Barnett, a trusted name in the crossbow industry, has introduced two impressive recurve crossbows this year: the Barnett Wildcat and the Barnett Blackcat. These models combine traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality, offering users a reliable and efficient shooting experience. With their classic design and performance-driven features, these crossbows are built to satisfy both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
Recurve crossbows are gaining in popularity. This is mainly due to the fact that they require little maintenance, you can easily replace the strings at home. Recurve crossbows are a great option for new crossbow shooters who want a straightforward, easy-to-use design.
Both of these crossbows come in a “Ready-to-Shoot” package with a premium dot sight, two 18-inch aluminum crossbow arrows/bolts, a lightweight quiver, and lubrication wax.
This year, Barnett also released the ultra-compact TS380, the Hypertac 420, and the Explorer compound crossbow series.
Table of Contents
Barnett Blackcat & Wildcat Crossbow Specs
Barnett Blackcat  | |
260 FPS | 260 FPS |
35.5″ | 35.5″ |
28″ / 22″ | 28″ / 22″ |
4.8 lbs | 4.8 lbs |
195 lbs. | 195 lbs. |
Size and Weight
One of the standout features of the Blackcat and Wildcat recurve crossbows is their traditional, simple design. Both models emphasize functionality by keeping the number of movable parts to a minimum, reducing the need for complex maintenance and increasing overall durability. Their classic appearance is complemented by practical dimensions that balance performance with ease of handling.
Though not the most compact recurve crossbows on the market, their well-thought-out design ensures they remain lightweight and easy to manage. The total length of both crossbows is 35.5 inches, or 32 inches without the stirrup. The uncocked axle-to-axle width measures 28 inches, reducing to 22 inches when cocked. Despite these generous dimensions, both models are surprisingly lightweight, tipping the scales at only 4.8 pounds (without accessories).
Construction and Design
The Wildcat and Blackcat crossbows are built with a sturdy yet lightweight stock, complemented by safe finger guards and a pass-through foregrip for a secure and comfortable hold. These well-balanced crossbows are comfortable to shoulder, enhancing stability and accuracy during use.
Like most Barnett crossbows, these are highly customizable. Each model features three Picatinny rails, allowing users to attach a variety of accessories, such as optics, additional quivers, flashlights, or other tactical gear to enhance their shooting experience.
To minimize vibration and noise, both models are equipped with a rubberized anti-vibration foot stirrup, which helps dampen sound during shooting. Additionally, Barnett has installed track-mounted string dampeners to further reduce string noise, providing a quieter and smoother firing experience.
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Barnett Blackcat | Barnett Wildcat |
Barnett’s attention to detail is evident in the crossbows’ finishes. The Wildcat features a high-quality camo pattern that blends seamlessly into outdoor environments, while the Blackcat showcases a sleek Black Strike design that exudes modern appeal. Both finishes are expertly crafted, combining function and style to meet the preferences of different users.
Arrows and Speed
The Barnett Blackcat and Wildcat are capable of firing arrows at speeds between 250 to 260 fps when tested with 380-grain arrows. While Barnett’s speed tests achieved these results using arrows of a specific weight, the included 18-inch aluminum arrows in the package are slightly lighter than 380 grains. Although they may not reach the maximum advertised speed, these high-quality arrows are more than capable for both practice and hunting applications, providing excellent durability and consistent performance.
Each crossbow package includes a lightweight side-mount quiver capable of securely holding up to four arrows. The quiver’s convenient design allows for easy attachment and quick access during shooting sessions, making it practical for both target practice and hunting trips.
Optics
Both the Wildcat and Blackcat are equipped with a high-quality red dot sight included in their “Ready-to-Shoot” package. This sight enhances shooting accuracy by providing a clear point of aim, making it easier for users to quickly acquire targets. The red dot scope offers multi-brightness settings, allowing for adjustments based on lighting conditions during shooting. Its precision and reliability make it suitable for both novice shooters and experienced hunters. Additionally, the crossbows’ Picatinny rail system allows for easy upgrades to more advanced optics, should users desire enhanced magnification or additional features.
Cocking
Cocking the Barnett Wildcat and Blackcat recurve crossbows is straightforward, thanks to their user-friendly design. Both models are compatible with rope cocking devices, which help reduce the draw weight by up to 50%, making the cocking process much easier and less strenuous. For users seeking an even simpler solution, these crossbows can also accommodate crank cocking devices, which provide effortless cocking with minimal physical exertion.
