I,ve been seein the Wicked Ridge combos on sale a lot lately for under your pricepoint.

If it were me I would probably do like scottycyote and look for a lightly used re-curve from the Excalibur line.

I picked up a mint condition Excalibur Vortex with the "right stuff" package + some more extras for $500 shipped on eBay when I bought mine.

Sure, there are several quality brands out there, but IMO nothing beats the quality and simplicity of a re-curve Excalibur X-Bow. And they are spot-on deadly accurate.

I was also told that Barnett is poor quality. I was hoping to pick up a beginner xbow for under $200 from Dick's but the guy there guided more toward everything $500+ not sure it it was an upsell attempt or if everything below that point really was garbage. Either way I left without buying anything and will stick to my PSE compound this season I think

I am pleased with the Barnett Recruit crossbow I got along with the cube to catch the bolts.

While I am a hunter with more than 60 years it's been with guns.

When they ok'd the crossbow for hunting here I got one to play with.

I like it's looks and to shoot it once in a while in the basement. It's quiet and does not bother who's upstairs.

Several years back I found a Excalibur Vortex with the "Right Stuff" package and a bunch more extras on eBay for $500 shipped. That was one of the best deals I have found. Also the bow had only been shot a few times. Everthing appeared like brand new. Even the fletchings on the original arrows (bolts) where in perfect shape. I have killed several deer with this bow and love it as much today as when I got it.

There are several nice bows out there as mentioned.

But IMO one cannot go wrong with any of the Excals. The simple maintenance of a re-curve is a big plus as well. Not to mention Excals superior overall quality and super customers service and warranty in the rare event you will need it.

Another thing with Excals is if you possess the bow it is covered by warranty. Though not stated, they (excal) really don't seem to be concerned whether one is the original owner or the 2nd, 3rd, etc.

PS - though some have had okay luck with the Barnetts, I would personally stay clear of them. They just have pretty poor reviews and are known for "blowing up"... at least the older models.

Yea I watched a few video reviews of people saying stay clear of them and showing the result of what happened when they blew up...strings whipping around and slashing them, lacerations, and even stories about losing a finger. Too much negative reviews for me to ever get one and even chance it...

Call Danny Miller at Horizontal Archery, (Excalibur Dealer) he has used trade ins and can hook you up. Best guy ever..PeashooterJoe

I have really liked my Barnett Raptor FX. $340 from Nachez last year.

I think you shouldnt hunt wild animals because they also have spirits like us

You really think this, right?