Download May 2013 - Mission Crossbow Test by Jon Teater

By Jon Teater
Mission
MXB-360
Testing Background
t’s been quite a few years since
The MXB-360
went through
a standard
and regimented performance test. The focus of these types of tests is
a Mathews
or Mission
Archery
to determine,
forhas
a specified
product,
performance characteristics. Additionally, the goal is to provide
product
gone through
mythe
testingarchers
regime,that
mostly
because
of and/or
my focus
those
enjoy
shooting
hunting with appropriate objective information, as well as some
on crossbows
ratherforthan
compound
subjective
commentary,
aiding
in the purchase process. With that said, this evaluation is by no means
bows. It Each
was archer
surprising
yetassess
not totally
conclusive.
should
what is important to him or her and interpret the results within the
unexpected
when As
Mission
a
context
of this article.
always,released
I recommend
that anyone who is considering a crossbow, shoot as many
new crossbow
late
last year.
Crossbows
different
makes and
models
as possible
to determine what best suits their individual needs and desires.
continue to grow in importance in
methods and procedures available publically for crossbows, testing
Please
due tomarket
the lack and
of testing
the note:
archery
Mathews
Crossbow
guidelines
wereRetailers
developed
andbeen
published
in 2009. These testing guidelines remain unchanged since 2009, and
Authorized
have
asking
I continue
to use
thesebow
methods
to evaluate
for their
favorite
supplier
to get crossbows.
Report: into
Mission
that side of the market. Mathews
Introduction:
is the parent company of Mission, so above the rest. If you look at today’s lot to ask in the design tradeoff process.
MXB-360
it’s not
unexpected
to the
seerelease
Mathews
great bowindesigns,
Mathews
products
line: the
Mission
Archery
announced
of the MXB-360
September
2012. Both
MathewsBottom
and Mission
linesMission line is a new
By Jon have
Teater
engraving
on
the
rail,
including
a
bit
of
still
remain
in
the
forefront.
I
would
say
experience
and
I suspect this product
a dedicated consumer base. As you may expect Mission is probably the more sensible company for this
Mathews
fl
air
throughout
the
design.
its
product
portfolio
exudes
elegance.
is
the
fi
rst
of
many
new crossbows to
release.
’s been quiteproduct
a few years
since a Mathews is a more traditional company, meaning, they are strictly bow focused. Mission
Mathews
and
Mission
Archery
sell
But
archers
won’t
just
buy
based
on
come
from
the
Sparta,
Wisconsin headMathews or Mission
Archery
product
archery
is slightly
more edgy, and from my standpoint less susceptible to criticism if releasing a product that’s
not
only
a
product
but
an
experience.
looks.
What
Mathews
works
to
create
quarters.
as gone through
my testing
regime,
somewhat
unconventional.
At the time of release this new product received a lot of publicity. The popularity
archers
enjoy the feeling of hav- is the ultimate shooting experience.
mostly because ofMany
my focus
on
of this
product
is really no surprise due to larger following. In fact, I have several hunting partners that
rossbows rather ing
thanacompound
top quality product in their hands. Therefore, designers of the MXB-360
Testing Background
purchased
the MXB-360 late last year. So in my local shooting circuit many archers were mindful that Mission
ows. It was surprising,
Years yet
ago, I can remember testing my paid close attention to performance
The MXB-360 went through a stanhad
entered
the crossbow
market.
xpected when
Mission
released
a product.
first Mathews
I can vaguely characteristics while creating each dard and regimented performance test.
ew crossbow late last year.
recall
the
model
but
more
importantly,
component.
Theearlier.
product
team
Thehard
focus
wasato determine the perThe
Mission
line of
reflects the look
of elegance that
I mentioned
Thedesign
designers
worked
to mix
Mathews is the
parent
company
I
can
describe
the
feeling
I
had
while
released
a
product
that
they
believe
hits
formance
characteristics.
Additionally,
of looks with
Mission, so it’sblend
not unexpected
to high performance. Matt McPherson predicted this product, and I expect more to come to
shooting.
Th
e
balance,
draw
cycle
and
all
the
high
points
and
Matt
McPherson
the
goal
was
to
provide
appropriate
ee Mathews engraving
on theinrail,
be the leader
performance. Being a leader in this market is a difficult feat. Although, the MXB-360 features
firing
sequence,
which
by
today’s
stanexpects
the
MXB-360
to
be
a
leader.
objective
information,
as
well
as some
ncluding a bitsome
of Mathews
flair
unique features that help it stand out against some heady competition. The product is advertised to
dards
are
probably
considered
outdatTh
e
company
wanted
the
crossbows
subjective
commentary,
for
aiding
in
hroughout the
design.
weigh 6.55 pounds, which mirrors exactly the measurement I obtained with my certified scales. With a scope
ed,
were
better
than
top-notch
at
the
in
the
Mission
line
to
be
fast,
quiet
the
purchase
process.
