Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR vs Whitetail Hunter II
When it comes to choosing the best crossbow, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR and the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II are two top picks among hunters and target shooters alike.
Both of these Barnett models offer powerful performance and a variety of features that make them great choices for different skill levels and hunting situations.
When comparing the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR and the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II, it’s clear that both are great crossbows that offer a lot of value for the money at a similar price range. However, there are some key differences that may make one model more suitable for your needs than the other.
Model | Whitetail Hunter STR | Whitetail Hunter II |
Weight | 6.6 pounds | 6.4 pounds |
Speed (feet per second) | 375 | 350 |
Kinetic Energy | 118.6 ft lbs | 103 |
Draw Weight | 180 lbs. | 160 lbs. |
Picatinny Rails | Yes | Yes |
Included Accessories | 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, Two 22″ Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, Rope Cocking Device, Lubrication Wax | 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, Rope Cocking Device, Lightweight Quiver, two 20″ Headhunter Arrows, Lube Wax. Ships mostly assembled |
Orientation | Ambidextrous | Ambidextrous |
Color | Mossy Oak Bottomland | Realtree Xtra |
Additional Features | *TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology™ *Single Bolt Assembly *Fiberglass Composite Step-Through Riser *Soft-Lok™ Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer *Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System *Metal Injection Molded (MIM) Trigger *Custom Composite Laminated *Limbs *One Picatinny Rail *Crank Cocking Device Compatible *Finger Safety Reminders | *TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology™ *Single Bolt Assembly *Magnesium Riser *Soft-Lok™ Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer *Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System *Metal Injection Molded (MIM) Trigger *Custom Composite Laminated Limbs *7/8” Picatinny Rails *Crank Cocking Device Compatible *Finger Safety Reminders *Pass-Through Foregrip *Anti-Vibration Foot Stirrup |
Package Price | $499.99 Price on Amazon | $399.99 Price on Amazon |
Introduction
Welcome to our comparison blog on the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR and Barnett Whitetail Hunter II crossbows.
Barnett Crossbows is a well-known and respected name in the crossbow industry, known for its innovative designs, high-quality manufacturing, and great customer service. They manufacture some of the best compound crossbows on the market, right here in the USA.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR crossbow is a powerful and advanced crossbow that is perfect for experienced hunters and target shooters. With a power stroke of 15.4375 inches, it provides a significant amount of kinetic energy to each shot, making it ideal for taking down larger game or making long-range shots.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is a great choice for entry-level crossbow users, with a power stroke of 12.5 inches, it’s a bit easier to cock compared to other crossbows, making it a good option for those who may not have the strength or experience to handle a heavier draw weight.
When it comes to selecting the best crossbow, it’s important to consider your skill level, intended use, and budget.
For experienced hunters and target shooters who are looking for a high-performance crossbow, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is a great choice. However, for those on a budget or who are new to using crossbows, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is a great option that offers a lot of value for the money.
Crossbows are not just for hunting but also for target shooting, both Barnett models are great options for both activities. With a crossbow, you can take down big game such as deer, bear, and even elk, but also you can use it for target shooting practice and competitions.
With the right crossbow and proper technique, you can take your hunting and target shooting skills to the next level.
In this blog, we will be comparing the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR and Barnett Whitetail Hunter II in depth, highlighting their key features, differences, and similarities. We will also provide detailed information on how to properly select a crossbow, how to use it safely, and what kind of hunting can be done with a crossbow.
We hope this blog will help you make an informed decision when choosing the right crossbow for your needs.
Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is a powerful and advanced crossbow that is perfect for experienced hunters and target shooters. This crossbow has a power stroke of 15.4375 inches, which provides a significant amount of kinetic energy to each shot. This makes it ideal for taking down larger game or making long-range shots.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR also has a draw weight of 180 pounds, which makes it a bit more difficult to cock compared to other crossbows. However, this also means that it has more energy behind each shot, providing greater accuracy and power.
