Here’s our Ravin R20 crossbow review. The Ravin R20 is the further development of the R15 Predator. This high-end crossbow contains Ravin’s Helicoil technology and offers rifle-like accuracy in an ultra-compact package. We also reviewed the R10, which is the successor of the R9 Predator, and the R26.
In the package, we found the Ravin R20 crossbow, a 100 yard illuminated scope, three-arrow quiver, draw handle, a six-pack of 400-grain match grade .003 arrows, field points, accessories bracket, and a user manual.
The Ravin R20 is also available in gunmetal grey camo.
Table of Contents
Ravin R20 Crossbow Specs
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Size and Weight
The Ravin R20 is an ultra-compact crossbow that features an axle to axle width of 10.5-inches uncocked and only 6 inches once cocked. The crossbow has a total length of 34.5 inches. The R10 is packed with technology but Ravin succeeded to cut as much weight as possible. The Ravin R20 tips our scales at only 7.1 pounds (barebow).
Design and Construction
The R20 looks great. The crossbow has a gun-like appearance that will be enjoyed by crossbow lovers as well as gun enthusiasts. The Ravin R20 has a polymer stock and a pistol grip that has some texture on it with finger grooves. Its ambidextrous design makes the crossbow suited for both right-handed shooters and left-handed shooters.
The Ravin R10 is powered by Helicoil Technology which allows the cams to rotate 340-degrees for enhanced balance and accuracy. The Helicoil cams also enable the Frictionless Flight System to work. This system ensures that the cable barely touches the rails and there is no downward pressure on the arrow. As a result, the string is not slowed down and barely wears.
Speed and Arrows
We used Ravin’s arrows(400-grain) that are included in the package to speed test the Ravin R20. On the chronograph that we use to speed test all crossbows that pass our review table, we measured speeds between 377 and 422.4 fps.
WARNING: DO NOT USE NON-RAVIN ARROWS OR NOCKS WITH YOUR RAVIN CROSSBOW!
Scope
The Ravin R20 comes with an illuminated long-range precision scope that you can adjust anywhere between 20 and 200 yards. The scope has multi-coated lenses and 1-8x magnification. The glass is crystal clear to look through and the scope is 100% fog proof, 100% waterproof. The scope is also shock and kickback resistant. It is an excellent scope that leaves most factory scopes far behind in terms of quality and functionality.
Cocking
The R20 is equipped with a built-in crank cocking system called Versa Draw. This is a safe crank cocking system that allows you to effortlessly cock the crossbow with a handle. You’ll only have to draw 12 lbs of weight with the crank. The handle is of course detachable.
This cocking mechanism also makes sure that the crossbow is cocked 100% evenly for an extra clean shot. Cocking by hand is not possible and you can’t release the crossbow half-cocked.
Trigger
The Ravin R20 comes with a three-pound Trac Trigger system. The trigger system features a patented built-in mechanism that slides forward on the rail and clasps directly to the precise center of the string every time the bow is drawn, allowing for straight-line nock travel.
The Trac-Trigger offers a crisp zero creep pull that doesn’t make too much noise and there are almost no vibrations.
The Trac Trigger system has a 2-position safety feature and anti-dry-fire technology to prevent you from accidentally dry firing the crossbow.
Assembly and Maintenance
Installing the Ravin R20 is easy. The crossbow comes fully assembled in the package. You only have to mount the scope and install the mounting bracket with the 3-arrow side mount quiver. If you are a beginner then we encourage you to read the Ravin user manual in the package. Wax the strings regularly and use handrail lube to keep the R20 in shape.
Verdict
The Ravin R20 is a fantastic crossbow that does it all. The R20 is well-designed and its construction feels expensive and durable. The crossbow is compact, comfortable to use, and extremely accurate. It is probably one of the most accurate crossbows in the world right now.
The crossbow comes with a fine high-end illuminated 100-yard scope, a crisp smooth trigger system, and an integrated crank cocking device for safe and effortless cocking. This beast of a crossbow and is made for hunting big and/or fast game.
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Recommended Accessories
Arrows & Broadheads
We recommend 400-grain Ravin Arrows. These arrows are made from 100 percent pure carbon and offer quiet, hard-hitting performance. They feature brass inserts and aluminum nock bushings.
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Combine the arrows with Ravin mechanical broadheads. These broadheads are optimised for crossbows with velocities up to 450 FPS.
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Storage and Transportation
We recommend buying a Ravin R182 Hard-Shell crossbow case to properly store and carry the Ravin R20.
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There is no crossbow sling included in the package. We recommend Ravin’s R260 padded crossbow shoulder sling. It is an adjustable 2 1/2-inch wide padded non-slip sling with a neoprene design.
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Our Rating of the Ravin R20
Summary
The Ravin R20 is a great crossbow and one of the finest crossbows that the brand has developed thus far. This powerful and fast crossbow is ultra-compact, lightweight, and holds like a rifle. The R20 is extremely accurate and comes with a long-range 100 yard illuminated scope. The crossbow also features an integrated crank cocking mechanism and a crisp zero creep trigger system.
What we like
- Powerful and Fast
- Extremely accurate
- Helicoil technology
- Durable construction
- Lightweight and ultra-compact
- Excellent 100-yard scope
What we don’t like
- Not able to release half-cocked
- You have to buy a case separately
