Crosman Arms
CenterPoint crossbows are among the highest quality in the world and are manufactured by the former Crosman Rifle Company, now known as Crosman Arms. Crosman Rifle Company was founded in 1923 in Rochester New York by Bertram Fenner. Fenner was the operations manager for Crosman Brothers’ Seed Company. The company agreed to produce pellets and an air gun based on William McLean’s patented design.
A few years later, Frank Hahn purchased Crosman rifle Company and gave it the name of Crossman Arms. His son P.Y. Hahn took over the company as its COE for the next 50 years. In the early 1970s, The Coleman Company, INC. acquired Crosman Arms. The manufacturing plant was moved to a location in East Bloomfield, New York, where it resides today, approximately 30 miles south of Rochester.
Pexco Holdings, Visible Impact Target Co. and Benjamin Sheridan Corp.
In August 1990, Pexco Holdings, Inc. purchased Crosman Arms. The company also acquired Visible Impact Target Company in a year later and the Benjamin Sheridan Corporation in February 1992. Benjamin Sheridan has since continued to be a dominant U.S. manufacturer of high-quality pneumatic and CO2-powered air guns.
Before being acquirement by Crosman Arms, Sheridan was one of the world’s top manufacturers of paintball guns. The good name of Sheridan lent itself well to the function of Crosman Arms. In 1994, the Benjamin Sheridan manufacturing operations centers in Racine, Wisconsin were transferred to the Crosman Arms East Bloomfield Facility in New York in a consolidation move.
At the start of 1997, Crosman was reacquired again by an investment group with a focus on market expansion, new product development and pairing the company’s strengths in design, manufacturing and distribution with advancements in business practices. This move served to catapult Crosman Arms into its present-day stronghold of marketing and consumer reach.
CenterPoint Precision Optics
By 2007, the company was able to expand its product offerings from the traditional air gun market to a new optics division called CenterPoint Precision Optics. In 2008, further diversification took place when Crosman Archery was added to the list of branded products, along with two new hunting crossbows and youth archery products.
CenterPoint and Everything Eichler
Today, Crosman Corporation is a thriving international designer and manufacturer of Crosman Pellet and BB rifles/pistols, Copperhead ammunition, high quality Benjamin pellet rifles and ammo, airsoft rifles and pistols, and precision optics. More than 300 people are currently employed by Crossman in the East Bloomfield area, with products being marketed all around the world as a leader in the air gun industry.
CenterPoint Archery is also in a partnership with Fred Eichler to produce award winning products that include the Sniper Elite Whisper 370, the Torment Whisper 390 and the Gladiator Whisper 405. CenterPoint is proud to announce its partnership with Fred Eichler as well as being the sponsor of his new TV show, Everything Eichler. Everything Eicher follows the adventures of Fred with his wife Michele, their three boys; 13 dogs including hounds, a golden retriever and a chocolate lab; and 10 horses. The family will be using a range of CenterPoint Crossbows in the TV show. Fred’s son Jeb has already bagged his first turkey of the season with the Sniper Elite Whisper 370.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Fred and his family on this new TV venture,” said Jay Duncan, Director of Marketing and Communications. Duncan believes that Eichler’s passion for hunting will add a fantastic element to the CenterPoint brand with its focus on quality archery equipment at a great value. CenterPoint expects the program to boost the image of CenterPoint crossbows exponentially.
CenterPoint Sniper 370
The Sniper 370 is the most popular crossbow made by CenterPoint. The crossbow offers performance for hunting that is hard to surpass with any other product. The fully adjustable stock with its pass-through foregrip allows you as the shooter to use your own unique style to achieve your best shot. Users of the Sniper 370 have reported high accuracy and straight shots right on target. The precision CNC-machined cam system delivers speeds of up to 370 feet per second. Even though the Sniper packs a pretty powerful punch, it is by no means cumbersome. The lightweight yet durable frame is CNC-machined with a shoot-through riser and a narrow 18-inch axle-to-axle width when cocked. Relaxed axle width is 21 inches. The draw-weight of this crossbow is 185 pounds for max power when it matters most. The Sniper 370 includes a 4×32 mm scope, three 20-inch carbon bolts, a quiver and a rope cocker. Anti-dry fire and auto-safety trigger mechanisms help prevent accidental discharge and dry-firing of the weapon. String suppressors integrated into its design help keep your shots quiet and free of vibrational disturbances.
