Lemme see if I can help some. No crossbow has a "low pop" when you pull the trigger. They are noisy, it's the nature of the beast. Said noise is usually the first comment new folks have. Most xbowers quickly learn it's not much of a factor at reasonable ranges.

The crank type cocking devices are a real pain, and I would suggest he try a rope cocker 1st, as they are cheaper, faster, quiter, center the string for accuracy, and most important in his case, cut the effort by 50% due to mechanical leverage. If he's been shooting a compound, he can probably cock a 150-175 LB xbow easily w/ rope cocker.

I favor the Excals. I live in the boonies and can do my own strings, ect. All the Excals have the same nice trigger. There are lots of good xbows to be had, regardless of mfgr for the most part. Good luck, and welcome to this forum!!