Going to purchase my first CB soon (I've never even held one before) and I have it narrowed down between the Excocet 200 and the Vortex. I will order the "right stuff" package for either one.They both seem identicle in performance with the Vortex weighing about4 oz lighter and 2 inches shorter with the thumbhole stock.I have a lower back injury (ruptured disk). Should I get a crankaroo or do you think a rope cocker would provide enough assistance?

Excal...is a great company to buy one from...try them both whichever one feels right for you...Buy it!

I shoot the Vortex and love the thumbhole stock. It's relative shorter length makes it easier to cock but (either) is a 200 lb draw weight bow, so if you have concerns about being able to cock it step down to the Phoenix. I find it relatively easy to draw (have had 2 back surgeries) with just the string cocker. I'd try that first, since you'll need a string cocker no matter what you get to ensure that the string is centered when cocked. You can always get the much more expensive mechanical cocker if you find that you're unable to get the job done with the string cocker. BTW, I made the mistake of investing $125 in a mechanical cocker only to find that I don't need one.
A tip you may benefit from: shorten the string on the string cocker so that you have to pull the bowstring up about 2-3"s or so to hook the weak side hook. That makes the distance you have to pull the string cocker shorter and therefore makes cocking easier. Plus, so rigged, it stays in place even when you transport the bow.

VORTEX..........MOPO..

For me the Vortex balances better. Cocking is certainly easier. The only pain on the Vortex is that you have to change your grip to manipulate the safety. Roseaukaine, how tall are you?

I have to use the crank aid and it takes all the work out of it once you get used to the contraption you can reload fairly quickly it also makes servicing the bow a breeze the best place to get the crank is from Dan Miller the price is right don't overlook the Equinox the only problem I have with mine is stopping the arrows I use a Morrel bag and if you happen to hit close to the same hole 3 shots you will get some serious penetration you should try to find and at least hold the bow youwant to buy my first one didn't fit and had to slide my face way back on the stock the Equinox just comes up and you are on the target

I, too, think you should shoot both if you have the opportunity. I own a Vortex and am completely satisfied with it.

Good luck !!

Quote: I use a Morrel bag and if you happen to hit close to the same hole 3 shots you will get some serious penetration.
After shooting at mine for a year, I took it apart and stuffed in some plastic bags. Also back mine with a old truck mudflap which keeps the fletching from getting ruffled.

Thanks for the replys!!

I'm 5'10" tall....I will order my new CB (still deciding) with the right stuff scope package and wait to see if I need the cockaroo.Which scope do ya'll recommend from Excal?

At your height you'll do well with either.
Scope??? I like my rifle scopes on my bows but I do own both. Of the two the Lumizone has some advantages with it's illumination and larger lenses but not by a lot.
You are going to have to try to cock the bow with both devices to decide but definately one of them.
One word on the package. The arrows leave a bit to be desired. Better to call Danny Miller and talk to him. His Miller Killers are great. Tell him Boo the string maker says hello. Danny knows more than all of us put together, well I might be exaggerating but it's close.