With
that
said,
product
weight of
jumps
up, but did
thistheir
product
is one
of the
lighter the
products
in the market today. Some of the
s most wouldthe
expect
the designers
the MXB-360
homework
prior
to releasing
final design.
time. In
fact,
I can weight
honestly
of andbarrel,
accurate.
product this evaluation is by no means concluelements
that
reduce
aresay
themany
skeleton
lightAdditionally,
forearm
and the
stock.
Most companies
have to face
the
facts that archers
know
what theylike
like, and listening
to interested
the
past
Mathews
bows,
including
the
needed
to
be
light
in
weight,
well
bal- sive. Each archer should assess what is
onsumers may help achieve likeable results. In this case, designers required and demanded input from
one
I’m
reminiscing
about,
were
heads
anced
and
easy
to
use,
which
can
be
a important
to from
him or her and interpret
The
MXB-360
presents
a
more
tactical
look.
The
tactical
look
and
feel
seems
to
be
a
trend
of today, and
onsumers while developing design requirements. The company felt without such participation the product
the results
ould fall on my standpoint, provides a superb look. This product has a harmonious combination of camouflage
andwithin
black. the context of this
Mission
MXB-360
ead ears. SoThe limbs
article.
As always,
and portions
of the stock are embossed in Lost AT™. The remaining portions of the
crossbow
are I recommend that
Contact Info
Mission Archery
fter careful black.
anyone
who
is considering buying a
The crossbow is sold
in a complete package. The accessory package includes an MX-3 Quiver and three
www.missionarchery.com
onsideration
crossbow
should
Mission
weighing approximately 300 grains.
package
includes an option of three scopesshoot as many difMSRPcrossbow arrows,
$899
Finish: The Lost
AT ™ /Black
he MXB-360
makes
Str
ing/Cable
Mater
ial:
Zebr
a™
H
ybr
id
Stock:
Composite
XB Hunter or XB Pro. All these scope are made by Hawke, which is notably one offerent
the best
in theand models as possible
was created. XB Basic,
Limb Mater ial:
Pr opr ietar y Composite
to
determine
what best suits his or her
industry. For this test the product was provided with all the mentioned components, including a Hawke XB-1
individual
needs
and desires.
Mathews, and(XB Pro).
Per for mance at a Glance:
I
or that matter
Arrow
Speed
K.E.
Momentum
425 Grains
348.6
21.1
Mission Archery,
The crossbow dimensions/weights
measured
out114.7
of the box:
475 Grains
332.1
116.4
22.5
ell not only a
525 Grains
316.2
116.6
23.7
roduct but an
xperience. Many archers become excited and enjoy the feeling of having a top quality product in their hands.
ears ago, I can remember testing my first Mathew’s product. I can vaguely recall the model, but most
mportantly I can describe the
feeling I had while
shooting.Axle-to-Axle
The balance, draw-cycle,
and firing
sequence,
Model
Axle-toPower Str oke
Over
all
Mass
which by today’s standards are probably considered
better than
top-notch. Length
In fact, I can W eight
dr aw)
Axleoutdated,
(fullwere
(inches)
onestly say with little argument many of the past
Mathew’s (inches)
product, including the one I’m(inches)
reminiscing(including
about,
(inches)
were head above the rest. If you look at today’s great designs, Mathew’s products still remain in the
scope)
orefront. I would briefly
describe
most of their product
to exude elegance.
But when35the rubber7.7 lbs
Mission
MXB-360
17.75 portfolio
12.375
14
meets the road archers won’t just buy off on looks. What Mathews works to create is the ultimate shooting
92 it’s not unexpected that designers of the MXB-360 paid close attention to the
xperience. Therefore,
erformance characteristics while creating each component. The product design team released a product that
hey believe hits all the high points, and Matt McPherson expects the MXB-360 to be a leader. The company
wanted the Mission line to be fast, quiet, and accurate. Additionally, the product needed to be lightweight,
well balancedMay13AT092-097CORRECTED.indd
and easy to use, which can be
a lot to ask in the design tradeoff process. Bottom line, the
92
Mission line is a new experience, and I suspect this product is the first of many new crossbows to come.
Dimensions
Introduction
Mission Archery announced the
release of the MXB-360 in
September of 2012.
At the time, Matt
Mass
McPherson,
owner and
W eight
CEO
of
Mission
Archery
(without
Inc. and Mathews Inc., said
scope)
he designed the MXB-360
6.5 lbs
4/5/13 4:52 PM
d. The crossbow is mounted in a shooting platform that controls any
rce-Draw curves are taken. The stored energy obtained from the
th speed measurements to calculate dynamic efficiency.
n
s
-ft
ercent
ercent
ercent
to give retailers and consumers a
fast, powerful and accurate crossbow
that is also lightweight, balanced and
extremely easy to use. “We’ve spent a
few years listening to our retailers ask
us to build a crossbow,” McPherson
explained. “We’re confident the MXB360 is going to be a new leader in terms
of crossbow performance.”
