If you’re looking for a repeating pistol crossbow, two of the most popular choices in the UK are the EK Archery REVO 7 and the EK Archery Cobra RX Adder V2.
Both are made by EK Archery, so the build quality is identical
They are both recurve – so the simplest type (as oppose to a compound)
They both fire from a self-loading magazine (Revo’s is removable, Adder is fixed)
So which one is actually better?
The answer depends on what matters most to you — price, power, flexibility or shooting style.
Quick Comparison Table
| Metric | REVO 7 | Adder | Verdict |
| Magazine Type | Removable | Fixed | REVO wins |
| Capacity | 7 shot | 7 shot | Draw |
| Price | £403.95* | £291.95* | Adder wins |
| Power | 90lb standard
(30–120lb options) |
130lb standard (180lb option) | Adder wins |
| Family Friendly | Yes (due to low poundage limbs available) | No | REVO wins |
| Size | Compact | Larger / rifle-like | Draw – this is due to personal preference. |
| Safety Features | Anti-dry fire system ✔️ Manual safety ✔️ Decocking device ✔️ |
Anti-dry fire system ✔️ Manual safety ✔️ |
REVO wins |
*Prices correct at time of writing – March 2026
Let’s take a look at each metric in a little more detail…
Magazine Type
One of the biggest practical differences is how the magazines work.
The REVO uses a removable magazine. This means you can:
- Carry spare pre-loaded magazines
- Swap and continue shooting immediately
For range sessions and informal shooting, this can significantly improve flow and enjoyment.
The Adder uses a fixed top-loading magazine. So you still have all the fun of fast repeat shooting, but you cannot simply swap a full magazine in seconds.
Capacity
Both crossbows hold 7 bolts as standard, so capacity is equal out of the box.
Please be aware, the original Cobra RX Adder had a 5 shot magazine, we now sell the V2 which has the upgraded 7 bolt magazine.
Similary with the Revo 7, there is an aftermarket 12 bolt magazine available for the crossbow, however, when we tried to source this product to sell, we were informed that the failure rate is approximately 40%, so it’s not a product that we’d currently stock.
If the manufacturer can rectify the issue they’re having with them, then we’ll 100% get them on the site.
Price — A Clear Adder Win
The Adder is cheaper.
This makes it attractive if you want:
- A powerful, well-built repeating crossbow
- Whilst keeping the cost down
The REVO’s higher price reflects its removable magazine system and platform flexibility.
Power — The Adder Is the Stronger Platform
The Adder comes with a 130lb limb as standard, and can be upgraded up to 180lb.
This gives:
- Higher bolt speeds
- Flatter trajectory at longer distances
- A more “serious” shooting feel for experienced users
The REVO typically starts at 90lb, but crucially it offers multiple limb options, ranging from 30lb up to 120lb.
So while the Adder is more powerful in absolute terms, the REVO is more adaptable.
Family Friendly
This is where the REVO becomes particularly interesting.
Because you can fit lower poundage limbs, it can be:
- Easier to cock
- More manageable for younger shooters
- More suitable for mixed-ability groups
If you’re introducing friends or family to crossbow shooting, this flexibility can be valuable.
The Adder, by contrast, is designed more as a full-power platform from the outset.
Size, Handling & Shooting Style
These two crossbows have noticeably different ergonomics.
- REVO 7 → compact, easy to handle
- Adder → larger, more rifle-like shooting stance
Neither is objectively better.
It comes down to whether you prefer:
- A more compact unit
- Or a longer, more stable platform
Accuracy differences between the two are generally minor and are more influenced by shooter technique.
Safety Features
Both crossbows feature anti-dry fire protection and standard safety catches. The Revo 7 also includes a decocking tool, allowing the string to be safely released without firing a bolt.
Final Verdict
There isn’t a universal winner — only the best choice for your priorities.
Choose the REVO 7 if you want:
- Removable magazines
- Greater flexibility in limb power
- A compact shooting platform
- A crossbow that can suit multiple users
Choose the Adder if you want:
- Lower purchase price
- Higher standard power
- A more rifle-like shooting experience
- A straightforward repeating system
Both are well-made, fun, multi-shot crossbows.
Most buyers will be happy with either — but understanding these differences helps you choose the one that fits your shooting style.
We hope this guide has helped you make the choice between the EK Archery Revo & and the EK Archery Cobra RX Adder V2. Thanks for reading
Captain Crossbow


