Forward vs. Reverse Draw: Understanding Modern Crossbow Design

Brad Fenson

Crossbows have experienced a surge in popularity over the past decade, mainly driven by technological innovations that have transformed them from niche tools into high-performance hunting systems. Today’s crossbows are faster, safer, quieter and easier to use than models from just a few years ago. With advancements in materials, engineering and ergonomics, hunters are discovering that upgrading to a modern crossbow can significantly improve accuracy and success in the field.

One of the most important design choices in today’s crossbows is whether to go with a forward draw or reverse draw limb configuration. Each has its strengths and trade-offs, and TenPoint Crossbow Technologies—one of the industry’s most respected manufacturers—offers elite options in both categories with their new TX 28 and TRX 26.

Forward Draw: Traditional Design, Modern Performance

The TenPoint TX 28 represents the pinnacle of forward-draw crossbow design. In a forward-draw configuration, the limbs point away from the shooter and launch forward when the trigger is pulled and the string is released. This traditional layout is easy to understand, making it an excellent choice for newer users or those accustomed to conventional crossbow platforms.

The TX 28 is compact but does not sacrifice performance. It launches arrows at 410 feet per second. It measures 28 inches in length, just 6.5 inches wide when cocked and weighs 7.2 pounds. This balance of speed and size makes it a versatile hunting tool for various scenarios.

Key features include TenPoint’s Twin-Riser Technology, which reduces riser flex by 70%, significantly improving downrange accuracy. The ZERO-Trac rail-less barrel eliminates bolt friction, reducing weight and enhancing consistency. A TriggerTech Trigger with a crisp, 3-pound pull delivers predictable and precise shots, while the ACUslide MAXX cocking and de-cocking system ensures safe and controlled handling. The GUIDE-Lock bolt rest keeps bolts securely in place, helping deliver repeatable accuracy when it matters most.

Reverse Draw: Compact Size, Increased Power Stroke

The TenPoint TRX 26 is a next-generation reverse-draw crossbow built for maximum performance in a minimal footprint. In reverse-draw systems, the limbs point back toward the shooter, allowing the string to be drawn from a forward starting position and increasing the power stroke. The more time an arrow is on the string, the more energy it transfers, which is why reverse-draw crossbows are extremely fast. The power stroke is the distance the string travels before release, without increasing the overall bow length. The result is more stored energy, greater speed and flatter arrow trajectories, achieved with less draw weight and reduced noise.

At just 26.5 inches long, 5.75 inches wide when cocked and 7.1 pounds, the TRX 26 is among the most compact high-performance crossbows on the market. Despite its small size, it propels bolts at a staggering 460 feet per second with 193 foot-pounds of kinetic energy (using 410-grain arrows). It’s billed as the fastest compact crossbow on the market, maximizing performance while minimizing size.

Like the TX 28, the TRX 26 features Twin-Riser Technology for stiffness and stability, a rail-less ZERO-Trac Barrel and a 3-pound TriggerTech Trigger. The ACUslide MAXX system is also present, enabling safe, silent cocking and de-cocking with complete control. Safety is further enhanced by an ambidextrous trigger safety and a nock-retention groove that lets the shooter know the bolt is fully seated with both an audible click and tactile feedback.

The forward-draw TenPoint TX 28 vs. the reverse-draw TenPoint TRX 26. Brad Fenson Photo

Which Design is Right for You?

Choosing between forward and reverse draw ultimately depends on your preferences and hunting needs.

Forward-draw bows like the TX 28 offer a familiar layout with front-weighted balance that some hunters find stabilizing, especially when shooting from rests or blinds. TenPoint’s engineering offsets the slightly shorter power stroke, delivering plenty of speed in a compact frame. The speed and performance would make this crossbow suitable for hunting anything in North America.

Reverse-draw models like the TRX 26 push the envelope regarding power, balance and compactness. The extended power stroke allows for higher arrow velocities without extreme draw weights, resulting in less noise, less wear on components and easier handling in tight spaces like ground blinds or dense timber. Extreme speed flattens the trajectory, extends range and improves downrange performance. Of course, for this added performance, expect to pay roughly a grand more than the TX 28 so budget could definitely come into play.

Both bows come standard with TenPoint’s RangeMaster 100 2- 7X variable-speed scope, three CenterPunch HPX carbon bolts, quiver, bow hook, bubble level and integrated string stop system. The TRX 26 is also available with the Burris Oracle X laser-rangefinding scope, offering on-the-fly ranging and an instant, calibrated aiming point—an unparalleled feature for hunters looking for advanced optics integration.

While crossbows find their largest use among the deer hunting crowd, today’s models are capable of taking down anything in North America. Brad Fenson Photo

Final Thoughts

The differences between forward and reverse draw crossbows are more than cosmetic and influence how the bow feels, performs and suits specific hunting situations. Fortunately, today’s technology allows hunters to choose between two optimized systems rather than settling for compromises.

With the forward-draw TX 28 or the reverse-draw TRX 26, you’ll wield a crossbow built for precision, safety and success. The best way to decide is to handle and shoot both. Visit your local archery shop, test the models and discover which design fits your shooting style and hunting goals.

One thing’s sure: no matter which model you choose, you’re stepping into the future of crossbow hunting.