New Guy to Crossbow Hunting!

PABOWDUDE60 · Post by **PABOWDUDE60** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 12:10 pm

Which model should I purchase? I just tried the exomax and equinox at my local dealer. I've been bowhunting with recurve and componds for 33 years. PA has just anounced anyone can now use a crossbow in the state. Give me some suggestions. Thanks, Greg Ratcliff I have a couple of friends that have the exocet200 but I never shot them.

Peach · Post by **Peach** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 12:24 pm

With either of those bows, you'll have more speed than the deer will ever know. I have the equinox and I actually really like the thumb hole. It makes it a lot easier to hold and carry when you hunt all day.

Grizzly Adam · Post by **Grizzly Adam** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 12:42 pm

Welcome!

You're good to go, whichever bow you choose. They're all of equal quality, and all capable of killing deer-sized (and bigger) animals with dispatch.

Just don't choose one that's heavier than you can handle. You don't want to over-bow yourself. Make practice fun!

Rich · Post by **Rich** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 12:48 pm

First off, WELCOME!!! If you have been bow hunting for 33 years I am going to assume you are more seasoned (50 years old plus) than someone just getting into bowhunting. With that said, the Phoenix or Exocet/Vortex seem to be better suited for hunters who are more experienced (another way of saying 50+). The 225 pound models can be a bear to cock repetitively, even with a rock cocking device. The Exocet/Vortex are in the middle of speed and poundage and would be a good place to start looking. Bigger is not always better.

Rich

sumner4991 · Post by **sumner4991** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 1:07 pm

Welcome! I would probably opt for the lighter bow. But, seriously, there isn't a bad choice in Excaliburs. Pick the one you like the best when you pick it up. That initial reaction from your body that says, "this is the one".

Enjoy.

Boo · Post by **Boo** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 1:11 pm

Rich wrote:First off, WELCOME!!! If you have been bow hunting for 33 years I am going to assume you are more seasoned (50 years old plus) than someone just getting into bowhunting. With that said, the Phoenix or Exocet/Vortex seem to be better suited for hunters who are more experienced (another way of saying 50+). The 225 pound models can be a bear to cock repetitively, even with a rock cocking device. The Exocet/Vortex are in the middle of speed and poundage and would be a good place to start looking. Bigger is not always better.

Rich

Rich is telling you the honest truth. He's much smarter than I look!

PABOWDUDE60 · Post by **PABOWDUDE60** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 1:37 pm

Hey ! I'm not that old (48) I did like the feel of the Equinox with the thumb hole. I am 6'3" tall and weigh 235 so I don't think I'll have a problem cocking the higher pound models. But maybe I should go back to the archery shop and try the lower ones also before I decide. I'll be having alot more questions for you seasoned cross bow hunters later. Thanks for the info so far! Greg Ratcliff I hunt in PA, MD and DE so I should get alot of opportunities this coming season .

Boo · Post by **Boo** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 1:43 pm

Some states have a 200# limit. Also, think to yourself "how many times can I cock this thing without being fatigued?" But if you can handle it and want it then go for it. Life is way too short to not get the crossbow you want! Bigger bows are harder on everything, from the arrow to the target to the shooter. But if it makes you smile then it's the right one! Besides you can always get another!

PABOWDUDE60 · Post by **PABOWDUDE60** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 1:52 pm

I already checked. PA doesn't have a max limit.I'll have to check MD and DE regs. What are these custom strings Boo? Do you make them yourself. I think I will take your advice though and try out the other models Vortex and Exocet 200. before.

Boo · Post by **Boo** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 2:04 pm

Without question, if you are new to crossbows you should shoot the heck out of the bow to get into a "groove" where you will not dry-fire it. It will take you at least 6 months. As well, after shooting it lots you will also have an educated opinion on what you want in a custom string. You may be completely happy with the string that comes with it, who knows?

Sandman · Post by **Sandman** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 2:05 pm

Welcome aboard ..

VixChix · Post by **VixChix** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 2:15 pm

Welcome!

Each of the Excalibur bows can "get the job done".

Which bow is best for you depends on how you plan on using it. If you get a chance to try out a bow for an hour or so you'll know better what you like. Even if you have no problems cocking the heavier bows, they get to be a little less fun if you have to cock it over and over and over.

No matter which Excalibur bow you choose, you'll be pleased with the accuracy, ruggedness and reliability!

wildwindom · Post by **wildwindom** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 3:33 pm

Welcome to the BIG house i shhot the vortex and love it but if you can go shoot several and test them pick the one that fits you.

roly · Post by **roly** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 3:52 pm

Welcome Mr. Pabowdude60

I'm 57 years young ,I shoot the equinox and really like it.

It is a beast , have to keep the arrow weight up to tame it.

dutchhunter · Post by **dutchhunter** » Fri Mar 27, 2009 4:28 pm

welcome i have had all the bow xcal makes and love them all i would recomend a 200lb bow and a longer stocked bow for your size .for manyyears we killed deer and moose with 150lb bow and never felt under guned .that said i now shot an equinox and love it ,a 200lb bow the xocet or vortex will make you a great bow for deer and turkeys bear .thy are a fast bow and can be cocked by hand if need be the 225lb bows are a bit much to do by hand and i am 6 foot 1 and 245lb .anyway thy are all great bows and you will have a love afair that will last a long time DUTCH

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New Guy to Crossbow Hunting!

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