I recommend against the low end Barretts, had one and couldn't keep it from eating strings and cables.
Hoyt's with the reverse limb tech are quiet, and seem to have the bugs worked out this year.
Stryker 350/380 are quiet reliable and fast shooting. They had a recall issue last year, and have fixed the problem from what I've seen. The trigger is excellent.
Couple of selection thoughts:
Auto safety on the draw? Locks the trigger on safe when you cock it.
Hand crank or not? May not need one now, but useful to add later.
Going to use a monopod support or not? Crossbows are very front heavy as a rule, you may need a support or a shooting rail.
Recurve or compound limbs? Recurve-simple easy to use and replace strings, but Texas longhorn wide in the stand/blind.
Compound limbs are usually small with matching or better power/speed but harder to maintain at home. Very few have the ability to have a string or cable changed without a bow press.
Crossbow bolts are 20 or 22 inches, have to decide which one is better for you.
I made a brief detour into the crossbow world, but got back out of it because if poor equipment choices by me. I'll be back, but when I have a better defined requirement for one.
Good Luck!
