If you’re on the hunt for a powerful, accurate, and budget-friendly crossbow, the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 might just be the one for you. It’s known for delivering serious performance, capable of hitting targets with precision and packing a punch at a staggering 405 feet per second.
Whether you’re a seasoned bow hunter or a newbie looking for a reliable weapon, this crossbow won’t disappoint. Plus, it comes at a price point that’s hard to beat for the value it delivers.
Let me share with you exactly why you should consider making this your next crossbow purchase.
My Experience With The Killer Instinct Lethal 405
From the moment I unboxed the Killer Instinct Lethal 405, I was excited to test its much-talked-about power and accuracy. Assembly was straightforward, though I did approach it with a bit of caution, as I always do when dealing with something this powerful.
Once set up, the lightweight frame immediately stood out, making it easy to handle in different shooting positions—something I really appreciated during long sessions in the field.
My first few shots were all about getting a feel for the speed, and let me tell you, that 405 FPS lives up to the hype. I could instantly see how this crossbow would be a game-changer for hunting.
The bolts flew straight and hit hard, and while the included Lumix scope wasn’t illuminated (which would’ve been nice in lower light), it was still good enough to get me dialed in up to about 50 yards. The accuracy was solid, and I was consistently hitting my targets with minimal adjustment.
I did notice that cocking the bow requires a fair amount of strength, and the trigger pull is heavier than I’m used to. But after a few rounds, I got used to both, and neither became dealbreakers.
What really impressed me was the quiet performance—the rubber dampeners effectively reduced noise, which is crucial when you’re trying not to spook game.
Overall, it’s an excellent crossbow that delivers on speed, power, and precision. It may not have all the high-end features like a top-tier scope or a light trigger, but for the price, it’s an incredible value. This bow is now one of my go-to options, whether for practice or hunting.
Pros of Killer Instinct Lethal 405 Crossbow
Let’s break down some of the key advantages that stood out to me:
- Speed and Power: With a speed of 405 feet per second and a kinetic energy of 134 foot-pounds, this crossbow can knock down even the toughest game. I’ve tested it on targets at various ranges, and the sheer force is remarkable.
- Accuracy: The accuracy on this bow is surprisingly impressive, especially given its price point. The included Lumix scope is decent for basic use, though I’d recommend upgrading to a lighted scope if you plan on hunting in low-light conditions. Sighting in the bow was straightforward, and once dialed in, I had no trouble hitting targets up to 50 yards consistently.
- Noise Control: Stealth is vital for hunting, and the rubber shock absorbers do a great job at reducing noise and vibration. While it’s not entirely silent, it’s quiet enough that I don’t feel I’m giving myself away when taking a shot.
- Adjustability and Comfort: The X-Lok foregrip is adjustable, allowing for a customized hold. I found this feature particularly useful when adjusting between sitting and standing positions during a hunt.
- Bundle Package: The fact that the package includes everything you need to get started—quiver, bolts, field tips, and a rope cocker—adds tremendous value. You don’t need to hunt down accessories to make it functional right out of the box.
Cons of Killer Instinct Lethal 405 Crossbow
While I’m a fan of this crossbow, no product is without its drawbacks.
- Scope Quality: While the crossbow performs exceptionally well, the included scope is non-illuminated, which isn’t ideal for low-light conditions. I upgraded mine pretty quickly. If you’re serious about dawn or dusk hunts, a lighted scope will make a world of difference.
- Trigger Pull: The trigger on the Lethal 405 is a bit heavy. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting if you’re someone who prefers a lighter, more sensitive trigger. Personally, I got used to it after a few sessions, but it’s something that stood out during initial use.
- Cocking Force: Cocking the crossbow takes a fair amount of effort. While this isn’t a problem for me, it might be something to consider if you have any physical limitations or prefer a crank system.
- Assembly: Putting it together isn’t difficult, but there’s always a bit of anxiety with assembling crossbows. I was a little nervous at first, ensuring everything was in the right place. But the instructions were clear, and after following them, I didn’t run into any issues.
Comparison With Other Brands
When compared to other crossbows like the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II and Ravin R10, the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 holds its own, especially when it comes to price-to-performance ratio.
- AXE 405 Crossbow
The AXE 405 and the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 are very similar in terms of speed—both hitting the magic 405 FPS mark.
However, the AXE 405 comes at a higher price point, typically due to its compact and ultra-light design, making it a great choice for hunters who prioritize maneuverability.
