Let’s Talk About Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case
The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case, manufactured by Excalibur, promises to be a lightweight and protective solution for transporting your Matrix or Micro series crossbow. With its three accessory pockets and heavy-duty construction, it aims to offer both convenience and durability for hunters and target shooters alike. Is it truly the shield your crossbow needs, or just another gear bag?
As an avid crossbow hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of crossbow cases – from flimsy nylon bags to bulky hard cases that are a pain to haul around. I was searching for a case that offered a balance of protection, portability, and storage, something that could withstand the rigors of the hunt without weighing me down. This led me to the Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case.
My first impression upon receiving the Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case was positive. The material felt durable, and the zippers seemed robust, a critical feature often overlooked in other cases. The three pockets offered ample space for accessories, something I desperately needed to consolidate my gear. It seemed like a well-thought-out design.
Compared to my old soft case, which offered minimal protection, and a hard case that was cumbersome, the Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case seemed to strike a good middle ground. I considered other soft cases from TenPoint and Barnett, but the Excalibur case seemed to offer a better balance of features and price. I was excited to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case was on a whitetail hunt in the dense forests of Pennsylvania. The conditions were less than ideal: damp, muddy, and with a persistent drizzle. I was immediately impressed with how easily the case carried, thanks to the heavy-duty sling.
Despite the wet conditions, the case seemed to repel water effectively, keeping my crossbow dry. Accessing my bolts and other accessories from the external pockets was convenient, eliminating the need to fumble through the main compartment. No learning curve was necessary.
One initial concern arose after a bit of bumping around in my truck; I worried about the level of internal padding provided. I’ll address this more thoroughly below.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case has proven to be a reliable companion. While it shows some minor scuffs and dirt stains (to be expected), the stitching and zippers remain in excellent condition. The case continues to protect my crossbow during transport.
The durability is decent, although I wouldn’t recommend throwing it around carelessly. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth usually does the trick. Compared to my previous soft case, the Excalibur offers significantly better protection and storage.
Breaking Down the Features of Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case
Specifications
- The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case is a lightweight soft case designed to protect your crossbow during transport. It fits Excalibur Matrix and Micro series crossbows.
- It features three external pockets for accessory storage and heavy-duty zippers for durability. It also comes with a heavy-duty sling and handle.
- The case is designed to be lightweight, emphasizing portability for the hunter on the move. The three pockets allow for organization of bolts, broadheads, and other essential gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case performs its primary function well: protecting your crossbow during transport. The three pockets are spacious and well-placed, providing easy access to essential gear. The sling and handle make carrying the crossbow comfortable, even over long distances.
While the case provides adequate protection for normal use, it’s not a substitute for a hard case. Heavier impacts could potentially damage the crossbow, so some caution is required. The design fulfills its purpose, balancing portability with functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case has a practical and straightforward design. The materials feel durable and well-constructed, instilling confidence in its longevity. The weight is manageable, even when fully loaded with accessories, making it easy to carry in the field.
The case is user-friendly. There is no learning curve; the layout of the pockets is intuitive. The sling is comfortable and adjustable, accommodating users of different sizes.
Durability & Maintenance
The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case appears to be reasonably durable, made from what feels like a heavy-duty nylon material. With proper care, it should last for several seasons of hunting. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.
While I expect the stitching and zippers to hold up well, the overall level of protection is limited by the soft case design. Hard impacts could potentially damage the crossbow.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case does not offer much in the way of customization, as it is a fairly standard soft case. It comes with the attached sling, and the three external pockets.
The pockets can accommodate a variety of accessories, such as bolts, broadheads, rangefinders, and other essential gear. The compatibility is limited to what can fit within the existing pockets.
Pros and Cons of Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case
Pros
- Lightweight and portable: Easy to carry in the field, especially over long distances.
- Ample storage: Three external pockets provide plenty of space for accessories.
- Durable construction: Heavy-duty zippers and materials offer decent longevity.
- Water-resistant: Helps protect your crossbow from rain and moisture.
- Fits Matrix and Micro series crossbows: Designed specifically for Excalibur crossbows.
Cons
- Limited protection: Soft case design does not offer the same level of protection as a hard case.
- Padding could be improved: The internal padding could be thicker for better shock absorption.
Who Should Buy Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case?
The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case is perfect for crossbow hunters who prioritize portability and convenience. It’s also a good option for target shooters who need a lightweight case for transporting their crossbow to and from the range.
Those who require maximum protection for their crossbow should consider a hard case instead. If you are flying with your crossbow, a hard case is mandatory.
A must-have accessory is additional internal padding, especially around the scope area. Consider adding foam or bubble wrap for extra protection.
Conclusion on Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case
The Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case offers a solid balance of portability, storage, and durability. While it may not provide the same level of protection as a hard case, its lightweight design and ample storage make it a convenient choice for hunters and target shooters.
At $119.99, the price is reasonable for the features offered. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to protect their Excalibur crossbow during transport.
I would personally recommend the Excalibur Crossbow Ex-Shield Case to anyone seeking a lightweight and convenient crossbow case. However, consider adding extra padding for enhanced protection. Get yours today and experience the difference!