Both the Mathews and Mission
lines have dedicated consumer bases.
As you may expect, Mission is probably
the more sensible company for this
product release. Mathews is a more
traditional company, meaning it is
strictly bow focused. Mission Archery
is slightly more edgy and, from my
standpoint, less susceptible to criticism when releasing a product that’s
somewhat unconventional. At the time
of release, this new product received a
lot of publicity. The popularity is really
no surprise due to the large following the Mission brand has built in the
past few years. In fact, I have several
hunting partners that purchased the
MXB-360 late last year. So, in my local
shooting circuit, many archers knew
that Mission had entered the crossbow
market and trusted their cash to its
introductory model.
The Mission line reflects the look
of elegance that I mentioned earlier.
The designers worked hard to mix eye
appeal with high performance. Matt
McPherson predicted this product
would be a leader in performance.
Being a leader in this market is a difficult feat, since Mission is competing with firms that have honed their
crossbow designs and manufacturing
skills over decades. Still, the MXB-360
has some unique features that help it
stand out. This first Mission crossbow is
advertised to weigh 6.55 pounds, which
mirrors exactly the measurement I
obtained with my certified scales. With
a scope, the product weight jumps up
but even so, this is one of the lighter
crosssbows on the market today. Some
of the elements that reduce weight are
the skeleton-like barrel, the light forearm and the stock.
The MXB-360 has a tactical look
and feel to fit the market trends and
from my standpoint, it looks superb.
I like the harmonious combination of
camouflage and black. The limbs and
portions of the stock are embossed in
Lost AT, while the remaining portions
of the crossbow are black. The crossbow is sold in a complete package. The
accessory package includes an MX-3
quiver and three Mission crossbow
arrows, weighing approximately 300
grains without their tips. The package
includes an option of three scopes: XB
Basic, XB Hunter or XB Pro. All these
scopes are by Hawke, known for its fine
crossbow optics. (Scopes for crossbows
are specially designed to correct for
parallax at short range and to stand
up to the peculiar recoil of these hunting arms.) For this test, the product
was provided with all the mentioned
components, including a Hawke XB-1
(XB Pro).
The crossbow dimensions and
weights measured out of the box are
listed on the previous page.
The crossbow went through a thorough inspection. The review focused
on the string/cables, the eccentrics,
the limb and limb pockets, the rail, the
stock, the butt plate, the trigger housing,
the trigger and the trigger guard. After a
thorough review of the MXB-360, I was
unable to find any blemishes. I would
rate the product as exceptional in the
workmanship section. Thereafter, I put
93
May13AT092-097CORRECTED.indd 93
4/5/13 4:52 PM
Speed
Information
Ar r ow
Ar r ow
W eight
gr ains)
Chr ono 1
425
Chr ono 2
348.1
344
Ar r ow
W eight
345
(gr ains)
348.8
shot
1
348.8
shot
1
Chr ono 1
425
2 2
Chr ono
348.1
345
2
348.7
W eight
(gr ains)
348.7
348.6
4
Speed
332.1
Ar r ow
475
shot
344
2
4
348.7
5
348.7
348.6
avg (fps)
3
5
332.1
4
332.1
345
345
345
5
avg (fps)
shot
Information
328
Chr328
ono 1 Chr ono 2
332.1
328
328
332.3
328
332.2
345
avg (fps)
475
332.0
345
348.8
345
345
W eight
332.3
(gr ains)
1
3
348.8
345
3
Chr ono 1 Chr ono 2
Ar r ow
W eight
(gr ains)
1
525
Ar r ow
2
shot
1
3
525
2
328
Chr ono 2
316.5
W eight
(gr ains)
4
316.2
Chr
ono 1
313
Chr ono 2313
316.5
313
316.2
313
316.1
313
316.2
332.0
328
332.2
328
avg (fps)
4
332.1
332.1
328
328
5
328
328
Chr ono 1
3
5
316.1
316.2
316.2
316.2
316.2
316.2
avg (fps)
313
313
313
313
313
313
313
the product
through a 100-150
d/ Performance
Measurements:
shot
W eight
Speed Per Inch of PS
Performance
Measurements:
cyclingSpeed/
to verify
functionality.
Some
eight
Speed Per Inch of PS
Speed per inch of 425 grW
ains
24.9
minor testing was performed but the
Speed per inch of 425 gr ains
24.9
Power Str oke
(PS)
ains
23.7
Power
Str oke475
(PS) gr475
gr ains
23.7
focus was to detect any issues or con525 gr525
ains
22.6
gr ains
22.6
cerns with the product before starting
Speed per inch of Powerstroke:
d per inch the
of Powerstroke:
Aver age
23.7
Aver age
23.7
actual performance testing. The
Power
str
oke
14
inches
MXB-360
performed
flawlessly.