Specs:
Dimensions: 33.6 x 11.3 x 5.4 inches
Weight 7.7 pounds
Draw weight: 185 pounds
Firing velocity: 370 feet per second
Stock style: Ambidextrous
Stock material: Composite/Aluminum
Assembly instructions and tools included
FAQs
Q:
What grain broadheads does this crossbow take?
A:
Because of the high firing power offered by this crossbow, you will do best using at least 100 grain broadheads. Using anything lighter could be the equivalent to dry-firing and might weaken the bow to the point of damage. Heavier bolts and broadheads will increase momentum and kinetic energy when out in the field with this bow.
Q:
What size bolts does should I use?
A:
A 20-inch bolt with a 100 grain broadhead will be about 420 grains in weight and hits the “sweet spot” between speed, velocity, and accuracy. The Sniper 370 ships with three 20-inch bolts to give you a head start, although you can purchase higher quality ones if desired.
If you purchase additional bolts from CenterPoint, the 20-inch carbon bolts will be 435 grain instead of 375 grain. This extra weight will improve your performance. If you are a serious shooter, consider having between 6 and 12 bolts in your arsenal.
Q:
Will this crossbow send bolts all the way through my target?
A:
Because this crossbow is extremely powerful, you will want to purchase a target that can handle shots of over 400 feet per second (FPS). Otherwise, you will very quickly ruin your bolts by sending them right through the target. Good targets include the Yellow Jacket brand or a block crossbow target. You can also use the Bulldog Doghouse FP layered foam target if you intend to practice with field points only.
Q:
Can my son or daughter use this crossbow?
A:
The AR-style stock on the Sniper 370 is 100 percent adjustable and can be used as both a youth and adult bow. Be sure to check your local laws for any age restrictions and always keep an eye on younger archers.
Q:
Who is this bow good for?
A:
The relatively low prices of this crossbow makes it a great choice for beginners and shooters with smaller frames. However, even an experienced shooter can appreciate the feel and performance of this bow.
CenterPoint Sniper Elite Whisper
Not everyone is looking for all the “bells and whistles” that you can purchase along with the product. A company like CenterPoint Archery offers a wide variety of crossbows to fit your specific hunting needs.
The CenterPoint Sniper Elite Whisper is based in the same frame as the Sniper 370 but with an enhanced package that includes the Whisper Silencing System. Like the original Sniper, the Sniper Elite Whisper sends arrows down range at speeds of nearly 400 FPS. For those looking for a good all-around bow, the Elite Whisper is definitely the best bang for your buck.
The new model is a medium-weight crossbow at 7.8 pounds. The axle is short-limbed at 18 inches when cocked. The Elite Whisper is barely 39 inches long including the stirrup, making it an ideal choice for still-hunting and stalking. The draw weight of Elite Whisper ranks at 185 pounds for a powerful punch that will penetrate almost any target. An improved feature includes the Power Draw rope cranking device that reduces draw weight by 75 percent. The power stroke of 13.5 inches sends arrows downrange at speeds of up to 370 FPS. When fired from a well-lubed rail, speeds can come close to 380 FPS, which is more than enough to hunt deer, bear or wild hogs.
Additional features include:
Crosman’s EZ Adjustable buttstock
Sniper Elite Whisper adjustable pass-through foregrip can accommodate large and gloved hands
Extra-large trigger guard
Includes hardware and wrenches for assembly
Assembly of the Elite Whisper is quick and easy, even for those who are new to the world of crossbows. A single screw attaches the limbs to the stock, while two set screws lock the stirrup and the limbs in place. Two more screws attach the QD quiver. Instructions for assembly are quick and easy to follow.
Many crossbows are sold with rifle-style scopes that are not optimized for crossbows. These scopes are often equipped with extra reticles, super-fine crosshairs and instructions that are not ideal for use with a crossbow. The CenterPoint Sniper Elite Whisper includes a high-quality 4×32 scope specifically designed for use with crossbows. Both lightweight and compact, the four clearly defined reticles give you several different sight-in options. Once sighted in, the Sniper Elite is dead accurate and can send arrows to the center of the target from 20 to 40 yards.
CenterPoint CP400
The CP400 crossbow is another new product on the scene that blends Helicoil technology with a custom-designed riser, cams, and a stock for a product like no other. The crossbow is representative of the advancements in the CenterPoint Archery line with a narrow and compact design, ease of use and assembly, and accurate shots.
