First Thoughts on the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick
The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick promises to be a game-changer for crossbow hunters seeking stability in the field. Manufactured by Excalibur, this collapsible monopod features tri-flip feet, a soft non-slip foam handle, and a 360-degree ball joint, aiming for versatile and reliable support.
My hunt for a truly stable shooting platform began after missing a vital shot on a mature buck last season. The shaky rest I was using simply wasn’t cutting it. I was drawn to the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick because it offered the promise of quick deployment and 360-degree maneuverability – critical features when dealing with unpredictable game movement.
Out of the box, the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick felt surprisingly lightweight, yet solid. The foam handle was comfortable, and the tri-flip feet seemed well-designed for various terrains. Compared to a traditional bipod or shooting sticks that can be cumbersome to set up, the monopod design felt inherently simpler and faster to deploy.
I also considered Primos Trigger Stick Gen 3 Monopod, but was concerned it might be too bulky. Also, I thought about the Bog-Pod CLD, but the price point was higher. The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick struck me as the best balance of features, portability, and affordability. My initial impression was optimistic. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick was a deer hunt in the Appalachian foothills. The terrain was a mix of steep inclines, rocky ground, and dense brush. Setting up the monopod was incredibly easy.
It just involved flipping open the tri-feet and adjusting the height. On relatively flat ground, the stability was excellent. However, in areas with loose rocks, one of the tri-feet occasionally shifted, requiring a minor readjustment. Thankfully the 360-degree ball joint allowed me to maintain target acquisition while adjusting. I did notice that in colder weather, the foam handle became a bit slippery, even with gloves.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches on the aluminum shaft, but the tri-flip feet and ball joint still function flawlessly. Cleaning is a breeze. I usually just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each hunt.
Compared to my previous experiences using standard shooting sticks, the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick offers a significant improvement in stability and speed of deployment. The height adjustability is also a major plus, allowing me to adapt to different shooting positions quickly. I feel that this product has certainly outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick
Specifications
The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick is designed specifically as a shooting platform for crossbows. The monopod adjusts from 26.5″ to 64″, providing a wide range of height options for various shooting scenarios.
It features tri-flip feet for enhanced stability on uneven terrain. Also, it features a soft, non-slip foam handle for comfortable grip, even in adverse weather conditions. A ball joint allows for 360-degree positioning. This aids in quick target acquisition and tracking moving game.
Performance & Functionality
The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick excels at providing a stable and versatile shooting platform. Its primary function is to improve accuracy and reduce shake when taking a shot with a crossbow.
The 360-degree ball joint allows for smooth and precise aiming adjustments. The height adjustability accommodates different shooting positions, whether standing, kneeling, or sitting. A minor weakness is the potential for the tri-feet to shift on very uneven terrain. Still, the overall performance far exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick is both functional and ergonomic. The aluminum construction ensures durability without adding excessive weight. The foam handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
The tri-flip feet are well-designed for stability. The monopod is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup or adjustment.
Durability & Maintenance
The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick is built to last. The aluminum construction and robust ball joint ensure long-term durability. Maintenance is simple.
Just wipe down the monopod after each use. Occasional lubrication of the ball joint may be necessary to maintain smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick does not have extensive customization options. It’s designed as a self-contained shooting platform. However, the universal ball joint mount could potentially accommodate aftermarket crossbow rests or adapters.
This could expand its compatibility with different crossbow models or shooting styles. The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick is primarily intended for use with crossbows. While there are no specific Excalibur accessories designed solely for this product, its design may allow for third-party additions.
Pros and Cons of Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick
Pros
- Provides exceptional stability for crossbow shooting, significantly improving accuracy.
- Lightweight and collapsible, making it easy to carry and deploy in the field.
- The 360-degree ball joint allows for quick and precise target acquisition.
- Height adjustability accommodates various shooting positions and terrains.
- The Tri-flip feet offer enhanced stability compared to traditional monopods, in most terrains.
Cons
- The Tri-feet can be prone to shifting on very uneven or rocky terrain.
- The foam handle can become slippery in cold or wet conditions.
Who Should Buy Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick?
The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick is perfect for crossbow hunters of all skill levels who prioritize stability and accuracy. It is particularly well-suited for those who hunt in varied terrain. It is also excellent for those who need a lightweight and portable shooting platform.
Hunters who primarily shoot from treestands or blinds might not find the monopod as useful as those who hunt on the ground. If you only hunt from elevated positions, a fixed shooting rest might be more suitable.
A quality pair of hunting gloves with enhanced grip would be a must-have accessory. This would enhance the foam handle’s grip in cold or wet conditions.
Conclusion on Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick
The Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick is a well-designed and effective shooting platform for crossbow hunters. It offers a significant improvement in stability and accuracy compared to shooting freehand or using inferior rests. At $81.49, the price is justified by the performance and durability it delivers.
I would definitely recommend the Excalibur Cross Stix Monopod Shooting Stick to any crossbow hunter looking to improve their shooting consistency and success in the field. If you’re tired of shaky shots and missed opportunities, this monopod is a worthwhile investment. Add it to your gear and experience the difference.