One
14
inches
Speed
measurements
were taken
with three Power str oke
d measurements
taken
with
three
Speed
Information
item Iwere
did
note
was
the
way
the
archer
Ar
r
ow
Ar
r
ow
Ar r ow
projectiles. A Pact Chronograph XP and a Competition Electronics Pro-Chrono IR are set in tandem
to record results. The
W eight
W eight
W eightto record
must
be
aware
of
the
location
of
the
by
a
winch
device;
the
load-cell
conto
determine
the speed
per The
inch of
ctiles. A Pact
Chronograph
XP
and
a
Competition
Electronics
Pro-Chrono
IR
are
set
in
tandem
results.
average
speed
measurement
is
divided
by
the
powerstroke
to
determine
the
(gr ains)
(gr ains) Chr ono 1 Chr ono 2
(gr ains)
shot
Chr ono 1
Chr ono 2
shot
shot
Chr ono 1
Chr ono 2
cocking
rope
while
attaching
the
clips
nects
to
the
crossbow
with
a
cocking
power
stroke.
speed per
of powerstroke.
age speed measurement
isinch
divided
by the powerstroke to determine the
Noise525Output:
Sound measureto drawing
The aid. The1crossbow
was
Trigger
Analysis
1
425 the crossbow.
348.1
344
475
332.1 mounted
328 in a
1
316.5
313
d per inch ofprior
powerstroke.
ments
were
recorded
with
three
projecrope can 2sometimes become
latched
shooting
platform
that
controlled
any
Trigger
Pull
(lbs)
348.8
345
2
332.3
328
2
316.2
313
under the crossbow. If this happens, movement that might be experienced tiles. Th1e measurements were
3.70 averaged
Noise
Output:
3 will
348.8
3
332.0
328 The
316.1was
313
Trigger
Pull
(lbs)
and 3the2 sound meter
set to
take
curves
were taken.
the archer
be unable
to draw 345
the as Force-Draw
3.64
3
3.62
with316.2
the A-weighted
stored energy
obtained
from the
Force- measurements
crossbow 4string back. Th
is happened
1
3.70
348.7
345
4
332.2
328
4
313filmeasurements were recorded with three projectiles. The measurements
4 mimics the human
3.58 ear).
e Output: severalSound
ter 2
(which
Draw curve was used
in conjunction
times during my initial testing
345
332.1
5
316.2 3.64
313
were5 averaged and 348.7
the sound meter
was set to 5take measurements
with328
the A5
Force: 316.2
The 3.72
Trigger Force
until,
after a little practice,
with
speed measurements
to calculate
avg (fps)
348.6 I became
345
avg (fps)
332.1
328
avg (fps) Trigger
313
3 6
3.62
weighted filter (which mimics the human ear).
measurements were 3.77
recorded in
adept were
at avoiding
that issue.
dynamicThe
efficiency.
d measurements
recorded
with three projectiles.
measurements
4 7and averaged. An3.58
3.76
pounds
Imada Digital
Th
e
crossbow
was
next
evaluated
Speed
per
inch
of
Power
Stroke:
averaged and the sound
meter
was set
to take measurements with the A5 Gauge
3.72
8
3.80 of PS the
Performance
Measurements:
Speed
Per
Force
was
used
to Inch
determine
on the fiSpeed/
ve criteria
outlined below.
Speed measurements were taken with W eight
hted filter (which mimics the human ear).
inch of 425
gr
6ains
3.77
peak
Trigger
Force. 24.9
three projectiles. ASpeed
Pact per
Chronograph
9
3.66
Sound Measurements
Power
Str oke (PS)
ains
23.7
XP and a Competition
Electronics
Pro- 475 gr7Precision
Measurements:
Detailed Test Results
3.76
10
3.59 Provides
W eight
Trigger
ains
22.6 groups were
to record 525
angrindication
of
how
tight
Dynamic Efficiency: The dynam- Chrono IR were set in tandem
3.68
Speed
of Powerstroke:
(gr
ains)per inch425
475
525
8 11
3.80
age
23.7
Force:
when
shooting the crossbow
by hand
results. The average speed
measure- Aver
ic effiPar
ciency
portion of thePeak
test Autiameter
-W eighted No ise
12
3.69
Power str oke
14
inches
from
a
bench
rest
or
other
supportment
was
divided
by
the
power
stroke
lized a Speed
Revere
Load-Cell
controlled
9
3.66
with three
1 measurements
94.2 were taken
92.4
91.6
The Trigger
13
3.68
iveset
device.
Extreme spread
was
projectiles.
A Pact
Chronograph92.4
XP and a Competition
Pro-Chrono IR are
results.
