I have the Excal Vortex and think it is top notch, also have two Horton's and they are fine also. But I like the recurve design of my Excal. On a side not I have never used a Excal cranking aid, but hear Ten points cranks are second to none! Alot of guys have bought the Excal's and then mounted the TenPoint crank on them with no problems or modifications. Best CB and the best crank in one! LOL!!