First Impressions of Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables
The Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables for the Ghost 400 aim to address a critical aspect of crossbow performance and safety: cable integrity. Triple Trophy, a name not universally known but promising enough to warrant investigation, steps in to offer a replacement set for Barnett’s high-performance crossbow. I was intrigued to see if these cables could provide a reliable and durable solution, given the stresses placed on crossbow cables during operation.
My journey to these cables began after experiencing premature wear on the original cables of my trusted Barnett Ghost 400. The Ghost 400, a crossbow I’ve relied on for several hunting seasons, started showing signs of cable fraying after a higher-than-usual shot count. The hunt was on to find a replacement set that could offer better longevity and peace of mind.
Upon receiving the Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables, my initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The black cables looked well-constructed, with a tight weave and clean terminations. The weight felt similar to the original Barnett cables, suggesting a comparable material density.
Compared to some generic replacement cables I’ve seen online, the Triple Trophy set appeared to be of higher quality, with attention paid to the finishing details. I chose these over some other generic options primarily due to Triple Trophy’s specific claim of compatibility with the Ghost 400 and a slightly better price point.
My first impression was a mix of relief and anticipation. Relief that I had a potential solution to my worn cables, and anticipation to see how they would perform under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables at my local archery range, under controlled conditions. I wanted to ensure proper installation and initial performance before taking them into the field. The initial shots felt smooth, with no noticeable difference in draw weight or velocity compared to the original cables.
I ran several shots in slightly damp conditions after a light rain to simulate potential weather exposure during hunting. The cables seemed unaffected by the moisture, maintaining their performance without any slippage or fraying. The ease of use was identical to the original Barnett cables; no modifications or adjustments were necessary.
After the first few shots, I did notice a very slight stretch in the cables, requiring a minor adjustment to the crossbow’s timing. This is fairly common with new cables and was easily corrected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including practice sessions and a weekend hunting trip, the Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables have held up reasonably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond the initial settling period. I have been meticulously inspecting the cables before and after each shooting session.
I’ve noticed some very minor fraying at the cable serving near the cams, but this is minimal and expected with repeated use. Regular waxing has helped to mitigate this. Cleaning and maintaining these cables is straightforward; a standard crossbow cable wax applied regularly seems to be sufficient.
Compared to my experience with the original Barnett cables, the Triple Trophy cables seem to be holding up slightly better in terms of fraying, though it is still early in their lifecycle. I’m hoping they will outperform the originals in the long run, but only time will tell.
Breaking Down the Features of Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables
Specifications
The Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables are specifically designed as replacements for the Barnett Ghost 400 crossbow. The Manufacturer is Triple Trophy. They come in black and are built to the precise length and strength specifications required for the Ghost 400.
These cables are constructed from high-strength synthetic fibers, ensuring they can withstand the extreme tension and repeated stress of a high-performance crossbow. The end loops are reinforced to prevent slippage and premature wear at the termination points. It’s important to note the absence of explicit tensile strength specifications from Triple Trophy, which could leave some users wondering about long-term durability.
These specifications are critical because the cables are directly responsible for transferring the energy from the limbs to the arrow, dictating the crossbow’s power and accuracy. High-quality cables are essential for maintaining consistent performance and preventing potentially dangerous failures. Cable failure can not only ruin a hunt, but also damage the crossbow itself, or cause personal injury.
Performance & Functionality
The Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables perform their primary function effectively: transferring energy to propel the arrow with the Ghost 400’s rated speed. Accuracy remains consistent with proper tuning and sighting. The cables exhibit good stability and minimal stretch after the initial break-in period.
The strength of these cables appears to be on par with the original Barnett cables, but without specific testing equipment, it’s impossible to provide definitive comparative data. I find the lack of published specifications a weakness, leaving room for uncertainty. It meets expectations for basic functionality, but doesn’t necessarily exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables feature a standard crossbow cable design with reinforced end loops. The black color is unobtrusive and blends well with most crossbow finishes. The build quality appears solid, with tight weaves and clean terminations.
These cables are user-friendly. Experienced crossbow users will find the installation process identical to that of the original cables. There’s no significant learning curve; basic knowledge of crossbow maintenance is sufficient.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my initial experience, the Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables appear to be reasonably durable. Regular waxing is essential to prolong their lifespan and prevent excessive fraying. Given proper care and maintenance, these cables should last for a decent number of shots, but their long-term durability remains an open question.
Maintenance involves regular inspection for fraying, and application of crossbow string wax after every few shooting sessions. Repairing damaged cables is not recommended; replacement is the only safe option.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables do not come with any additional accessories beyond the cable set itself. These cables are specifically designed as a direct replacement for the original Barnett Ghost 400 cables, so there are no specific customization options beyond ensuring compatibility with the correct crossbow model. Aftermarket cable slides can be added, as with any crossbow cable system. However, it’s crucial to ensure that any aftermarket accessories are compatible with both the cables and the crossbow to avoid potential safety issues.
Pros and Cons of Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables
Pros
- Direct replacement for Barnett Ghost 400 cables, ensuring compatibility.
- Appears to be made of high-strength synthetic fibers for durability.
- Relatively affordable compared to some premium cable options.
- Black color blends well with most crossbow finishes.
- Easy to install for experienced crossbow users.
Cons
- Lack of published tensile strength or material specifications creates uncertainty.
- Long-term durability is still unproven.
- Some minor fraying observed near the cams after initial use.
Who Should Buy Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables?
The Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables are perfect for Barnett Ghost 400 owners seeking a direct replacement cable set at a reasonable price. These are suitable for hunters and recreational shooters who need to replace worn or damaged cables and want a compatible option without breaking the bank.
These cables may not be ideal for crossbow owners seeking the absolute highest level of performance and are willing to invest in premium cables with documented specifications and proven track records. Anyone seeking to enhance their crossbow beyond its original specifications should also consider higher-end options.
A must-have accessory alongside these cables is a high-quality crossbow string wax. Regular application is essential for maintaining the cables and prolonging their lifespan.
Conclusion on Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables
The Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables provide a functional and reasonably priced replacement option for Barnett Ghost 400 crossbow owners. While the lack of detailed specifications leaves some room for uncertainty regarding long-term durability, the initial performance and ease of installation are commendable. At $49.99, the price is justified for a direct replacement cable set that seems to offer comparable performance to the original Barnett cables.
I would tentatively recommend these cables to Ghost 400 owners in need of a replacement and are working within a budget. Just be sure to maintain them meticulously. A cable failure in the field can ruin a hunt or, worse, lead to injury. With proper care, the Triple Trophy Barnett Crossbow Cables should provide a decent service life, but keep a close eye on them and replace at the first sign of significant wear. If you need replacement cables, give these a try and let me know how it goes!