Getting older, thinking about a fairly decent crossbow in the $300.00 range. Light weight? Left handed shooter,
Any opinions, I know nothing about them. Thanks.

I’d borrow one if possible to start with that’s what I’m doing my left shoulder is torn up, plan on using my friend crossbow this year then hope I’m back to my compound next season. I tied to pull my compound the top of my shoulder could not take it. At least I don’t need a Dr note in MO.

There are a lot of x-bows out there, and prices are all over. You can get a decent Barnett for around $300-400. You can get an excellent Scorpoid or Excalibur for over $1000.
The limb configuration, (re-curve, compound, reverse compound), is a factor to consider
A couple things to know:
Crossbows are heavy.
Crossbows are difficult to move through thick brush.
Crossbows have range and trajectory very similar to regular bows.
And, it takes time and practice to become proficient with one.
Finally, they are a lot of fun.

Meat Trapper did a really good podcast with a guest a few years ago. I was hoping he would do another with an update from the guy.

Go killer instinct ..wadell backs the brand an it's a good bow for that price range they make different models just get what you can afford I got the 370 out of the traders guide for 130 bucks was new in the box it's ready to go minus the broad heads guy one it at a raffle an already had one ..

Just like anything else, you get what you pay for.

See if you can find a used self cocking bow if you're worried about strength.

I had a Bear, probably paid about you are wanting to. There wasn't a thing wrong with it. Accurate, fast, a little on the heavy side but I used a shooting stick to hold it up. It did everything I'd expect of a crossbow. I'd go to the stores that carry them or search places like craigslist or facebook market place often you will find good deals on complete packages of used bows/equipment. If you find out you love it you can always upgrade at a later date.

Crazy Eddie, I see you are from NY. Be very mindful of the limb length restriction of 17 inches. If I were to get one I would opt for a reverse compound. They are a lot easier to handle size wise and smoother to shoot. There are no reverse compound models made that I know of that meet the 17 inch (limb tip to limb tip) requirement. I have personally seen people return to the shop complaining about their tickets for not satisfying the 17 inch rule. The shop people did warn them that their new purchase wasn't legal to hunt with. In every case their response was "I don't care". I personally don't understand the requirement but the rules are the rules.

Is that minimum or max length

Centerpoinr Sniper 385. Wife bought me a Centerpoint Sniper 370 a few years back and I love it.

Right around $350 and worth every penny. Was not sure I would enjoy using a crossbow and did not want to jump in with a lot of dollars. I didn't and do not regret my decision.

Moosetrot

Wicked ridge 360. sportsmans warehouse had them on clearance for arounf $225 last I looked. My son and my dad have one, wife has the next one up with the string in the stock. The cheaper ones have a string seperate, wife would lose it! Made in USA.
Never shot any other cross bows but ten point, which is who makes wicked ridge.

Nightlife, max dimension in the fired position.

X2!

Sounds like it's kinda like traps with all the different makes an models like stated above I'd go for whatever is in your price range it will kill

There is some assembly required if you don’t buy from a bow shop. Not too difficult though. Easier to sight in and shoot than traditional bow, Bolts are just like arrows doesn’t take much to deflect, weeds, twigs etc…. Need clear shooting lanes

My boy is one of them goofy left handers. He just bought one on sale at Scheels. And used a pile of their gift cards. I think he spent less than $300. So it is possible. Thats all I know. Sure shoots like lightning!!!

Killer Instinct is having all kinds of problems with their bows. Limbs, strings and cables are breaking.I bought a KI Swat X1 and the string broke on the 10th shot. I sent it in 3 weeks ago and still have not got it back yet