While the AXE 405 is slightly more compact and easier to handle in tighter spaces, the Lethal 405 offers comparable performance at a much more affordable price.
If budget is a concern, the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 wins easily in the value department, delivering power and precision for less.
But if you want that extra bit of compactness for tighter treestands or blinds, the AXE might be worth the extra investment.
- TenPoint Turbo S1 Crossbow
The TenPoint Turbo S1 is known for its cutting-edge technology, including the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system, which makes it much easier and safer to cock and decock compared to traditional rope cockers.
This is a huge advantage over the Lethal 405, which requires a good deal of physical effort to cock. The Turbo S1 is also a bit more accurate over longer distances, but it comes with a significantly higher price tag—almost twice as much as the Killer Instinct.
For hunters who prioritize ease of use and have a bigger budget, the TenPoint Turbo S1 might be the way to go. But if you’re looking for raw speed, accuracy, and affordability, the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 is hard to beat.
- Barnett Hyper Raptor Crossbow
The Barnett Hyper Raptor is a sleek, fast crossbow that’s great for those looking for speed (430 FPS) and accuracy in a lightweight package.
It’s faster than the Lethal 405, but it comes at a higher price and uses the Hyperflite bolts, which are more expensive and harder to find than standard bolts.
Additionally, the Hyper Raptor offers a slightly quieter shot than the Lethal 405, thanks to better vibration dampening, but the difference isn’t drastic.
If you’re a hunter who likes using specialty bolts and wants that extra bit of speed, the Hyper Raptor is a fantastic option.
However, the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 is more versatile, as it uses standard bolts and delivers comparable performance for significantly less.
Maintenance Tips For Your Killer Instinct Lethal 405
Maintaining your crossbow is key to ensuring it lasts season after season. Here are a few tips based on my own experience:
- String and Rail Lubrication: Always keep your string and rail properly lubricated. A good rule of thumb is to lubricate the rail every 10-15 shots to reduce wear and friction. Trust me, a well-maintained string will save you from unnecessary replacements.
- Check Your Bolts: Regularly inspect your bolts for any signs of damage, such as cracks or bends. Firing a damaged bolt can lead to poor accuracy or worse, damage to the crossbow itself.
- Inspect Limbs and Cams: Before each use, give the limbs and cams a quick inspection. Look for any signs of cracks, splintering, or wear. It’s rare to encounter these issues with proper maintenance, but being proactive is always better than dealing with potential injury or damage later.
- Keep it Clean: Whether you’ve been in the field or just practicing, make it a habit to clean your crossbow after every session. Wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove any dust or dirt, especially in the nooks and crannies of the rail and trigger mechanism.
- Periodic Inspections: Killer Instinct recommends having your crossbow inspected every three years to maintain your warranty. Even if nothing seems wrong, professional inspections can catch wear and tear that you might miss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Absolutely! The Killer Instinct Fierce 405 is a solid choice for both new and experienced hunters. Its speed and power are impressive, especially for the price, and it’s durable enough for consistent use in the field. While there are minor drawbacks, like the non-illuminated scope and the trigger pull, the overall performance makes it a great crossbow for the money.
The Killer Instinct Lethal 405 can shoot accurately up to 50 yards. However, you may experience a decrease in accuracy or issues like game “jumping the string” due to the noise at greater distances. The bow has the power to go further, but for reliable shots, I recommend sticking within the 50-yard range.
For most hunters, the effective range of the Lethal 405 is around 40 to 50 yards. While the bolts can travel further, this range ensures both accuracy and a clean, ethical shot. Beyond that, you might notice a drop in accuracy, especially if you’re not used to shooting at longer distances.
Yes, Killer Instinct crossbows are known for their accuracy, especially within their effective range. With proper sighting and practice, the Lethal 405 can deliver consistent accuracy up to 50 yards. The key is ensuring your scope is well-adjusted and that you’re using quality bolts.
Final Thoughts
The Killer Instinct Lethal 405 Crossbow brings an excellent combination of speed, power, and value to the table. It’s a crossbow that will serve you well whether you’re taking down big game or target shooting for fun.
Yes, there are a few minor trade-offs—such as the scope and trigger—but these can easily be adjusted to fit your preferences. Given its price point, I’d argue you’re getting more than your money’s worth.
If you’re in the market for a powerful, accurate, and well-priced crossbow, the Killer Instinct Lethal 405 should be at the top of your list.
