Last year I did a lot of research before buying a new bow. If looking at the best VALUE, the Fred Bear bows were mentioned in every review (bowsite, outdoor life, etc..). I personally didn't shoot the element, but I did shoot the Fred Bear CODE and that it was a great bow, In fact I liked it more than the Trykon, but not quite as much as the Bowtech or the Switchback XT (which is what I bought). Were I ona tight budget (usually am, but wife let me splurge last year), I'd have chosen the Fred Bear. Of course, that's personal preference (I'm new here, but am guessing there's been plenty of Mathews vs. Bowtech vs. Hoyt debates), go shoot them and choose for yourself. good luck