Ravin Crossbows R18 Review + Interview with John Hernandez

Published on August 16, 2025
Duration: 35:00

This video features an interview with John Hernandez of Ravin Crossbows, focusing on the innovative R18 model. The discussion highlights the R18's vertical limb design, compact footprint, and ease of use, making it suitable for new hunters and experienced archers alike. Key features like the red dot sight and its transferable skills for gun hunters are emphasized, along with the benefits of crossbows for extending hunting seasons and increasing success rates.

Quick Summary

The Ravin R18 crossbow features an innovative vertical limb design for a compact profile and improved maneuverability. Its integrated red dot sight offers three aiming points for 20, 30, and 40 yards, simplifying target acquisition and making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced hunters alike.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Vertical Crossbows & Ravin R18
  2. 00:09Host KJ's Hunting Background & Gun Talk Hunt Updates
  3. 01:39Interview with John Hernandez of Ravin Crossbows
  4. 02:51John Hernandez's Role at Ravin & Industry Experience
  5. 04:53Comparing Vertical Bows vs. Early Crossbows
  6. 06:07Introducing Youth to Archery with Crossbows
  7. 08:02Crossbows as an Accessible Hunting Tool
  8. 10:01High Accuracy of Modern Crossbows
  9. 10:35Ravin's Innovation: Accuracy Through Technology
  10. 11:40Evolution of Crossbow Design: Rail vs. Free Floating
  11. 12:31The Ravin R18: Innovative Landmark for Raven
  12. 15:54Sponsor Spotlights: Timney, Firstperson Defender, Optics Planet, Remington, Savage
  13. 16:50Deep Dive into the Ravin R18 Crossbow
  14. 17:48R18's Vertical Plate Design & Compactness
  15. 19:02Familiar Features for Gun Hunters on the R18
  16. 19:36R18 Red Dot Sight Calibration (20, 30, 40 Yards)
  17. 20:26R18 Ballistics: Kinetic Energy & Harvesting Capability
  18. 20:50Is the R18 Legally Considered a Crossbow?
  19. 21:15Crossbow Legislation & Perception Challenges
  20. 22:35R18 Accuracy & Transferable Skills
  21. 23:02Crossbow Hunting for Youth Success
  22. 23:43Red Dot Sight Advantages: Parallax & Accuracy
  23. 24:41Ravin's Manufacturing Tolerances for Accuracy
  24. 25:29Exploring Other Ravin Crossbow Models (R470, R26, R10)
  25. 26:04Philosophy of Use: Matching Crossbow to Hunting Scenario
  26. 27:03R26: Compact Bullpup for Tree Stands
  27. 27:25R10: Traditional Ergonomics for Ground Blinds
  28. 29:09Ravin Crossbows Warranty & Maintenance
  29. 30:06Crossbows for Gun Hunters: Extending Field Time
  30. 30:47Crossbows as an Addition to Your Arsenal
  31. 32:28The Rise of 'Closet Hunters' & Crossbow Popularity
  32. 33:01Ravin Crossbows: Quiet Operation & Power
  33. 33:57Where to Find Ravin Crossbows
  34. 34:36Conclusion: Extend Your Season with Ravin

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Ravin R18 crossbow innovative?

The Ravin R18 is innovative due to its vertical limb design, which significantly reduces its footprint and improves maneuverability. It also features a red dot sight with calibrated aiming points for common hunting distances, making it user-friendly for both new and experienced hunters.

How does the Ravin R18's red dot sight work?

The R18's red dot sight includes three distinct dots, each calibrated to represent specific distances: 20 yards for the first dot, 30 yards for the second, and 40 yards for the third. This simplifies aiming by providing clear reference points for typical hunting scenarios.

Is the Ravin R18 crossbow suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Ravin R18 is highly suitable for beginners due to its ease of use, integrated sighting system, and the transferable skills it offers from firearm handling. Much of the complex setup is done in the design phase, allowing users to be ready for the field quickly.

What are the benefits of using a crossbow for hunting?

Crossbows offer several benefits, including increased accuracy, a shorter learning curve compared to traditional archery, and the ability to extend hunting seasons in many areas. They are also excellent tools for introducing youth to hunting and archery.

Where can I find more information about Ravin Crossbows?

You can find comprehensive information about Ravin Crossbows, including details on the R18 and other models, by visiting their official website at ravencrossbows.com. They also have a large dealer base, including major retailers like Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops.

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