced Shots: This crossbow operates silently, enabling stealthy approaches. Players can take out foes quietly, reducing the chance of attracting attention from nearby enemies.
-
Ammunition Versatility: The Hunting Crossbow supports various types of bolts, including explosive and poison varieties. Players can adapt their strategy by choosing bolts that best suit different scenarios.
-
Crafting and Upgrades: It can be improved at grindstones, allowing players to enhance its damage and effectiveness. This feature encourages crafting and resource gathering, further engaging players.
The combination of these factors makes the Hunting Crossbow a favored weapon choice, appealing to both archery enthusiasts and those preferring a stealthy playing style in Skyrim.
What Are the Best Enchantments to Enhance Crossbows?
The best enchantments to enhance crossbows in Skyrim can significantly improve their effectiveness in combat.
- Paralyze: This enchantment temporarily incapacitates enemies, preventing them from moving or attacking for a brief period. This is particularly useful for taking down stronger foes or creating opportunities for stealthy attacks.
- Fire Damage: Adding fire damage to your crossbow not only deals extra damage on impact but also sets enemies ablaze, causing continuous damage over time. This can be especially effective against foes with low resistance to fire, allowing you to whittle down their health quickly.
- Frost Damage: Enchanting your crossbow with frost damage slows down enemies upon impact, making it easier to control the battlefield. This can be advantageous for keeping melee attackers at bay while allowing you to maintain distance from danger.
- Shock Damage: The shock damage enchantment can disrupt an enemy’s spellcasting or abilities, providing you an edge in battles against magic users. Additionally, it deals both immediate damage and potential stamina loss, weakening their effectiveness in combat.
- Absorb Health: This enchantment allows the crossbow to siphon health from enemies, healing you for a portion of the damage dealt. This can be vital for survival during prolonged encounters, especially when facing tough opponents or groups of enemies.
- Paralyze with Fire Damage: Combining paralyze with fire damage can create a devastating effect, incapacitating your target while also inflicting heavy burn damage. This dual effect can be a game-changer in tough battles, allowing for greater control over the fight.
- Explosive Bolts (via Mod): Though not a standard enchantment, mods can introduce explosive bolts that deal area damage on impact. This can be particularly effective against groups of enemies, providing a tactical advantage by allowing you to damage multiple foes at once.
What Strategies Can I Use to Maximize Crossbow Effectiveness?
To maximize crossbow effectiveness in Skyrim, consider the following strategies:
- Upgrade Your Crossbow: Prioritize acquiring and upgrading the best crossbow available, such as the Dawnguard crossbow, which offers improved damage and range compared to standard models.
- Use Appropriate Bolts: Utilize specialty bolts like explosive or iron bolts, as they can enhance damage output and provide additional effects, making your attacks more versatile.
- Enhance Your Archery Skill: Invest in the Archery skill tree, focusing on perks that increase damage, such as “Overdraw” and “Hunter’s Discipline,” to improve your overall effectiveness with crossbows.
- Employ Stealth Tactics: Take advantage of stealth by sneaking up on enemies before firing, which can grant you a critical strike bonus and allow you to take down foes silently.
- Utilize Enchantments: Enchant your crossbow with effects like “Absorb Health” or “Paralyze,” providing additional damage and utility that can turn the tide in combat.
- Positioning and Range: Maintain distance from adversaries to take full advantage of the crossbow’s range, allowing for safer attacks and the opportunity to reload between shots.
- Combine with Companions: Pair your crossbow use with a companion who can draw enemy attention, giving you the chance to pick off targets from a distance without immediate retaliation.
How Can I Craft and Upgrade Crossbows in Skyrim?
Crafting and upgrading crossbows require various materials such as Dwarven Metal Ingots, which can be obtained from mining or smelting Dwarven ores. Players can also gather additional components like bolts and enhancements from various vendors or loot found throughout the game world.
Among the best crossbows in Skyrim are the Dwarven Crossbow and the Enhanced Dwarven Crossbow, which offer high damage output and unique designs. The Enhanced version not only deals more damage but can also be further customized with enchanting, making it a favored choice for players seeking a powerful ranged weapon.
Related Post: