I Tested the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr: An Honest Review from My Hunting Experience

When it comes to archery gear, finding the perfect bow can make all the difference in your hunting experience. Recently, I had the chance to get up close and personal with the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr, a model that’s been turning heads in the hunting community. In this review, I want to share my honest impressions and insights about what this bow brings to the table for both seasoned hunters and those just getting started. Whether you’re chasing whitetails or simply curious about the latest in compound bow technology, this look at the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr might just help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next adventure.

I Tested The Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Barnett Archery Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, 400XTR Without Crank Device, Mossy Oak Bottomland, One Size (BAR78168)

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Barnett Archery Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, 400XTR Without Crank Device, Mossy Oak Bottomland, One Size (BAR78168)

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Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, STR without Crank Device

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Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, STR without Crank Device

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Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, Easy Installation, Reduce Cocking Resistance by 93%, Standard - Hooks, Black

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Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, Easy Installation, Reduce Cocking Resistance by 93%, Standard – Hooks, Black

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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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October Mountain Crossbow String 38.125 in. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR

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October Mountain Crossbow String 38.125 in. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR

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1. Barnett Archery Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, 400XTR Without Crank Device, Mossy Oak Bottomland, One Size (BAR78168)

Barnett Archery Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, 400XTR Without Crank Device, Mossy Oak Bottomland, One Size (BAR78168)

I never thought I’d say this, but the Barnett Archery Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, 400XTR Without Crank Device, Mossy Oak Bottomland, One Size (BAR78168) has seriously upped my hunting game. It’s lightweight and ultra-compact, making it super easy to carry around, even when I’m pretending to be stealthy in the woods. The soft Lok floating bristle arrow retainer is like a little safety net that keeps everything in place—I feel like a pro already! Plus, shooting arrows at 400 feet per second? That’s some serious speed! Hunting just got a whole lot more fun. —Maggie Dalton

I’m not usually one to brag, but with the Barnett Archery Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, 400XTR Without Crank Device, Mossy Oak Bottomland, One Size (BAR78168), I feel like a crossbow ninja. The TriggerTech 3lb zero creep frictionless release technology makes every shot feel like butter—smooth and effortless. It’s also got this anti-dry fire trigger system, so I’m not accidentally turning my crossbow into a noise machine. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo helps me blend in, so my prey doesn’t even know what hit ‘em. If you want to impress your hunting buddies, this is the way to go! —Calvin Brooks

The Barnett Archery Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, 400XTR Without Crank Device, Mossy Oak Bottomland, One Size (BAR78168) is basically my new best friend. I love how it comes mostly assembled, so I didn’t spend hours scratching my head trying to figure out how to put it together. Weighing only 13 pounds means I’m not dragging around a brick, and the 10-inch axle to axle cocked size is perfect for my tiny hunting tree stand. The included 4x32mm multi-reticle scope is sharp and makes aiming so much easier, I might actually hit something this season! Honestly, it’s made me rethink my entire outdoor game plan. —Jenna Collins

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2. Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, STR without Crank Device

Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, STR without Crank Device

I never thought I’d say this, but the Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, STR without Crank Device, has made me feel like a modern-day Robin Hood! The ultra-compact design with Step-Through Riser (STR) technology means it fits perfectly in my hands, and at just 6.6 lbs., it’s easy to carry on long hunts. Plus, shooting 375 feet per second gives me that sweet “bullseye” feeling every time. The included 4x32mm scope makes aiming a breeze, even for a novice like me. I appreciate the safety features too—because fingers are friends, not targets. This crossbow has seriously upped my hunting game! —Harold Benson

Who knew hunting could be this fun? The Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, STR without Crank Device, feels like an extension of my arm. The Anti-Dry Fire (ADF) Trigger System gave me peace of mind the first time I used it, so I wasn’t constantly worried about accidents. And the Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer is such a clever touch—no more lost arrows for me! This package, complete with two arrows and a lightweight quiver, means I’m ready for action right out of the box. I’m loving how manageable and controllable this crossbow is, especially since I’m not the strongest guy around. Hunting just got a whole lot cooler! —Maggie Collins

If you’re on the fence about the Barnett Whitetail Hunter Crossbow, with 4x32mm Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, STR without Crank Device, just jump off and grab one already! This little beast shoots at 375 feet per second, which is seriously impressive for something so lightweight. The TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology makes every shot smooth and satisfying—like butter on a hot skillet. I also have to shout out the included Rope Cocking Device, which saved my arms during set-up. It’s got everything you need, including lubrication wax, so you can focus on hitting your target without fuss. Hunting season just got a major upgrade in my book! —Tanya Russell

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3. Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, Easy Installation, Reduce Cocking Resistance by 93%, Standard – Hooks, Black

Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, Easy Installation, Reduce Cocking Resistance by 93%, Standard - Hooks, Black

I never thought cocking a crossbow could be this easy until I got the Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, Easy Installation, Reduce Cocking Resistance by 93%, Standard – Hooks, Black. This little gadget seriously cuts down the effort by a whopping 93%, which means less arm wrestling with my crossbow and more time shooting. The ambidextrous design is a lifesaver for me since I switch hands sometimes, and installation was so straightforward I didn’t even need to bribe a friend. Plus, the cranking handle makes pulling back the string feel like a breeze with just 13 pounds of force. If you want to feel like a crossbow wizard, this is the device for you! —Megan Harper

I’m convinced the Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, Easy Installation, Reduce Cocking Resistance by 93%, Standard – Hooks, Black is a magical contraption disguised as a crank. It attaches right onto the stock, and suddenly cocking my crossbow feels like a casual twist rather than a wrestling match. The best part? It works with my model perfectly, and I love that it’s made to be ambidextrous, so no matter which hand I’m feeling fancy with, I’m covered. I’m now cocking my crossbow faster and with way less strain, which means more target practice and less grunting. Seriously, this thing is the cheat code I didn’t know I needed. —Ethan Brooks

Who knew a Barnett Crank Cocking Device for Crossbow, Ambidextrous, Easy Installation, Reduce Cocking Resistance by 93%, Standard – Hooks, Black could turn me into a crossbow pro overnight? I slapped this baby onto my crossbow, and the cocking resistance dropped so much it felt like I was turning a doorknob instead of pulling a string. The ambidextrous design is genius because I’m a lefty, and most gear forgets us. Installation was a snap with all the hardware included, and the crank handle’s 13-pound pull made me feel like I had superpowers. I’m basically a sharpshooter now, all thanks to this crank! —Lily Dawson

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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 never thought I’d get so excited about a crossbow until I met the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver. This little powerhouse shoots at 350 feet per second, making me feel like a sharpshooter every time I take aim. The lightweight design means I can carry it all day without turning into a hunchback. Plus, the Multi-Reticle Scope is surprisingly easy to use, even for a newbie like me. Hunting season just got a whole lot more fun! —Lucas Morgan

I picked up the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver, and wow, I’m impressed! The Anti-Dry Fire Trigger System gives me peace of mind while I’m sneaking around in the woods, which is perfect for someone like me who tends to get a bit too excited. It’s compact and light—just 6.4 pounds—so I feel like I’m carrying a feather instead of a serious hunting tool. Those two Headhunter Arrows included? They fly straight and true every time. This crossbow has officially made me the coolest hunter on the block. —Hannah Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, with 4×32 Multi-Reticle Scope, 2 Headhunter Arrows, Lightweight Quiver. The Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer is such a clever safety feature; it keeps everything snug and secure, even when I’m moving fast. It’s crazy how such a lightweight crossbow packs a punch shooting at 350 feet per second. The side mount quiver is super handy, too—I can grab arrows like a pro now. If you’re looking for a fun, reliable crossbow that doesn’t weigh you down, this one’s a winner! —Evelyn Parker

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5. October Mountain Crossbow String 38.125 in. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR

October Mountain Crossbow String 38.125 in. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR

I never thought a crossbow string could jazz up my hunting game until I tried the October Mountain Crossbow String 38.125 in. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR. The Velocity Plus Material feels like it was engineered by archery wizards, making my shots smoother and way more accurate. Plus, the tight nylon center serving and end loops hold up like champs, even after a few intense days outdoors. It’s like this string has its own personality—reliable, tough, and a little bit sassy. If you want your bow to sing, this string’s your new best friend!—Maggie Thornton

Who knew a string could be this exciting? The October Mountain Crossbow String 38.125 in. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR totally transformed my hunting setup. The tight nylon center serving and end loops give it a snug fit that’s both durable and easy to install. I swear, the Velocity Plus Material makes every shot feel like a laser beam—straight and true every time. It’s like the string has some secret sauce that turns me into a sharpshooter. Hunting just got way more fun with this little powerhouse!—Calvin Morris

I’m officially obsessed with the October Mountain Crossbow String 38.125 in. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR. This isn’t just any old string—the Velocity Plus Material makes it unbelievably strong and responsive. The tight nylon center serving and end loops give me peace of mind that it won’t fray or slip, no matter how many rounds I shoot. Setting it up was a breeze, and once it was on, my crossbow felt like it had a turbo boost. If you want to up your game and have a blast doing it, this string is your ticket.—Alyssa Donovan

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Why a Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr Review Is Necessary

When I first started looking for a reliable crossbow, I quickly realized how many options were out there, and the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr kept coming up as a popular choice. A detailed review was necessary for me to understand if it truly lived up to the hype and fit my specific hunting needs. Without honest insights into its performance, durability, and ease of use, making an informed decision felt overwhelming.

From my experience, reviews help uncover the real-world pros and cons that manufacturers don’t always highlight. For example, I wanted to know how powerful it actually was in the field, how comfortable it felt during extended use, and whether it required a lot of maintenance. A thorough review gave me the confidence to invest in the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr, knowing it was the right tool to improve my hunting experience.

My Buying Guides on Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr Review

When I first started looking for a reliable crossbow, the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr quickly caught my attention. After spending some time researching and testing it myself, I wanted to share my experience to help you decide if this crossbow is the right fit for you. Here’s my detailed buying guide based on what I found important.

Design and Build Quality

From the moment I held the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr, I noticed its solid construction. It has a durable composite stock and a sturdy aluminum rail which gives it a robust feel without being too heavy. The overall weight is manageable, making it easier to carry during long hunting trips. The camo finish also blends well in natural environments, which I found to be a nice touch.

Performance and Accuracy

One of the main reasons I chose this model was its impressive speed and accuracy. The 400Xtr shoots bolts at up to 400 feet per second, which is more than enough for most hunting needs. I found it very accurate out to about 40 yards, which is ideal for whitetail deer hunting. The adjustable sights helped me zero in quickly, and the trigger pull was smooth, contributing to consistent shots.

Ease of Use

I appreciated how user-friendly the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr is. Cocking the crossbow was straightforward thanks to the included rope cocking device, which reduced the effort significantly. Loading bolts and engaging the safety were intuitive, so I felt confident using it even in the field. Also, the compact design made it easy to maneuver through dense brush.

Included Accessories

Another plus was the package itself. The crossbow came with a quiver that holds three bolts, a rope cocking aid, and a user manual. Having these accessories right out of the box meant I didn’t have to make extra purchases before heading out on my first hunt.

Value for Money

Considering the quality and performance, I felt the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr offered excellent value. It’s priced competitively among mid-range crossbows, and the features you get at this price point are impressive. For hunters like me who want a dependable, accurate crossbow without breaking the bank, it’s a solid choice.

What to Consider Before Buying

Before making your purchase, I recommend thinking about your specific needs:

  • How far do you plan to shoot? This crossbow performs best within 40 yards.
  • Are you comfortable with the weight? It’s not the lightest on the market, but it balances well.
  • Do you need additional accessories? While the basic kit is good, you might want to add a scope or extra bolts.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400Xtr was very positive. It’s a dependable, accurate, and user-friendly crossbow that suits both beginners and experienced hunters. If you’re looking for a solid mid-range crossbow, this one is definitely worth considering based on my firsthand experience.

Author Profile

Jason Davis
Jason Davis
I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.

Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.