ORIGINAL: jeremy3303

I would suggest getting a compound, to me its just more enjoyable to shoot, quieter by a long shot, easier to maneuver in a stand, and lighter to carry than a crossbow. As far as which models, it all depends on what your specs are, draw weight, length, etc. Knowing your draw length and weight you can comfortably pull would be helpful in recommending more specific models.

The Diamond Edge is a great starter bow that will go up to 50lbs of draw weight and 28.5" of draw length and will run you around $300 for a good package setup. Other models with the same draw weight and length specs and price range are the Parker Sidekick and Parker Buckshot. If you can pull more than 50 lbs easily and want to go to the next step up, the Diamond Rock is available up to a 30" draw and 70lbs and will run you around $500 as a package. Another option would be the Fred Bear Lights Out, same specs, price around $470 as a package, and the Parker Trailblazer, around $500 as a package, same specs.

You're best option would be to go to a local shop and get measured for your draw length and to find what weight you can use comfortably, then from there shoot a few different models that fit you and are in your price range and pick which one that feels best to you.

Here are a few websites you can check out to get a better idea of each model and compare them a little more.

http://www.diamondarchery.com/home.php
http://www.beararcheryproducts.com/
http://www.parkerbows.com/pb/2007/index.html