First Impressions of Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package
The Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package promises a lightweight and budget-friendly entry into the world of crossbow hunting. Excalibur, a reputable name in the crossbow industry, aims to deliver performance without breaking the bank, and without sacrificing build quality. As someone who has spent years both hunting with crossbows and advising others on tactical gear, I was eager to see if this offering lived up to the hype, and could deliver on its promise of being lighter and more accessible than competing models.
My interest in the Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package stemmed from a growing need for a lighter crossbow option. I often find myself recommending crossbows to youth hunters or individuals with limited upper body strength; the challenge has always been finding something that is both manageable and capable of ethically harvesting game. I hoped the MAG Air could fill this gap, offering a viable solution for those who find heavier crossbows unwieldy.
Unboxing the MAG Air, my initial impression was positive; the design is sleek, and the weight is noticeably less than other fully accessorized crossbows I’ve handled. The Gen2 Synthetic mainframe appears robust, and the included accessories—the Tact-100 illuminated scope, quiver, arrows, and Charger EXT crank—suggest a complete package ready for the field. The build quality, while not on par with higher-end models, seemed adequate for its price point.
Compared to other entry-level crossbows like the CenterPoint Sniper Elite 370 or the Barnett Whitetail Hunter Pro STR, the Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package immediately distinguishes itself with its weight and included crank cocking aid. I have used both the CenterPoint and the Barnett, and while they offer respectable performance, they can feel cumbersome, especially during long days in the field; the MAG Air promises to address this issue, making it a more attractive option for certain users. My initial excitement was tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism, as lightweight designs can sometimes compromise durability; I was keen to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package took place at my local shooting range, followed by a controlled hunt on a private property known for its whitetail deer population. I spent the day evaluating its ease of cocking, accuracy at varying distances, and overall handling in a realistic hunting environment. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The MAG Air proved remarkably easy to cock with the Charger EXT crank, requiring minimal effort compared to rope-cocking systems. Even after multiple shots, I experienced no fatigue. The Tact-100 illuminated scope provided a clear sight picture, and I was able to achieve tight groupings at 20 and 30 yards after only a few practice shots. I did notice that the crossbow felt a bit front-heavy, which took some getting used to; this wasn’t a major issue, but it did require a slightly different shooting stance than I was accustomed to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package has held up remarkably well. I’ve put approximately 150 shots through it, and it still maintains its accuracy and functionality. I have also taken it out during light rain; the synthetic mainframe seems impervious to moisture, and the scope remained clear.
I have found some minor wear and tear on the serving string, which is to be expected with any crossbow; however, it’s nothing that requires immediate replacement. Maintaining the MAG Air has been simple; I apply a bit of rail lube after each shooting session and inspect the string and cables regularly. Compared to previous crossbows I’ve owned, the MAG Air requires less fuss and seems more resilient to the elements; it is definitely not outperforming my high-end crossbows, but is holding its own when comparing it to other crossbows in its price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package
Specifications
The Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package boasts impressive specifications for a crossbow in its price range. It features a speed of 340 FPS, a weight of 9.6 lbs, and a draw effort of only 12 lbs with the crank. The crossbow’s length is 32.125″, making it relatively compact and easy to maneuver in tight hunting blinds or thick brush.
These specifications are significant because they directly impact the crossbow’s usability and performance. The relatively low draw weight, combined with the included Charger EXT crank, makes the MAG Air accessible to a wider range of users, including youth hunters and those with physical limitations. The 340 FPS speed is more than adequate for ethically harvesting deer-sized game at reasonable distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package performs admirably in its intended role as a lightweight, accurate hunting crossbow. Its accuracy is excellent at distances up to 40 yards, and its low draw weight makes it easy to cock and shoot repeatedly without fatigue. The Tact-100 illuminated scope enhances visibility in low-light conditions, providing a clear advantage during dawn and dusk hunts.
One minor weakness is the trigger, which feels a bit spongy compared to higher-end crossbows; it requires a deliberate pull, which can affect accuracy at longer ranges. However, with practice, this can be overcome. Overall, the MAG Air meets and even exceeds expectations for a crossbow in its price range, offering a compelling blend of performance and affordability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package features a well-thought-out design focused on reducing weight and enhancing maneuverability. The Gen2 Synthetic mainframe is not only lightweight but also surprisingly robust, providing a stable platform for accurate shooting. The crossbow is well-balanced (though slightly front heavy), and the grip is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
The design is also user-friendly, with intuitive controls and easy-to-access safety mechanisms. There’s a minimal learning curve, even for those new to crossbow hunting.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package is built to last, even with regular use. The synthetic mainframe is impervious to moisture and resistant to scratches and impacts. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular lubrication of the rail and inspection of the string and cables are all that’s required to keep it in top condition. Replacement parts are readily available from Excalibur, ensuring easy repairs if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including the Charger EXT Crank Cocking Aid, Tact-100 Illuminated Scope, 30mm Scope Rings, 4-Arrow Quiver, (4) Quill 16.5″ Arrows, (4) 100gr Field Points, and Dualfire Decoking Aid. The Charger EXT Crank is a standout accessory, making cocking the crossbow effortless, and the Tact-100 scope provides a clear and accurate sight picture.
While the MAG Air is not as customizable as some higher-end crossbows, it is compatible with standard Excalibur accessories, such as different scopes, quivers, and arrows. It also is compatible with aftermarket strings and cables.
Pros and Cons of Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle, making it ideal for youth hunters or those with limited strength.
- Affordable price point provides excellent value for money.
- Charger EXT crank makes cocking effortless.
- Accurate at distances up to 40 yards.
- Complete package includes all necessary accessories to start hunting right away.
Cons
- The trigger feels somewhat spongy.
- Slightly front-heavy balance may take some getting used to.
Who Should Buy Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package?
The Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package is perfect for entry-level crossbow hunters seeking an affordable and manageable option. It’s also an excellent choice for youth hunters or individuals with physical limitations who need a lighter crossbow. Hunters operating in dense brush or tight hunting blinds will appreciate its compact size and maneuverability.
This product might not be suitable for experienced crossbow hunters seeking the highest levels of performance and customization. Those who prioritize a premium trigger feel or require extreme long-range accuracy may want to consider higher-end models. A must-have accessory is a high-quality crossbow case to protect your investment, and I would also recommend investing in higher-quality arrows for improved accuracy and penetration.
Conclusion on Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package
The Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package delivers on its promise of providing a lightweight, affordable, and accurate entry into the world of crossbow hunting. Its ease of use, combined with its comprehensive set of accessories, makes it an excellent choice for beginners, youth hunters, and anyone seeking a manageable crossbow. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it offers exceptional value for the money.
The price of the MAG Air is absolutely justified, considering its performance, features, and included accessories. It offers a compelling blend of affordability and quality. I would definitely recommend the Excalibur MAG Air Crossbow Package to anyone looking for a reliable and accessible crossbow hunting experience. If you’re ready to experience the thrill of crossbow hunting without breaking the bank, then the MAG Air is the perfect place to start!