There is a smart way into a premium crossbow and an expensive way, and the certified reconditioned program exists for hunters who prefer the first. The reconditioned R18 is the same vertical-limb mini bow that normally inspected and restored by Ravin, and it has appeared on the official store. For a bow this niche and this well-reviewed, that discount is the entire argument.

To be clear about what you are getting: the specifications do not change in the reconditioning process. The R18 still measures 4.75 inches wide and 25 inches long with the stock attached, still weighs six pounds, and still launches a 400-grain arrow at 330 feet per second with 85 foot-pounds of energy behind it. The VertiCoil cam system, winding strings and cables around cams that rotate 720 degrees, is what makes the package so small. Cocked, the axle-to-axle height is a barely-there 1.3 inches.

The feature list also carries over in full: the removable stock, the 3-dot reflex sight, the detachable quiver, built-in sling mounts, auto safety and anti-dry fire, three .003 R18 arrows at 16 inches with field points, and the draw handle. The bow is fully assembled and pre-tuned, so it arrives shooting the way a Ravin should.

Two practical notes from the listing. First, stock at this price moves fast, and the reconditioned page has spent time showing an out-of-stock notice with an email alert option, so if you see it available it is worth acting quickly. Second, “reconditioned” at Ravin means certified through the manufacturer’s own program, not a third-party refurbish, which is exactly the distinction you want when warranty questions come up.

If the compact, saddle-hunting-friendly R18 was on your list but the price was not, this is the listing to watch. The current price and availability are always on the product page, and that is where the final decision gets made.

Shop Now

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.