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Quality
In order to evaluate
the Barnett Wildcat C5 we have to remember that
this is a crossbow that sells for under $325
(camo package version, under $300 for the plain
black) and , in order to match this price point
the manufacturer obviously had to cut on some
bells&whistles . Let’s start with
some good points:
The camouflage is absolutely beautiful,
especially in autumn it blend magnificently in
the woods (see pics) it is named Next G1 , not
as famous as , say Mossy Oak, probably not as
expensive, but surely effective
enough.
The stock is similar to other Barnett models:
let’s say the design is halfway
between a Quad and a Revolution, it does not
feature any adjustment but it is made with the
same GAM (Gas Assisted Moulding) technology.
Thanks to this process the stock material
becomes very compact and smooth and, since it is
hollow it helps reducing weight. As the flight
rail is molded directly into the stock piece the
smoothness is a bonus as it helps reduce string
wear.
The stock design is very well conceived: the
design is nice with pleasing design and shape
blends, most features are designed into the mold
(cheepiece, foregrip) . The cheepiece is rather
fat and large with a good alignment with the
scope (with low rings). The foregrip is also
rather large and offers a good grip.
Both the foregrip and buttlplate feature anti
slip ribs.
I liked the pistol grip very much: it is
large at the base and smaller at the top, allows
a secure, firm grip.
The trigger is the same design as the high
end family (Predator, Revolution etc) . In this
short power stroke crossbow the link between the
trigger pull and trigger box is shorter than on
it siblings but it still features a longer than
deserved activation. The trigger is set at 4.5
pounds ( one pound more than the Revolution and
Predator)
The trigger pull is the latest (2009)
development featuring a Metal Injection Molded
component.
There are some points I did not like: the
peep and pin sight! Not a problem with Barnett’s
peep and pin specifically but, in general, it is
not a aim system that bolters precision: as you
have the choice go for the RedDot !!
Another thing I did not like was the scope
mount: the rail is plastic
made. A metal rail , maybe carved directly into
the trigger box would have been much better and
I think would not move the total price point
that much.
Tightening a scope onto a plastic rail it is
something I would not recommend, a lighter, more
compact red dot is my personal choice.
Keeping in mind the under $325
price point the Wildcat C5 is not bad at all,
except for the plastic scope mount quality is
just fine.
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