Ravin r26x Vs r29x: Which Is Right For You?

The Ravin crossbow is popular and performs well. But the brand has a lot of different models.

Two of them are Ravin r26x and r29x. As you are pruning on these, I’m guessing you are looking for a comparison that will show all the differences side by side and let you choose the best one.

Don’t have time to dig into the details? Let me give you a quick excerpt. Both Ravin r26x and r29x offer identical features except for slight differences in specs. As for the price comparison, Ravin r26x beats Ravin r29x by a lot. The difference in specs is also negligible.

In terms of speed, performance, and accuracy, r29x is no less than a beast. Get an R29x if you can afford it!

Table of Contents

• Comparison Of Technical Specs Between Ravin r26 and r29
• Ravin r26x vs r29x: Which Is Better?
  • Features
  • Which Is Better For You?
  • Finally Here’s My Take
• Final Thoughts- Which One Is Right For You?

Comparison Of Technical Specs Between Ravin r26 and r29

Here’s a comparison table you can use to quickly assess the technical aspect and differences between the two models.

Factors	Ravin r26x	Ravin r29x
Speed	400 fps	450 fps
Kinetic Energy	142.00 FT-LBS	180 FT-LBS
Weight	6.5 lbs.	6.75 lbs.
Length	26″	29″
Width (Cocked)	5.75”	6″ Axle – Axle
Width (Uncocked)	9.25”	10.5″ Axle – Axle
Power stroke	9.5″	12.5″
Draw Force	12 lbs.	12 lbs.
SKU	R027	R040

Ravin r26x vs r29x: Which Is Better?

I’d like to introduce you to the methodology before proceeding. How would I choose the winner? Which criteria would I take into consideration?

Well, nothing can beat experience and field tests. I will be relying heavily on my own experience using these two Ravin crossbows when making a final decision. I will compare the actual performance with what the brand promised.

However, a large portion of the result will depend on the usefulness and richness of the features.

Well, got it!

Features

In this section, you will learn about different features offered by different brands.

1. Frictionless Flight System

This is a flagship and patented technology by Ravin. How does it work? Basically, this technology allows arrows to fire frictionlessly, resulting in extremely fast speeds. Thus, arrows and string can float freely above the rail.

This feature is available on both the Ravin r26x and r29x.

2. Trac-trigger firing system

What the heck is a Trac-trigger firing system?

A patented built-in trigger mechanism that slides forward on the rail and clasps directly to the precise center of the string every time the bow is drawn, allowing for straight-line nock travel. 

This unique Helicoil advantage creates a perfectly balanced draw for unmatched down-range accuracy with every shot.

Ravin offers a unique trigger mechanism that ensures accurate shooting as well. But, how does this trigger mechanism work? As you draw the bow, the rail slides forward and clasps precisely centered on the string. In this way, the nock will travel straight.

Is this feature available on both models? Yes, both models have the same trigger-firing mechanism.

3. Silent cocking

A regular crossbow that does not have any type of silencing technology produces cocking sounds when you cock it.

However, you know Ravin is not a regular crossbow brand and they should get some technology. And, here’s what 

4. Helicoil Technology

A revolutionary technology that makes it possible to shoot crossbows accurately and precisely with unbeatable speed. When drawing and shooting crossbows, the cams can rotate even 340 degrees while remaining perfectly level.

5. Auto safety

You know what is dry firing in a bow, right? And, dry firing a bow is dangerous and might damage your bow.

You can imagine how painful it would be if you damaged your $2000 Ravin crossbow by dry firing.

Ravin understands this potential danger and that’s why it has a built-in auto safety mechanism that automatically prevents potential danger if you unintentionally dry fire.

This feature is available on the Ravin r26x and r29x models.

6. Built-in sling mounts

The packages also come with sling mounts. This is included in both models.

Which Is Better For You?

Both models have similar features with a few differences. So, it’s hard to say which is better than the other. Even so, I will try to find a winner based on some key criteria, if not the one that is most suitable for you.

1. Accuracy

When it comes to hunting and high-end bows, the importance of accuracy is paramount.

And, why not? Hunting is hard and a skill that requires precise shooting. Your chances of hitting the prey are slim if your bow can’t fire precisely.

Ok, but which Ravin bow is most accurate?

Since most of the features among the two models are close to each other, it’s hard to say which is more accurate. In any case, I have tested it in the field for you.

According to my test, Ravin r29x can hit more accurately.

2. Speed

Next up speed. In terms of speed, r29x is a beast. It can shoot as much as 455 feet per second which is even higher than what the company claims!

Compared to the Ravin r29x, the Ravin r26x has a slower speed. It offers a speed of 400 fps.

In other words, r29x also wins in terms of speed.

Related: How fast crossbow shoot?

3. Features

Both of the models come with identical features. Therefore, you cannot compare. It’s a tie.

4. Price

They are both high-tech crossbows designed specifically for hunting. So, the price is generally high.

The Ravin R29x costs $2,624.99, while the Ravin R26x costs $2,024.99. These are Ravin’s official store prices. On Amazon, the price is likely lower.

As you can see, r26x is a lot cheaper than r29x. In terms of price, r26x is a clear winner. 

Check Ravin R26X Pricing on Amazon

5. Weight

We don’t want to carry heavy items around with us. From a user-friendliness perspective, lightweight bows are preferable.

With this in mind, I see that r29x weighs more.

The weight of a bow increases with its length and features. So, considering just this feature in mind I can’t say a low-weight bow is better.

Instead, I can say, when you are seeking comfort and features r26x would be better. However, if you are heavily relying on the features, r29x might be good for you.

Finally Here’s My Take

So, upon analysis, it’s apparent that both models offer the same robust features and functionality except for some technical features.

From a technical standpoint, Ravin r29x is better than Ravin 26x. It does, however, have some disadvantages, such as its heavy weight and long length.

On the hand, the r26x offers the same features along with lower weight and short axle length with just some minor technical defiances.

However, the price of r26x is way less than r29x and offers almost the same features. Therefore, I would keep r26x ahead.

Check Ravin R26X Pricing on Amazon

Final Thoughts- Which One Is Right For You?

As a whole, neither model clearly wins. Based on the price and other features, it seemed to me that the Ravin r26x is the better option. But, if I would have emphasized other features it could be Ravin r29x.

But, here’s the catch. Because you are the user, you know your priorities, no matter what feature I prioritize.

If you are on a budget and are willing to give up a little bit of speed and accuracy, raven r26x is the best choice. Hands down. 

And, the slight deviance in speed and accuracy is too small that actually won’t make any noticeable difference in your hunting experience.

On the other hand, if you have no issues with budget and don’t want to give in a bit of speed and accuracy- your horse is Ravin r29x.