Ditto... I own an Excal Vortex now. Got it used on Ebay with one of the packages that come with everything including the Firebolts, Varizone, Stringer, rope ****er, soft case, etc. Got very very lucky. The guy sold it to me for $550 because I told him I would pay instantly and he needed money bad. It was listed for $700. Ill prolly never find a deal like that again. I was a little leary when he said he would do it. When I recieved the package everything was in immaculate condition. The bow was only used 1 season. So there are deals out there. Just have to look for them. I owned a compound Horton TR HD175 before that. Since it is not a recurve it requires more maintenance and a little more tuning but older used Hortons can be found around that price range and they are good CB's in my opinion. As matter of fact there are 2 on craigslist right now. One for $150 and one for $200 I believe. But if all possible I would go with an Excal. Even if it means waiting till you can get more money. Just my opinion of course...