Ravin R29 Crossbow Review (430 fps)

For many years Ravin products have continued to revolutionize the crossbow industry, and the R29 continues this trend offering a blend of advanced technology, ease of use, and a compact design. It may be smaller than most models that offer similar specifications, but the smaller size doesn’t come with a downgrade in accuracy, speed, or power.

The R29 is a crossbow that offers an impressive level of performance, and this makes it suitable for all hunting conditions. With a speed of 430 fps and up to 164 FP KE, this small and compact bow can pack a powerful punch.

It is a premium choice, but it is not a bow that can only be used by seasoned hunters since the excellent use of use and the user-friendly construction allow this model to be used by shooters of all backgrounds.

 

 

Package Includes:

• Optics: 100 yards illuminated scope
• Field Points
• Cocking Device: Built-in Versa-Draw crank
• Quiver: 3-Arrow quiver
• Arrows: Six-pack 400-grain .003 match grade arrows & field tips
• Accessories Bracket
• Removable Draw Handle

 

SPECS

Speed (Up To)	430 fps
Kinetic Energy (Up to)	164 FP KE
Length (w/o foot stirrup)	29”
Width Axle-to-Axle (uncocked/cocked)	10.5”/6”
Power Stroke	12.5”
Weight (w/out accessories)	6.75 lbs.
Draw Weight	12 lbs.

 

Key Features

 

• The Trac-Trigger firing system delivers consistent accuracy with each pull of the trigger.
• The HeliCoil Technology keeps the limbs and cams balanced and allows the cams to rotate 340 degrees.
•  It comes with the proprietary Frictionless Flight System that lets the arrow float freely above the rail.
•  It can fire arrows at a speed of up to 430 feet per second.
• It comes with anti-dry fire and auto safety features.
• The Versa-Daw cocking system requires just 12 lbs. of cocking force.

 

 

Pros

 

•  You don’t need a lot of arm strength to cock the cords.

 

•  It is designed to be easy to carry in the field.
• The superior speed and performance allow the bow to hit each mark accurately.
•  It boasts a durable construction that can handle many seasons.

 

Cons

• You can’t adjust the length of the stock to get a custom fit.

 

 

Build Quality – Durability

Ravin is known for building heavy-duty crossbows that can handle intense use for years, and, as expected, the R29 uses very durable materials. Furthermore, it also has the benefit of increased mass when compared to other compact models.

The crossbow is very easy to maintain, and as long as you remember to give it the proper care it needs, we are certain that the R29 is a trusty product that you can continue to use for many years to come.

 

Design

This option only measures 10.5” when uncocked and 6” when cocked, and the compact design should give you the upper hand in many different hunting scenarios. It is also not too short that it becomes uncomfortable for larger hunters to hold the bow to the shoulder and shoot.

The design is very sleek, and it features a camouflage paint that will allow you to blend in with your surroundings. The compact design also means that when carrying it on your back, the bow is less likely to drag through branches, brush, or to tip you backward.

 

Speed and Performance

With a speed that can reach 430 feet per second and a kinetic force of up to 164-foot pounds, this model can be effective on large game out to 100 yards. This level of performance is achieved thanks to the Frictionless Flight System.

This system allows the arrow not to contact the rail at all during flight so that each arrow can achieve a high level of speed and accuracy that is simply not possible on other bows. The low draw weight and compact design will also help enhance performance and bring you success in your next hunting session.

 

Accuracy

The VersaDraw integral cocking spool and the 100-yard illuminated scope help the R29 reach a high level of accuracy at greater distances than most of its competitors. All of these features are easy to use, even for beginners.

The product is also equipped with the proprietary Trac-Trigger firing system. This feature will give users the confidence and peace of mind that come with knowing that once you pull the trigger, the arrow will fly true to its target each time.

 

Safety

You won’t have to worry about safety when using this model since Ravin is known as being a crossbow manufacturer that takes safety seriously. The Trac-Trigger system provides industry-leading auto safety, and the dry-fire inhibitor is designed to keep both you and the bow protected from injury and damage.

We were pleased to see these extra safety features, which are mandatory for a product that is advertised as beginner-friendly.

 

Noise and Vibration

Compared to other models from Ravin’s lineup, such as the R26, this one is a bit louder to fire, but the contrast is not that big to make a huge difference. The good thing is that when firing, vibrations are minimal, and this will help with accuracy since the bow delivers excellent control.

Of course, if you want to make the bow quieter, you can purchase noise dampening accessories, such as rubber limb dampeners, that you can place on the limbs.

 

Ease Of Use and Assembly

One of the key advantages that this model offers is the fact that you do not need to be an experienced archer to use it. The R29 is very gentle on the shooter since it has no recoil that you need to absorb, and the draw weight of just 12 pounds means that you don’t need to be strong to operate it.

As is the case with most Ravin crossbows, this one comes fully assembled and pre-tuned. This way, you can waste less time with the assembly process and focus instead on having fun with it in the field.

 

 

Ravin R29 Review Summary

If you’re looking for a full-featured crossbow, then the R29 is a very good choice that manages to deliver exceptional performance, speed, and power in a very compact package. It has all the features that professional hunters require, but it is easy to use and intuitive so that beginners don’t feel overwhelmed.