Help choosing first crossbow

[Zipline]

Hello everyone, I am in the market for my first crossbow and have a few questions.

The two bows im looking at are the grizzly and the 380. The grizzly has all the power i need, but i can afford the 380 so i don't see a reason NOT to get the more powerful bow. Of course there is the 405 too but im not sure ifthat would make a good beginners bow.

The bow is going to be used for hunting black bear deer hogs and coyotes. Im sure any excal will kill anything i hunt but that's whats got me stuck right now. I guess my biggest question is, is there a reason to spend extra to get the 380?

does it preform better, i wont shoot past 50 yards and i doubt anything i shoot will know the difference but then again if the 380 is a noticeably better bow id rather spend a bit more and have it


All thoughts and opinions are appreciated

[xcaliber]

Both are great choices. The 380 is fully equipped with ADF, bumpers, and cheek piece. The ADF would be most valuable to a new user, I think it is the best choice for all the game you mentioned as well. Sure you will be fine with the Grizzly, but the extra power is good for bear, and hogs.
Welcome aboard, and good luck.

[GrassyKnoll]

Welcome Zipline to Excalibur and the ADDICTION!!!! lol

I would say the 380 as well for the same reasons too.

Also make sure you buy a "Stringer" to adjust your brace height.. This is just as important as ADF.

[Riflemanz]

330 or 355 will suit you fine!

[georgiaboy]

Both bow's will kill everything you mentioned...but if your serious about hogs go with the 380...nothing like a little insurance.
Let us know what you decide and welcome to the forum.

[UPSMAN]

Love my 380.

[Buddyshort]

If you are going to shoot mechanical heads i would go with the 380 for the extra hp. I shot 2 hogs last year with my 355 and swhackers and glad i had the extra power

[Zipline]

Im leaning towards the 380, don't think id go with the 355 just because the price difference isnt that bad and the 380 package seems to have a bit more

[wabi]

I'd suggest the 380 if price is not a major factor. The extra speed will help on long shots (flatter trajectory) if range estimation isn't perfect, and the extra power might be good on a marginal hit.

[vixenmaster]

Naw you don't want one of the Matrix models. Getstid a Micro Nitemare n enjoy huntin

[Zipline]

Havent read much about the micros, how do they compare to a 380 as far as accuracy out to 50 yards. Im sure it will kill what ever ill hunt so im just trying to get the best deal for my dollar really. The 380 seems like a great bow and package for the money

But i will do some research on the micro as well

[BrotherRon]

Welcome aboard.
If you are considering the Grizzy I would recommend the 330 or the 355 and add the Danny Miller Bumpers and an ADF. I use my 330 for deer hunting and know it will work for bear as well, and is much easier cocking all afternoon practicing. If you plan on doing a lot of target shooting the 380 can get tough after a while.
The 355 is the middle of the road for the Matrix line and is a very good all around model for hunting and is much friendlier target shooting. My 330 is a tack driver at 60 yards, but in all reality I would probably never attempt a shot over 40 yards.
Just my thoughts. And welcome to your new addiction
Ron.

[Zipline]

Looked into the micro 335 seems like a nice package and bow. There are just to many good choices!

I think the grizzly is off the table, so i will have to do some thinking and decide on the micro or the 380

The micro has everything i need but my inner tim the tool man taylor likes the 380.

[W.Miguire]

Welcome to the forum. I have a 355 and a 380 , like them both the 355 is my fave but I am gonna use the 380 for this year to give it a fair chance they are both good bows and very accurate . seems everyone who owns a 335 loves them . good luck with your choice.
W.M.

[Hester0305]

They're all nice Excals I've had quite a few. If you're looking at a Micro and shoot a lot id go with a 330 because it is a lot easier to cock. The 380 to me is even easier to cock for repeated shooting sessions, that's my personal opinion only. Good luck with your decisions you may decide you want 2 of them. Welcome Aboard