![Very Happy :D](./images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif)
First off, I noticed that the matrix line was significantly more compact than the older models. The matrix I tested was the 330 which I have been eyeing. I tested these at a Cabelas. The employee assisting me was great. The only complaint I have is that the rope cocker they have is not adjusted correctly. It is way too long so you can't pull back on the string to hook the second cocker hook. This results in a higher pull height so you don't really get the best cocking stress test. That being said, I absolutely loved the 330. It was very easy to cock. I would see no issue with the average man shooting 30 to 40 shots in a row. And with having to stop to retrieve bolts, resting while retrieving, I would say you could shoot all day. Maybe 6o to 80 shots. That said, I am 5' 10'', 200 lbs in decent shape. I don't lift weights but I do farm so take that for what it's worth.
Next I shot the 355 micro. I wanted to shoot the 335 and 315 but they didn't have any. Those are the two micros I am looking at. So the amazing difference between the old Exomax and the Matrix was the same difference again between the Matrix and the Micro. Now again the rope cocker I used was way too long so my lift was way higher than it should be, but the effort cocking the 355 was significant. Under my conditions at Cabelas with the long rope cocker and all, I figure I could maybe shoot that thing about 10 times before it would not be fun anymore. I will say that the Micro looked freekin sweet! Very compact and accurate as hell. I fired two bolts from each bow and each two pairs of bolts were touching each other at about 30 feet. Nothing to brag about. I am just pointing that out if anyone is wondering about accuracy.
I was really on the fence about going with a Matrix or Micro model. I want the Matrix 330 for the reliability/ ease of cocking for extended shooting and the Micro for it's size and balance. I am hoping that I can have the reliability and ease of cocking in a lighter Micro so I must, must, must, test the 335 and 315.
If I have to go with the 315 ,I will be fine with that. I figure anything above 300 fps will be plenty to hunt anything in North America. Also, the Micro was noticeably quieter than the Matrix. Kind of a shorted thud vs a longer twang with the Matrix. Holding the two side by side and envisioning the bow slung on my shoulder, making my way through the Texas brush, I am really leaning towards a lower weight Micro. I know I haven't tested the lighter models yet but does anyone have any thoughts between the Matrix and Micro in the weigh range I'm looking at.
I plan on test the Micro 335 and 315 in the next few weeks and will post my opinions of those.
For anyone that hasn't held one of these new beauties, Matrix or Micro, don't do it unless you have the money to buy a bow cuz now I want one so bad I can't stand it and I don't have the money to buy one. I'm in a bad situation now.
I hope my review will help others decide if they are wanting one. If anything, I would suggest you shoot one for yourself. Cabelas and Bass Pros are great places. It's free and you are under no obligation to buy a bow. An Excal is a lot of money to purchase so try a few out. Take care.