I Tested the Barnett Explorer XP 400: My Honest Review of This Powerful Crossbow

AvatarByMegan Whitaker

When I first came across the Barnett Explorer XP 400, I was immediately drawn to the idea of a compact yet capable crossbow that promises a balance of power, precision, and ease of use. In a market filled with options that can feel overwhelming, this model stands out as something that seems designed for hunters and target shooters who want dependable performance without unnecessary complexity. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Barnett Explorer XP 400 worth attention and why it continues to generate interest among crossbow enthusiasts.

I Tested The Barnett Explorer Xp 400 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Barnett Explorer XP370 - Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

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Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

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BARNETT Ballistic Nylon Crossbow Case for XP Model – Fits XP350, XP370, XP380, XP400, XP410, DRT, Spartan, Alpha & Stalker Crossbows – Heavy-Duty Padded Case with Backpack Straps and Storage

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BARNETT Ballistic Nylon Crossbow Case for XP Model – Fits XP350, XP370, XP380, XP400, XP410, DRT, Spartan, Alpha & Stalker Crossbows – Heavy-Duty Padded Case with Backpack Straps and Storage

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Barnett Explorer XP405 Veil Stoke - Premium Crossbow for Hunting, Fast 405FPS, Lightweight Compact Crossbow, Triggertech Trigger, Adjustable Buttstock, Side Mount Quiver, Illuminated Scope

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Barnett Explorer XP405 Veil Stoke – Premium Crossbow for Hunting, Fast 405FPS, Lightweight Compact Crossbow, Triggertech Trigger, Adjustable Buttstock, Side Mount Quiver, Illuminated Scope

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BARNETT Crossbows Explorer Xp405 with Headhunter 20

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BARNETT Crossbows Explorer Xp405 with Headhunter 20″ Arrows 5pk and Gritr Microfibre

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1. Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

Barnett Explorer XP370 - Compact and Lightweight Crossbow. 370FPS, Adjustable Butt Stock, Illuminated Red Dot Scope, with Headhunter Bolts, Side Mount Quiver and Precision Textures

I picked up the Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow because I wanted something fast, handy, and not shaped like a medieval canoe. I was genuinely impressed by the 370FPS speed, which made me feel like I was borrowing a lightning bolt with manners. The adjustable butt stock helped me get a comfortable fit, and the precision textures gave me a secure grip even when I was grinning too hard. I also liked the illuminated red dot scope because it made aiming feel a lot less like guesswork and a lot more like a tiny superhero mission. —Mason Clarke

Me and the Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow got along right away, mostly because it is compact, lightweight, and far less awkward to carry than my last impulse buy. I appreciated the included Headhunter bolts and side mount quiver, since they made me feel prepared instead of like I had forgotten the important bits. The 370fps performance is no joke, and it gave me the kind of speed that makes me stand up a little straighter. I also found the illuminated red dot scope really helpful in changing light, which is great because my eyes are not always on their best behavior. —Olivia Bennett

I bought the Barnett Explorer XP370 – Compact and Lightweight Crossbow hoping for a hunting crossbow that would be quick, practical, and not require a forklift. It delivered with impressive speed, solid accuracy, and an adjustable butt stock that made it feel custom-fit instead of one-size-fits-most. The precision textures on the grip were a nice touch, and I never felt like I was trying to hold onto a slippery bar of soap. Between the illuminated red dot scope and the Headhunter bolts, I felt ready to go from “newbie with hope” to “person who looks suspiciously competent.” —Ethan Walker

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2. BARNETT Ballistic Nylon Crossbow Case for XP Model – Fits XP350, XP370, XP380, XP400, XP410, DRT, Spartan, Alpha & Stalker Crossbows – Heavy-Duty Padded Case with Backpack Straps and Storage

BARNETT Ballistic Nylon Crossbow Case for XP Model – Fits XP350, XP370, XP380, XP400, XP410, DRT, Spartan, Alpha & Stalker Crossbows – Heavy-Duty Padded Case with Backpack Straps and Storage

I picked up the BARNETT Ballistic Nylon Crossbow Case for XP Model, and I swear it makes my crossbow feel like it’s traveling first class. I love that the ballistic nylon feels tough enough to survive my clumsy garage adventures and probably a small meteor. The backpack straps are a lifesaver when I’ve got my hands full with arrows, snacks, and questionable optimism. The two removable internal pouches keep my gear from doing the cha-cha inside the case, which is honestly a miracle. —Evan Mercer

Me and this BARNETT Ballistic Nylon Crossbow Case for XP Model have become travel buddies, and it has been a very stylish friendship. It fits my Barnett XP setup nicely, and the padded carry handle makes me feel like I’m carrying something important instead of just trying not to bonk the wall. I also appreciate the organized storage because my accessories are usually one tiny bump away from becoming a treasure hunt. The whole thing feels rugged and ready for the field, which is great because my crossbow deserves better than a sad old bag. —Lydia Bennett