Thethe
2
93.8
91.5 Electronics
Force
10 in14tandem to record 3.59
3.78
ight
Trigger
average
speed
measurement
is
divided
by
the
powerstroke
to
determine
the
3
94.0
92.5
91.1
measuremen
Aver
3.61
11age15Tr igger
3.68
ains)
425 speed
475
of
powerstroke. 92.1525
4 per inch
94.2
91.2
Force: ts were
Pull
(lbs)
3.68
Trigger
Analysis
5
93.7
92.4
91.2
meter
Peak A -W eighted No ise
12
3.69
recorded in
6
92.3
91.2
Trigger Pull (lbs)
pounds and averaged. An Imada Digital Force
1
94.2
92.493.7
91.6
The Trigger
13
3.68
7
93.5
92.4
91.2
1
Gauge is used to determine the peak Trigger 3.70
2
93.8 Noise
92.4
91.5
Output:
Force
8
93.7
92.3
91.1
2
3.64
14
3.78
Force.
3
94.0
92.593.7
91.1
9
92.5
91.4
3
3.62
measuremen
Sound
were recorded
with three projectiles.
The measurements
Aver age
15Tr igger
3.61
10 measurements
92.6
91.3
4
3.58
4
94.2
92.193.8
91.2
ts were
were averaged and the sound meter was set to take measurements
with the A- Pull (lbs) 5
3.72
3.68
5
93.7 Aver
92.493.8 mimics the
91.2 ear). 91.3
weighted
human
recorded in
age filter (which
92.4
6
3.77
Trigger Analysis
Sound Measurements
6
7
8
9
10
r age
al Avg
(dBA)
93.7 To tal Avg
93.5 Max (dBA)
93.7
93.7
W eight
93.8
93.8
94
92.3
92.4
92.3
Sound
92.5
92.6
(gr ains)
425
Par ameter
92.4 94.2
1
2
93.8
3
94.0
92.5
4
94.2
5
93.7
6
93.7
7
93.5
8
93.7
9
93.7
10
93.8
May13AT092-097CORRECTED.indd 94
91.2
7 Digital Force 3.76
pounds and averaged. An Imada
Gauge is used to determine the 8peak Trigger 3.80
91.1
9
3.66
Measurements Force.
92.5
91.2
91.4
91.3
475
525
Peak A -W eighted No ise
91.3
92.4
91.6
92.4
91.5
92.5
91.1
92.1
91.2
92.4
91.2
92.3
91.2
92.4
91.2
92.3
91.1
92.5
91.4
92.6
91.3
Trigger
Force:
10
3.59
11
3.68
12
3.69
The Trigger
13
3.68
Force
14
3.78
measuremen
Aver age
Tr
igger
15
3.61
ts were
Pull (lbs)
3.68
recorded in
pounds and averaged. An Imada Digital Force
Gauge is used to determine the peak Trigger
Force.
4/5/13 4:53 PM
The dynamic efficiency portion of the test utilizes a Revere Load-Cell controlled by a winch device; the load-cell
connects to the crossbow with a cocking aid. The crossbow is mounted in a shooting platform that controls any
movement that might be experienced as Force-Draw curves are taken. The stored energy obtained from the
Force-Draw curve, is used in conjunction with speed measurements
to calculate dynamic efficiency.
Speed Information
shot
Ar r ow
W eight
(gr ains)
Chr ono 1
Chr ono 2
shot
Ar r ow
W eight
(gr ains)
Chr ono 1 Chr ono 2
shot
Ar r ow
W eight
(gr ains)
Chr ono 1
Chr
user manual. The
manual encompasses
1
425
348.1
344
1
475
332.1
328
1
525
316.5
safeguards, cocking
Peak 2Force
175.0
lbs
348.8
345
2 instructions,
332.3
2
316.2
speci- 328
fications, mainteStored3 Energy
141.3
lb-ft
348.8
345
3 nance and 332.0
3
316.1
warranty. 328
It’s
important
to
run
Dynamic
425
grains
81.2
percent
4 Efficiency
348.7
345
4
332.2
328
4
316.2
through the crossbow
5
348.7
345
5 safety rules 332.1
5
316.2
with cus- 328
Dynamic Efficiency
475 grains
82.4
percent
avg (fps)
348.6
345
avg (fps)
332.1
avg (fps)
316.2
tomers. While
read- 328
ing the instructions,
Dynamic Efficiency
525 grains
82.5
percent
I was reminded that
all Mission crossbows
method
used
to
calculate
the
group
Speed/ Performance Measurements:
W eight
Speed Per Inch o
are tested before they leave the facsize, measured by a digital calipers.
Speed
per inch of 425 gr ains
24.9
tory. The safety instructions
are quite
Power
Str oke (PS) 475 gr ains
23.7
detailed and include sharp
pictures
The Initial Review
I was happy to receive the MXB- and information on the dos and don’ts
525 gr ains
22.6
per inchit,ofI noticed
Powerstroke:
360.Speed
Upon opening
the of the MXB-360.
