We've covered this ground repeatedly here. While not the fastest, or most compact, the simplicity and ruggedness of the Excalibur recurves was the major reason I chose one over the high-tech models. I consider it a lifetime investment, just like a rifle. Even the bow can be replaced easily if needed. Now they have one with the crank built in too.
Don't know what the maintenance situation is with compound crossbow models, but most of the verticle compound users I know spend a lot time and money at their bowsmiths periodically.
