How many twists should the string have? ANy?

What are the first things I should do when first putting it together.. Any tricks i should know beside what the manufacturer tells me?

You should have a video that came with the tape, and all of that stuff is in there. A long time ago someone posted a link to them and it showed all of that stuff. I do not have a Excal but you put twist in until you have your brace hight set. I can remember all of the Excal guys talking about this stuff and should be basic. Have you read the instructions or are you trying to ask for preferences like set it high or low? Again, this stuff you ask of should be in the video or the instructions!

Put the DVD in and pay attention. If there is something you need clarified then ask. The DVD is better than any of us here.

I wouldn't twist it at all initially - just string it up and see where the string falls in relation to the two marks on the rail. If it's too far forward, twist it until it's close to the back line, because the string will stretch a little as you shoot it and the brace height will get lower by itself.

I went and got an Excal Phoenix today. I really love my longbows, but too many years of residential wiring and my hands really got little strength left (and I'm only 30). Anyway, I took 1 shot from about 10 yards to check the scope level (a little high), adjusted and shot another from 10 dead on. Then I shot two at 20 yards and wouldn't you know it, ROBINHOOD! This was all while I was still at the dealers. He was going nuts. Said he's gonna call the guys at Excal up later and tell them about it. Needless to say I'm in love. You guys have little wavy spots on the limbs? Looks normal, but just checking.