I like mine but I find it difficult to position in such a way that it doesnt interfere with the shoulder strap curvature. I am interested to see how you like the inreach holder
Montana Bowhunters Association has a list of shoots in MT. Not all trad, but there are some good shoots on there.
https://mtba.org/montana-archery-events/
Hawke optics makes a ring that is damn close to the sportsmatch. Obviously thinner, and I can't speak towards it's ability to hold zero but it's the closest I could find.
SLC has no field flattener (which some people dont like) and a different color tone, but generally seems like the EL is the better set.
SLC is lighter and doesnt have the double bridge design. Buy whichever one comes up first.
VPA is having a sale right now. I like their 175gr 3 blade but am going to order some others to try. Daysix is an awesome company to work with but I havent used their broadhead. I dont like the screw together kind.
Great northern or thunderhorn Lynx. Both connect the top and bottom of the quiver together. Strap on will be more future proof but the quick detach might work well with your take down bolts. Get the long hood!
Like others have said, broadhead choice is the determining factor. If you already own some just tune the insert weight to work with those.
I like using a slightly lighter head and a long heavy insert because I feel the length makes them tougher (in my head mostly)
I have noticed the heaver...
Mine sounds a little hollow when you knock on the butt, not sure if its worse than my factory stock.
Does not feel fragile and there are a whole pile of people with them on here and very few (one?) report of them cracking.
I am not worried about it.
My vote is stockys. With discount code and customer service presence here they are hard to beat.
My bottom metal fit really right but the factory one fit fine. They are also lighter.
I have the orvis clearwater 6 piece. Even easier to pack than a four piece and fits your budget. Ive been thinking about getting the eight foot 4 wt for those remote mountain creeks.
You'll have to do some dremel/file work to clear a space for the bolt release. The stockys thread should have more info if you want it.
That being said, stockys has a program for the t1x so you might be able to ask for a t1x after the initial surge dies down