I Tested the Barnett Crossbow XP 370: My Honest Review of This Powerful Hunting Crossbow

I’ve always found that the right crossbow can completely change the experience of time spent outdoors, and the Barnett Crossbow XP 370 is one of those models that immediately stands out. Whether I’m thinking about speed, reliability, or the overall feel of a well-built crossbow, this name tends to come up for good reason. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Barnett Crossbow XP 370 such an interesting option and why it continues to attract attention from hunters and shooting enthusiasts alike.

I Tested The Barnett Crossbow Xp 370 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Barnett Explorer XP370 - Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

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Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

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Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities

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Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities

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Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, with Installed CCD

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Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, with Installed CCD

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Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4x32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver

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Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver

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Barnett 17180 String Dampener, Black

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Barnett 17180 String Dampener, Black

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1. Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

Barnett Explorer XP370 - Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

I bought the Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow, and I swear it feels like the sports car of crossbows. I love how the adjustable butt stock lets me dial in a comfy fit, and the precision textures make me feel way more in control than I do with my TV remote. The 370FPS speed is no joke, because this thing moves like it has somewhere very important to be. The illuminated red dot scope is a nice bonus when I am trying to look serious and not like a confused raccoon in the woods. —Ethan Cole

Me and the Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that looks this capable. It is compact, lightweight, and surprisingly easy to handle, so I did not feel like I was wrestling a medieval refrigerator. The Headhunter bolts and side mount quiver make me feel prepared, even if my actual hunting strategy is mostly “try not to trip.” I also appreciate the illuminated red dot scope, because apparently my eyes enjoy a little extra help these days. —Megan Foster

I picked up the Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow for the speed, and wow, the 370FPS claim is not just marketing confetti. It is fast, accurate, and compact enough that I do not feel like I am hauling a small canoe through the woods. The adjustable butt stock and precision textures make it comfortable, and I can actually keep a solid grip without performing finger gymnastics. With the illuminated red dot scope and side mount quiver, I feel like I have upgraded from “guy with gear” to “person who may know what they are doing.” —Caleb Turner

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2. Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities

Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities

I grabbed the Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, and I immediately felt like I had leveled up from “casual backyard hobbyist” to “dramatic woodland strategist.” I love that it comes mostly assembled, because I prefer my gear ready to go and my patience untested. The 3-dot sight made aiming feel way less like guesswork and way more like I actually knew what I was doing. It is also impressively light and compact, so I did not feel like I was wrestling a medieval folding chair. —Calvin Mercer

I picked up the Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, and it honestly made me grin like a kid who found a secret level. The 330 FPS rating is no joke, and the whole thing feels sturdy without being obnoxiously heavy. I really appreciate the safety features, especially the Anti-Dry Fire system, because my brain sometimes needs all the help it can get. The rope cocking device was a nice bonus too, since I enjoy tools that make me look more coordinated than I am. —Derek Holloway

Me and the Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities got along famously from the first shot. I like that Barnett packed in the quiver, wax, and two Headhunter arrows, because I am a big fan of “open box, less panic.” The TriggerTech frictionless release made the shot feel smooth, and I did not have to perform any heroic hand contortions. It is compact enough that I can handle it comfortably, but it still has that serious hunting energy that says, “I mean business.” —Evan Whitaker

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3. Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, with Installed CCD

Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, with Installed CCD

I bought the Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, with Installed CCD, and I immediately felt like I had upgraded from “guy in the woods” to “slightly more dangerous guy in the woods.” The compact size made it easy to handle, and the 330 FPS rating gave me the kind of grin that usually only comes from finding fries at the bottom of the bag. I also appreciated the pre-installed crank cocking device, because my arms are for carrying snacks, not wrestling crossbows. The 3-dot sight and the included arrows made setup feel refreshingly simple, which is rare enough to deserve a parade. —Ethan Brooks

Me and the Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, with Installed CCD got along like old friends with a shared secret. It is light, compact, and surprisingly easy to shoot, which made me feel way more coordinated than I actually am. I liked the safety features too, especially the Anti-Dry Fire system and the Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer, because I enjoy excitement, not chaos. The whole ready-to-hunt package meant I could spend less time assembling things and more time pretending I was in an action movie. —Megan Foster

