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Post by sw on Jun 2, 2013 22:04:33 GMT -5
Now in it's 3rd year of production, this xbow still sets standards that are hard to beat: light, small, great trigger, fast, easy to draw, extremely quiet, balanced,moderately priced,etc. Yes, it has had some problems but apparently these have been rectified. I have one of the first ones out, 1300+ shots, same string, doing great, extremely accurate,etc. Never a hiccup in 3 years and a # of deer/1 bear. Anyone considering a new xbow should at least look at this bow. I still think that when all the desirable characteristics are considered and averaged, that the SZ380 is either at the top or very close. The SZ 350 is also a class act(get the optional string stops, standard with the 380).
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Post by deadeer on Jun 2, 2013 23:36:14 GMT -5
Steve, I am a BowTech vertical bow owner. I think they are top of the line as far as technology. I have a few friends that have them too and all feel the same way, they are ahead of the pack. I have followed your posts here and on crossbow nation and really respect your thoughts. My state (Indiana) just got on board allowing crossbows, so I decided I wanted in on the new game. I researched for awhile and shot a few different bows. I got spooked off the Strykers because of so many negative feedbacks of limb and string issues. Some guys say they have zero problems, and some say nothing but problems. I often wonder if it's just user misuse or carelessness (just like I bet a lot of problems guys have getting the Sav muzzleloaders to shoot on factory barrels). I don't know. Some guys say BowTech does not want to warranty some of these issues too. Anyway, after all my research it was either going to be an Excalibur or a Ten Point. I went with a Ten Point. You can't find a negative review on Excaliburs other than noise and width, and Ten Points less than that. I would say the only down side would be they are front heavy and not speed demons, but they seem to hold together long term. Great warranty and customer service also. If the long term outlook on the Strykers stay healthy, I may pursue one in the future, now that I have something to fall back on if needed. I also am excited to try the FOC broadhead you speak so highly of on deer this year. Looks to be real devastating. Thanks again for all your time and effort with documenting your findings. It is much better than reading from just anybody you don't know or trust.
Jay
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Post by sw on Jun 3, 2013 7:41:18 GMT -5
Jay,
I think you are right concerning user caused problems as a factor in some of the failures. I think the dry fire mechanism could well be a factor. I have a habit of always making sure the arrow is firm against the string before firing any xbow. There have been times that the arrow had moved slightly forward. I do wonder just how many limb issues might have come from partial dry-fires. I initially used Red Hot arrows/175g Xbow Tricks, then 170g FOCs(appx 490g) but now use a Lazer 3 Pro at about 430g. Usage of heavier arrows helps reduce limb problems and has much less adverse trajectory effect than many people think. Ten Point Xbows are definitely quality: you didn't make a mistake. They will eventually break though, been there done that, as do all compound xbow limbs. I'm on my 4th set of limbs on my 7 year old, 175# Parker Saf Mag. Appx 1,500 shots on each set of limbs(490 g arrows). I've also worn out 10-PT limbs(Hunter Mag). If you hunt with a compound xbow, have a back up xbow.
The 1/2" longer string/cable on the newer SZs should reduce stress, and performance, on the newer SZs. If 50-60 yds is considered the absolute maximum range that will be used, the SZ350, with string stops, is an excellent choice.
Never leave a compound xbow cocked for extended times without breaking in the limbs(100+ shots).
Good luck with your xbow experiences.
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