Aver age
23.7
An important aspect of the
designstr oke
crossbow was well packaged. While
Power
14
inches
the anti-dryfi
segregated
from the box containing
Speed measurements
were takeniswith
three re component. If a dryfi
re
occurs,
this component
has thePro-Chrono IR are set in tandem to record result
accessories,
the
crossbow
was
retained
projectiles. A Pact Chronograph XP and a Competition
Electronics
in a case. In fact, this is the first soft ability to prevent crossbow damage
average speed measurement is divided by the powerstroke to determine the
case I can remember ever receiving and possible harm to the shooter.
per inch
powerstroke.
Safe use of crossbows at the range
withspeed
a crossbow.
Theof
case
is an excellent touch and a feature that archers or in the field is essential for the longevity of the product, as well as the
are sure to enjoy.
Trigger P
The crossbow was received almost safety of the archer. The MXB-360 has
1
3.7
fullyNoise
assembled.
The only components safety warnings “plastered” all over
Output:
2
3.6
requiring assembly were the scope and it. First and foremost, orange tape is
3
3.6
quiver bracket. For this test, the scope placed over the string and the crossSound measurements were recorded with three projectiles. The measurements
4
3.5
and quiver bracket were not used and bow can’t be fired until the tape is
were
and the
sound meter
was set
to take
measurements
removed.
Mission
placed
a caution with the Ait took
justaveraged
5 to 10 minutes
to precisely
5
3.7
weighted
filter
mimics thesticker
human
onear).
the product, which was an
position
the scope
for(which
proper head/eye
6
3.7
excellent idea, since you can’t use the
alignment.
7
3.7
After assembly, I read through the crossbow until it’s removed and you
Performance Information
Trigger Analys
Sound Measurements
W eight
(gr ains)
Par ameter
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Aver age
To tal Avg
Max (dBA)
425
94.2
93.8
94.0
94.2
93.7
93.7
93.5
93.7
93.7
93.8
93.8
475
525
Peak A -W eighted No ise
92.4
91.6
92.4
91.5
92.5
91.1
92.1
91.2
92.4
91.2
92.3
91.2
92.4
91.2
92.3
91.1
92.5
91.4
92.6
91.3
92.4
Trigger
Force:
8
3.8
9
3.6
10
3.5
11
3.6
12
3.6
The Trigger
13
3.6
Force
14
3.7
measuremen
Aver age
15Tr igger
3.6
ts were
Pull (lbs)
3.6
recorded in
pounds and averaged. An Imada Digital Force
Gauge is used to determine the peak Trigger
Force.
91.3
92.5
95
May13AT092-097CORRECTED.indd 95
4/5/13 4:54 PM
As normal, I brought the MXB-360 to my predetermined shooting location with four targets spaced at
various distances. The furthest target is almost 50 yards away. My treestand includes a removable
shooting rail, so I am able to test with or without support. The crossbow performed flawlessly during
this shooting sequence. I was conscious to make sure I lubricated the rail every 15-20 shots as
recommend by the crossbow manual. The component that stood out the most during this portion of
the test is the Hawke scope, which is outstanding. The reticle setup is unique, and was designed for
easy target acquisition. In fact, I would rate the XB Pro to be one of the best scopes available, and
certainly aided my shooting. The crossbow hit the mark in the field; the projectile precision provided
herein mirrored what I experienced in the field. And from my standpoint, you can’t ask for product to
shoot better than 2 inch groups at 40 yards.
Hot Features:
Many of the top selling features of this product have been mentioned. The pistol grip, customized
case, adjustability, efficient design, comfortable trigger, telescopic sight, and cleat design and
performance output come to my mind as elements that will grab a consumer. The unique look of the
are forced to look at it. The caution located at the tail end of the forearm, the stirrup on a traditional crossbow,
design,
starting
the
skeletonized
which
extends
eyeuser
catching.
notice
on the with
orange
tape
is very clear;barrel,
near the
trigger
guard. reward toward stock,
allowsisthe
to place The
his or her foot
drawing
sequence,
and
quiettheoutput
of limb/cam
configuration
ideal for a hunting
Further,
it requests
the user
to read
owner’s
on eithersituation.
side of the
crossbow while
With many
of today’siscrossbows,
as well
as register
product.
you experience
little to to
nodate,
let-offreaching
. In drawing.
is feature
the manual,
limb/cam
design
is one the
of the
most efficient
I have tested
greaterThthan
80%. played a huge
In
addition,
stickers
on
either
side
of
fact,
only
a
few
crossbows
available
part
in
allowing
me
Please note that the draw weight of the MXB-360 is adjustable downward to 100 pounds, and to easily cock the
the wings of the forearm remind the today are truly focused on produc- crossbow while in the treestand.
efficiencies
will be impacted when reducing the crossbow from peak weight. TheAs
trigger
was the next
archer to keep hands in a safe location ing let-off. Some will say this aspect is
I typically do, I brought the
on my
list,
and
the
peak
weight
remains
in
that
optimal
range
for
my
shooting
style
between
3.5 to 4
to avoid contact with the string while unimportant and has little impact on MXB-360 to my predetermined
shootpounds.
