Before the discovery of iron, man relied solely on crossbows to achieve his ultimate victory. But as man advanced, so did his tools. A new dawn of arsenal began, giving irrelevance to the once mighty slayer. Nevertheless, crossbows seem to be making a debut in the 21st century arsenal line-up. With better modifications, it’s no secret why a superior brand like Nerf would feature crossbows as one of their leading products.
Nerf is a leading toy brand that focuses on foam-based weaponry. They have diversified their arsenal line-up with the introduction of Nerf crossbows. These blasters feature in different series. Take for instance the Rebelle series that focuses on archery based blasters with a feminine look.
Even with a grounded fan base, there are some Nerf crossbows that standout from the rest. They feature aesthetics and performance like no other. Just to mention a few, here are the ten best Nerf crossbows. We have highlighted every aspect that makes them great.
Table of Contents
Comparison Table Of The Best Nerf Crossbows
| Image | Product Name | Feature | Feature | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nerf Zombie Strike Outbreaker Bow | 70 Feet | 5 dart drum | $ | ||
| Nerf N-Strike Elite CrossBolt Blaster | 90 Feet | 12 dart clip | $$ | ||
| Nerf Zombie Strike Crossfire Bow Blaster | 70 Feet | 4 darts | $$ | ||
| Nerf Rebelle Guardian Crossbow Blaster (Discontinued by manufacturer) | 75 Feet | 6 darts | $$ | ||
| Nerf Rebelle FocusFire Crossbow | 75 Feet | 5 dart rotating barrel | $$ | ||
| Nerf Rebelle Codebreaker Crossbow Blaster | 75 Feet | 8 dart rotating drum | $$ | ||
| Nerf Rebelle Diamondista Blaster Toy Dart Gun with 3 Darts | 75 Feet | 2 message and 1 collectible dart | $$ | ||
| Nerf Rebelle Courage Crossbow Blaster by Nerf Rebelle | 75 Feet | includes 2 whistling arrows | $$ | ||
| Nerf Super Soaker Tri Strike Crossbow Soaker | 38 feet | Water soaker | $$ | ||
| Nerf Rebelle Charmed Fair Fortune Crossbow Blaster | 75 Feet | 6 dart rotating drum | $$ |
If you are more interested in a power house of a weapon, we have an article you might be more interested in – Best Nerf Machine Guns
Reviews of the Best Nerf Crossbows
Nerf Zombie Strike Outbreaker Bow
Special features: 5-dart drum; shoots darts only, one dart shot per trigger, fires darts up to 70feet
Size: 2.6 x 16.5 x 12 inches
Weight: 2 pounds
Gang up your defense against the zombie invasion with the new Zombie Strike Outbreaker bow. Judging from its looks, you can tell this is no ordinary Nerf blaster. The crossbow is based on the zombies verse humans game. It guarantees the post-apocalyptic survives enough firing-power and backup needed to terminate any attacks from the vicious zombie hordes.
The Outbreaker bow follows the Zombie invasion script to the letter. With limited resources and materials left, survivors are left to fend for themselves with the few remains leading to the creation of this mighty defense force. But don’t be fooled, the aesthetics take into account fun for an overall exciting combat experience.
When you consider its design, the crossbow blaster features a dominant green color with shades of orange on selected parts. The included five zombie strike darts are also green in color. Just like other blasters of the Zombie Strike series, the crossbow is made of high quality material that is safety-guaranteed. It comes with a five-dart rotating drum that lets you shoot one dart at a time. This medium sized crossbow is extra light making it easy to carry and use when engaged in a heated battle. Fall in love with its two hand grip style that gives you a firm slip-proof hold on the blaster
When you combine the crossbow action with a dart blasting defense, you get an unbeatable arsenal. As a true replica of the real-life crossbow, the Outbreaker features a string that is attached on its bow arms. Pull the string using the handle to get the blaster in prime mode. Just like a pro, press the trigger to unleash a rain of darts on your opponent. Remember that the crossbow shoots one dart at a time unlike other Nerf machine guns.