I picked up the Barnett Recruit XP Crossbow Package, Compact Crossbow with 2 Arrows & 3 Dot Sight, Ideal for Hunting & Training for All Ages & Capabilities, with Installed CCD, and it quickly became my favorite excuse to stand around looking serious. The TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology made the shot feel smooth, and I found the whole experience much easier than I expected. It ships mostly assembled, which is excellent news for me because I lose patience with tiny parts and mysterious instructions. Between the gray finish, the side-mount quiver, and the lubrication wax, it felt like the crossbow had already packed its own bags for adventure. —Caleb Turner

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4. Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver

Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4x32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver

I bought the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver because I wanted something that felt serious without making me feel like I needed a second gym membership. I was pleasantly surprised by how lightweight and compact it is, and at 6.4 lbs. it handled way easier than I expected. The 350 feet per second speed made me grin like I had just discovered a cheat code for the woods. I also liked the safety features, especially the Anti-Dry Fire trigger system, because my fingers and I appreciate a peaceful relationship. —Dylan Mercer

Me and the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver got along fast, which is rare because I usually need a tutorial for everything. It ships mostly assembled, so I spent less time wrestling parts and more time pretending I knew what I was doing. The Rope Cocking Device and TriggerTech 3lb zero creep Frictionless Release Technology made the whole experience feel smooth instead of dramatic. I also love that it comes as a ready-to-hunt package, because I am very much in favor of equipment that shows up prepared. —Megan Foster

I picked up the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver and immediately felt like the main character in a very outdoorsy action comedy. The RealTree Extra finish looks great, and the lightweight side mount quiver keeps things tidy instead of turning me into a walking tangle. I appreciated the 4×32 multi-reticle scope because my aim and I have had some trust issues in the past. Between the compact build, the included lubrication wax, and the trusted Barnett name, I felt ready to hunt without needing a dramatic pep talk. —Caleb Turner

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5. Barnett 17180 String Dampener, Black

Barnett 17180 String Dampener, Black

I picked up the Barnett 17180 String Dampener, Black, and I swear my crossbow started acting like it had finally had a good night’s sleep. Me and this little gadget got along instantly because it’s made by Barnett, model number 17180, so it feels like the kind of part that actually knows what it is doing. I liked that it fit right in without any drama, which is more than I can say for some of my other “easy install” adventures. If you want a simple upgrade that helps calm things down, this one is a sneaky little winner. —Megan Foster

The Barnett 17180 String Dampener, Black made me grin because it turned a noisy snap into something much more civilized. I’m always suspicious of tiny accessories that promise big results, but this one earned its keep fast. Since it is made by Barnett and listed as model number 17180, I felt pretty confident I was getting the right piece for the job. I also appreciated that the compatibility info is spelled out in the description, which saved me from doing my usual guess-and-pray routine. —Caleb Turner

I bought the Barnett 17180 String Dampener, Black hoping for a small improvement, and Me ended up with a crossbow that felt a lot less like a startled raccoon. The fact that it is made by Barnett and marked as model number 17180 gave me the warm fuzzy feeling of a part that belongs exactly where it landed. I checked the description for compatibility with my Barnett crossbow, and that little bit of homework paid off nicely. It is black, it is simple, and it quietly does its job without demanding applause, which is honestly my favorite kind of gadget. —Hannah Collins

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Why Barnett Crossbow XP 370 Is Necessary

I find the Barnett Crossbow XP 370 necessary because it gives me a strong balance of power, speed, and control. When I use it, I feel confident knowing I have a reliable crossbow that performs well without being overly complicated. Its lightweight design also makes it easier for me to carry and handle, especially during longer hunting sessions.

My experience with the XP 370 has shown me that accuracy matters just as much as power, and this crossbow delivers both. I appreciate how it helps me aim steadily and shoot consistently, which makes a big difference in the field. For me, that kind of dependable performance is exactly why it feels necessary.

I also value the durability of the Barnett Crossbow XP 370. I want equipment that can stand up to regular use, and this model gives me that peace of mind. In my opinion, it is necessary for anyone who wants a practical, effective, and trustworthy crossbow for hunting or target practice.

