Let’s Dive into Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes promise to significantly reduce the recoil and noise generated by Excalibur Matrix and Micro crossbow models. For a seasoned crossbow hunter like myself, noise reduction is paramount to success in the field. A quieter shot translates to less spooked game and potentially a follow-up shot opportunity.
My journey to explore the Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes stemmed from a growing frustration with the noise level of my Micro 360. While incredibly accurate and compact, its distinct thwack often sent deer scattering after the initial shot, even on a clean hit. I was looking for a way to mitigate this noise without sacrificing arrow speed or accuracy. This led me to exploring sound suppression options, and the Excalibur Air Brakes seemed like a viable solution.
The kit arrived neatly packaged, containing the two air brake bars, pads, mounting hardware, and clear instructions. My initial impression was positive; the components felt robust and well-made, crafted from a modern energy-absorbing compound that felt denser than typical rubber. The build quality appeared excellent, suggesting a product designed to withstand the rigors of hunting.
I considered other noise reduction methods, such as string stops and limb dampeners. However, I chose the Excalibur Air Brakes because they are specifically designed for Excalibur crossbows and promised minimal speed loss. Many aftermarket dampeners can add bulk and potentially affect the bow’s balance. The integrated design of the Air Brakes appealed to my desire for a clean and efficient setup.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The materials felt premium, and the design looked promising. While I was initially skeptical about the claim of a significant noise reduction without speed loss, I was eager to put the Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes to the test and see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at my local archery range, where I had ample space to assess the noise level and impact point. The installation process, requiring the removal of the string, was straightforward and took only about 15 minutes following Excalibur’s instructions. The crossbow was shot before and after installing the Air Brakes to compare accuracy and sound.
Conditions were dry and mild, perfect for evaluating the Air Brakes’ impact on noise and recoil. The difference in sound was immediately noticeable; the sharp thwack of the crossbow was replaced with a duller, more muted sound. Recoil felt noticeably reduced as well.
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes were quite simple to use. The mounting hardware was intuitive, and the overall design integrated seamlessly with my Excalibur Micro 360. I did not experience any significant issues during the initial setup and testing, other than re-sighting the crossbow after the new installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular practice and a full hunting season, the Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes have proven their worth. They have remained securely mounted and show no signs of wear and tear despite hundreds of shots and exposure to varying weather conditions.
The Air Brakes have proven to be remarkably durable, showing no cracking, splitting, or loosening of the pads or mounting hardware. Cleaning is simple: just wipe them down with a damp cloth after use. This keeps them free of debris and ensures optimal performance.
Compared to my previous experiences without any noise reduction system, the Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes have significantly improved my hunting success. Game animals react less drastically to the shot, allowing for follow-up shots or cleaner kills. The difference is substantial, particularly when hunting in pressured areas where deer are more easily spooked.
Breaking Down the Features of Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes
Specifications
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes are designed specifically for Excalibur Matrix and Micro series crossbows. Constructed from an ultra-modern energy-absorbing compound, the kit includes two air brake bars, pads, and all necessary mounting hardware.
The key specifications include a weight of just a few ounces (adding minimal bulk to the crossbow), compatibility with Matrix and Micro models, and a purported 8-decibel reduction in noise without sacrificing arrow speed. The energy-absorbing compound is critical for dampening vibration and minimizing noise. The complete kit ensures a straightforward installation process.
These specifications directly impact the crossbow’s performance. The minimal weight addition ensures that the balance and maneuverability of the crossbow are maintained. The noise reduction is crucial for stealth hunting, and the ease of installation means hunters can quickly equip their crossbows without requiring professional assistance.
Performance & Functionality
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes excel at reducing both recoil energy and noise. My testing confirmed a noticeable reduction in the crossbow’s noise signature, making it more effective for hunting wary game. The reduction in recoil also contributes to improved accuracy and comfort, particularly during extended practice sessions.
The primary strength of the Air Brakes lies in their ability to significantly reduce noise and recoil without negatively impacting arrow speed. However, some users might find the installation process slightly challenging, as it requires removing and re-installing the crossbow string. This task requires a rope cocker or crossbow press.
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes meet and even exceed my expectations. They deliver on their promise of noise and recoil reduction while maintaining the accuracy and performance of the crossbow. For serious hunters, this is a worthwhile investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes feature a sleek and functional design that seamlessly integrates with Excalibur crossbows. The materials used are high-quality and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance. The weight is negligible, preserving the crossbow’s natural balance and feel.
The Air Brakes are designed for user-friendly installation. While removing the string might seem daunting, the included instructions are clear and concise, making the process manageable even for novice crossbow owners. No specialized tools are required beyond a rope cocker.
Durability & Maintenance
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes are built to last. The energy-absorbing compound is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring reliable performance over many years of use. With proper care, they should easily withstand the rigors of regular hunting and practice.
Maintenance is simple: just wipe the Air Brakes down with a damp cloth after each use. Check the mounting hardware periodically to ensure it remains tight. No other special maintenance is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes kit includes all necessary hardware for installation and does not require any additional accessories. While there are no direct customization options for the Air Brakes themselves, they are compatible with other Excalibur accessories. This includes optics and quivers, allowing hunters to fully customize their crossbow setup.
The Air Brakes are specifically designed for Excalibur Matrix and Micro crossbows and are not generally compatible with crossbows from other brands. Always verify compatibility before attempting to install them on a different crossbow model.
Pros and Cons of Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes
Pros
- Significantly reduces crossbow noise, resulting in less spooked game and improved hunting success.
- Reduces recoil, enhancing accuracy and comfort during shooting.
- Easy to install with included hardware and clear instructions.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance in the field.
- Maintains arrow speed, unlike some other noise reduction methods.
Cons
- Requires removing and re-installing the crossbow string for installation.
- Specifically designed for Excalibur Matrix and Micro crossbows, limiting compatibility with other brands.
Who Should Buy Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes?
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes are perfect for hunters seeking to minimize the noise and recoil of their Excalibur Matrix or Micro crossbow. They are particularly beneficial for hunters who pursue wary game in pressured hunting areas. Any user of compatible Excalibur crossbows can easily install this product at home with the right tools.
Those who prioritize absolute stealth and demand the quietest possible shot should consider this product. They’re also great for hunters who experience discomfort or fatigue due to crossbow recoil. The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes can make a significant difference in overall shooting experience.
Hunters using crossbows from other manufacturers should skip this product, as the Air Brakes are specifically designed for Excalibur Matrix and Micro models. Additionally, if you are unwilling to remove the string on your crossbow, this product will not work for you.
A must-have accessory for installation is a rope cocker, which is essential for safely and efficiently removing and re-installing the crossbow string. String wax is also a good idea for maintaining the condition of the string after installation.
Conclusion on Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes
The Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes are a highly effective and worthwhile addition to any compatible Excalibur crossbow. They deliver on their promise of noise and recoil reduction without sacrificing arrow speed or accuracy. The improved hunting experience and enhanced comfort make them a valuable investment.
At a price of $59.99, the Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes represent a solid value proposition. The benefits of reduced noise and recoil justify the cost for serious hunters and avid crossbow shooters.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes to anyone looking to improve their Excalibur Matrix or Micro crossbow’s performance. The reduced noise and recoil are game-changers in the field. Enhance your hunt – consider investing in the Excalibur Crossbow Air Brakes today.