I’ve shot and hunted with browning’s first two models, the ZeroSeven OneSixOne and the ZeroSeven OneSixTwo, but for this crossbow review I will report on the upper-end model, the OneSixTwo. The series is called the ZeroSeven, and the model is called the OneSixTwo because it was made in year ’16, version 2. Essentially, it’s a 145-pound draw, 7.2-pound polymer-and-metal crossbow. Browning’s crossbows quickly proved they’re not only stylish, but also accurate and well-made. In fact, these crossbows meld racecar-like lines with rubber-grip panels, honey-combed polymer, precision eccentrics and machined-metal functioning parts to create a distinctive and advanced shooting package.
At the ZeroSeven’s core is a machined-aluminum barrel topped with a polymer fire-control system which features a TriggerTech trigger. The OneSixTwo’s metal trigger connects to a sear in gun-like fashion, and it produces a 3-pound pull with zero creep through TriggerTech’s innovative Frictionless Release Technology. When you pull the trigger, the crossbow goes off without your finger having to wade through a half-inch of gritty slop. That’s notable because a crossbow’s arrow is roughly 10 times slower than a rifle bullet, and so any bow movement induced by the shooter before the arrow leaves the bow hurts accuracy.
The fire-control mechanism on the ZeroSeven also features three safeties: an ambidextrous unit for the trigger and two anti-dryfire devices. The OneSixTwo’s antidryfire device has a rear unit that resembles those of many crossbows, featuring two prongs that prevent the string from releasing if an arrow isn’t loaded. And a separate spring clip above the prongs acts as a security guide that prevents the string from releasing even if the bolt is seated incorrectly.
The buttstock on this crossbow features honeycombed polymer for strength, and hidden within the trap-door comb is one of the OneSixTwo’s marquee features: a crank cocking device that makes this bow great for anyone valuing their back. It reduces the bow’s 145-pound draw to 17 pounds via a ratcheting crank anyone can operate. Browning engineers also updated the common rope-cocker which features two nodules that fit into a channel on both sides of the rail to ensure consistent cocking by holding both cams in exact unison.
This crossbow also features two flexible honeycombed safety wings to prevent finger injuries. Underneath them, the forend features a rubberized grip panel. Ahead of the forend, this Browning has three Picatinny rails for attaching lights or other accessories, including the bow’s quiver, which is perhaps the market’s finest.
Its two-cam “engine” combines with 12-inch split limbs and a 14.6-inch powerstroke to deliver blazing speeds of 371.2 fps with 400-grain arrows, according to my Easton chronograph. In sum, Browning is firmly centered in the crossbow market with highperformance, game-changing models like the OneSixTwo. It feels good, and it’s fast, quiet, safe and easy to cock and shoot.
To learn more, please visit Browning Crossbow’s website.
