Excalibur crossbows, based on the models below, offer powerhouse crossbows. Although compact in design, crossbows from this brand do offer excellent speed and power, great for dealing with almost anything that you may face in the great outdoors.
Also, Excalibur crossbows have a nice set of archery tech enhancements. The two models compared above also prove that the Excalibur does improve in this particular aspect - later models integrate better tech, enhancing the already impressive performance of the stock Excalibur crossbow. Additionally, Excalibur crossbows also have excellent sound and vibration dampening features - great for shooters in need of gear that won’t make any distractions.
And perhaps it’s because of the brand’s constant push for creating better products, but the Assassin does trump over the Micro Suppressor in this comparison. The Micro Suppressor is still a really good crossbow to have, that cannot be denied. But because of Excalibur’s insightful approach on both addressing issues and improving overall performance, the Assassin does excel in almost every aspect over the Micro Suppressor.
Still, it does boil down on a shooter’s preference. But with the many benefits that the Assassin has to offer, you may want to go for this choice if you want a satisfying hunting experience!
Excalibur Assassin vs Micro Suppressor
Let us now directly compare the Assassin and the Micro Supressor’s individual pros and cons:
Excalibur Assassin
Pros:
- Amazing archery tech enhancements
- Silent killer
- Powerhouse power and speed
- Durable construction
- Great accessories
- Outstanding accuracy
- Takedown means easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons:
- Fairly new model (issues may spring out in the open)
Micro Suppressor
Pros:
- Good selection of archery tech enhancements
- Silent shooter
- Respectable power and speed
- Durable construction
- Excellent accuracy
Cons:
- Cocking issue
- May take time to assemble
- Does not come with a case
- Fairly new
- Time-consuming assembly
- No case
- Hard to cock
- Quiet
- Durable
- Very accurate
- Great tech included
- TakeDown means simple assembly
- Great construction
- Great FPS and KE
- Excellent accuracy
- Fairly new
- Quiet
- Durable
- Very accurate
- Great tech included
- TakeDown means simple assembly
- Time-consuming assembly
- No case
- Hard to cock
- Great construction
- Great FPS and KE
- Excellent accuracy
Excalibur Assassin Review
As one of the latest crossbows from Excalibur, the Assassin may very well be a great choice to have during hunts. Of course, limited information may hide some issues about this crossbow - but then again, what better way to learn how efficient a crossbow is than actually trying it out, right? The Excalibur Assassin’s many excellent archery tech, construction benefits, and even firepower and speed may all be more than enough reasons that this is a good crossbow choice for hunters.
The specs:
- Draw Weight: up to 325 lbs.
- Draw Length: 15"
- Speed: 400 fps
- Crossbow Length: 30" to 33”
- Crossbow Weight: 7.9 lbs.
Excalibur Assassin Crossbow Details
Excalibur is a hunting brand known for its tough crossbows. And when we say tough, this would both apply for the actual construction and the force that these crossbows can deal to targets. Let us see if two models from this brand are good choices to have when hunting - for starters, we will be focusing on the Excalibur Assassin.
Ease of Assembly
The Excalibur Assassin takes pride of having one of the brand’s latest crossbow enhancements integrated in it. Making use of the Quick-Loc tech, the Assassin can be quickly assembled in a few and easy steps:
- Have the stirrup in the open position (you can make this happen by pulling the release).
- Locate the mount bar on the front mainframe assembly.
- Grab the riser and slide it into the mount bar. Push the riser until it tightly fits.
- Once the rise is in, pull back on the stirrup. Wait until the blue release makes a clicking sound.
- Release tension on the stirrup once the blue release is in the closed position.
Disassembly, as expected, is also really easy:
- Pull the Assassin's stirrup towards you (stirrup is facing upwards).
- While maintaining the pulling tension on the stirrup, slide the blue release knob down.
- While maintaining pressure on the blue release knob, push the crossbow stirrup away from you.
- With the stirrup in open position, reach out and securely grasp the center portion of the riser.
- Pull the riser assembly out of the mainframe assembly.
The entire process for both disassembly and assembly may seem complicated at first. But get the hang or the flow out of these steps, and you’ll find out how easy setting up the Excalibur Assassin is.
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Let us learn more about the different archery enhancements found on the Excalibur Assassin.
Focusing on Safety
The Excalibur Assassin comes with an efficient anti-dry fire system to assure hunters of safer shots. Excalibur did integrate another much-needed safety feature into this crossbow as well - and it deals with an important aspect - cocking!
