BALLISTA BAT Compound Mini Crossbow Review (2026)

Overview

The Ballista BAT takes a different approach than the other budget bows in our lineup — it's a compact mini crossbow built around portability rather than power. At 3.5 lbs, it's roughly half the weight of the other picks here, and its 3-second loading cycle is built for quick follow-up shots rather than a single deliberate stand shot.

300 FPS and an 80 lb draw weight put it well below the other crossbows here on raw power, which is why it's rated for turkey, target, and all-around use rather than deer or elk hunting. Its 14-inch cocked width and backpack-friendly size make it a genuine option for hunters who want a bow that travels light — spot-and-stalk turkey hunters, target shooters, or anyone who wants a secondary crossbow that doesn't take up pack space. A 4.2-star rating across 227 reviews suggests it delivers on that specific use case, even though it's not a fit for bigger game.

Key Features

• 300 FPS
• 3-second loading
• Backpack-friendly design