Mission Sub-1 XR Crossbow Review

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Choosing between Mission’s Sub-1 crossbows comes down to a few practical tradeoffs: speed, carry weight, width, trigger feel, and what is included in the package. The Sub-1 XR is the performance-first option at up to 410 FPS, while the original Sub-1 Black favors a slightly lighter 7.5-pound build and the Sub-1 Lite cuts weight further to 6.9 pounds. This review compares the three models so you can see which one fits your range use, hunting setup, and carrying needs. The XR is the strongest overall pick for speed and compact handling, but the Lite is easier to carry and the Black remains a balanced middle choice.

Key Specifications

What Is the Mission Sub-1 XR?

The Sub-1 XR is Mission’s speed-focused model in the Sub-1 family. Mission lists it at up to 410 FPS with a 350-grain bolt, a 7.6-pound physical weight, a 14.625-inch power stroke, and a 30.5-inch overall length. Its 9.1-inch cocked axle-to-axle width is the narrowest of the three models reviewed here.

The XR uses Mission’s Benchmark Fire Control system, which combines a two-stage match-grade trigger, an Easy-Load bolt retention arm, and a push-button de-cocking function. The Pro Kit version also bundles the core accessories needed for setup, although exact package contents should always be checked on the current listing before purchase.

Top Picks

Selection Criteria

For this family, the useful comparison points are speed, physical weight, cocked width, trigger pull, power stroke, de-cocking controls, adjustability, and package contents. Speed helps separate the XR from the lighter Lite, while width and weight tell you more about how each model will feel when carried or handled in a blind, stand, or controlled range setting.

The review also weighs setup convenience and verified package details. Those factors matter because a bundled scope, bolts, quiver, cocking aid, rail lube, and case can reduce the number of separate items you need to source, but package contents can vary by model and seller.

Who Should Buy It?

Sub-1 XR

The Sub-1 XR is the clear choice when speed and a narrow cocked profile are your main priorities. Mission lists the XR at up to 410 FPS, 7.6 pounds, 30.5 inches long, and 9.1 inches axle-to-axle when cocked. That combination gives you the fastest model here without moving to a much longer frame.

Its Benchmark Fire Control system uses a 3.0-pound two-stage trigger and a push-button de-cocking function. The adjustable stock offers six length-of-pull positions, and the comb has 1.25 inches of adjustment, which gives you more room to tune the fit than a fixed-stock design.

What People Say

Amazon currently shows the XR listing with a 4.5 out of 5 rating from 14 ratings. Review coverage also tends to emphasize its compact width, trigger system, and accuracy-focused design. Those points line up with Mission’s published specifications, although any user-reported accuracy still depends on setup, ammunition, range conditions, and shooter skill.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Safety Features

Benchmark Fire Control includes the de-cocking button, match-grade trigger, and bolt retention arm. Mission also describes the system as allowing de-cocking without firing a bolt. Follow the owner’s manual for cocking, loading, de-cocking, inspection, and storage, and keep hands and fingers clear of the string path.

Use Cases

The XR makes the most sense for controlled range practice and lawful hunting where a narrow cocked width is useful. Its 7.6-pound physical weight can add stability, but buyers who spend more time carrying than shooting may prefer the lighter Lite.

Key Benefits

• Highest verified speed in this three-model comparison
• 9.1-inch cocked width for compact handling
• Push-button de-cocking system built into Benchmark Fire Control
• Adjustable stock and comb for a more personalized fit

Rating: 4.5/5 (total: 14+)

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Sub-1 Black

The reviewed Sub-1 Black Pro-Kit is the middle-ground option. Retailer records for this generation list 350 FPS, a 7.5-pound physical weight, a 3.4-pound trigger pull, a 13.75-inch power stroke, and a 30.25-inch overall length. Its 10.7-inch cocked width remains compact, but it is not as narrow as the XR.

The Black model also uses Mission’s Benchmark Fire Control layout and adjustable precision stock. Its Pro-Kit configuration has been sold with a Hawke XB-1 scope, three Mission bolts, a quiver, cocking aid, rail lube, and case, although you should verify the exact bundle on the current seller page.

What People Say

Published reviews and retailer descriptions commonly focus on the Sub-1’s compact build, two-stage trigger, de-cocking function, and accuracy-oriented rail and cam design. The exact Amazon rating and review count for this ASIN could not be independently confirmed during this refresh, so this article does not rely on a current star score for the buying recommendation.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Safety Features

The Black model uses the same basic Benchmark Fire Control concept, including a two-stage trigger, bolt retention arm, and de-cocking button. Follow Mission’s instructions for the exact generation you own because specifications and package configurations have changed over time.

Use Cases

This model suits buyers who want the Sub-1 platform without prioritizing the XR’s maximum speed or the Lite’s minimum weight. It is a practical middle choice for controlled range use and lawful hunting where compact dimensions matter.

Key Benefits

• Balanced 7.5-pound physical weight
• Compact 10.7-inch cocked width
• 3.4-pound trigger pull for the reviewed generation
• Adjustable fit and push-button de-cocking system

Rating: Not independently verified

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Sub-1 Lite

The Sub-1 Lite gives up speed to reduce carry weight. Mission lists it at up to 335 FPS and 6.9 pounds, making it 0.7 pound lighter than the XR and 0.6 pound lighter than the reviewed Black model. It keeps the 30.25-inch overall length and uses a 10.5-inch cocked width.

