If you’re in the market for a high-quality crossbow that combines precision, ease of use, and affordability, the TenPoint Turbo S1 should be on your radar. It’s not just a crossbow; it’s a tool that enhances your hunting experience, making every shot count.
With its compact design, user-friendly features like the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system, and top-tier accuracy, the Turbo S1 is a fantastic choice for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike.
Trust me, this crossbow might be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.
My Experience With TenPoint Turbo S1 Crossbow
When I first got my hands on the TenPoint Turbo S1, I was immediately impressed by how compact and lightweight it was. At only 31 inches in length, this is TenPoint’s shortest forward draw crossbow. The first thing I noticed was the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system.
If you’re like me and appreciate easy handling, this system will be your best friend in the field. No need for sudden jerky movements or struggling to de-cock the bow—you can stop mid-draw if needed. It adds a layer of safety and convenience that, honestly, should be a standard in every crossbow out there.
After spending some time sighting in the bow, I was hitting targets at 60 yards with ease. Accuracy was spot-on, and the Turbo S1 stacked my arrows into tight groups. That’s the kind of reliability I need when I’m out hunting, and this crossbow delivers.
Pros of The TenPoint Turbo S1
- Compact and Lightweight: The Turbo S1 is TenPoint’s shortest forward draw crossbow. Its compact size makes it a breeze to carry in the woods, especially during long hunts when fatigue can set in. Weighing in at a little over 7 pounds, it’s one of those crossbows you won’t dread hauling through thick brush.
- ACUslide Cocking and De-Cocking System: One of the standout features of the Turbo S1 is the ACUslide system. If you’ve ever been in the woods, trying to safely de-cock your crossbow without firing an arrow, you know how nerve-wracking that can be. The ACUslide eliminates that worry. It’s quiet, efficient, and, more importantly, safe. You can even stop mid-draw, which gives you full control over your shots and saves you from potential mishaps.
- Speed and Accuracy: With a speed of 390 feet per second (FPS), the Turbo S1 is fast enough to ensure clean kills. I’ve shot it at distances up to 60 yards, and the accuracy has been nothing short of impressive. It consistently stacks bolts on top of each other, which is exactly what I want from a hunting crossbow.
- RangeMaster Pro Variable Speed Scope: The scope that comes with the Turbo S1 is more than capable. It’s easy to zero in, and its variable speed settings mean you can adapt to different distances without much hassle. When you pair it with the Pro Elite 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrows, you’ll notice just how efficient this setup is at making precise, consistent shots.
- Integrated String Stop System: Noise is the enemy when you’re hunting, and the Turbo S1’s integrated string stop system helps reduce vibration and sound. While no crossbow is completely silent, this feature does an excellent job of dampening the noise so you can stay as stealthy as possible.
Cons of The TenPoint Turbo S1
No product is without its downsides, and the TenPoint Turbo S1 has a couple worth mentioning.
- Price: While the Turbo S1 is marketed as one of the most affordable high-end crossbows, it still sits on the pricier side compared to other entry-level crossbows. For those on a tighter budget, the initial investment might feel steep, though you are paying for premium features and performance.
- Stirrup Size: The stirrup is too small for comfortably putting your foot in while cocking. This is a minor inconvenience, but for someone used to larger stirrups, it’s noticeable. Although TenPoint doesn’t recommend placing your foot in the stirrup while cocking, I still found it a bit odd. They offer an upgraded stirrup, but that means another purchase on top of the crossbow.
- Crank Handle Issue: While the ACUslide system is a great feature, the crank handle has a minor flaw. After cranking the bow multiple times, there is a chance that the little silver piece on the handle might come loose. Luckily, this is an easy fix by tightening a set screw, but it’s something worth checking regularly.
Maintenance Tips For The TenPoint Turbo S1
Owning a crossbow is not a “buy it and forget it” kind of deal. You’ll need to maintain your Turbo S1 if you want it to perform at its best for years to come. Here are some maintenance tips I’ve found essential:
- Regularly Inspect the String and Cables: Crossbow strings endure a lot of tension, and the Turbo S1 is no exception. Before and after every hunt, check your string and cables for signs of wear. Apply string wax regularly to keep everything in top condition. I recommend doing this every 10-15 shots.
- Keep the Rail Lubricated: TenPoint recommends lubricating the crossbow’s rail every 75-100 shots, but I like to do it more often, especially if I’ve been out in rough conditions. Lubricating the rail reduces friction and ensures smooth arrow release.
- Tighten All Screws and Bolts: Before every hunt, take a minute to go over all the screws and bolts on your crossbow. With the vibration and movement, they can sometimes loosen over time. It’s a quick and simple check that can save you from potential malfunctions in the field.
