I make my own arrows, strings and maintenance so the going to a shop issue isn't pertinent. However servicing the compound is much more involved. Had to build a press because the one at the local shop wasn't strong enough and didn't adjust down to the size of my bow. I can change strings on the recurve in several minutes using nothing more than a homemade stringer. The Flemish strings I make for the Excals are both stronger and quieter (not to mention less expensive) than the 'endless loop' strings and cables I make for the compound.
Since they have fewer moving parts The Excals are stronger, more durable and trouble free. They use flat nocks, which IMO are stronger and more accurate than the moon nocks required by the compound. And, I needn't worry about indexing the arrow.
Yes, the compound is narrower and faster. The downside is that it's more difficult to cock and is heavier. It has a flatter trajectory, shorter flight time and longer range. However, the recurves both shoot minute of deer to 40 yards, my personal distance for live targets ...regardless of which bow I'm using.
After owning 5 bows, 2 compounds and 3 recurves, and if having to pick just one (heaven forbid), it would likely be my Phoenix or it's sexy sibling the Ibex.
i can shoot that bow all day without getting tired, gives me complete passthrough at 4o yards and is more accurate than I am.
Oh, by the way, not to overlook the no-questions-asked lifetime warranty.
