What do I really want???

[BrotherRon]

In case people haven't figured it out yet......
I know next to nothing about crossbows other than knowing I want an Excalibur.
With that said, what do I need/want ??
I will be using whatever I get for deer hunting in North central Wisconsin.
I live in Clark county, but have hunting land in Price county.
I do like the idea of being able to target practice once in a while without having to worry about parts wearing. (except for a string once in a while.

Thanks.
Ron.

[vixenmaster]

So you want an Excal ok, next you decide what stock type you want, then decide on the power n speed fps you need. Then you pick one & buy it.

[BrotherRon]

Well, I like the thumb hole style stock.
Not sure I really need the speed of a matrix, but am sure impressed by it.
I,m starting to lean towards the 330.
This will be my first (and possibly last) crossbow, so I want to make sure to get one that will last me a long time and one I will be happy with.
I'm listening to everything people say on here and paying close attention

Ron

[cevans]

Ask yourself how much cocking weight do I want to pull back all the time too in making your choice. Does Wisconsin have weight limit for crossbows?

[nchunterkw]

As far as speed goes,
A Matrix 330 is basically equivalent to a Vortex (thumbhole version of 200# older version)
A Matrix 355 is basically equivalent to the Equinox.
So you can take speed/power out of the equation between the styles

Now the main difference between the 2 types is size. The older style bows are about 4" longer and 6" wider (uncocked)

A Matrix would maybe be a little easier to maneuver in a treestand or ground blind.

Sounds like you are leaning towards the 330 due to size/back issues so now it's down to a Vortex or a 330.

Price new between these 2 is similar, but you could find a used Vortex for a couple hundred cheaper probably. Might even have lots of "extras" thrown in.

You can easily kill anything you can hunt in North America with either one.

Hope that helps.

[Riflemanz]

Get a 355 or 330 and you won't regret it!

[flightattendant100]

Since the Matrix bows came out the traditional Excal bows have been bargains on the used market.You may be able to get a super set up really worth the money, if you don't have to have a Matrix.

[flinthead]

Gotta vote for the Vortex... plenty of speed and power with the old style limbs that are bullet proof. I love mine!

[robertyb]

Well, I like the thumb hole style stock.
Not sure I really need the speed of a matrix, but am sure impressed by it.
I,m starting to lean towards the 330.
This will be my first (and possibly last) crossbow, so I want to make sure to get one that will last me a long time and one I will be happy with.
I'm listening to everything people say on here and paying close attention

Ron

I like thumb hole stocks also. I have been shooting a Vortex for three years now and picked up a used Matrix 330 last week. The 330 shoots basically the same speed as the Vortex but is much lighter and shorter. It simply handles better.

If I had to sell one of them today I think the Vortex would be gone.

[Starvin' Hillbilly]

now yer going to drive yourself crazy, i know you said you got a bad back, i'd say the 330. in one of your posts you said a cabelas is 100 mi from ya . . . call'em up first see if they got one and ask if you can cock/ de-cock it and there you go, price compare. there might be some members here closer to ya who has a 330 you can check out.
if you find a member close w/ a 330 it'll be a bonus cause he/ she can give you more information and personal instruction than a box store will ever give ya; And it wont be over you'll have it out all the time messing w/ it. its the most addictive thing i've come across!
-ken

[way123hockey]

"its the most addictive thing i've come across! "

You are so right Ken. The first place I head to now when I go to Bass Pro or Cabelas is the archery area. I may need to drop all my other hobbies to afford this one.

Wayne

[nchunterkw]

Check this out. $688 for a Matrix 330 with the Lite Stuff pkg. I think if you are a veteran you can get an additional 5% off and free shipping.

http://www.bowhuntingoutlet.com/product ... 833&page=1