Joed50 ...... what to look for in a crosbow is a very large ranging question. It will all depend on what you want in a crossbow. Here is what I demand in any archery equipment:
-Dependability
-Accurate
-Enough power to do the job
-Comfortable to shoot
-Safe

After all the above is met, then choose what is best in your opinion, after all it is you that will be shooting and hunting with it. Some people grew up with compounds (verticals) so they naturally were dirrected towards them in crossbows, but honestly in my opinion, the whels do not benifit you enough to put up with the downfalls to them.

Advantages of compouunds is basicly let off in poundage which crossbows do not need, you get a slightly narrow bow, compared to the recurve (2-3" difference). A downfall is you do not have the indepandance of repairs yourself. You need a shop to repair it most of the time, even to replace strings. With a recurve, a string can be repared or replaced in 5 minutes (usually in less time). No cables, pullies to have possible problems. Now most people will say that show needs to change strings, but with crossbows, you will need to reserve the string or replace it more then a vertical crossbow (just the nature of the beast).

Again, it will just come down to your preference and what you want in a bow. Just use the above list and you whould do ok in your choice no matter if you go compound or recurve.

BTW ........... Excalibur is dependable (over 25 years with mine) and you might be able to equal its accuracy, but you will not be able to beat it.

Good luck and do not feel afraid of asking questions,