Cossack

Good job HH of summarizing the recurve/compoumd.
I would only add that recurve can be let down with string cocker rather than having to shoot an arrow. I shoot both regularly: Vortex, Phoenix for recurves and Cyclone for compound. If it had to be just one for haunting deer it would likely be the Vortex. Cyclone if it included bear and elk. Got to admit that I'm very partial to the reflex sight topped Phoenix. Just came in form the woods less then an hour ago, carrying it is a breeze. Works just great as I keep my shot to less than 40 yards.
BTW. Did not see the buck I was hunting but did see a big Fisher. Cool animal. Black fluid silk.

KodiakArcher

The Excalibur Equinox was the first one I've played with and I was flat out amazed at how awesome that machine is. There's something to be said of the durability of not having all the cables and wheels like a compound Xbow too...

payj

The difference between the vortex and equinox is the draw weight and fps correct? Is it worth the extra $?

thanks

smokepolehall

the diff is 25 lbs draw weight more for equinox shorter string and serving life. the power stroke is longer than the vortex. yes the equinox is faster.

Cossack

The difference in speed is not worth the hassle of cocking an Equinox. We're talking 25 lbs more pull weight but only 10-15 fps more speed. (Have owned both, settled on Vortex).

nksmfamjp

For a first crossbow, I would recommend a 150 - 175 lb model without a self cocking mechanism. Compound bows are usually narrower as has been said and recurve are wider. Recurve does give you more bow tuning options.

IMO, Tenpoint is the deluxe brand with Excal just behind. I own a Tenpoint, but prefer Excal designs because they are all business. Tenpoint has some doodads which are maybe over the top for me as far as features go.

The key to accuracy performance is arrow building, so keep some money aside for fletching tools, arrow spinners and the like.

Also, my big secret: Carbon arrows offer no big advantage to me as a crossbow shooter and could potential blow up in my face. Until you make this decision for yourself, I would stick with aluminum 2216 shaft arrows.

So, I don't think I've fully spent your $800, so save the rest for lost arrows.

Cossack

They offer a big advantage, they don't bend and stay that way, making them useless. Been shooting them exclusively for several years, from five different bows, none have "blown up." They are easier to fletch too, IMO.

awshucks

X2 on carbons and Boris gave you good advice on the Exocet/Vortex over the Exomax/Equinox. I had an Emax and it was a brute. That 25 lbs makes it much more work to cock and the serving life is a lot shorter.

Fwiw, the only carbons I have much experience w/ are the GT L II's. Got about 3 doz of them and have only ruined one or two hitting trees ect.

I respect these other guys opinions, there's seldom just one answer.

payj

Thank you all for your help. It sounds like the overall best choice is the vortex. I will most likely pick one of those up.

Thanks again,

Justin

907Alaska

Can't go wrong with a Excal!