One of the key features of the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is its frictionless release technology. This technology allows for a smooth and consistent trigger pull, giving you greater accuracy and control with each shot.
Additionally, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR has a free-floating roller, which helps to reduce friction and wear on the string and cables.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR also features a step-through riser design. This reduces the length of the crossbow by integrating the foot stirrup directly into the riser.
This provides greater stability and accuracy when shooting. This design also makes it easy to cock and ready to fire, as well as improve the overall balance of the crossbow.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR also features an adjustable butt stock, which can be adjusted to fit different sized shooters, ensuring a great fit and greater comfort while shooting.
Another great feature of the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is its finger safety reminders. These reminders help to ensure that your fingers are in the right position when firing, reducing the risk of injury and increasing your overall safety.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR also features a Triggertech trigger, which is a high-quality trigger system that provides a smooth and consistent trigger pull, making it easy to shoot accurately.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR also has a compact design, making it easy to handle in tight spaces. It also comes with a pass-through foregrip and is cocking crank compatible, making it easy to cock and ready to fire.
The crossbow package also includes picatinny rails, which allows you to mount accessories such as scopes and lights. Additionally, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR includes a lightweight quiver, field points, and a 4x32mm multi-reticle scope, making it a great value for the money.
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II, on the other hand, is a great choice for entry-level crossbow users.
This crossbow has a power stroke of 12.5 inches, which provides a good amount of kinetic energy to each shot. It also has a draw weight of 160 pounds, which makes it a bit easier to cock compared to other crossbows.
One of the key features of the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is its lightweight quiver. This quiver makes it easy to carry your arrows with you, and it also helps to protect them from damage.
Additionally, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II comes with a rope cocker, which makes it easy to cock and ready to fire. The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II also features a side mount quiver, which provides easy access to your arrows while hunting.
Just like the Whitetail STR, the Whitetail II has the comfort and control features of a Triggertech trigger and an adjustable butt stock.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II also has a compact design, making it easy to handle in tight spaces.
The crossbow package also includes a picatinny rail, which allows you to mount accessories such as scopes and lights. The Barnett Whitetail Hunter II also includes a lightweight quiver, field points, and a 4x32mm multi-reticle scope, making it a great value for the money.
Comparison
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is a more powerful and advanced crossbow, making it a better choice for experienced hunters and target shooters who are looking for a crossbow with greater kinetic energy and a longer power stroke.
The STR model also offers more advanced features such as frictionless release technology, a free-floating roller, and finger safety reminders, which provide greater accuracy and safety.
On the other hand, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is a more affordable and user-friendly crossbow, making it a great choice for entry-level crossbow users or those on a budget.
The Whitetail II model is also lighter and easier to cock, making it a better choice for those who may have difficulty with the heavier draw weight of the STR model.
Both the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR and the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II feature Barnett’s innovative design, which includes a bristle arrow retainer, nock sensors, and an anti-dry fire mechanism.
These safety features ensure that your crossbow is safe to use and that accidental dry fires are avoided.
Additionally, both models feature a one-bolt assembly, which makes it easy to assemble your crossbow and get started with your hunting or target shooting.
Barnett Company
Barnett Outdoors, LLC is the world’s leading manufacturer of crossbow, archery and slingshot products.
Their success story started small in 1962 when Bernard Barnett pursued his hobby working with crossbows in his garage in the United Kingdom. His acquaintances were impressed by his handiwork, and the company was born.
The American market resulted in additional product lines, a streamlined manufacturing processes and cost reduction that brought operations to the U.S.A. permanently in 2003.
In terms of customer service, Barnett is known for its great customer service, ensuring that you have a great experience with your crossbow purchase.
Whether you are a hunter or a target shooter, both the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR and the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II are great choices that offer amazing power and performance in a compact, lightweight package.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR and the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II are both great crossbows that offer a lot of value for the money.
The Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR is a more powerful and advanced crossbow, making it a better choice for experienced hunters and target shooters, while the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II is a more affordable and user-friendly crossbow, making it a great choice for entry-level crossbow users or those on a budget.
Both models are designed with safety in mind, featuring anti-dry fire mechanism, one-bolt assembly and string dampeners, ensuring that accidental dry fires are avoided.
You can’t go wrong with either of these Barnett models, it just depends on your specific needs and preferences.
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Types of Animals You Can Hunt With a Crossbow
When it comes to hunting with a crossbow, you’ll be able to take down a variety of different animals. Here are some of the most common animals that can be hunted with a crossbow:
- Whitetail deer: One of the most popular game animals to hunt with a crossbow is the whitetail deer. They’re found throughout North America and provide a challenging hunt.
- Turkey: Turkey hunting can be a great experience with a crossbow, especially if you’re looking for a challenging hunt.
- Elk: Elk can be hunted with a crossbow, but it requires a powerful crossbow and a good shot placement.
- Bear: Bear hunting with a crossbow is a challenging but rewarding experience. It’s important to have a powerful crossbow and a good shot placement when hunting bear.
- Small Game: Crossbows can also be used to hunt small game such as squirrels, raccoons and other small animals, but you’ll want to use smaller broadheads to avoid over-penetration.
- Hogs: Wild hogs are an invasive species in many areas of the country and are a popular game animal to hunt with a crossbow.
- Moose: Moose hunting with a crossbow is a challenging but rewarding experience. It’s important to have a powerful crossbow and a good shot placement when hunting moose.
It’s important to note that crossbows are powerful weapons and should be used by experienced hunters.
Before heading out for a hunt, make sure you’re familiar with the laws and regulations of the area you’ll be hunting in and always follow safety guidelines.
Remember that hunting is a privilege and it’s important to be ethical and respect the animals that we hunt.
Choosing a Crossbow
When choosing a crossbow, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the right one for you.
- Skill Level: Think about your experience with using crossbows. If you’re new to using crossbows, it’s best to start with a simpler model that’s easy to cock and handle. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced hunter or target shooter, you may want a more powerful and advanced crossbow.
- Intended Use: Consider what you’ll be using the crossbow for. If you’re primarily using it for hunting big game, you’ll want a crossbow that’s powerful enough to take down larger animals. If you’re using it for target shooting, you’ll want a crossbow that’s accurate and has a smooth trigger pull.
- Budget: Crossbows vary in price, so it’s important to have a budget in mind. While it’s important to invest in a quality crossbow, you don’t want to break the bank. There are many affordable options that still offer great features and performance.
- Size and weight: Think about the size and weight of the crossbow. You’ll want something that’s easy to handle and carry, especially if you’ll be using it for hunting.
- Safety features: Look for crossbows that have anti-dry fire mechanisms and safety reminders, these will ensure your safety when using it.
- Accessories: Consider what accessories you’ll need for your crossbow, such as a quiver, scope, and cocking device.
- Brand reputation: Do some research on the brand of the crossbow, look for brands with a good reputation for quality and customer service.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a crossbow that’s perfect for your skill level, intended use, and budget. Always follow safety guidelines when using a crossbow, and practice proper techniques to ensure your accuracy and safety.
Crossbow Safety
Using a crossbow safely is crucial to ensure your own safety and the safety of others. Here are some tips to keep in mind when using a crossbow:
- Always read the instruction manual before using your crossbow. This will give you important information on how to properly use and maintain your crossbow.
- Always check to make sure the crossbow is unloaded before handling it. This means making sure there is no arrow or bolt in the crossbow and the string is not cocked.
- Always use a cocking device when cocking the string. This will help to prevent injury and make it easier to cock the string.
- Always use a proper arrow or bolt for your crossbow. Using the wrong type of arrow or bolt can damage your crossbow and cause injury.
- Always use the safety when firing your crossbow. This will prevent accidental dry fires and keep you safe while using your crossbow.
