Martin/Howatt using laminate action wood is nothing new. They've used the grey actionwood in the hunter line for years. This year they've used just a bit more of it.Personally, I think it looks rather sharp. Back in the early to mid/late 90's, there were several models that were actionwood, the mamba, nighthawk, and even the hatfield had a good bit of grey actionwood in it's riser. Exotic wood prices have gone up sharply in the last few years, so it may be a cost containment move, but truthfully, actionwood is far more consistant and stableso it only benefits theshooting characteristics of the bow.

I tend to shoot a bow because it's a good performer. Looks are a secondary thing, but some folks would rather look good than shoot a good performer that they believe is ugly, I guess.