First Impressions of Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors
The Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors promise a quieter, smoother crossbow experience, something every hunter craves. Marketed by Excalibur as vibration and noise reducers, they seemed like a potential game-changer for my aging Excalibur crossbow. I was drawn to the claim of increased pad life through rotation and repositioning, a feature that addresses a common wear point in crossbow accessories.
After years of hard-won experience with crossbows, the increasing vibration and shock of my older model had become noticeable, impacting my accuracy and overall hunting comfort. I wanted to see if these suppressors could deliver on their promise of a quieter shot and reduced recoil. The allure of stealth and enhanced accuracy in the field led me to try the Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors.
Unboxing revealed a simple, no-frills pair of black suppressors, the pads feeling firm and durable. The design appeared straightforward, intended for easy attachment to the crossbow limbs. My initial thought was that the build quality seemed adequate for the price point, but I was keen to see how they performed under the pressures of repeated shots.
Compared to some aftermarket vibration dampeners I’ve used on recurve bows, the Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors looked less bulky but potentially more effective due to their targeted placement. I had considered purchasing a more expensive, full-limb dampening system, but the R.E.D.S suppressors’ simplicity and promise of focused noise reduction swayed my decision. I chose these over other options hoping for a targeted reduction in vibration and noise, without the added weight and complexity of larger systems.
I was cautiously optimistic. While the suppressors looked well-made, the true test would be how they performed on the range and in the field. The promise of quieter shots and reduced vibration definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors at my local archery range, focusing on evaluating the noise and vibration reduction on my Excalibur Axiom SMF. I shot from various distances (20-50 yards) under relatively calm weather conditions. The initial impressions were favorable; there was a noticeable reduction in the “twang” of the string after the shot.
The crossbow felt more stable during the shot, with less perceived vibration transferring into my shoulder. I noticed a slight difference in sound, but it wasn’t a dramatic transformation, more of a subtle dampening. Installation was straightforward and didn’t require any specialized tools or modifications to my crossbow.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use during target practice and two whitetail hunts, the Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors continue to hold up well. There are no visible signs of cracking or significant wear on the suppressor pads themselves. Minor cosmetic scratches have appeared, which is expected given their placement on the crossbow limbs.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each shooting session is all that’s required. Compared to my previous experiences with limb dampeners that quickly deteriorated, these have proven to be more resilient, especially with the ability to rotate the pads for even wear. The durability and ease of maintenance have definitely exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors
Specifications
- The Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors are designed by Excalibur to significantly reduce shock, vibration, and noise on Excalibur crossbows. They come as a pair and are strategically positioned on the crossbow limbs to absorb the string’s follow-through energy.
- The suppressors are black, allowing them to blend in with most crossbow finishes, and feature removable pads that can be rotated or repositioned to extend their lifespan. The focus is on minimizing noise and vibration, enhancing the overall shooting experience and stealth in hunting situations.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors is to dampen the shock, vibration, and noise associated with firing a crossbow. The suppressors offer a modest but noticeable improvement in sound reduction and perceived recoil. The vibration dampening helps with accuracy, as it reduces the movement of the crossbow during and immediately after the shot.
The main strength is the noticeable reduction in vibration and string noise, which is crucial for hunting scenarios where silence is key. The weakness is the limited impact on overall sound reduction; they do not make the crossbow “silent,” but rather lessen the sharp “twang” associated with the shot. They meet expectations for vibration reduction, but slightly underdeliver on the level of sound suppression.
Design & Ergonomics
The Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors feature a simple, functional design. The black color is unobtrusive. The weight is negligible, so it doesn’t affect the balance of the crossbow.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no special tools for installation or adjustment. There’s virtually no learning curve; you simply attach them according to the instructions.
Durability & Maintenance
The pads themselves appear to be made of a durable rubber compound. With proper care and periodic pad rotation, they should last for multiple hunting seasons.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The ability to rotate the pads extends their lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors are a standalone accessory. They do not require additional components for use. They are designed to work seamlessly with Excalibur crossbows, and while they may technically fit other brands, optimal performance is guaranteed with Excalibur models.
They are not directly compatible with many customization options, although they can be used alongside other accessories like scopes, slings, and quivers. The focus is on enhancing the crossbow’s inherent performance, rather than facilitating extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors
Pros
- Noticeable Reduction in Vibration: Significantly reduces the shock and vibration felt during the shot, improving comfort and potentially accuracy.
- Effective Noise Dampening: Lowers the string noise, making the crossbow quieter for hunting situations.
- Easy Installation: Simple and quick to install, requiring no specialized tools or modifications.
- Durable Construction: Built with robust materials designed to withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements.
- Rotatable Pads: Removable pads allow for rotation and repositioning, extending their lifespan and ensuring even wear.
Cons
- Limited Impact on Overall Sound: While they reduce string noise, they do not make the crossbow completely silent.
- Cosmetic Wear: The black finish may show scratches and wear over time, especially with heavy use in dense environments.
Who Should Buy Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors?
- Perfect for: Hunters using Excalibur crossbows who want to reduce vibration and noise for a stealthier hunting experience. Target shooters looking to improve comfort and reduce recoil during extended practice sessions.
- Who should skip this product? Hunters seeking complete silence from their crossbow, as these suppressors only reduce, but do not eliminate, noise. Individuals who own non-Excalibur crossbows should consider alternatives specifically designed for their brand and model.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Not required, but pairing these with string stops or other vibration-dampening accessories can further enhance the overall performance of the crossbow.
Conclusion on Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors
The Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors are a worthwhile addition to any Excalibur crossbow user’s gear. They provide tangible benefits in terms of vibration and noise reduction, enhancing the overall shooting experience. At $74.79, the price is justified considering the improved comfort, potential accuracy gains, and increased stealth in hunting situations.
I would recommend these suppressors to any Excalibur crossbow owner looking for an affordable and effective way to improve their shooting experience. If you’re seeking a more comfortable, quieter crossbow, the Excalibur R.E.D.S Suppressors are a solid choice. Upgrade your crossbow experience today!