Both of those bows are good choices, either will be more than adequate for hunting. If you think you might be an arrow junkie, lol, go w/ Phoenix, easier to cock. Here's a few facts for ya to consider. [1] crossbows are fun. [2] crossbows are loud, comparatively speaking to verts. [3] anything you do to quiet them costs fps [4] most things that attempt to reduce the noise fly off or fall apart.

You can tame an Excal down some by going to a tad heavier arrow than stock issue or using a different string. Stock Excal arrows are 360 gr GT's. For every 5 gr additional weight you will lose about 1 fps. The two most popular string choices are the Flemish Fast Flight [FFF] or the Excel endless loop dacron. The difference there is about 10-15 fps. My hunting arrows currently weigh 431 gr, w/ Excel on Phoenix I'm at 280-290 fps. With FFF on Emax I get 328 fps. The advantages of this is less shock, vibration, noise, ect. Good luck to ya!!