I was in the same boat as you 3-4 years ago and found it very hard to listen to all the different opinions. All I can say is find last years top model of any make and you'll get a real good deal and a great bow. I have the Truth and love it, yes I have been harassed by Matthews and Hoyt guys (they're a little strange! Tight nit group, I guess would be better to say) but it comes down to what it does for you, mine kills deer and puts a nice tight group on the target and costs alot less than all my friends big name bows. Go with what you can afford and what feels good, I love bow hunting and haven't touched a gun for gun season since.