The
characteristics
is the previously
This features
proves
firing. Th
e fifinal
nal safety
notices are locating location,
with four
targets spaced
the archer mentioned
using a ropestirrup-less
cocking aiddesign.
ed on theyou
limbs.
e limb
stickers
reit- The
but cleat
I disagree.
a by
crossbow
at various
distances.
The furthest target
sometimes
canThdo
more
with less.
plays aDrawing
dual role
simplfiying
the design
be reducing
erate key points of the user manual. For in a treestand or on the ground can was almost 50 yards away. My treescomponents and providing a more partical use of the prod. Overall, this product does what it should, it
example, the minimum arrow weight be difficult for the last few inches of tand includes a removable shooting
performs!
I believe
general
conceptsthe
used
to create
this good-looking
flow
well
intowith
both
rail, so I am
able
to test
or without
is 400 grains,
thethe
user
must ensure
drawing
sequence.
You can teachcrossbow
the proper
feel and
performance
aspects,
and consumers
definitely
be and
interested
in shooting
the MXB-360
The crossbow
performed flawvane
orientation, the
user must
a customerwill
to bend
his legs
use support.
those powerful muscles for most of lessly during this shooting sequence. I
the cocking process but once the legs was conscious to make sure I lubricated
mentioned only half the notices, so pay are straight, then weaker shoulder and
I hadclose
several
areas to
I felt
improved upon
in the next
rendition
model
attention
thecould
safetybe
markings.
arm muscles
have
to takeorover.
The
ArrowTrade Scorecard
Finally,The
there
areand
limited
lifetime
MXB-360’s
force
draw
indicates
from Mission.
stock
forearm,
including
the pistol
grip
lackcurve
frictional
Evaluation Criteria
Score
warranty
terms
and
conditions
with
a steadyor
drop-off
into the
valley,to
reducpoints
or areas.
Some
products
include
checkering
rubberized
material
Adjustability
recommend
that anying crossbow.
any struggle
the user
may experiallowthe
theMXB-360.
archer toI make
firm contact
with the
Without
friction
the
one
that
considers
buying
this
crossence.
In
fact,
the
measured
holding
Craftsmanship
crossbow could be more difficult to handle in the field, especially in wet
bow read through these terms in detail. weight is around 66 pounds, which is
Design
Integrity
conditions.
The next area is the cocking rope anchor. I did see the benefit
The terms are also posted on Mission’s particularly low, considering the peak
in this
concept;
the location
notisseem
convenient
and can
Features
website.
Therehowever,
are strict rules
and pro- does
weight
around
160-170 pounds.
cedures to register
the crossbow,
acti- to quickly
A primary
between
be somewhat
problematic
when trying
cockdiff
theerence
product.
My the
Performance
vate
the
warranty
and
make
a
claim.
MXB-360
and
other
crossbows,
somesuggestion for handling this component is to practice a lot, and I suspect
Sound
thing that became noteworthy in the
such repetition will alleviate any inconveniences.
The third area is a
Trigger
In The Field
field, is the lack of a stirrup at the front
Vibration
debatable
because
this is to
anan
area
personal
preference
andthat
is constantly
With
winter coming
endof
and
end. Th
e designers felt
reducing the
Note:
The
ratings are based on the
discussed
amongst
designers.
I prefer
auto-engaged
safety,
which
thebe
the weather
starting
to break, I had
time anoverall
length of the
crossbow
would
following
color codes:
to takedoes
the MXB-360
eld. Thensure
e ini- that
benefi
cial in the fiare
eld. aware
Let methat
tell you,
MXB-360
not have.afiPlease
consumers
this
Blue = exceptional,
tial characteristics
most
Crossbow
and weight
product
needs to be that
placed
oncrossbow
safe afteritit was!
is cocked.
The length
final element
I’d
Green = above average,
shooters notice are the weight, feel and can be issues with some customers,
like balance.
to see improved
upon is the length ofwhether
pull. From
my standpoint the
Light Green = average,
The weight aspect is superb,
they’re used to carrying a bow
Precision Measurements:
length
of
pull
will
be
too
long
for
certain
archers.