The Outbreaker bow is fairly priced for everyone liking. When buying this crossbow, ensure that the packaging comes with the blaster, bow arms, five darts and instructions. In case of a malfunction, Nerf does not offer a money back guarantee.
Some of the advantages of investing in the Outbreaker include the lack of a jamming issue, less noisy priming mechanism, attached single tactical rail for scope attachments and quick and easy reload time. However, the low-dart capacity acts as its major flaw.
Verdict: Easy to use crossbow that combines the power of a crossbow with that of a dart blaster.
Nerf N-Strike Elite CrossBolt Blaster
Special features: 12-dart clip, 12 elite darts, fires a distance of 90feet, real crossbow action
Size: 2.7 x 18.5 x 10 inches
Weight: 2.2 pounds
If you are looking for excitement, energy and real crossbow action, then the N-Strike Elite Crossbolt blaster is just what you need. Following it’s 2015 release, the Crossbolt commands a large fan base as being the first and only crossbow to feature in the N-Strike Elite series. With its hyped Nerf attitude, you are sure to get outstanding performance every time you pick it up.
The Crossbolt is peculiar in nature. It is the only Nerf crossbow that relies solely on string-power. Darts are propelled directly by the tension generated by the bow-string. This no-plunger system takes it one step closer to the real deal.
From an aesthetic point of view, the blaster features bright blue and orange shades with a dash of grey- this is common to all N-Strike Elite blasters. The bow is well assimilated into the blaster’s body but stands out prominently. The pale grey priming handle is well placed on top of the blaster for smooth firing and priming action.
The Crossbolt is clip fed. It allows a 12-dart magazine attachment that can easily be upgraded to an 18-dart mag. However, you will be required to purchase the extra mag separately. Nerfers can use both suction and the standard elite darts. With a tactical rail on top, you can place your scope for better aiming experience.
When you take into account the performance, the Crossbolt is on par with existing N-Strike Elite blasters. Even after losing the plunger system, the Crossbolt works great with its bow-string power. Darts are fired a maximum distance of 90 feet.
One of the major downfalls of the Crossbolt is the noisy priming handle that lessens the excitement of sneak attacks. The clip-fed blaster is also not user friendly as required. Users have to remove the magazine every time they run out of stock. Furthermore, the crossbow suffers some minor jamming issues.
Despite its setbacks, the Crossbolt is an amazing one of a kind crossbow blaster that commands a large following. With cost cut-outs, buyers can now buy the item at a lower price.
Verdict: Ideal for kids aged eight and above.
Nerf Zombie Strike Crossfire Bow
Special features: 4-darts, made of safe materials, quality tested, plunger system
Size: 2.5 x 16.5 x 12 inches
Weight: 1.6 pounds
Another lite Zombie Strike crossbow is the Crossfire bow. Released back in 2014, this crossbow blaster has seen major sales for Nerf fans across the globe. Just like the for-mentioned Outbreaker bow, the crossfire bow features the standard luminous green and orange look with a brown twist on its handle.
The Crossfire bow is very similar to a real crossbow. Its bow is attached at the front giving it an authentic yet attractive look. Using the rear orange handle, you can adjust the bow using two fingers just like in real-life crossbows.
The crossfire is a fully-functional system. It’s priming mechanism is less noisy and easy to use. The rear stock attachment slot allows you to attach N-Strike stock. For better aiming, the featured tactical rails allow you to attach a scope on this firing system.
When compared to the other crossbows, the Crossfire features a pretty low ammo capacity. It allows a maximum of four zombie strike darts per go. Nevertheless, reloading is as simple as it gets. You simply need to add darts at the slots present at the front end of the crossbow. Darts are shot one at a time with zero restrictions on the slot loaded. All thanks to the intelligent air restrictor system. The crossfire relies on a plunger system that allows darts to fire a maximum distance of 70 feet.