The CP400 is one of the most compact models with a stunning 5.75-inch axle-to-axle width when cocked. The CP400 sends arrows downrange at speeds of 400 feet per second with outstanding accuracy. The draw length of this bow is rated at just under 31.75 inches for the ultimate mobility when out in the field.
Features:
CNC machined cam system
Folding stirrup
Aluminum rail
Anti-dry fire prevention system
Adjustable AR-style stock
Limited five-year warranty
200 pound draw weight
Ambidextrous stock
Composite stock material
CNC aluminum riser
This product ships with three 20-inch carbon arrows, a quick-detach quiver, a rope cocker and a 4×32 mm illuminated scope specifically designed for use with a crossbow.
CenterPoint Amped 415
For an ultra-compact crossbow that you can squeeze into the tightest spaces when still-hunting and stalking, consider the Amped. When cocked, the Amped 415 is only 12 inches wide and includes the Whisper Silencing System with integrated string suppressors and limb dampeners. The result is a super-quiet vibration free bow for a shot that is virtually sound-free.
The AR-style butt stock features an adjustable cheek comb and an oversized pass-through foregrip that allows the Amped 415 to deliver both speed and comfort in one compact package. Even those with large or gloved hands will find this crossbow easy to use in all seasons and in all hunting situations.
The Amped 415 is equipped with 400 grain carbon arrows, a 4×32 scope that is specifically designed for use with a crossbow, a parallel quiver and a rope cocker.
Additional features include:
A CNC machined cam system
An FC camo pattern
Aluminum rail
Anti-dry fire feature
Automatic safety feature
Adjustable AR-style stock
Limited five-year warranty
Specifications:
Weight: 11.90 pounds
Length: 36 inches
Draw weight: 200 pounds
Stock style: Ambidextrous
Stock material: Composite
Included optics: 4×32 crossbow scope
CenterPoint Dagger 390
The Dagger 390 is another narrow crossbow designed with efficiency in mind. This compact design features an aluminum rail with a shoot through riser for accuracy each and every time. The Dagger 390 also features the patented Whisper Silencing System with integrated string suppressors, string stops and limb dampeners.
The result is a vibration-free operation of a weapon that can take out deer, bear and wild hogs with equal ease. An adjustable tactical stock allows the Dagger to be configured to fit shooters of multiple shapes and sizes. The customizable cheek pad helps improve shooting consistency and accurate aiming.
Features and specs:
Whisper Silencing System™
CNC machined cams and riser
Composite stock
Ambidextrous design
Draw weight: 185 pounds
Product weight: 7.8 pounds
Arrow velocity: Up to 390 feet per second
Optics: 4×32 mm crossbow scope
Limb material: Compression fiberglass
Comparison
Crossbows are becoming increasingly popular among hunters today. Knowing what you are looking for and how to find a good deal will be the key toward finding a product you can depend on and develop a relationship with.
Purchase the best you can afford
There are huge differences between the cheapest bows you can find at Walmart and the high-end models from a company like CenterPoint. While bargain models are certainly less expensive, they will not be as accurate or reliable and will fail more quickly.
Good crossbows cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 for the bow alone, not including the scope, bolts, points, and additional accessories. As with anything else, you get what you pay for. When choosing a crossbow, choose the best one that you can afford to maximize your chances of making the most out of your investment. Two of the best we’ve covered here include the CP400 and the Amped 415.
Use sufficient draw weight for your bow’s intended purpose
The main difference between a hunting crossbow and a crossbow designed for target practice only is the draw weight. Most states have rules and regulations that take the guesswork out of determining what is and is not sufficient. While these regulations vary from state to state, the average range is from 75 to 135 pounds draw weight.
Nearly any crossbow in this range should be able to kill a deer at moderate distances of 30 to 35 yards. The best crossbows come with ranges from 150 to 175 pounds with the best reaching weights of 200 pounds or more. CenterPoint crossbows in this range include the Amped 415 at 200 pounds and the Dagger 390 at 185 pounds. Be aware, however, that some states have a limit on how high your draw weight can be.
Both crossbow and compound bows makers are constantly trying to improve the speed at which they launch their respective projectiles. A crossbow with a higher draw weight will release a bolt faster than a bow with a lower draw weight.
Hunting-weight bolts should be able to reach speeds of at least 300 FPS to retain enough kinetic energy to cleanly and humanely kill any big-game animal with minimal drop upon target contact. CenterPoint crossbows with higher feet-per-second speeds include the Dagger 390, the Sniper Whisper Elite and the Amped 415.