The manual cocking process involves placing the foot in the stirrup to stabilize the crossbow while drawing the string back evenly until it locks into place. This method ensures a consistent draw, which is essential for accuracy and performance. The lightweight design and balanced frame of these crossbows further contribute to ease of handling during the cocking process.
Trigger and Safety
Barnett has equipped both the Blackcat and Wildcat with a high-quality MIM (Metal Injection Mold) trigger system, ensuring tight tolerances for a smooth and consistent trigger pull. This premium trigger design enhances the shooting experience by providing a crisp release, which can improve accuracy.
Both crossbows feature built-in safety mechanisms for added user protection:
Finger Safety Reminders: Built into the design to keep hands safely below the flight deck, minimizing the risk of injury during shooting.
Ambidextrous Auto-Safety: Automatically engages when cocking the crossbow, preventing unintentional discharge.
Anti-Dry Fire Mechanism: Prevents the crossbow from firing without an arrow loaded, reducing the risk of damage to the crossbow and ensuring safer operation.
Range Test
The Blackcat and Wildcat crossbows are designed for ease of handling and comfortable shooting. Their stocks rest snugly against the shoulder, and the innovative “pass-through” design enhances both stability and comfort. Thanks to their lightweight construction and agile design, these crossbows are ideal for dynamic “run-and-gun” scenarios and are equally suited for use in tree stands or ground blinds.
During our performance testing with a chronograph, using the included aluminum arrows, we recorded a top velocity of 255.6 feet per second. This consistent speed underscores the precision engineering behind these crossbows.
The trigger mechanism delivers a smooth, crisp pull with minimal noise. It operates without unwanted vibrations or perceivable creep, providing a clean and controlled shooting experience.
A standout feature is the exceptional quietness of these crossbows, thanks to their advanced dampening systems. Barnett has equipped them with track-mounted string dampeners and a rubberized anti-vibration foot stirrup, significantly reducing noise and enhancing stealth during use.
Our Verdict
The Barnett Wildcat and Blackcat recurve crossbows offer a perfect blend of tradition, performance, and ease of use. Whether you are a novice looking to enter the world of crossbow shooting or an experienced enthusiast seeking a reliable backup, these models deliver exceptional value and functionality. With their “Ready-to-Shoot” packages and user-friendly designs, Barnett continues to set the standard for high-quality crossbows.
If you’re considering a durable, low-maintenance crossbow that delivers on performance, these crossbows are worthy contenders to elevate your shooting experience.
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Barnett Blackcat | Barnett Wildcat |
Recommended Accessories
The Blackcat and Wildcat crossbows are designed for both seasoned hunters and beginners, offering exceptional power, precision, and comfort. However, like any quality piece of equipment, their full potential can be unlocked with the right accessories. From improving accuracy and ease of use to enhancing comfort and safety, accessories can elevate your crossbow experience. Whether you’re hunting in the woods, shooting targets in your backyard, or preparing for the next hunting season, having the right gear is essential.
Arrows and Broadheads
For optimal performance with your Blackcat or Wildcat crossbow, I highly recommend investing in a 5-pack of Barnett 16075 Headhunter 20-inch arrows. These arrows are designed to provide exceptional accuracy and durability, making them perfect for both target practice and hunting. With a length of 20 inches, they offer the ideal balance of speed and power for crossbows, ensuring precise shots at varying distances.
Pair these arrows with Rage Crossbow X Broadheads for an unmatched combination of performance and effectiveness. These broadheads are specifically optimized for crossbow use, offering superior accuracy and devastating wound channels on impact. The 100 grain or 125 grain options provide versatility, allowing you to choose the perfect weight for your hunting needs. The 2-inch cutting diameter ensures maximum damage to your target, making them ideal for big game and ensuring a quicker, cleaner kill. Together, the Barnett Headhunter arrows and Rage Crossbow X Broadheads create a powerful, reliable setup for any hunter looking to enhance their crossbow performance.
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20-inch Barnett 16075 Headhunter arrows | Rage Crossbow X Broadheads |
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Storage and Transportation
The Blackcat and Wildcat crossbows do not come with a crossbow case, so investing in a case is essential to protect your gear during storage and transport. I recommend the Soft Crossbow Case from Yeesport as an excellent option. This case is both budget-friendly and built for durability, offering long-lasting protection without breaking the bank.
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