A cool factor to consider is the super silent priming handle that keeps you unnoticed for sneak attacks. With zero jamming issues, you are set for an ending blast action experience.
The gripes arise when you consider the ammo capacity and rate of fire. With zero slam-firing option, it will take some time before you can fire up the next dart.
Verdict: The crossfire is a high-value crossbow that performs when put to the test.
Nerf Rebelle Guardian Crossbow Blaster
Special features: 6 darts, fires up to 75feet, rotating six-dart launcher, flexing bow arms,
Size: 19.8 x 19.8 x 11.7 inches
Weight: 2.2 pounds
Instead of the conventional Barbie dolls, try investing in the Rebelle Guardian crossbow blaster for an active play time. It is a controversial toy that breaks the norm when it comes to girl play time.
As one of the first featured Rebelle crossbow blasters, the Guardian has gained quite a momentum as one of the most sought after toy by girls. With a girlish exterior that comprises of white, pink and slight shades of purple, it no surprise why girls love it.
You can’t resist the stylish look of this crossbow. It features a bow that is placed on top of the muzzle with strings attaching to a knob located right above the trigger. The Guardian’s priming handle is located below the barrel out in the front. This position contradicts the usual top rear position featured in other Nerf crossbows. For each prime, pressing the trigger to release the string.
The Guardian crossbow comes with six Rebelle themed darts however, you can still use suction and elite darts. These darts are loaded on the revolver-like barrel that is located at the front of the blaster. Loading the darts on the open-ended barrel is easy. The crossbow also features a tactical rail that lets you attach a scope or any other add-ons of your liking. You can use the sturdy fixed stock for better aiming.
Similar to other Nerf Crossbows, the crossbow feature is just for aesthetics purposes. It does not help fire up the blaster in anyway. For firing purposes, the Guardian relies on the plunger system. This system allows darts to the shot a distance of up to 75 feet.
The Guardian crossbow features a slam fire that lets you blast six darts at a go. This feature is also the main reason why many people prefer it to other crossbow blasters. Furthermore, unlike clip fed blasters that require you to unplug the magazine to reload when out of ammo, the rotating revolver-barrel lets you slide in darts easily with zero jamming issues.
Verdict: An excellent pink Nerf crossbow for girls with extra comfort, smooth performance and a steal at its price tag.
Nerf Rebelle FocusFire Crossbow
Special features: Five-dart rotating barrel, real crossbow action, AccuStrike Nerf darts, flip-up sight
Size: 17 x 10.2 x 2.6 inches
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Another great line-up from the Rebelle series is the FocusFire crossbow. Just like its name suggests, the FocusFire is solely dedicated to précised aim. It relies on the velocity power of the AccuStrike darts. These darts are the most accurate Nerf darts you can ever get. Furthermore, the flip-sights help in targeting your aim.
The FocusFire combines crossbow action with a dart-firing system for real-time action. To prime the blaster, pull back the string using the priming handle. Once primed, pull the trigger to fire one dart at a time. The blaster loads five darts in its rotating barrel.
Verdict: Best for girls aged eight and above. Ideal selection if precision is your main driving factor in buying a crossbow
Rebelle Secret And Spies Codebreaker Crossbow Blaster
Special features: Real crossbow action, passcode lock, 8-dart rotating drum, 8 darts (7 collectable darts, one message dart and a decoder)
Size: 2.9 x 19.8 x 11.7 inches
Weight: 2.6 pounds
Play time has never been more fun thanks to the new Secret and Spies Codebreaker crossbow blaster. At first glance you can tell this is not your everyday Nerf blaster. The Codebreaker Rebelle series is spicing things up. It includes a password protector that prevents the enemy from using your crossbow once she has a hold of it. Also, the blaster gives you a test of how spy-life feels like thanks to the decoder that reveals hidden messages on the message dart.