Use a scope sight
Although some crossbows come with open sights, you will be better able to hit your target with a scope. Scopes range in magnification power from 0x to 5x. A scope is comprised of a reticle, which can be the vertical/horizontal crosshair design or any other object projected or suspended within the scope’s field of view.
You can use either simple red-dot scopes or crosshairs or multi-reticle scopes. Multi-reticle scopes are becoming increasingly popular and include three or four dots or horizontal crosshairs. These allow you to choose your distances and dial in the individual reticles for the standard ranges of 20, 30, 40 and 50 yards. The CenterPoint crossbows usually come equipped with a 4×32 multi-reticle scope.
Use high-quality bolts
Cheap bolts manufactured to the bare minimum required to meet industry standards will not give you the maximum level of accuracy you need. For this reason, it’s important to use the finest bolts you can afford for shooting with your crossbow. Crossbow bolts differ from arrows used in compound and recurve bows in their length, fletching, and nock design.
Never attempt to use normal arrows in place of crossbow appropriate projectiles, as they may not be the correct weight or length to prevent a virtual dry fire. While you can use either carbon or aluminum bolts, the best ones are made from carbon. CenterPoint offers a wide selection of high-quality carbon bolts for all CenterPoint Archery crossbows.
Use high-quality broadheads
The broadhead is the cutting edge of the crossbow experience. As with anything else, the most expensive broadheads are designed to have the sharpest blades, a proper balance, and a long track record of satisfied customers.
Both replaceable blades and mechanical broadhead designs are good choices for CenterPoint crossbows, with the mechanical design being more popular. The most common weight for hunting broadheads is 100 grains, with 125 grains coming in behind.
Use a rest when hunting
Because crossbows can become heavy after a while, a rest is a great idea to hold it steady. You can use standard rifle-shooting positions such as kneeling and sitting, a set of shooting sticks or a monopod, or a shooting rail from a tree stand or shooting house.
Rests work best with some form of padding between the crossbow and the rest to help absorb recoil and make sighting easier and more accurate. All CenterPoint crossbows are compatible with shooting rests.
Understand bolt trajectory
Any bolt fired from a CenterPoint crossbow travels downrange in a large parabolic arc. While your crosshairs are dialed in to hit the center of the target as a specific distance, you will usually be shooting between these ranges.
Practicing with your crossbow at different ranges will help you determine how to make use of the reticles to estimate distances between your set points. Once you can gauge the trajectory of an arrow, you will have the ability to compensate for distance and the location of your target.
Use a rangefinder
Using a rangefinder is helpful for determining exact distances between you and a target. Once you understand bolt trajectory and how to compensate for it, you will have no problem hitting a target partially obscured by tree branches or other objects. A range finder can make hunting with a CenterPoint crossbow more rewarding and easier for those who want a little extra help in gauging distances.
Get to know your trigger
Each crossbow has a different trigger feel, even bows of the same make and model. When you’ve sighted in your crossbow, it’s a good idea to spend some time with it to get a feel for the trigger and whether or not it breaks like glass or presents a significant level of trigger creep.
Knowing when the bolt will be released is critical for successful shots. Shoot both with and without gloves with your CenterPoint crossbow to get a feel for each shooting variation.
Practice makes perfect
Spend time with your CenterPoint crossbow to get a feel for how it operates and how to get it to mesh seamlessly with your unique shooting style. Once you’ve established trigger feel, take shots that simulate actual hunting conditions, including kneeling, sitting and prone.
Shoot from your tree stand or blind at the same angles and distances you expect to be using during the hunting season. Practice with your shooting sticks or your monopod to achieve speed, efficiency and quietness during use.
Do proper regular maintenance
Maintaining your crossbow is an important part of ensuring that it lasts you for its expected lifespan or even beyond. Check the strings and cables of your CenterPoint crossbow on a regular basis. This step is especially important with a crossbow, as the string are directly in contact with the rail, resulting in friction for each and every shot.
At the first sign of fraying or wear, replace your cables with genuine CenterPoint products. Regular maintenance can help increase the life of the cables and strings. Every part of your bow should be cleaned after each practice session and each trip to the field.
Lubrication of the appropriate parts will keep them soft and supple, making them less susceptible to becoming brittle and fraying. The rails of a crossbow should be lubricated after every 10 to 15 shots to prevent excessive rubbing. Bowstring wax will keep the bowstrings from losing their elasticity and flexibility.