Ibex or Axiom?

[Colt SAA]

Hi folks, I'm on the verge of getting a crossbow and I'm interested in both the Axiom and the Ibex.

All I will use this for would be deer and with my stand set-up, my shots are always 15 yards so I don't feel the need for anything over 305 fps.

Obviously the major difference between the two is the thumbhole stock on the Ibex.

Any suggestions for which one to get?

Thanks.

[BoltCutter]

Hi folks, I'm on the verge of getting a crossbow and I'm interested in both the Axiom and the Ibex.

All I will use this for would be deer and with my stand set-up, my shots are always 15 yards so I don't feel the need for anything over 305 fps.

Obviously the major difference between the two is the thumbhole stock on the Ibex.

Any suggestions for which one to get?

Thanks.

I originally went for the axiom and ordered it however the store phones me and said they was out of stock so upgraded me to the Ibex with no extra charge, and I have to say im glad it happened as the thumbhole stock is great! I have shot both kind of stocks and have to say I do prefer the thumbhole, more of a comfortable hold. Its all down to personal preference though and which ever you choose you wont be disappointed, both very nice bows!! :)

[vixenmaster]

Thumbhole Ibex if'en you like them. I have a Vixen thats a thumbhole n love it

[Tennessee Rebel]

I have a metal rail Ibex and a Matrix 380. I love the feel of the thumbhole stocks. I used to have a Exomax but just like the thumbholes better.

[Cherokeeson]

Have both, Like the Axiom simply due to "Aurthur" in my hands and the discomfort when switching the safety off and having what seems like somewhat less grip in that brief switching time.

[Cossack]

I shoot bows with thumbhole stock, a pistol grip stock and a AR 15 style stock. Much prefer the thumbhole.

[maine hunter]

both are great, hold both and pick the one that feels the best to you, let us know the one you pick.

[yooper_man]

Most defiantly the Ibex over the Axiom, because of the thumbhole stock alone. I also recommend the cheek piece for proper eye scope alignment.

Andrew

[kysdad]

I went with the Axiom and I love it.

[AlinCT]

If you are able to, find a place that has both and hold them. The axiom had a bit of an edge at the top of the wrist that dug into the web between my thumb and index finger. Didn't have this problem with the pistol grip. I have the ibex.

[Carnivorous]

IBEX hands down! Mine had the metal rail.

[liberty71]

If you are able to, find a place that has both and hold them. The axiom had a bit of an edge at the top of the wrist that dug into the web between my thumb and index finger. Didn't have this problem with the pistol grip. I have the ibex.

I agree the Ibex is more comfortable. Nonetheless, I just ordered the Axiom, and here's why.

I had a thumbhole stock on a rifle that I did not care for. While I was at Cabela's, I handled all the Excalibur crossbows they had and I expected not to like the thumbhole stocks. Without a doubt, however, I was pleasantly surprised as they were all more comfortable in my hands than the traditional stocks.

With that said, however, I was taught to move my hands as little as possible while hunting. IMHO, there's not much use for a tang-style safety if you can't reach it effortlessly and with minimal movement.

For me, I feel thumbhole stocks are better suited for a safety by the trigger or within reach like a Remington 700. If that's not an issue for you, the Ibex really has a more comfortable stock IMO.

I'm sure I'll get used to the Axiom, however. I was almost used to it by the time I left Cabela's. I'm sure I can easily modify the stock to increase the comfort with grip tape or something. I just have to find a way to smooth the edge a little (if it ends up bothering me).

I can't, however, relocate the safety, so that's why I chose the traditional stock. It's all personal preference, so my opinion is not for everyone.

[robertyb]

I was worried about hand movement taking the safety off on my Excal Vortex with a deer in front of me. But when the time came I simply slipped my thumb up and pushed the safety to fire position and then slid it back into the thumb hole. My grip on the stock never shifted. Only movement was the thumb slipping up and back down. About the same as on a traditional stock.

[Fred T]

I had to make the same decision a few months ago.Ultimately I chose the Ibex after much back and forth between the two as I prefered the thumbhole stock.