My
only
suggestion
is erat 6.5 pounds as a bare crossbow; this or a rifle. The MXB-360
feels no diff
Yellow = marginal,
Provides
anthan
indication
ofehow
close
groups
together when shooting
hand from a bench rest or other
thatproduct
Missionis could
include
stockofwhich
has
some
built
adjustability;
comparable
to asome
the
ent
a rifl
onin
my
back.were
Theshot
cleat
Red by
= unacceptable
supportive device. Extreme spread is the method used to calculate group size.
available
today.
Thfrom
e crossbow
design
of the MXB-360,
this lightest
will alleviate
any
issues
those with
shorter
or longerwhich
arms.replaces
did feel good in my hands; however,
the length of pull may be too long for
Projectile Precision
some shooters. (As a reminder, length
Model/
Ar r ow
D istance
Spr ead 1 Spr ead 2 Aver age
Br and
W eight
(yar ds)
(inches)
(inches)
(inches)
of pull is the distance from buttstock
to trigger.) The balance point (pivot)
Shooting by H and
Mission
402.1
40
1.796
1.730
1.763
is at an almost optimal location for my
shooting style. The pivot is precisely
Shooting By H and
Mission
402.5
40
2.070
1.940
2.005
use moon nocks only and the user
Themust
Off-Shoot:
engage the safety after loading. I
96
May13AT092-097CORRECTED.indd 96
The Initial Review:
I was pleasantly surprised to receive the MXB360. Upon opening the package I noticed the
crossbow was well packaged. While
4/5/13 10:10 PM
the rail every 15 to 20 shots, as recommended by the crossbow manual. The
component that stood out the most
during this portion of the test was the
Hawke scope, which is outstanding.
The reticle setup is unique and was
designed for easy target acquisition. In
fact, I would rate the XB Pro to be one
of the best scopes available and it certainly aided my shooting. The crossbow
hit the mark in the field; the projectile
precision provided herein from indoor
testing mirrored what I experienced in
the field. And from my standpoint, you
can’t ask for a product to shoot better
than 2 inch groups at 40 yards.
Hot Features
Many of the top selling features of
this product have already been mentioned. The pistol grip, customized
case, adjustability, efficient design,
comfortable trigger, telescopic sight,
cleat design and performance output
come to my mind as elements that
will grab a consumer’s attention. The
unique look of the design, starting with
the skeletonized barrel, which extends
rearward toward the stock, is eye catching. The drawing sequence and quiet
output of the limb/cam configuration are ideal for a hunting situation.
Further, the limb/cam design is one
of the most efficient I have tested to
date, reaching greater than 80 percent.
(Please note that the draw weight of
the MXB-360 is adjustable downward
to 100 pounds and efficiencies will be
impacted when reducing the crossbow
from peak weight.)
The trigger pull is in that optimal
range for my shooting style of between
3.5 and 4 pounds. The final noteworthy
characteristic is the previously mentioned stirrup-free design. With this
approach, Mission proves sometimes
you can do more with less.
Possible Refinements
I found several areas I felt could be
improved upon in the next rendition
of this model or in additional models
from Mission. The stock and forearm,
including the pistol grip, lack frictional
areas. Some products include checkering or rubberized material to allow
the archer to make firm contact with
the crossbow. Without these high friction areas, the crossbow could be more
difficult to handle in the field, especially in wet conditions. The next area
is the cocking rope anchor. I did see the
benefit in this concept; however, the
location does not seem convenient and
can be somewhat problematic when
trying to quickly cock the product;
practice can alleviate this concern. The
third area is a debatable point because
this is an area of personal preference
and is constantly discussed amongst
designers. I prefer an auto-engaged
safety, which the MXB-360 does not
have. Please ensure that consumers
are aware that this product needs to
be placed on “safe” after it is cocked,
similar to a firearm. The final element
I’d like to see improved upon is the
length of pull. From my standpoint,
the length of pull will be too long for
certain archers. My suggestion is that
Mission could include a stock that has
some built in adjustability; this will
alleviate any issues from those with
shorter or longer arms.
Summary
Mission has produced a great first
crossbow after several years of rapid
growth in vertical bow sales. The MXB360 can be sold with three different
scopes, providing different pricing levels. The reputation of the manufacturer
and of designer Matt McPherson makes
this product desirable. Consumers love
Mathews and Mission has a lot of the
same appeal, so use this to your advantage. I would also highlight the performance concepts; this crossbow’s speed
measured just under 360 fps in my test
with a 400 grain arrow. Speed does
sell but noting the high efficiency and
low noise output will help consumers understand this product isn’t just
your average crossbow. The final selling
method is to highlight the looks. From a
distance, the MXB-360 exudes elegance
and users may be easily drawn to this
product because of that. The eye appeal
of the MXB-360 will be far greater than
some of the latest crossbows from other
brands. Much of the allure comes from
the stirrup-free design and tactical look.
Overall, I enjoyed testing this product and I’m very pleased to see Mission
Archery in the crossbow market!
97
May13AT092-097CORRECTED.indd 97
4/5/13 4:56 PM