Repeating Crossbows
Repeating Crossbows — More Shots, Less Waiting
Most crossbows ask you to stop after every shot. Uncocking, reloading, resetting — it breaks your rhythm, and in a fast-moving situation, that pause costs you. A repeating crossbow removes that problem almost entirely.
The mechanism is straightforward: a magazine sits above the rail and feeds bolts automatically as you cycle the action. One smooth motion and you're ready to shoot again. No fumbling for loose bolts, no breaking your stance, no losing your sight picture between shots. For anyone who's spent time with a standard crossbow and found the reload process frustrating, shooting a repeating crossbow for the first time tends to be a bit of a revelation.
What repeating crossbows are actually used for
Target shooting is where repeating crossbows genuinely shine. When you're running drills, working on form, or just enjoying a longer session without constant interruption, the ability to fire multiple shots in quick succession makes the whole experience more fluid and more fun. You spend more time shooting and less time resetting.
They're also popular for pest control and small game, where a follow-up shot can make all the difference. The faster firing cycle gives you options that a single-shot crossbow simply doesn't.
It's worth being clear about what they're not: repeating crossbows aren't built around raw power in the way compound crossbows are. Draw weights tend to be lower, which means bolt speeds are more modest. For larger game or long-distance target work, you'd be better served elsewhere. But for their intended purpose — fast, enjoyable shooting at practical ranges — they do the job well.
Things to consider before buying
Magazine capacity is the obvious one. Most repeating crossbows hold between 5 and 10 bolts depending on the model, which is enough for a solid session before you need to reload the magazine itself.
Bolt compatibility matters too. Repeating crossbows typically require shorter bolts to work with the feeding mechanism — check the specs before you order ammunition separately, and stick to the manufacturer's recommended bolt length to avoid feeding issues.
The cycling action varies between models. Some are smoother than others, and it's worth reading reviews specifically about how the action feels after extended use rather than just out of the box.
Buy repeating crossbows at Buy Archery
We stock repeating crossbows from EK Archery, including the Adder — one of the most popular models in this category for good reason. It's reliable, well-built, and delivers the fast-shooting experience that makes repeating crossbows worth owning in the first place.
If you're after something different from the standard single-shot experience, browse the range below and find the right model for how you shoot.