- Check the ACUslide System: Every once in a while, take a look at the ACUslide system to ensure everything is in working order. Make sure the set screws on the crank handle are tight to avoid the issue I mentioned earlier. A quick inspection will keep your crossbow performing reliably.
- Store in a Dry, Cool Place: When not in use, store your Turbo S1 in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage. Humidity can cause rust and degrade the crossbow’s materials, so investing in a good storage case is wise.
Comparing The TenPoint Turbo S1 With Other Crossbows
When comparing the Turbo S1 to other crossbows in its category, it stacks up impressively.
- Barnett Hyper Raptor Crossbow
The Barnett Hyper Raptor is a sleek, lightweight crossbow that appeals to those who value speed and compactness.
It shoots at 400 FPS, slightly faster than the Turbo S1, and features an ultra-lightweight frame that makes it easy to carry in the field.
However, when it comes to ease of use and safety features, the TenPoint Turbo S1 takes the edge.
While the Hyper Raptor offers Barnett’s frictionless release system, it lacks the intuitive ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system found in the Turbo S1. If you’ve ever struggled with cocking or de-cocking a crossbow, you’ll know how important this feature is.
The Turbo S1 allows you to cock and de-cock safely without the fear of a misfire, which makes it more user-friendly for beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
Moreover, the Turbo S1 also comes with TenPoint’s Integrated String Stop System, which helps reduce noise and vibration, giving you a quieter shot.
While Barnett’s Hyper Raptor offers impressive speed and maneuverability, the Turbo S1 provides more versatility, safety, and reliability in real-world hunting situations.
- Wicked Ridge M370 Crossbow
The Wicked Ridge M370 is another contender worth discussing.
At 5.8 pounds, it is one of the lightest crossbows available, making it extremely portable and ideal for long hunts where you need to minimize weight.
For a hunter who prioritizes comfort over everything, the M370 may seem like a great choice.
However, the Turbo S1 edges out the M370 in terms of advanced features and overall performance. While the M370 has a respectable shooting speed of 370 FPS, it falls short compared to the 390 FPS of the Turbo S1.
Additionally, the Turbo S1’s ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system offers much smoother operation than the M370’s rope-cocking system, which can be more cumbersome to use.
In terms of accuracy, the Turbo S1’s RangeMaster Pro Scope provides clearer optics and better target acquisition than the standard scope on the M370.
If you’re a hunter who values precision and ease of use, the Turbo S1 is worth the extra investment. It combines lightweight handling with premium features, making it a better all-around crossbow than the Wicked Ridge M370.
- TenPoint Nitro 505 Crossbow
Now, let’s talk about the powerhouse—TenPoint Nitro 505.
This is the top-of-the-line model from TenPoint, and it boasts some incredible stats, including a jaw-dropping speed of 505 FPS.
If pure speed is what you’re after, the Nitro 505 is almost in a league of its own.
However, all that speed comes with some trade-offs, which is where the Turbo S1 makes its case as a more balanced option.
The Nitro 505, while offering tremendous power, is heavier and bulkier than the Turbo S1. Weighing around 7.9 pounds, it’s not as easy to carry through dense woods or during long hunting trips. Plus, the Nitro 505 comes at a premium price point, which may put it out of reach for some hunters.
In contrast, the Turbo S1 offers a perfect blend of speed, accuracy, and compact design at a more affordable price. While the Nitro 505 delivers raw power, the Turbo S1 excels in versatility and user-friendliness.
The ACUslide system and the shorter, more compact frame make it a more practical choice for hunters who need a reliable, easy-to-use crossbow without compromising on performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The TenPoint Turbo S1 can shoot accurately up to 60-80 yards, depending on your skill and the conditions. While it’s possible to shoot farther, this is the effective range where the crossbow excels in both accuracy and power.
For most TenPoint crossbows, including the Turbo S1, the effective range is between 40 and 60 yards. However, with good conditions and practice, you can extend this range to 70-80 yards.
Dry firing a TenPoint crossbow, or any crossbow for that matter, can cause significant damage to the limbs and string. The ACUslide system on the Turbo S1 helps prevent accidental dry fires, but it’s important to avoid it at all costs to preserve the integrity of the crossbow.
The TenPoint Turbo GT crossbow delivers speeds of up to 360 FPS, making it a solid option, though slower than the Turbo S1, which reaches up to 390 FPS.
Final Thoughts
The TenPoint Turbo S1 stands out as one of the best high-end crossbows on the market today. Its compact design, powerful accuracy, and user-friendly features like the ACUslide cocking and de-cocking system make it a smart investment for any hunter.
While it has a few minor drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons. If you’re serious about hunting and want a crossbow that will elevate your game, the Turbo S1 is a fantastic choice.
