I could see what the majority was pointing to. Joe has a buddy with Viper xls, he's tried it, liked it but he made the final decision after trying another buddies Lonewolf. I figured that my utmost concern was safety and knew he could hunt safely in either. Came down to his is the fanny that"l be sitting in it for many hours and that was his call. When they get to be almost 18 I usually let him do the decision making after proper guidance. JMO but I think it helps them grow up at a steady pace. One or the other I'm confident he will be etching a couple of notches in it after thwakkin a few 100 gr. 3 blade Muzzies from it up there in them Adirondacks.