This crossbow comes with a unique Charger crank. Aside from providing the ease and simplifying the cocking process, the Assassin’s charger crank also makes the entire process into a silent once. Additionally, a fail-safe strap comes included with the Charger, keeping both you and the crossbow safe from harm in cases of miscranks and the like.
Keeping it Silent
Aside from a safe and quiet crossbow cocking process, the Excalibur Assassin also comes with other silencing enhancements to make this crossbow a silent killer. R.E.D.S. (Recoil Energy Dissipation System) suppressors come with the Assassin, which do absorb vibration and noise in a really efficient manner. Also, this crossbow comes with a Sound Deadening System, which makes a total sweep on how to lessen noise and vibration on the stock and other parts. Even the Quick-Loc tech makes assembly a silent affair, allowing for quiet adjustments in the field.
Excalibur Assassin Crossbow Firepower Check
At 400 fps, the Excalibur dishes out major and impressive damage on different kinds of targets in the wild. The speed and power generated by this crossbow is mainly because of the Assassin’s impressive limbs. Equipped with Armour Tips, the Assassin’s limbs are both flexible and strong enough to fire powerful arrows.
Excalibur Assassin Crossbow Ballistic Data
Since this has been recently released in the public, not much information is known about the kinetic power output of the Excalibur Assassin. However, the limbs of this crossbow are made out of continuous uncut fiber. This means that these parts are really tough, and capable of generating an impressive amount of kinetic energy. This particular enhancement, as an introductory part for future Excalibur models, does prove that this brand has a really bright future of offering more exciting models for hunters in the future.
Construction and Durability
As mentioned, the limbs of the Excalibur Assassin are made of high-quality and tough material that offers benefits for both kinetic energy generation and overall crossbow durability. Dubbed as high output express limbs, these parts may very well pave the part towards even better models that Excalibur has in store for hunters.
The overall design of the Assassin’s Tru-Fit stock is compact and light, making it a good choice for hunters opting to use this crossbow when shooting behind blinds. The stock is also made for adjustments, suiting various needs when out in the wild.
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
Shooting speed, as mentioned, is impressive at 400 fps. This should offer more than enough force to take down all sorts of prey during hunts. And when it comes to accuracy, the Tru-Fit configuration is light and easy to the hands, offering a comfortable and efficient way on how to carefully select your shots.
The Excalibur Assassin also comes with a Tact-100 Crossbow Scope. This particular scope comes with an illuminated multi-reticle feature (Fast Point 100 yards), which helps you properly sight and make those difficult shots. Thus, accuracy is excellent with this crossbow choice.
Excalibur Assassin Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information
The mentioned Tact-100 Crossbow Scope makes aiming both easy and exciting. Given as well the Excalibur Assassin’s built, the actual aiming part is comfortable for hunters.
Cocking is also excellent with the Charger EXT crank. The many advantages this enhancement has to offer - quiet cocking motion, easy cranks, and fail-safe feature - makes this a top choice for hunters aiming to have a reliable crossbow setup in crucial moments.
Practical Hunting Usage
To put it bluntly, the Excalibur Assassin is a top crossbow to consider during hunts. The overall construction, coupled with the many excellent enhancements integrated on the crossbow, makes the Assassin a must-have during hunts. Additionally, these archery tech are not only outstanding, but caters to shooters of all levels as well. Of course, the force of the Assassin is recommended as well when bringing down even the toughest targets that one may encounter outdoors.
Excalibur Assassin Crossbow Accessory Check
Here are the accessories that come with this crossbow:
- Manual
- Explore Case
- Tact-100 Crossbow Scope (illuminated, comes with 30 mm rings)
- R.E.D. Suppressors
- Sound Deadening System
- Cheekpiece (ambidextrous design)
- Charger EXT crank (comes with fail-safe strap)
- Anti-Dry Fire Safety System
- PRO-SHOT ACP Trigger Enhancement
- Arrow Quiver (holds up to 4 arrows)
- Black PROFLIGHT Premium Arrows (4 pieces, straightness of 16.5″, comes with 4 100 grain field points)
Miscellaneous Information on the Excalibur Assassin Crossbow
Learn more on what this crossbow has to offer:
What makes this crossbow’s trigger excellent?
Excalibur made sure to refine the Assassin’s trigger with the PRO-SHOT ACP Trigger. This enhancement focuses on creating consistent accurate shots with its frictionless roller catch tech. Additionally, it’s a silent tech, which works well with the other sound suppressing features of the Assassin.
Is the Explorer Case a good way to store the Assassin?
