Ravin R26x Crossbow Review

The most attractive feature that led me to buy the Ravin R26x Crossbow was its small size.  Don’t be fooled by its size as dynamite comes in small packages.  From an ergonomic standpoint, the R26x can be hard to hold steady.  Similar to a small axel-to-axel compound bow, it’s going to be a little harder to hold steady.  However, for a small-framed kid, it’s size is ideal.

The size didn’t impact performance as every deer that has been shot with this crossbow has died and the crossbow bolt didn’t even appear to slow down as it passed through the animal.

Features of the Ravin R26x Crossbow

Accuracy Test:  Ravin R26x Crossbow

Maybe the most important question you have regarding the Ravin R26x Crossbow is how accurate is the Ravin R26x?  The best way to test the Ravin R26x is to utilize a tripod, such as the Bog Carbon Fiber Deathgrip Tripod.  It only took a few shots for us to be dialed in and ready to hunt.

Once dialed in at 20 yards, we quickly put it to the test at the distances marked on the scope.  With field points, it’s accurate enough out of 100 yards to shoot, but with fixed-blade broadheads, I found myself losing confidence in the ability to ethically shoot a deer at distances outside of 40 yards.  I haven’t tried mechanical broadheads in it yet, but I anticipate them to fly much better than the QAD Exodus Full Fixed Blades.

The scope has yardage markers out to 100 yards and they’re on the money.  Just make sure you adjust the scope to 400 fps.  My first shot sailed over the target at 20 yards because I hadn’t adjusted the scope properly.

How to De-Cock the Ravin R26X.

To decock the Ravin R26x, you must install the crank handle and give a slight turn forward to depress the Trigger-Trac release button. Be careful!  If you were to release the handle, it could do a lot of damage to you and the crossbow.  With the Trigger-Trac depressed utilize the crank to slowly let the strin.  If your hand slips off the crank, watch out, because it’s going to spin freely with a good bit of force behind it.  The Ravin R26x has a silent cocking and decocking mechanism, which is a major upgrade from the original R26.

You could always shoot the crossbow into a target, but that’s not the most convenient option and it’s a good way to dull your broadhead blades during hunting season.

Accessory Package Included with the Ravin R26x

The following accessories come standard with the Ravin R26x crossbow.

• Silent Cocking System
• Anti-Dry Fire/Auto Safety
• Built-in Sling Mounts
• Three – Ravin .003 Arrows & Field Points (400 Grain Total)
• One – Removable Draw Handle
• One –  Quiver/Mounting Bracket
• 100 Yard Illuminated Scope

Accessories That You Should Consider Buying for the Ravin R26x

Consider buying the following accessories for your Ravin R26x crossbow.

• Ravin R26x Crossbow Soft Case
• Additional Ravin .003 Bolts & Field Points (400 Grain Total)
  • We lost a bunch of crossbow bolts last season because this thing shoots so fast and hard that you can’t find them in the woods after shooting a deer.
• Ravin .003 Bolts w/ Lighted Nocks
  • This could be the saving grace in helping you find your crossbow bolts after the shot.
• Shooting Rest/Tripod

Safety Features for the Ravin R6x Crossbow

Safety should be a top priority when utilizing a crossbow.  The crossbow has a ton of stored energy that could be released.  The Ravin R26x comes with an anti-dry fire mechanism, which prevents the crossbow from firing if there’s no arrow loaded. Additionally, the automatic safety engages when the crossbow is cocked, further minimizing the risk of accidental firing.

Maintenance Reminders for the Ravin R6x Crossbow

For years, I’ve heard horror stories of Ravin Crossbows blowing up.  By blowing up, I’m referring to the strings or cables breaking, suddenly releasing the stored energy in the limbs.  When this occurs, it can significantly damage the crossbow, the case that it could be stored in, or a person that could be holding the crossbow.

Now, that’s never been an issue for me, but I know some irresponsible hunters that have left their crossbow in the cocked position for too long and have caused self-inflicted damage.  One person, in particular, has blown up their R26 (not the x) two years in a row because they left it cocked at the end of the season.

So, how can you prevent this catastrophic failure?  For starters, don’t leave the crossbow cocked back when not in use.  Secondly, you should replace your strings and cables every two or three years.  Be sure to inspect them and look for any frays or damage as they can fail quickly and without warning.

Ravin R6x Crossbow Review Summary

The Ravin R26x crossbow might be the best investment that I’ve ever made in hunting gear.  I hesitated for months in making such a large purchase but I have zero regrets.  The Ravin R26x helped my bonus son and I make a few memories that will last a lifetime.  Boston was able to have the confidence to take the shot when it was time to pull the trigger on his first deer, and I was confident that the crossbow would do its job as well.  He’s now shot three deer with this crossbow and each of which has dropped in sight.  I could’ve spent less money, but I couldn’t have found a better fit to our hunting arsenal than the Ravin R26x Crossbow!

Remember, when purchasing any crossbow or hunting gear, always ensure you adhere to local laws and regulations regarding crossbow use and hunting. Safety should always be a priority and be sure to keep you hands and fingers clear of the string when shooting.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Ravin R26x Crossbow

1. What is the speed of the Ravin R26x crossbow?
   • 400 feet per second
2. Is the R26x suitable for hunting large game like deer or elk?
   1. Yes, the Ravin R26x is ideal for large game animals like deer, elk, and bear.
3. How does the Versa-Draw cocking mechanism work, and is it easy to use?
   1. The Versa-Draw cocking mechanism is easy to use.  Simply unlock it and attach it to the string, then crank it back.  You can also let the string down by using the Versa-Draw cocking mechanism.  A unique feature that not all crossbows offer.
4. What type of arrows are compatible with the Ravin R26x?
   1. Utilize the Ravin 400 crossbow bolts.
5. Can the R26x be equipped with a different scope or sight?
   1. Yes, there are plenty of great crossbow scopes on the market that will fit the Ravin R26x.  Just make sure it’s rated for 400 fps.
6. How accurate is the crossbow at various distances?
   1. If you can hold it steady, it will hit it.  It’s not uncommon to practice at distances of 100 yards from a rest with field points.  Broadheads can vary on accuracy.
7. Does the package include a case or sling for easy transportation?
   1. No, a case nor sling is included.
8. What is the warranty coverage for the Ravin R26x?
   1. Five-year non-transferrable limited warranty.
9. How loud is the crossbow when fired?
   1. It’s not quiet, but no crossbow is.  TBD on a decibel rating.
10. Can the R26x be used by both left-handed and right-handed shooters?
    1. Yes, the Ravin R26x can be utilized by both left and right-handed shooters.