If you’re not a bowhunter but want to take advantage of the extended bow seasons available to bowhunters, a crossbow is a simple solution in most states. Indeed, some dedicated bowhunters dislike crossbows because they reduce the skill required to shoot an arrow accurately. Indeed, with a basic understanding of how a modern crossbow works, basic shooting fundamentals, and scope zeroing, almost anyone can punch an apple at 50 yards after a couple of hours on the range. This means that crossbows are lethal to deer. While some guys have to have the latest and greatest gear, don’t think you have to spend $2,000 on a high-end bow.

There are several that are excellent in the $500 range and several that are excellent in the $750 range. Here are three of the best crossbows for less than $1,000.

1. Ten Point Titan M1

It wasn’t long ago that a high-end TenPoint crossbow couldn’t be had for less than $1,500. However, the arrow-shooting juggernaut has done an excellent job of creating and branding great products. On the low end, the company’s Wicked Ridge brand is featured, while on the high end, its flagship TenPoint models are among the best in the world. Its Horton brand, which I have consistently said represents some of the best value crossbows available, was in the middle.

2. Excalibur Axe 340

I must admit that I wasn’t always an Excalibur fan, primarily because I believed that modern eccentrics—cams—were superior to recurve-style limbs only in terms of power generation. I’m not entirely wrong, but I’m also not entirely correct. Because a crossbow can be cocked and its string mechanically held, the Excalibur’s no-let-off problem isn’t as severe as it is with vertical bows.

3. Barnett TS380

Barnett may not be regarded as the Ferrari of crossbows, but this is likely because it offers a wide range of models at the most affordable prices. However, this does not preclude it from producing excellent crossbows. Indeed, its mid-range offerings, such as the TS380, will do everything you need them to do and are incredibly accurate, all while saving you a lot of money.