Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System Review

A Close Look at the Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System

As an individual who has spent over a decade immersed in the practical application of gear across diverse environments, from dusty workshops to sterile labs and windswept fields, I approach new equipment with a discerning eye. The Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System caught my attention, promising a significant reduction in the acoustic signature of a crossbow. This system is designed to mitigate noise, vibration, and recoil emanating from the limbs, string, and stirrup, aiming to enhance stealth and shooter comfort. My purchase was driven by a specific need for greater discretion during late-season hunts, where the slightest sound can spook wary game. I’d heard anecdotal evidence of how much quieter crossbows could be, and I was eager to test this claim. Upon initial inspection, the components felt robust and well-constructed, with an evident focus on materials designed to absorb shock and dampen sound. While I briefly considered some generic limb dampeners, their lack of integration and specific design for my crossbow model made them less appealing. My first impression was one of practical optimism; this looked like a thoughtful, integrated solution rather than a mere add-on.

Real-World Testing: Putting Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were the familiar woods behind my property, during a crisp autumn afternoon. The primary goal was to assess the system’s effectiveness in reducing the sharp “crack” of the shot and the accompanying vibration. I installed the system components – the overmolded rubberized stirrup, Ex-Shox, String Stars, and R.A.V.S. silencers – following the straightforward instructions. The installation was intuitive, requiring no specialized tools beyond what was typically found in a basic crossbow maintenance kit. The first few shots were revealing; the distinct acoustic signature was noticeably muted.

The difference was palpable, not just in sound but also in the reduction of felt vibration through the stock. The crossbow felt more solid, less prone to rattling after the shot. I fired a series of bolts at varying distances, and in each instance, the sound dampening was consistent. There were no unexpected issues or quirks that presented themselves during this initial phase. The system integrated seamlessly with my hunting model Excalibur crossbow.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several weeks, encompassing multiple hunting trips and practice sessions at the range, the Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System consistently performed. The components showed no discernible signs of wear and tear. The rubberized stirrup remained firmly in place, and the Ex-Shox and String Stars maintained their position and dampening capabilities. There was no cracking, stiffness, or any performance degradation even after being subjected to dusty trails and the occasional light moisture.

Maintenance proved to be exceptionally simple, primarily involving occasional wiping down with a damp cloth to remove dirt or debris. The materials appear to be highly resistant to the elements and typical stresses of crossbow use. Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket string silencers, which often wore out quickly or offered minimal vibration dampening, this integrated system felt far superior. It held up remarkably well, exceeding my expectations for long-term reliability and minimal upkeep.

Breaking Down the Features of Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System

Specifications

The Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System is a comprehensive kit designed for universal application across all Excalibur hunting model crossbows. Its primary function is to dramatically reduce noise, vibration, and recoil. The system includes an overmolded rubberized stirrup, which replaces or augments the standard stirrup to absorb impact and dampen sound. It also features Ex-Shox, designed to absorb shock and vibration from the crossbow’s limbs. Additionally, String Stars are included, small but effective devices that attach to the string to further quell noise. Finally, R.A.V.S. (Recoil Absorption Vibration Silencers) work to minimize residual noise and vibration. All components are manufactured in a consistent black color, maintaining a stealthy aesthetic.

The overmolded rubberized stirrup is a significant upgrade from many standard metal stirrups, directly contributing to a quieter and softer stance. The Ex-Shox are strategically placed to handle the significant forces generated by the limbs during the shot cycle. The String Stars provide localized dampening directly at the string’s contact points, which is crucial for noise reduction. The R.A.V.S. are the final touch, ensuring that any remaining energetic disturbances are minimized. Collectively, these specifications aim to create a more silent and stable shooting platform.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, the Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System delivers exceptionally well. The reduction in the “snap” of the shot is immediately noticeable, transforming a sharp report into a more muted thud. The felt vibration through the shooter’s hands and shoulders is also significantly diminished, making follow-up shots quicker and more comfortable. This system truly excels at its primary goal: making the crossbow quieter and smoother.

Its main strength lies in the synergistic effect of its components; each piece contributes to the overall sound and vibration reduction. A potential weakness, though minor, is that the enhanced quietness might lead some hunters to believe they can get away with less careful movement, which is never advisable. Nevertheless, it demonstrably meets and often exceeds the expectations set by its description, especially considering its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System is focused on practicality and effective function. The materials used, particularly the overmolded rubber and presumably dense polymer compounds for the Ex-Shox and String Stars, feel durable and well-suited to the task. The overall build quality instills confidence that these parts will withstand repeated stress without premature failure.

Ergonomically, the system is designed for integration, meaning it doesn’t significantly alter the feel or handling of the crossbow itself. The overmolded rubberized stirrup provides a slightly more comfortable and potentially less slippery surface for foot placement, though this isn’t its primary function. The placement of the Ex-Shox and String Stars is unobtrusive, avoiding any interference with the shooting process. The black finish also contributes to a discreet appearance, which is paramount for hunting.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extensive testing, the Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System is built for the long haul. Under normal hunting and range use, these components are likely to last for many seasons. The materials appear to be robust and resistant to degradation from UV exposure, moisture, and the mechanical stresses inherent in firing a crossbow.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a cloth to remove dirt or debris is usually sufficient. There are no complex mechanisms to clean or parts that require special attention. The system is designed to be a set-it-and-forget-it addition, which is ideal for busy hunters. Any potential failure points would likely stem from extreme misuse, such as deliberate impact or abrasion against very coarse surfaces, rather than normal operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System is a complete package, with all the essential components included for sound and vibration reduction. It includes the overmolded rubberized stirrup, Ex-Shox, String Stars, and R.A.V.S. silencers. There are no additional accessories typically bundled with this specific kit, nor are there significant customization options beyond the intended application to compatible Excalibur models.

However, the system is designed to work seamlessly with Excalibur Crossbow’s existing product line. Its purpose is to enhance the performance of their specific crossbows rather than offering broad compatibility with other brands. The black color scheme ensures it blends in without drawing unnecessary attention.

Pros and Cons of Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System

Who Should Buy Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System?

This Sound Deadening System is an excellent investment for any Excalibur crossbow hunter who prioritizes stealth and a more refined shooting experience. It’s ideal for those hunting in environments where silence is paramount, such as late-season deer or elk hunts where game is particularly skittish. Individuals who experience discomfort from crossbow vibration would also find significant benefit.

Anyone seeking a universal sound dampening solution for a non-Excalibur crossbow or those with extremely tight budgets might need to look elsewhere. For Excalibur owners, however, this is a highly recommended upgrade. As for must-have accessories, ensuring you have a quality crossbow stringer and appropriate lubrication for your string and cables is always advisable for overall crossbow care.

Conclusion on Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System

The Excalibur Crossbow Sound Deadening System is a highly effective and well-executed product that delivers on its promises. It demonstrably reduces both the audible report and felt vibration of an Excalibur crossbow, leading to a quieter and more pleasant shooting experience. The build quality is solid, the installation is straightforward, and the minimal maintenance required makes it a practical addition for any hunter. At $63.99, the value proposition is strong, especially when considering the enhanced hunting success and comfort it can provide. I would wholeheartedly recommend this system to any owner of a compatible Excalibur hunting model crossbow looking to upgrade their gear’s performance. It’s a smart, practical investment for serious hunters.