Yes - it’s also the recommended way to transport it. Made with tough 1000D Cordura nylon, extra-durable zippers, and specialized padded linings, the Assassin fits snugly in this case with no fear of damaging it at all. This case also comes with internal pouches to keep other gear in.
Why the Excalibur Assassin Crossbow is Recommended
Here are some points on why you ought to choose this crossbow:
Impressive Enhancements
Excalibur didn’t pull punches when outfitting the Assassin with the right kind of archery tech. Not only are these enhancements excellent on their own, but every tech integrated into the crossbow is selected to jive really well with each other.
Silent Assassin
Like its namesake, this crossbow is a top choice when aiming for silent kills out in the wild.
Compact Design
It’s powerful without being bulky at all. And with the additional benefit of having an Explorer Case, you can safely transport this crossbow anywhere.
An Issue that May Need to be Addressed in the Excalibur Assassin Crossbow
Here is something to ponder when selecting this crossbow:
Fairly New Choice
Not exactly a technical problem, but because the crossbow is fairly new in the market, not many issues (if there are any) may be known to hunters. Even with the various benefits, chancing upon a major issue may derail the entire hunting experience. Of course, it may be a pessimistic view, but always take extra care with new hunting equipment!
Excalibur Micro Suppressor Review
The Excalibur Micro Suppressor is a solid crossbow to have during hunts. It's compact design works well when used in tight spots. The power, speed, and kinetic energy output are all impressive, enough to deal with all sorts of targets during hunts. Also, the archery tech enhancements integrated in it offer various benefits for hunters.
However, this dated model does suffer from cocking issues. You’d need some good muscle to crank this crossbow right. Additionally, you’d need to take extra care when storing this crossbow when out of the shooting zone - the Micro Suppressor does not come with a case! Also, setting up may take some time, given that the Ex-Shox systems require for its adhesive to dry. Still, and even for it being an old model, this crossbow is still a good choice you can rely on during hunts.
The specs:
- Draw Weight: up to 280 lbs.
- Draw Length: 10.2"
- Speed: 355 fps
- Crossbow Length: 31”
- Crossbow Weight: 5.4 lbs.
Micro Suppressor Crossbow Details
Let us now compare the Assassin to this older Excalibur crossbow model, the Micro Suppressor. This way, we get to see if the latest model does improve from the old. Alternatively, we can also find out if there are factors that Micro Suppressor still excels at over the Assassin!
Ease of Assembly
Excalibur does take pride that their models are easy to assemble. The same idea goes with the Excalibur Micro Suppressor. Although this model does not have the Quick-Loc tech, most of its parts are already pre-assembled, which does make it easy to setup even among beginners.
However, the actual assembly time may take quite some time. Here are the basic steps and parts that need to be installed when prepping this crossbow:
- Inspect both limb assembly and mainframe assembly components before installing onto each other.
- Align the Pic-Rail bracket.
- Connect the crossbow quiver to the Pic-Rail bracket.
- Install the Ex-Shox enhancement.
The entire process is easy, yes, but can be frustrating. You will need to wait for approximately 24 hours after the Ex-Shox installation. This is because this enhancement requires time for its adhesive to set in!
Checking the Crossbow Technology
Here are the archery tech you can expect in this crossbow:
Focusing on Safety
The Excalibur Micro Suppressor takes the simple yet efficient approach in providing safety features for hunters to enjoy. Rubber grips found on its stock allow for a comfortable and safe shooting motion - these inserts do keep a shooter’s fingers safe from harm at all times. Of course, the Micro Suppressor also has the standard anti-dry fire system in place, for safe and secured shots.
The Micro Suppressor also comes with R.E.D.S. Suppressors and a pre-installed Sound Deadening System, which does go in line with Excalibur’s reputation of offering silent crossbows.
More About the Ex-Shox System
The Ex-Shox enhancement is a dampening truss tech that helps reduce string tension. In effect, this system does efficiently reduce vibration, noise, and recoil during the actual shooting motion. Also, the Ex-Shox system, as mentioned earlier, bonds to the Micro Suppressor’s limbs, through the use of adhesives. Although a reliable archery tech, the process of setting it up is not only time-consuming, but may be prone to error, especially among novice hunters.
Micro Suppressor Firepower Check
The Excalibur Micro Suppressor, being an earlier model, does generate a slower and weaker force as compared to the Assassin. Yet, being that it is also a compact model, the 355 fps is still a respectable value to consider.
Crossbow Ballistic Data
This crossbow has a kinetic energy output of 91 ft/lbs., which does work well with the mentioned 355 fps. Of course, factors such as distance and weather condition need to be considered in making the most out of this power output. But combined together, both speed and kinetic energy are still respectable to make significant damage on all sorts of prey in the wild.