The Lite still includes Benchmark Fire Control, a 3.3-pound trigger, a 13.75-inch power stroke, and the same six-position stock plus 1.25-inch comb adjustment described across the Sub-1 platform. That makes it the most sensible choice here if physical weight matters more to you than maximum listed speed.

What People Say

Review coverage commonly highlights the Lite’s lower weight, compact frame, de-cocking system, and adjustable stock. The exact Amazon rating and review count for this ASIN could not be directly confirmed during this refresh, so the recommendation is based on verified specifications and the model’s intended position within the Sub-1 range.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Safety Features

The Lite includes the Benchmark Fire Control system with a de-cocking button, match-grade trigger, and Easy-Load bolt retention arm. Mission lists the trigger pull at 3.3 pounds. Safe use still depends on following the manual, inspecting the equipment, using a proper backstop, and keeping the string path clear.

Use Cases

The Lite fits buyers who expect to carry the crossbow for longer periods or who simply prefer less mass at the shoulder. The tradeoff is clear: you get the lowest physical weight in the group, but also the lowest listed speed.

Key Benefits

• 6.9-pound physical weight for easier carrying
• 10.5-inch cocked width for compact handling
• 3.3-pound trigger pull and push-button de-cocking system
• Adjustable stock and comb without moving up to the heavier XR

Rating: Editorial score 86/100

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How It Performs in Real Use

For Range Practice

All three models use the Sub-1 platform’s accuracy-focused trigger and rail design, so the biggest practical differences are weight, width, and speed. The XR gives you the highest listed velocity, while the Lite reduces fatigue from holding and carrying the crossbow between sessions.

For Blinds and Treestands

Cocked width matters in confined positions. The XR is listed at 9.1 inches axle-to-axle when cocked, compared with 10.7 inches for the reviewed Black model and 10.5 inches for the Lite. A narrower setup can be easier to position without contacting nearby walls, rails, or branches.

For Carrying in the Field

The Lite has the clearest advantage at 6.9 pounds. The Black sits at 7.5 pounds and the XR at 7.6 pounds before accessories, so scopes, quivers, bolts, and cocking devices will add to the ready-to-use weight.

For Setup and Storage

Pro Kit bundles can reduce setup shopping because they may include the scope, bolts, quiver, cocking aid, rail lube, and case. Because bundle contents can vary by generation and seller, verify the exact package before ordering and store the crossbow according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Setup and Safe-Handling Tips

• Read the owner’s manual for your exact model and generation before cocking, loading, de-cocking, or adjusting the crossbow.
• Use only compatible bolts and accessories specified by the manufacturer for your model.
• Keep fingers and clothing clear of the string path and use a suitable backstop at a controlled range.
• Inspect strings, cables, fasteners, and the rail regularly, and stop using the crossbow if you find visible damage.
• Check local hunting, transport, and range rules before taking the crossbow into the field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Customer Preferences

Choose the XR if you prioritize the highest listed speed and the narrowest cocked width. Choose the Black if you want the reviewed generation’s middle-ground balance of 7.5-pound weight and 350 FPS, and choose the Lite if 6.9-pound physical weight matters more than maximum speed. In all three cases, verify the exact model and bundle because listings can represent different generations or accessory packages.

Is It Worth the Price?

The Sub-1 family sits in the premium end of the crossbow market, so the value case depends on whether you will use its adjustable fit, compact dimensions, Benchmark Fire Control system, and higher-end package components. The XR makes the strongest case for buyers who specifically want 410 FPS and a 9.1-inch cocked width, while the Lite offers a clearer benefit for buyers who value reduced carry weight.

It is not the best fit if you only need a basic range setup or if price is your main decision factor. Before buying, compare the current listing, package contents, warranty terms, and local rules rather than relying on an old advertised price.

How It Compares to Alternatives

Within Mission’s own lineup, the alternatives are straightforward. The XR is the performance-first choice, the Lite is the carry-first choice, and the reviewed Black model sits between them. That makes the XR the best fit when speed and narrow cocked width matter most, while the Lite is better when you want to reduce physical weight.

	Mission Archery Sub-1 XR 410 FPS RT Edge Camo Crossbow	Mission Sub 1 Crossbow Black Pro-Kit	Sub-1 Lite 335 FPS Black Crossbow with Pro Package
Rating	4.5/5 (14 ratings verified during refresh)	Not independently verified	Editorial score 86/100
Speed (FPS)	410 FPS	350 FPS, reviewed generation	335 FPS
Weight (lbs)	7.6 lbs	7.5 lbs	6.9 lbs
Power Stroke (inches)	14.625 inches	13.75 inches	13.75 inches
	View on Amazon →	View on Amazon →	View on Amazon →

The Bottom Line

The Sub-1 XR is the strongest overall choice here if you want the family’s highest listed speed, the narrowest cocked width, and Mission’s Benchmark Fire Control system in one package. Choose the Lite instead if lower carry weight matters more, or the Black if you are specifically shopping the reviewed 350 FPS generation and can confirm the exact model and bundle.