Kept a Z-Max that I had (sentimental reasons) but never really kept it ready to go. I have an Elk hunt planned for September and just got done "updating" it with some new items. It is amazing to me how much better thesebows get in just a few years (now shooting a Tribute). Still shoots good but not near as smooth, quiet or shock free as the Tribute.

Me without a back up - totally out of the question - Mathews outback handles my backup nicely.

I bought a second bow this year and was glad I did. I have a Trykon that I had rest problems with and it took 3 weeks to get a new rest so I had the Tribute as a backup. Now I don't know which is my favorite.

Nope, not me, I'm afraid I would just have to run out and buy me a new one ifsomething happened to the one I have now.hhhmmmmm.. But then I would be down for a while until I had the new one tuned in just right.

This is a really pertinent question for me right now! I shoot a 2002 Hoyt Ultratec,like most of you guys between the bow,the sight,the rest,the winners choice strings and cables there is about $1000 bucks in this bow.I had had a year 2000 Ultratec as a backup,I hadn't shot that bow in 5 years,I had all I could do to get $175 for the bow when I sold it.I purchased a 2005 protec,had about the same amount of money in that bow,but I didn't like it's draw cycle,(specifically the way the cams rolled over)I sold it just this week and took a beating on it $425.So I am on the fence the thought of not having a back up bow scares the heck out of me!I know on my Ultratec that the limbs are warranteed for life,I just don't want to be out of commission during the season.Fortunately I have done enough business with my archery shop that I know he could get me set up in a pinch.My inclination is to have a set of string and cables ready if need be and look for a deal on a two to three year old bow,that I know that I am satisfied with and have shot before I purchase it.I also have two friends that buy two to three bows a year and we have similar draw lengths I am not looking to be a mooch but they are good friends and I would do the same for them.
I have to say that I am totally disgusted with the depreciation in value of bows.I like new and shiny as much as anyone I just hate getting beat on the sale of expensive extremely well maintained equipment.

Hoyt Trykon and Hoyt Viper Tec..........shoot both of them all the time. Hunted with the Viper Tec last fall and will probably hunt with the Trykon this fall. I know the Viper Tec is a killer.
Diann

No back up for me. I don't have the money right now Maybe when I get older and can afford it....but right now, any money from an old bow is put toward the new one.

Yes. I have the 06' switchback XT as my primary hunting bow this year and the Liberty 1 for closer quarters or ground blind hunting. I will also have my Apex 7 set up as backup if need be. I do all of my hunting 1.5-4 hours from my house so equipment failure isn't an option.

Yep. I have my old Jennings Rackmaster rigged out and ready in a moments notice.
It will still put some meat on the ground.

That question played on my mind quite a bit the last couple of months so i traded for a leftover from last year 2005 Bowtech defender, I really like it and I have the old 05 Viper Tech with some brand spanking new gibblets on it, It served me well last year, although I dont know which one will be backup and which one will be primary this year.

squirreldog