GrumpyTom

Any crossbow will be nosy. But in general, recurves will be more quiet.

Both crossbows, compounds and recurves, have their pro's and con's. But with crossbows, the bow holds the string back at full draw so the largest advantage of let-off, whixh is assoiated with compounds, is not needed. OTher then that there are minor advantages, a little narrower. the disadvantages could be large. They have more moving parts, so more possibilites or malfunction, and if so, you will more then likely need a proshop for repairs. A recurve is very user friendly. You can change strings in the field in less then 5 minutes. Most all work can be handled by yourself. Recurves are wider, but usually lighter as well, better ballanced too.

IF you choose the Excalibur, for a starter or biginner, I would recomend the packages that the company sells. It is all good parts and well needed for a biginner.

Good luck.