Best/most enjoyable older compound bows

[Skunkworks]

I am looking into buying my first compound bow, although I have done some traditional barebow archery. I don’t want a new flagship model, but something solid and enjoyable (and affordable) for 3D archery and later for hunting. Based of lurking forums I am leaning heavily towards a Mathews Switchback XT.

Any arguements for or against this? Are there better bows I should be considering?

 

[Bump79]

Personally, I would step up to a little newer or a mid tier bow. I've seen Prime Ronan's going for less than $500. That's is nearly the same system as their flagship bows - same cams, limbs, limb pocks. Just a different riser.

 

[ResearchinStuff]

On a bow that old you're just gambling that it hasn't been abused.

 

[Swamp Fox]

The XT is a great bow. It or the longer ATA Switchback (34 in.) --which I prefer-- would serve you well.

 

[betelgeuse]

The XT is a great bow. It or the longer ATA Switchback (34 in.) --which I prefer-- would serve you well.

I have an S2 which is nearly the same thing. I love it

Also have 3 other friends that still shoot XTs

 

[Swamp Fox]

I have 2 S2's and still use them. Killed my biggest whitetail with one of them.

I have a few "favorite" bows --LOL-- and S2s are one of them.

Am also a huge fan of the Q2 --- : )

 

[Cdnance]

That switchback xt is an awesome bow! I use it as my backup when I’m traveling but I wouldn’t mind using it for most anything. If you find one in good shape you’ll probably be more than happy with it. These newer bows have all sorts of bells and whistles but the old xt is a killer.
Good luck on your search!

 

[brca005]

I'll add in the Mathews Z7 for consideration, I LOVED that bow and wish I had never gotten rid of it, I shot it really well. It'd be hard for me to pass up a Z7 if I could find one (I haven't looked very hard for one either).