New Matrix Bulldog 380 vs Matrix 380

[GROOTSKY]

I'm going to update my Axiom to either the new Bulldog or the Matrix 380, can anyone tell me if the new Bulldog is worth the extra $. It seems most everyone who has the Matrix is happy with their bow. Thanks, Tim

[SEW]

Depends on your size and strength some. My BD 400 is 5'/sec faster than my M380 with the exact same string, arrow, brace height set of optimum on each and the same set of limbs. They are about equal to cock. I found NO trouble with the BD trigger linkage mechanism. I already had a spare TT or it'd still have its original trigger. The BD stock seems shorter. The BD400 seems smaller than the M380. I'd expect the BD380 even more so. Best guess is that the BD380 will be easier to cock than the M380 and appx 15'/sec slower. I expect the BD380 will have a more refined feeling than the M380, and less bulky feeling. 4 years, well over 2,000 shots, hundreds of hours cocked and no problems with my M380. 3 years, probably >2,000 shots and even more 100's of hours cocked and no problems with M405. However, that written, I think the BD380/400 will be more reliable yet.
I'm 5' 9 1/2" , 195#, 70 in 4 months and can easily cock the 380 & 400. I can cock the 405. I expect cocking the BD380 to be much likecocking the M355.
IF YOU GET A DR STIRRUP KIT, it'l SEEM LIKE COCKING THE NEXT LOWER XBOW(a M380 feels like a M355).
So strength, health, size all factor in. I personally like the original Matrix 380/405, but feel that the BD380/400 are more refined, more dependable xbows.
When I go bear hunting way out in the middle of nowhere and no cell phone service, my primary hunting Xbow (M405) stays home and the BD400 gets to go.

[NEPAbowhunter]

You should shoulder and take a few shots with both of them if possible. That will give you a good idea of which one to get. My Bulldog is very similar to my Matrix 355 in size. It is nice and balanced. It actually feels lighter than the Matrix 355 upfront.
Was it worth the extra $ to upgrade? Probably not. I can kill deer all day long with my Matrix 355. But I wanted it and I got it.
I really like the new Bulldog 380. I can honestly say my Matrix 355 is going to be taking a back seat to it. I am planning on topping the Bulldog off with a new Leupold VXR and some Spynal Tapp arrows sometime this new year. Do I need a new scope and arrows? Not really, but I am going to be getting them. Good luck with your new Excalibur! Which ever one you get they will have your back. Have a great New Year!

[Hunt it]

I have two 380 Matrix and a 400 BD. All great bows, the eye relief on the Bull Pup can be an issue pending on scope you want to mount. Short Excal's scope no problem. I read about many on here putting stock extenders on BD???? Why buy a bull pup design and add length? Makes no sense to me, buy regular model if bull pup too short.

[GROOTSKY]

Thanks for all the information! I think I will go with the Bulldog, my local store has one and if felt good to handle. Can anyone tell me why everyone rates it at around 15 ft/second slower than the matrix 380? I'm not worried about the slower speed just a curiosity question.

Thanks, Tim

[NEPAbowhunter]

The riser is swept back on the Bulldog. On the Matrix 380 it is swept forward. The Bulldog is advertised to shoot up to 380fps. I guess if you luck out and get a hot set of limbs and a 350 grain arrow and shoot with the wind at your back you might get "up to 380". Whatever speed it is shooting I like it. Good luck with yours Tim, you picked a sweet bow.