Construction and Durability
The Micro Suppressor has a bull-pup style of stock that is both simple yet appealing among shooters. The tough construction hides the fact that it is also lightweight. Considering the design and build, it is also a recommended choice for hunters who want a crossbow they can shoot from behind a blind or in tight spots.
Accuracy and Shooting Speed Checks
The Excalibur Micro Suppressor’s speed is efficient, but lower than what the Assassin has to offer. Yet again, it’ll be more than enough, by considering the efficiency of the kinetic energy output as well.
Accuracy is great too, given the compact design and the scope that comes with it - a previous version of the one found in the Assassin, the impressive Tact-Zone Scope.
Micro Suppressor Crossbow Hunting Cocking and Aiming Information
The scope, although also an older model, is still a great piece of equipment that can deliver amazing results. The Tact-Zone scope is known for its great customization and ease of use among hunters of all skill levels. Also, this scope is pretty durable in its own right, allowing for more accurate and consistent shots.
Cocking may be a problem with this crossbow. Unfortunately, the Micro Suppressor does not have the advantage of having a Charger crank like the Assassin has equipped. This crossbow does have a rope cocking device. But then again, it will still take some effort to cock this crossbow properly.
Practical Hunting Usage
It may be a slower and older model, but the Excalibur Micro Suppressor is still a good crossbow to rely on during hunts. This is because it still has the compact yet tough design known among Excalibur crossbow models. And the archery tech found in it, though dated, can still stand up against what’s available today. It just takes some time to prep it up, and for really great effort to cock it right!
Micro Suppressor Crossbow Accessory Check
Here’s what you get with this crossbow:
- Rope Cocking Aid
- R.E.D.S. Suppressors
- Sound Deadening System
- Cheekpiece (ambidextrous)
- Guardian Anti-Dry-Fire Safety System
- Tact-Zone Scope (illuminated, comes with 30 mm rings)
- Arrow Quiver (X-Hanger variant, hold up to 3 arrows)
- Quill Arrows (3 carbon arrow pieces, comes with 150 grain field points)
Miscellaneous Information on the Micro Suppressor Crossbow
Helpful pointers to help you learn more about this crossbow:
Does this crossbow come with warranty?
Yes. The Excalibur Micro Suppressor comes with a nice limited lifetime warranty. It’s a nice thought to have knowing that the manufacturer has got your back (and that the brand truly believes its product’s value).
Does the Sound Deadening System cover the Micro Suppressor’s Limbs as well?
Yes! This system has a specific part that covers this crossbow’s limbs. Dubbed as the Recoil Anti-Vibration System (R.A.V.S.), this part wraps around the Micro Suppressor’s limbs for total vibration, recoil, and sound dampening.
Why the Micro Suppressor Crossbow is Recommended
Here are some nice points on why this crossbow is a good choice:
Accurate Crossbow
The combination of the stock design and the scope integration makes for more accurate shots. Marksmanship is also further developed with the Sound Deadening System.
Tough Construction
The Excalibur Micro Suppressor is one tough crossbow. Given that it does not have a case (the Assassin does!), this crossbow can still withstand the elements you may encounter out in the wilderness.
Silent Shooting Experience
Although it does have older archery tech, the Sound Deadening System found integrated in the Micro Suppressor still efficiently reduces noise and vibration.
Issues that May Need to be Addressed in the Micro Suppressor Crossbow
Here are some problems you may need to deal with when getting crossbow:
You Need Strong Upper Body Strength
It may take time to properly and safely cock this crossbow! With no Charger crank to use, you are left to your own with the Micro Suppressor’s rope cocking device. This tool does help in cocking the crossbow, but it still requires some muscle to properly set up this choice!
No Bag to Transport the Crossbow
It’s just a small issue, but can damage your crossbow! The Micro Suppressor doesn’t have any bag for it to be stored or transported. This does mean that if you’re not careful, this crossbow may be exposed to various possible damages.
Time-Consuming Assembly
As mentioned, the Ex-Shox system requires time to be properly installed.
Read More
Need your fix of Excalibur crossbows? Check out these links:
- Borkholder Archery presents a nice overview on the Excalibur Assassin - includes the cocking process!
- Bow Hunter Planet showcases just how quiet the Excalibur Micro Suppressor is.
- This Archery Talk forum discusses another important aspect of the Excalibur Assassin - it doesn’t have any limb issues!
- For other Excalibur comparisons check these articles:
- For the best broadheads for Excalibur crossbows, check this article.