- Always keep your fingers and other body parts away from the string and cables when cocking or firing your crossbow. This will prevent injury.
- Always use a backstop when shooting your crossbow. This will prevent arrows or bolts from going into areas where they can cause damage or injury.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and never shoot at anything you are not sure of. Make sure you know what is behind your target and what is in front of it.
By following these tips, you can safely use your crossbow and enjoy it for many years to come. Safety always comes first, so be sure to follow all safety guidelines when using a crossbow.
Accuracy Shooting Tips
To ensure accuracy when shooting a crossbow, it’s important to use proper technique. Here are some tips to help you improve your accuracy:
- Stand with a stable stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. This will help you to stay steady while shooting your crossbow.
- Use a proper grip: Hold the crossbow with both hands and grip it firmly but not too tight. This will help you to maintain control of the crossbow while shooting.
- Use the scope: Look through the scope and align the crosshairs with your target. This will help you to aim accurately.
- Take a deep breath: Take a deep breath, then hold it while aiming. This will help you to steady your hand and improve your accuracy.
- Release the trigger smoothly: Release the trigger smoothly, don’t pull it too hard or too fast. A smooth trigger release will help you to shoot accurately.
- Follow through: After releasing the trigger, keep your aim steady for a moment before lowering your crossbow. This will help you to improve your accuracy.
- Practice: The more you practice, the better you’ll get at shooting your crossbow. Practice different shooting positions and aim at different targets to improve your accuracy.
By following these tips, you can improve your accuracy when shooting a crossbow. Don’t forget that accuracy takes time and practice, so be patient and keep working on your technique.
Tips for Hunting Whitetail with a Crossbow
- Use a crossbow with enough power: Make sure your crossbow has enough power to take down a whitetail deer. A crossbow with a draw weight of 150 pounds or more is recommended.
- Use a broadhead with a large cutting diameter: Use a broadhead with a large cutting diameter to ensure a clean kill.
- Use a good quality scope: Use a good quality scope with crosshairs that are easy to see in low light conditions.
- Use a bipod or tripod: Use a bipod or tripod to steady your crossbow while taking a shot.
- Practice your shooting: Practice your shooting so you’re comfortable and confident when it’s time to take your shot.
- Choose the right time to hunt: Whitetail deer are most active during the early morning and late evening. Try to hunt during these times for the best chance of success.
- Use decoys: Use decoys to attract whitetail deer to your hunting area.
- Use scent eliminator: Use a scent eliminator to reduce your human odor and keep from alerting the deer of your presence.
- Use camouflage: Use camouflage clothing and face paint to blend in with your surroundings.
- Stay downwind: Stay downwind of the deer so they don’t smell you.
- Be patient: Be patient and wait for the right shot opportunity. Don’t rush your shot and take your time.
- Stay quiet: Stay quiet while hunting to avoid alerting the deer of your presence.
- Use a rangefinder: Use a rangefinder to determine the distance to your target.
- Use a release aid: Use a release aid to ensure a smooth and consistent trigger pull.
- Follow the laws: Follow all hunting laws and regulations in your area to ensure a safe and ethical hunt.
- Know the terrain: Before heading out for a hunt, take the time to familiarize yourself with the terrain. Look for natural funnels, food sources, and bedding areas that deer may use.
- Use a tree stand or ground blind: A tree stand or ground blind can offer a great vantage point for hunting and concealment.
- Use a trail camera: A trail camera can be a great way to monitor deer movement in an area. It can also help you to identify patterns in deer behavior.
- Use a grunt call: Using a grunt call can attract deer to your hunting area. It can also be a good way to get a shot opportunity.
- Be aware of the wind direction: Always be aware of the wind direction and make sure to stay downwind of the deer.
- Be stealthy: Move slowly and quietly to avoid alerting the deer of your presence.
- Practice ethical hunting: Always follow ethical hunting practices and respect the game you’re hunting.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for hunting whitetail deer with a crossbow.
Thanks for reading! Happy hunting!