Wicked Ridge Commander M1 Crossbow - Compact, American-Built Value

In this review the Wicked Ridge Commander M1 is examined for hunters who want a lightweight, compact crossbow that still delivers usable power and convenience. The bottom line: this model is best for hunters seeking mobility and an easy-to-cock platform - the built-in ACUdraw and narrow 9.5' profile make the crossbow especially useful in stands or blinds where space is tight. It provides a practical balance of weight, handling, and factory-ready optics that make it a sensible choice for value-conscious shooters.

Key Features

• Lightweight construction: At just 5.8 lbs the Commander M1 is one of the lightest crossbows available, which reduces fatigue during long hunts and makes carry between stands easier.
• Narrow profile: The compact 9.5' width improves mobility and lowers the chance of cam or limb contact when shooting from tight blinds or tree stands.
• Built-in cocking device: The integrated ACUdraw reduces cocking effort to about 5 lbs and stores the crank handle in the butt-stock so a separate device is unnecessary.
• Factory optics: The included 8.5 in Multi-Line Scope has fully coated 4x optics and provides usable aimpoints out to 50 yards for quicker sight-in and practical field use.
• Pre-sighted at 20 yards: Each bow is pre-sighted before leaving the factory, so initial shots are more likely to be on target right out of the box.
• Complete kit: The package includes the built-in ACUdraw, a 4x scope, three Match 400 carbon arrows and a quiver, covering basic needs for first hunts.

Who It's For

The Commander M1 is aimed at hunters who prioritize low weight and compact handling over maximum kinetic performance; its 380 fps rating and narrow frame suit stand and blind hunting where maneuverability matters. It is also a strong fit for shooters who want an out-of-the-box setup, since the built-in ACUdraw and included 4x scope reduce the need to buy accessories separately.

Those who need extreme long-range power or a heavier, more robust hunting rig should look elsewhere; the Commander M1 is designed as a value-oriented, American-built compact crossbow rather than a heavy-duty competition platform. Budget buyers should also inspect the packaging on delivery, as some users reported mixed assembly experiences.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very lightweight and narrow, making it easy to carry and use in confined hunting locations.
• Integrated ACUdraw with stored crank handle makes cocking simple and reduces the chance of leaving a device behind.
• Includes a 4x Multi-Line Scope and three carbon arrows, offering immediate usability out of the box.
• Pre-sighted at 20 yards, helping first shots land closer to point of aim without lengthy initial tuning.

Cons

• Assembly feedback is mixed; at least one customer noted missing parts or tools, so buyers should check contents carefully on arrival.
• While 380 fps is adequate for many hunting situations, those seeking maximum long-range power may prefer heavier models.

Specifications

Brand	Wicked Ridge
Model	Commander M1
Velocity	380 FPS
Weight	5.8 lbs
Width	9.5 in (cocked)
Included optics	4x Multi-Line Scope (8.5 in)
Included accessories	Built-in ACUdraw, 3 Match 400 carbon arrows, quiver

Our Verdict

The Wicked Ridge Commander M1 is a strong value choice for hunters who need a lightweight, compact crossbow that is easy to cock and ready to hunt. With its built-in ACUdraw, factory scope, and pre-sighting, it offers convenience and solid build quality for the price, though buyers should inspect the box on arrival and accept that it trades top-end power for portability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a separate cocking rope required?
The Commander M1 includes the built-in ACUdraw cocking device with crank handle storage, so a separate cocking rope is not required for normal use.

Does it come sighted?
Yes, the bow is pre-sighted at 20 yards and ships with a 4x Multi-Line Scope to help you get on target quickly.

What is included in the package?
The package includes the built-in ACUdraw, a 4x Multi-Line Scope, three Match 400 carbon arrows and a quiver for immediate use.