Just like every other model in the Rebelle series, the Codebreaker crossbow features a bow at the very front of the muzzle opening. The priming handle is located beneath the muzzle shaft at the up front. Push the priming handle back to prime the blaster and pull the trigger to fire of the dart.
This crossbow comes with an 8-dart rotating barrel that is to use- simply slide in the darts on the open-end part. The eight included darts consist of seven collectible darts and one message dart. Using the plunger system, the blaster fires darts a distance of 75feet for a mean kill.
The packaging comes with the crossbow, eight darts, decoder and instructions. In terms of pricing, for a small fee of less than ten dollars, you can own a piece of this action.
Verdict: A colorful crossbow best for playing undercover missions with friends.
Nerf Rebelle Diamondista Blaster
Special features: Two message and one collectible dart, includes a decoder, fires up to 75feet
Size: 2 x 10 x 8.7 inches
Weight: 8.8 ounces
For a step up and standout look, try investing in the new Diamondista blaster. Just like the Codebreaker, the Diamondista blaster is also an amazing Secret and Spies Rebelle crossbow. It lets you hide team messages from plain sight with its secret message darts. This blaster lets you show off your dazzling archery skills on every mission you take.
The Diamondista features a stylish look that comprises of jewel-like design, shimmering glitters and elegant curved bow arms. This purple-diva crossbow also lets you fire darts a maximum of 75 feet. With the lack of a rotating drum or magazine, the crossbow is jam free.
The best feature about this crossbow is the fact that one can send coded messages to their ally without the competition knowing. Another trait that you simply can ignore is the stylish look that gives the crossbow some sense of sophistication. However, the low dart capacity and lack of slam fire, seems to be the major glitch of this crossbow blaster.
Verdict: Stylish crossbow that allows you to sends spy like messages to your team.
Nerf Rebelle Courage Crossbow
Special features: Real crossbow action, includes two whistling arrows, one-hand hold
Size: 16 x 11.5 x 2.2 inches
Weight: 12.8 ounces
Feel the rush of real crossbow action with the new Courage crossbow blaster. The Courage crossbow lets you fire arrows instead of the usual darts at your target. Using one arm, aim and shoot your arrow a distance of 75 feet high. Sit back and watch your enemy run for shelter.
The crossbow is made of high grade materials that are safe for your kids. It features a tactical rail that lets you accessories your blaster features. The firing system is similar to other Rebelle crossbow blasters.
This crossbow though unique as it fires off arrows, it lacks a slam fire action seen in other Nerf crossbow blaster. However, it makes a mean entry level selection for any girl who wants to ditch the usual girly toys for some real-life combat action.
The packaging comes with the stylish crossbow, two arrows and instructions.
Verdict: Ideal for kids aged eight and above.
SUPER SOAKER Tri Strike Crossbow Soaker
Special features: three streams of water, holds 1.2 liters of water, soaks up to 38 feet
The Super Soaker Tri Strike crossbow features a three stream water soaking power that lets you wet your friends during play time. The crossbow Super Soaker series relies on the bow firing mechanism to power up the blaster.
Verdict: Offers amazing soaking experience
Nerf Rebelle Charm Fortune Crossbow
Special features: Includes 6 darts, 6-dart rotating drum, fires up to 75 feet, two charm bracelet
Size: 17.6 x 10.4 x 2.5 inches
Weight: 1 pound
For an elf-like feel, try investing in the mystical Charmed Fortune crossbow. The Charm Fortune crossbow lets you explore blast action that is yet unseen. With a six dart rotating drum, the crossbow shoots a distance of 75 feet high. Included in its packaging are two charms and six darts.
Verdict: Unique Rebelle crossbow blaster.
Conclusion:
Nerf Crossbows break the monotony of pistol and riffle dart blasters. They remind you of the old days when a bow and arrow was all you needed for a successful mission. By investing in any of the selected items, you are sure of quality Nerf time. So gear up for some exciting battles to come.