Newbie: 150 vs. 200

[Mark C.]

My state, Oklahoma, just changed the law where crossbows are now allowed for use during the general archery season. I'm interested in giving crossbow hunting a try and have just begun doing a little shopping around. Can you guys who know a lot about crossbows tell me whether I should be looking at 150-pound or 200-pound, recurve or compound, etc? I know everyone probably has a different opinion, but I'd be interested in hearing what you all think. I'll be using it for medium-sized whitetails at ranges of 40 yards or less. Thanks for any help.

[Dnk]

Any decent 150lb recurve will do very well. A 200 would not make a deer more dead but the arrow would travel flatter. No increased range would result in using a 200 lb bow.

[robbcayman]

I'm from OKC, so I was in the same boat.

I ended up going with a wickedridge warrior. They are a sister company to tenpoint and are made in the same factory. I've had it for a week and I'm amazed at the accuracy. It shoots at a legit 285 fps, so plenty for any hunting. The only thing I suggest is upgrading to the hawke scope for $49. I bought the whole package with upgraded scope, bolts, ****ing rope and bow for $440 shipped.

The best prices and customer service check out www.wyverncreations.com He's a great guy and his prices are better than bass pro.

[smokepolehall]

One is faster than the other. One is heavier than the other, one costs more, one is longer than the other. Recurve or Compound is really about whats comfortable to you. Half dz good companys making them. You like speed 200 is yer choice unless its a compound, then 165 lb is the fastest around (Scorpion)

[J.M.A.N.]

Originally Posted by Dnk

Any decent 150lb recurve will do very well. A 200 would not make a deer more dead but the arrow would travel flatter. No increased range would result in using a 200 lb bow.

Ditto There would be an increase in kinetic energy with a 200 but it is not needed. I shoot an Excalibur and the 200 is more difficult to pull the string to the locked position.....just something to consider.