SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow Review

Let’s Talk About SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow

The SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow enters a market saturated with options, promising a blend of performance and value. The Empire Hellhound 370 boasts a draw weight of 185 lbs, launching arrows at a respectable 370 fps. SA Sports positions this crossbow as an accessible entry point into the world of serious crossbow hunting.

I was looking for a compact, powerful crossbow for deer hunting in heavily wooded areas. My primary concern was maneuverability and sufficient power for ethical kills at reasonable ranges. I’ve always gravitated towards crossbows that offer a good balance between speed, accuracy, and ease of handling.

Unboxing the Hellhound 370, I was immediately struck by its aggressive Kryptek camo finish and relatively light weight of 6.15 lbs. The build quality seemed decent for the price point, with a solid aluminum riser and extruded aluminum barrel. The inclusion of a quick-detach quiver, adjustable foregrip, and 4×32 scope was a welcome surprise.

Compared to Barnett Whitetail Hunter Pro STR, which emphasizes speed and a higher price tag, and the CenterPoint Sniper 370, which is known for its adjustability, the Empire Hellhound 370 appeared to strike a middle ground. I opted for the Hellhound 370 due to its promise of balanced performance and what appeared to be a more rugged build than the CenterPoint. The Barnett’s price was a deterrent.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow seemed like a well-packaged deal. I was excited to see if its performance would live up to its aggressive aesthetics and promised features. Only time and testing would reveal if this crossbow was truly a “hellhound” in the field, or just another bark with no bite.


Real-World Testing: Putting SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at a local archery range, primarily focusing on sighting in the included 4×32 scope. The weather was mild, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze. I quickly noticed that the advertised 370 fps was likely optimistic, based on my range estimations and arrow drop at 20, 30, and 40 yards.

Despite the somewhat slower speed, the Empire Hellhound 370 proved to be surprisingly accurate after a proper sighting. The crossbow felt well-balanced during the shot, and the trigger, advertised at 3.5 lbs, was crisp and consistent. The included rope cocking device was essential, as the 185 lb draw weight required significant effort.

One initial issue was the noise level; the crossbow was considerably louder than I anticipated. Also, the adjustable foregrip, while a nice feature, felt slightly flimsy and needed constant tightening.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular practice and two unsuccessful deer hunts, the SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow continues to perform reasonably well. No significant wear and tear is evident, despite being subjected to brush and moderate humidity. The Kryptek camo finish has held up without scratches.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular waxing of the string and lubrication of the rail have kept it functioning smoothly. Cleaning is simple, involving wiping down the limbs and barrel after each use. Compared to my previous crossbow, a TenPoint Titan, the Hellhound 370 is noticeably louder but easier to maneuver in tight spaces, due to its more compact design.

While not a top-tier performer, the Empire Hellhound 370 has proven to be a reliable and accurate entry-level crossbow. It hasn’t surpassed my expectations, but it hasn’t disappointed me either.

Breaking Down the Features of SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow

Specifications

The SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow features a draw weight of 185 lbs and is advertised to shoot at 370 fps. It has a length of 35.5 inches and a weight of 6.15 lbs. The crossbow comes standard with a quick-detach quiver with Picatinny mount, an adjustable Picatinny mount foregrip, machined aluminum / adjustable string stoppers, and a precision scope mount and trigger assembly set at 3.5lbs.

These specifications contribute to a balance of power, maneuverability, and user-friendliness. The 185 lb draw weight delivers sufficient kinetic energy for hunting medium-sized game, while the relatively light weight and compact dimensions make it easier to handle in confined spaces. The adjustable features enhance comfort and customization.

Performance & Functionality

The SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow performs adequately for its intended purpose, offering sufficient accuracy for hunting within reasonable ranges (out to 40 yards). Its strengths include a consistent trigger, decent balance, and compact size. A notable weakness is the noise level, which could potentially spook game.

Overall, the Hellhound 370 meets expectations for an entry-level crossbow in its price range. While it doesn’t excel in any particular area, it provides a reliable and functional hunting platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The Empire Hellhound 370 features a solid aluminum riser, an extruded aluminum barrel, and a Kryptek camo finish. The build quality feels durable, but some plastic components, such as the foregrip, feel less robust. The crossbow is relatively lightweight, which enhances maneuverability, and the adjustable stock allows for a customized fit.

There is a slight learning curve associated with cocking and loading, but the included instructions are clear and concise. After a few practice sessions, the process becomes relatively straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow should provide several seasons of reliable use. Regular string waxing and rail lubrication are essential for maintaining performance and preventing wear. The components appear to be relatively easy to replace, should the need arise, and SA Sports offers replacement parts through their website.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow includes a quick-detach quiver, three 20-inch bolts, an adjustable foregrip, a 4×32 multi-range scope, a rope cocking device, hex keys, and instructions. The integrated Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of various aftermarket accessories, such as upgraded scopes, lasers, or bipods.

The crossbow is generally compatible with standard 20-inch crossbow bolts from other brands. However, it’s essential to ensure that the bolt weight and fletching profile are appropriate for the crossbow’s specifications.

Pros and Cons of SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow

Pros

  • Affordable price point makes it accessible to new crossbow hunters.
  • Relatively lightweight and compact, enhancing maneuverability in tight hunting environments.
  • Decent accuracy once sighted in, suitable for ethical hunting within reasonable ranges (40 yards).
  • Includes essential accessories, such as a quiver, bolts, and a rope cocking device.
  • Adjustable stock and foregrip allow for a customized fit and improved ergonomics.

Cons

  • Advertised speed (370 fps) may be optimistic; actual performance may be slightly lower.
  • Relatively loud, which could potentially spook game animals.
  • Some plastic components, such as the foregrip, feel less durable than the metal parts.


Who Should Buy SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow?

  • Perfect for: Entry-level crossbow hunters, budget-conscious shooters, and individuals seeking a compact and maneuverable crossbow for hunting in confined spaces. Novice hunters will appreciate the straightforward setup and ease of use.
  • Who should skip this product? Experienced crossbow hunters seeking top-tier performance, extremely quiet operation, or premium build quality should consider higher-end options.
  • Must-have accessories or modifications? Upgrading to higher-quality bolts, adding noise dampeners (string silencers and limb dampeners), and potentially replacing the included scope with a model that has better light gathering capabilities are recommended.

Conclusion on SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow

The SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow offers a compelling value proposition for entry-level crossbow hunters. While it may not be the fastest or quietest option on the market, it provides a reliable and accurate hunting platform at an affordable price. The inclusion of essential accessories and adjustable features adds to its appeal.

The price is justified, given its balance of performance, features, and accessibility. I would recommend the SA Sports Outdoor Gear Empire Hellhound 370 Crossbow to anyone looking for a starter crossbow that delivers adequate performance without breaking the bank.

If you’re ready to take the plunge into crossbow hunting, the Empire Hellhound 370 is a worthy contender to get you started. Gear up, head to the range, and unleash your inner hellhound!

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