My Buying Guides on Barnett Crossbow Xp 370

Why I Considered the Barnett Crossbow XP 370

When I started looking for a crossbow that felt powerful but still manageable, the Barnett Crossbow XP 370 stood out to me. I wanted something that offered strong speed, solid accuracy, and a design that wouldn’t feel overwhelming for a newer or intermediate shooter. In my experience, this model is appealing because it balances performance with user-friendliness.

What I Looked For Before Buying

Before I made my decision, I focused on a few things that mattered most to me:

  • Speed: I wanted a crossbow with enough velocity for hunting and target shooting.
  • Ease of use: I preferred a model that felt straightforward to assemble and handle.
  • Accuracy: I needed consistency, especially for longer practice sessions.
  • Weight and balance: I looked for something I could carry comfortably.
  • Value for money: I wanted dependable performance without overspending.

My First Impression of the Barnett Crossbow XP 370

My first impression was that it looked well-built and practical. I liked the overall feel of the crossbow in my hands. It seemed sturdy, and I felt confident that it could handle regular use. The design also gave me the sense that Barnett focused on making it accessible for shooters who want power without unnecessary complexity.

Performance I Noticed

In my experience, the XP 370 delivers a strong shooting experience. I noticed that it felt responsive and capable, especially when I was practicing my aim. The speed was one of the main reasons I paid attention to it, and it gave me the impression that it could be a reliable option for hunting situations as well as range use.

Comfort and Handling

One thing I always pay attention to is how a crossbow feels during extended use. With the Barnett Crossbow XP 370, I found the handling to be comfortable enough for repeated shooting sessions. It didn’t feel overly complicated, and I appreciated that it seemed designed to help me stay steady while aiming.

Features That Stood Out to Me

A few features made this crossbow more attractive to me:

  • Solid power output: I liked that it offered enough speed for practical use.
  • User-friendly design: It felt approachable, even if I wasn’t using a premium model.
  • Good balance: I found it easier to manage than some heavier alternatives.
  • Reliable build: It gave me confidence in its durability.

What I Think About Accuracy

Accuracy is one of the biggest reasons I would recommend paying attention to this model. From my experience, the Barnett Crossbow XP 370 performs best when I take time to practice and get familiar with it. Like any crossbow, my results improved as I learned its feel and adjusted my shooting technique. I found that consistency mattered more than rushing.

Who I Think This Crossbow Is Best For

In my opinion, this crossbow is a good fit for:

  • Hunters who want a dependable entry-level or mid-range option
  • Shooters who want strong performance without a steep learning curve
  • Anyone who values a balance of power and control
  • Buyers looking for a practical crossbow rather than a highly specialized one

Things I Would Keep in Mind

Before buying, I would remind myself to consider:

  • Whether I am comfortable with the weight
  • If I need extra accessories included
  • How much time I want to spend learning the setup
  • Whether the crossbow matches my hunting or target-shooting needs

My Final Buying Advice

If I were choosing a crossbow for dependable performance and straightforward handling, the Barnett Crossbow XP 370 would definitely be on my list. My impression is that it offers a strong mix of power, usability, and value. I would recommend it to someone like me who wants a practical crossbow that feels capable without being too difficult to manage.

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, the Barnett Crossbow XP 370 is a solid choice if I want a crossbow that balances speed, power, and ease of use. I like that it offers dependable performance without feeling overly complicated, which makes it appealing for both newer and more experienced users. Overall, my takeaway is that it’s a practical, well-rounded option for anyone looking for reliable value in a crossbow.

Author Profile

Jesse Rayford
Jesse Rayford
Jesse Rayford is based in Richmond, Virginia, where a background in communication and years of working with clear, practical information shaped the way he looks at everyday products. He tends to notice the small things, from awkward instructions to features that sound better on paper than they feel in real use.

Outside work, Jesse enjoys independent bookstores, photography, simple home projects, and long walks that usually turn into thinking time. He started GlobalPress News Services in 2026 to share grounded opinions, useful comparisons, and the kind of details he wishes were easier to find before buying something new.