Best Crossbow Cases

Buying guide for Best crossbow cases

Written by devangana

Updated June 2022

The crossbow has been around for centuries and is thought to have been invented in China around 700 BC. In ancient times, a crossbow case, if one existed at all, probably consisted of a simple sack. Times have changed.

Modern crossbows are technologically advanced and made from higher quality materials than their historical counterparts. The same holds true for the cases that keep them safe.

If you own a crossbow, it’s essential to protect it. This buying guide lays out the criteria to use when selecting the proper case for your weapon, including the durability of the material it’s made of, the size and shape of the case, the protective padding built into the case, and any extra storage space provided for your arrows and crossbow accessories.

While crossbows are easier to use and aim than compound bows, crossbows do weigh more and are significantly larger. The typical crossbow weighs six or seven pounds.

Key considerations

Type of case

• Hard: Crossbow hard cases are designed to withstand large amounts of wear and tear during travel, storage, and use. They can be made from molded polypropylene copolymer resin or aluminum. The interior is usually inlaid with soft foam to cradle the crossbow, most often with a space for storing bolts, as crossbow arrows are called, and other accessories.
  
  A hard case may also include latches and locks, depending on the model. Crossbow hard cases can act as security cases as well, protecting your weapon and keeping it away from children or other unauthorized users. A hard case is recommended if you frequently travel with your crossbow.
   

• Soft: Soft cases can be constructed from a type of polypropylene called “cordura,” typically used to make luggage. Alternately, they can be made from durable fabrics or canvas. In general, soft cases offer less protection from falls, scrapes, or crushing. Soft cases typically cost less than hard cases.
   

• Hybrid: Hybrid crossbow cases are made from ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), a lightweight durable material. Hybrid cases are molded to fit the shape of most crossbows while maintaining flexibility. They offer protection more in line with hard cases and are generally the most expensive type of case available.

Features

Tear resistance

When hunting in the woods, it’s easy to snag a case on thorns or brush and rip it open, which could compromise the protection of your crossbow. If you’re interested in a soft case, getting one that resists tears is vital.

Weather resistance

Weather-resistant cases may be waterproof or protect the crossbow from the sun’s UV rays. Often, the weather can impact the crossbow through the seams and zippers of the case. It’s important for crossbow cases to have proper seals in place and zippers that close tightly.

Extra pockets

There are many accessories available for crossbows. It’s important to keep these accessories close at hand so a missing accessory doesn’t hinder you on the hunt. Crossbow cases with extra pockets allow you to store many objects with your bow, such as scopes, bolts, strings, lube, and other accessories. These pockets are often separate from the internal case itself, which protects the crossbow from dents and scratches.

Padding

Every crossbow case contains some type of padding. It’s usually soft but durable foam. The padding can be permanently fixed to the case or removable and adjustable. Generally, the more padding there is, the better.

Crossbow case accessories

• Crossbow bolts: You won’t be able to shoot your crossbow without the proper arrows, known as bolts. There are different bolts available depending on the desired range, strength, and the type of animal you’re hunting. Most crossbow cases include a space for your crossbow bolts.

• Quiver: Crossbow bolts live in quivers. It’s essential to have some way to carry your bolts during a hunt. Often there are attachable quivers, which can also be stored in the crossbow case.

• Scope: Some crossbows come equipped with a built-in scope; others don’t. If you use a detachable scope, you will need space to store it in your crossbow case.

• Nocks: Nocks lodge the arrow onto the string. Having extra replacement nocks in your crossbow case is a good idea.

• Crossbow sling: Some cases come with straps already installed on them, but there’s not always a good way to carry the crossbow itself while hunting. A crossbow sling helps you have more control over your crossbow on a hunt.

• String wax: String wax should be applied to your crossbow string every six months. It may need to be applied more often if your crossbow is exposed to extreme weather. The wax protects the string and prevents it from becoming brittle and dry.

Crossbow case prices

Crossbow cases come in a variety of prices based on features and materials, so you’re sure to find something in your desired price range.

Inexpensive

Basic crossbow cases cost from $20 to $50. These cases will protect the crossbow from dust, dirt, and the elements but are likely to be the less durable soft cases.

Mid-range

Heavy-duty crossbow cases in the $50 to $100 range are most often hard cases that provide solid protection during storage, hunting, and travel.

High-end

The most expensive crossbow cases range in price from $100 to $300. These will often include extra features and be built of stronger protective materials. Cases in this price range can be either hard cases or hybrids.

Tips

• Measure your crossbow before purchasing a case to ensure your crossbow will fit. Remember, you will need a case that’s slightly larger than the crossbow itself.

• When purchasing a hard case, consider the thickness of the case’s walls. Thin-walled cases are more easily damaged.

• Make sure crossbow hunting is allowed in your area; some states restrict the use of crossbows.

Crossbows are louder than compound bows. The energy required to shoot the arrow creates vibrations, which turns into noise. Hunters can purchase string suppressors and limb-vibration dampeners to decrease the noise.

FAQ

Q. Should I own multiple crossbow cases, or is one enough?

A. It depends on where and how you hunt. It’s possible to own multiple cases, each for a different type of hunt or location. Also, if you own multiple crossbows, you might need multiple cases because they aren’t one-size-fits-all items.

Q. Can I store my crossbow in its case during the winter?

A. Yes, as long as you keep the crossbow case indoors. However, it’s recommended to vent the case to let air in. It’s also important to keep the crossbow at room temperature — crossbows should not be stored in extreme heat or cold. In other words, don’t leave your crossbow in your garage or shed.

Q. Which type of case is best for airline travel?

A. A hard case would be best for airline travel. If your case doesn’t latch tightly, it’s recommended to duct tape the case shut or tie it shut with a strong rope. You don’t want it to pop open during transport. You should also consider adding extra padding during transit to ensure that the crossbow and accessories do not bounce around in the case.