I opted to go with the Viper myself. Are there other less expensive options that are worthy? Absolutely! But for my $ I opted to go TP for a few reasons. Customer service reputation being very high on my list, and so far I have NOT been disappointed. Randy Wood, (10ptcrossbow) who IMO is TP's top CSR, is a member of this forum and is ALWAYS interacting here and trying his best to help out us TP owner's with any questions and or issues we may have. One of the other reasons I chose TP was innovation. They make some of the best, highest quality XB's PERIOD! They don't sit on their laurels, and they always seem to be innovating and trying to "change the game" in a good way. Warranties are only as good as the company that backs em, and TP backs up their products better than any other IMO. In the end the choice is obviously yours. I don't blame you for taking your time and researching. After all, it's your hard earned coin. I will say that if i had to buy something less expensive, I would likely be looking towards Killer Instinct, as they also have a pretty good reputation and have some real viable options for the "Working man's" wallet. I thought enough of KI to buy my 72 year old father one to replace his defective Barnett predator that Barnett refused to stand behind after the riser cracked under the rail with less than 500 shots through it. Needless to say, I wouldn't TOUCH a Barnett if someone gave it to me for free, but these are solely MY OPINIONS, based on my personal findings and dealings. I wish you all the best in your choice. No matter what you choose, enjoy it and be safe!