I'm wanting to buy a crossbow pretty soon here and am wondering what you all have had experience with and would recommend.

I've seen a lot of bad reviews on amazon about some of the Barnetts.

Not sure how valid they are but am really not wanting to have anything blowing up on me.
I'm looking for something no higher than $450 or so. But that is a well made bow and best bang for the buck.

One that you can afford!

Right, but what model would you recommend within that range?

I sent you a pm.

Anything Excalibur would suit your needs, the new micros and matrix models are top notch.

I believe weight and width play a part in my decision. Another factor is the ability to re-cock the bow in a hunting situation. The ones without a ratchet drawing ability while in a tree stand has a limitation.

OK, I just bought a Barnett Wildcat c6 and have started sighting it in.

excalibur!!!!!

try wasp sledgehammer or jackhammers. 125 grain are crossbow, 100s are bow. you can get away with a 125, just make sure your draw weight is really there; no less than 40 - 45lbs

Read what the thread is about before you post. He got a crossbow and likely the draw weight is around 185#.