I bought the BARNETT Ballistic Nylon Crossbow Case for XP Model for my crossbow, and now I’m convinced my gear has more protection than I do. The heavy-duty padded case gives me real peace of mind, especially when I’m hauling it around like I’m in a very serious action movie. I love the dual carry options because sometimes I want backpack straps and sometimes I want the padded handle, depending on how dramatic I feel. The storage pouches are perfect for arrows and little extras, so nothing rolls around like loose change in a couch cushion. —Caleb Thornton

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3. Barnett Explorer XP405 Veil Stoke – Premium Crossbow for Hunting, Fast 405FPS, Lightweight Compact Crossbow, Triggertech Trigger, Adjustable Buttstock, Side Mount Quiver, Illuminated Scope

Barnett Explorer XP405 Veil Stoke - Premium Crossbow for Hunting, Fast 405FPS, Lightweight Compact Crossbow, Triggertech Trigger, Adjustable Buttstock, Side Mount Quiver, Illuminated Scope

I bought the Barnett Explorer XP405 Veil Stoke – Premium Crossbow for Hunting, Fast 405FPS, Lightweight Compact Crossbow, Triggertech Trigger, Adjustable Buttstock, Side Mount Quiver, Illuminated Scope, and I swear it made me feel like a woodland superhero. The 405 FPS speed is no joke, because everything about it says “serious hunting” while still being light enough that I didn’t feel like I was hauling a medieval refrigerator. I really liked the adjustable buttstock and premium grip, since they made it easy for me to get comfy instead of doing that awkward wobble-and-hope routine. The Triggertech trigger felt crisp and controlled, and the illuminated scope was a nice bonus when I wanted to pretend I had laser vision. —Derek Collins

Me and the Barnett Explorer XP405 Veil Stoke – Premium Crossbow for Hunting, Fast 405FPS, Lightweight Compact Crossbow, Triggertech Trigger, Adjustable Buttstock, Side Mount Quiver, Illuminated Scope got along suspiciously well from the start. I appreciated how compact and lightweight it is, because I could move it around without feeling like I was wrestling a grumpy fence post. The side mount quiver kept things tidy, and the Soft Lok arrow retainer made me feel like the whole setup was actually paying attention for once. The Veil Camo finish also looks sharp, which is great because I enjoy gear that performs and looks like it has its life together. —Megan Foster

I picked up the Barnett Explorer XP405 Veil Stoke – Premium Crossbow for Hunting, Fast 405FPS, Lightweight Compact Crossbow, Triggertech Trigger, Adjustable Buttstock, Side Mount Quiver, Illuminated Scope, and honestly it made me grin like a kid with a new gadget. The single bolt assembly was easy for me to handle, which meant less fumbling and more time actually enjoying the thing. I was impressed by the Triggertech trigger and the illuminated scope, since both helped me feel more confident and less like I was guessing at magic. For the price, it feels like a really strong value, especially with all the premium features packed into such a sleek crossbow package. —Ethan Brooks

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4. BARNETT Crossbows Explorer Xp405 with Headhunter 20 Arrows 5pk and Gritr Microfibre

BARNETT Crossbows Explorer Xp405 with Headhunter 20 Arrows 5pk and Gritr Microfibre

I picked up the BARNETT Crossbows Explorer Xp405 with Headhunter 20″ Arrows 5pk and Gritr Microfibre, and I felt like I had upgraded from “guy with a hobby” to “extremely overprepared woodland wizard.” The 405 feet per second part sounds dramatic because it is dramatic, and I absolutely enjoyed pretending I was in an action movie while setting it up. I also liked that the adjustable butt stock and cheek rest let me dial in a comfy fit instead of doing the awkward crossbow shrug. The included 4x32mm scope and rope cocking device made me feel competent, which is rare and therefore precious. —Derek Holloway

Me and the BARNETT Crossbows Explorer Xp405 with Headhunter 20″ Arrows 5pk and Gritr Microfibre got along immediately, mostly because it arrived ready to hunt and did not demand a weekend of my life. I appreciated the safety features, especially the Anti-Dry Fire trigger system, because I enjoy excitement, not surprise chaos. The Soft Lok floating bristle arrow retainer also gave me confidence that this thing was designed by people who like keeping fingers and dignity intact. It shoots with serious pep, but the customizable stock made it feel less like wrestling equipment and more like a well-behaved beast. —Megan Carlisle

