



The Rattler is a fairly easy crossbow to cock, thanks in large part to the low draw weight and the short power stroke. This is definitely a crossbow that will benefit from both string suppressors as well as multiple limb and stock dampeners. The PSE Rattler is not what we would consider quiet, especially given the modest 165 lb. You are really going to want to find some suppressors as well as there is a notable twang when you fire. We found that the included arrows started to have too much unpredictability beyond that range for us to recommend any shots longer than that. The Rattler is a basic crossbow that is going to work OK for hunting deer within about the 30 yard range. See our Crossbow Ballistics Guides section for a complete understanding of how we conducted our tests and why this data matters. Your actual results will vary slightly depending on weather, and significantly with arrow weight change. Use our arrow ballistics calculator for more valuable information. This is certainly not the hardest hitter out there, but that should still be plenty of punch for a well-aimed shot to down a deer and even elk. The PSE Rattler combines a modest draw weight with a short power stroke to push arrows in the 350-grain range at about 285 fps. One positive however is the ability to move the forward grip to the most comfortable position for the shooter’s forward hand. These would normally be to keep the shooters off-hand fingers and thumb from ever getting into the string path. Another safety feature that was not included are the flanges above the fore grip. We really liked that it had an auto safety, but we would really have liked to have seen an anti-dry-fire system on the Rattler, especially given that it will likely be shot by a newbie shooter. Another cool feature is the fully rubber-dipped foot stirrup which helped stifle a small amount of the sound and vibration. It does have a nice film-dipped camo finish as well as an anodized machined aluminum barrel. When you first look at the Rattler, you can tell this is a crossbow that is more designed for the entry-level shooter. First Impressions: Design, Safety, Comfort and Accuracy Given that these aren’t that expensive, it shouldn’t be too big of a deal to pick one up. One item that was missing that we would have included is a rope-cocking aid. The one that we looked at had:įour 20” arrows with 100-grain field points The PSE Rattler is offered in a variety of package configurations.
