Best Nerf Bow and Arrow Sets

Buying guide for Best Nerf bow and arrow sets

Written by Eliza McGowen

Updated August 2024

Nerf is a brand that has inspired a sense of wonder and adventure in generations of children. Nerf bow and arrow sets are a somewhat recent addition to the company’s line of soft toys for kids. The best thing about these sets is they allow children to use their imagination to create any adventure they want. 

If used properly, Nerf bow and arrow sets are fun and safe for children of all ages. We’ve put together this buying guide to these sets with the features to look for, including some of our favorite sets.

Set up static targets and hold an archery contest using different types of Nerf bows and arrows. Kids love the competition!

Key considerations

As with choosing any type of toy, picking a Nerf bow and arrow set should be based on a combination of factors. Most of these considerations concern the preferences and abilities of the child or children who will use the set. Think about the following factors when choosing a Nerf bow and arrow set.

Ease of use

When thinking about the capabilities of the children who will be using a Nerf bow and arrow set, look at how difficult the bow is to use. While some bows merely require the child to pull and release a string, others require a higher level of coordination to shoot. Generally, Nerf bow and arrow sets that use darts are easier to fire than those that use arrows.

Weight

The weight of the set is important because a very small child will struggle to carry and fire the largest Nerf bow. Keep this in mind when you start shopping for yours.

Power

Some Nerf bow and arrow sets are more powerful than others. If you’re shopping for larger kids, one of these sets might be a good choice for target practice at long distances. If you’re shopping for smaller children, though, consider an option with less power.

Projectiles

Decide if you’d rather get a Nerf bow and arrow set with the traditional Nerf arrows or the small Nerf darts that you find in most Nerf Blasters. The darts are easier to fire, but the experience is less like using a real bow.

Bow type

If you think a traditional bow might be too challenging for your little one, consider a Nerf crossbow with a trigger. Some kids find these easier to aim and shoot.

Nerf bow and arrow set features

High-capacity cartridge

A few of the Nerf bow and arrow sets that incorporate darts or arrows have a high-capacity cartridge for quick firing. The largest accommodates up to 15 Nerf projectiles for continuous shooting. This is useful in an all-out Nerf war when reloading can be a hassle.

Pull-string firing

Similar to a high-capacity cartridge, pull-string firing allows the user to fire quickly without the need to aim. With pull-string firing, the child simply pulls and releases the string on the bow and Nerf darts automatically shoot out of the cartridge, much like pulling the trigger on a Nerf Blaster.

Electronic sight

Some Nerf bow and arrow sets now come with an electronic sight. Simply line up the sight with your target, pull back the string, and release. Your child will be on their way to bull’s-eye after bull’s-eye, offering days of fun.

Nerf bow and arrow set prices

Inexpensive

Between $15 and $20 are basic Nerf bow and arrow sets. These are mostly smaller models for smaller children.

Mid-range

If you spend in the range of $20 to $30, you can find sets for slightly older kids that use either traditional Nerf arrows or newer Nerf darts.

Expensive

The Nerf bow and arrow sets that cost between $30 and $80 are great for preteens and teenagers. They mostly use Nerf arrows and more closely mimic the experience of real archery.

Premium

For between $350 and $400, you can find premium Nerf bow and arrow sets that are intended for children and adults alike. These sets offer the most realistic archery experience of any Nerf set on the market.

Tips

• Never aim at anyone’s face. Although Nerf toys are safe, they must be used properly.
• Keep darts or arrows in a bucket. This makes it easy for kids to grab and load during a Nerf war.
• Teach proper technique. Help your little ones use the proper archery techniques when first learning to use the Nerf bow and arrow set. This will increase their accuracy and make their experience more enjoyable.

It’s a good idea for kids to wear protective eyewear if they’re going to be shooting Nerf arrows at each other.

FAQ

Q. Are Nerf bow and arrow sets dangerous?

A. No. Nerf bow and arrow sets are designed with soft projectiles so children can have fun without the risk of injury.

Q. Are Nerf bow and arrow sets difficult to use?

A. No. Just take them out of the box and start having fun!