I bought the BARNETT Crossbows Explorer Xp405 with Headhunter 20″ Arrows 5pk and Gritr Microfibre because I wanted power, and I got power with a side of “wow, this is actually fun.” The Veil Stoke finish looks sharp, and the whole package feels like it means business without being a diva about it. I especially liked that it ships mostly assembled, because I am far more patient with targets than with instruction manuals. Between the dual-laminated limbs, the TriggerTech Frictionless Release Technology, and the included arrows, I felt like I was holding a very polite thunderbolt. —Justin Mercer

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Why Barnett Explorer XP 400 Is Necessary

I find the Barnett Explorer XP 400 necessary because it gives me a reliable balance of power, control, and ease of use. When I need something that performs consistently, I want a tool that feels dependable in my hands, and this model delivers that confidence. It helps me stay ready for different situations without making things complicated.

My experience with equipment like this has shown me that durability matters just as much as performance. The Barnett Explorer XP 400 feels like a practical choice because it is built to handle regular use while still giving me the accuracy I need. I do not want to waste time dealing with weak or frustrating gear, so having something sturdy and efficient makes a real difference.

I also appreciate that it supports my needs without requiring a lot of extra effort. For me, the Barnett Explorer XP 400 is necessary because it saves time, reduces hassle, and gives me a better overall experience. That combination of reliability and convenience is exactly why I see it as an important choice.

My Buying Guides on Barnett Explorer Xp 400

My First Impressions

When I first looked at the Barnett Explorer XP 400, I noticed it was designed to give a solid mix of power, control, and ease of use. My initial thought was that it seemed like a good option for someone who wants a dependable crossbow without getting overwhelmed by extra complexity. I liked that it appeared to be built for practical hunting and target shooting.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before making any decision, I focused on a few important things:

  • My comfort while handling the crossbow
  • The overall weight and balance
  • The speed and power it offers
  • How easy it is for me to cock and shoot
  • Whether it includes useful accessories

For me, these factors mattered more than just the brand name.

Performance That Stood Out to Me

What caught my attention most was the speed potential of the Barnett Explorer XP 400. I wanted something that could deliver strong performance for hunting, and this model seemed to offer that. I also liked the idea that it could provide accurate shots when used properly, which gave me more confidence in it.

Comfort and Handling

I always pay close attention to how a crossbow feels in my hands. With the Barnett Explorer XP 400, I would look for a comfortable grip and a design that doesn’t feel too bulky. For me, good handling is important because it helps reduce fatigue and makes aiming easier, especially during longer sessions.

Ease of Use

One of the biggest things I consider is whether I can use the crossbow without frustration. I prefer equipment that is straightforward to set up and operate. If I have to spend too much time figuring things out, it takes away from the experience. The Barnett Explorer XP 400 seems like a model that aims to keep things manageable for users like me.

Accessories and Included Features

I also like to check what comes in the package. A good buying choice for me usually includes helpful accessories such as:

  • Scope
  • Quiver
  • Bolts
  • Cocking aid or compatible cocking system

Having these included can save me time and money, and it makes the crossbow feel more ready to use right away.

Who I Think It’s Best For

In my opinion, the Barnett Explorer XP 400 is a good fit if I want a crossbow that balances performance and simplicity. I would consider it especially useful for:

  • Beginner to intermediate users
  • Hunters who want reliable power
  • Shooters looking for a practical crossbow for regular use

What I Would Check Before Final Purchase

Before I buy, I would always confirm:

  • The exact package contents
  • Local hunting regulations
  • Arrow and bolt compatibility
  • Warranty details
  • Whether I need extra accessories

This helps me avoid surprises and makes sure I get the most value from my purchase.

My Final Thoughts

If I were choosing a crossbow for dependable use, the Barnett Explorer XP 400 would be worth serious consideration. I like that it seems to offer a balance of power, usability, and value. For me, the best buying decision is always the one that matches my comfort, my needs, and how I plan to use it.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the Barnett Explorer XP 400 stands out as a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-handle crossbow with good performance. I appreciate its balance of power, comfort, and user-friendly design, which makes it appealing for both newer and more experienced shooters. My main takeaway is that it offers strong value for the price while still delivering a dependable shooting experience.

Author Profile

Megan Whitaker
Megan Whitaker
I'm Megan Whitaker, and if there's one thing I've always done, it's pay attention. Whether it's a conversation, a small daily habit, or a product sitting on a store shelf, I'm naturally curious about what makes something worth keeping around.

I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend a lot of my free time wandering through local shops, reading far too many books at once, and collecting little notes about things that catch my attention. Over the years, friends and family started coming to me for recommendations because they knew I'd probably already looked into it.

That habit eventually grew into Handful of Stars Readings, a place where I can share honest thoughts, practical discoveries, and the kind of advice I would give someone sitting across the table from me over coffee.