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Scientific Crossbow Test
By Jon Teater
D
arton is celebrating its 65th year in the archery
Crossbow
industry, an amazing achievement
even more notable because this is a family-owned
business.
Report: Several
years back, I had a lengthy discussion with the design pioDarton
Rebel
neer and president of Darton, Rex Darlington.
I remember
how passionate Darlington was about Darton’s
latest cross135 SS
bow. He will not sway from his design goals to save money if
By that
JonheTeater
quality may be compromised. All the parts
procures
go through vigorous testing. He expectsDarton
his vendors
to its
meet
is celebrating
65th
year
in
the
archery
industry.
quality standards that he himself sets and oversees in the
With many businesses coming
buying process. If parts do not meet and
specifi
they
going cations,
Darton has remained.
are not accepted into the plant. Darlington’s
philosophies
Through many
decades and
economic changes in the United
remain a staple of Darton’s success.
States,line
it is is the Rebel
The latest offering in Darton’s crossbow
scare to see
Darton Rebel 135 SS
135 SS (referred to as the “Rebel” in the
remainder
of
this
family
business
Contact Info
Darton Archery
www.dartonarchery.com
expect. Darton maintained the distance the
article). Most Internet discussions describe
this product as you may
remain intact.
MSRP:
$949.99
Finish:
bon Black
For Darton,
the Darton
string
travels
from the static position
to Car
full
draw
as comas a game changer and an improvement
over past
Str ing Mater ial:
BCY 450
Next
G1
Vista Camo
traditions of the
Riser :
Aluminum
Muddy Gir l the design
pared
to
some
of
the
prior
models
by
reframing
models. The marketing material focuses
on
the
Rebel’s
past remain
Cams:
H igh Ener gy D uel Cam System
reducing the rearward portion of the stock and barrel.
lightweight, compact design. Such features
are what
ever-present
in Darton
Per for manceand
at a Glance:
Arrow
Speed
K.E.
the cheek
pad/rest
isMomentum
integrated
into the rear of
leadership considers to be essential. Tedtoday’s
Harpham, national Additionally,
425 Grains
344.5
112.0
20.9
business. This
the
trigger
housing,
which
diff
traditional
designs.
sales manager at Darton, believes that if
the
company
does
475
Grains
329.8
114.7ers from
22.3
is likely why the
Grains
317.4
117.5
23.8
not listen to its customer base, it simply
will not remain The pad is525
rubberized,
supporting
comfortable
contact.
company
remains inwas
such designed
relevant. Harpham ensured that this product
Other components, such as the fiberglass string supgood standing, and is well respected in the industry.
with consumer input.
pressors, lengthened scope rail, Sims Limbsaver technology,
Several years back I had a lengthytrackless
discussion with
with design
pioneer
and president
of Darton,
Rex
barrel
design,
patented
barrel
dampener,
lightI cannot remember all the details of what we discussed, however, I do remember how passionate
weight
trigger
design,
limb
alignment
system
and
anti-dryIntroduction Darlington.
Rex was about their latest crossbow. Rex stresses solid design concepts. He will not sway from his design
fire safety,
islow
onquality.
the list
ofthat
advertised
that make the
Darton, a Michigan based bow designer
and
manufactechniques
to save
money, potentially
resulting in
Parts
he procures features
go through vigorous
testing.
He expects
meet quality
standards that
he himself
sets and other
overseescomponents
in the buying
intriguing.
Further,
several
were
turer, is gearing up this year to sell a large
amount
of his
itsvendors
lat- toRebel
process. If parts do not meet specification, they are not accepted into the plant. Rex’s philosophies remain a
est flagship crossbow offering: the Rebel
135 SS. The Rebel noted during my test that were not mentioned in the marketstaple of Darton’s success.
is offered in a package or as a bare crossbow. Darton offers ing material. These include the soft touch stock, integrated
The Th
latest
offering underdifDarton’srope
crossbow
line is the
Rebel 135
SS (also forearm
referred to as
the Rebel
in the
cocking
groove,
model
flange,
ergonomic
ribs
two packages: the Hunter and Pro Hunter.
e packages
remainder of this article). Most of the internet discussions explain this product as being a game changer and
and
adjustable
butt
plate.
fer based on the cocking mechanism. Each
package
can
be
improvement over past Darton models. The marketing material focuses on focuses on the Rebel’s lightweight,
compact
design.
Such features are what
considers to be essential
design.
InDarton
my leadership
initial conversations
within this
thelatest
folks
at Ted
Darton,
enhanced with several other accessories,
giving
consumers
Harpham, National Sales Manager
at Darton,
believes that
if they
do notsells.
listen to
its customer base,
they safety as
they
mentioned
that
safety
Statements
about
a feeling of customization.
simply will not remain relevant, and he ensures that this product was designed with the consumer input in
a principal selling point do make me feel more at ease. In
Darton has taken some prior design
mind. concepts and
improved them to create a superior crossbow. Darton did addition, Darton has a fine track record of producing reliTesting Background
not create this crossbow with just looks in mind. The com- able products. Darton fans in my community do not have
The Rebel went
throughTh
a standard
and regimented
performance
test.
focus of attributed
these types of to
tests
is toquality
failures
often. Th
isThe
is likely
the
pany wanted a product that felt and performed
better.
e product
determine, for a specified product, the performance characteristics. Additionally, the goal is to provide those
standards
at theinformation,
Darton asplant.
forsubjective
one like to
Rebel beats its predecessors in severalarchers
areas.thatFirst,
enjoy Darton
shooting and/or
hunting withemployed
appropriate objective
well as Isome
see more
than
hearthishow
products
and last and
was able to shave off an estimated 1 pound
as for
compared
commentary,
aiding in the purchase
process.
Withjust
that said,
evaluation
is by noperform
means conclusive.
to last year’s models. Cutting over 10 percent of a product’s Darton assured me that the Rebel is one of its finest.
mass is not an easy task.
Darton took from the stock,
barrel and trigger housing
to produce the lightweight
Rebel. Next, the stock length
was reduced by several
inches. As mentioned, this
change supported a reduction in weight and also created a more compact, userfriendly design. The shortened stock did not give way
to a reduced power stroke,
102
Apr15AT102-106T-R-V.indd 102
3/5/15 10:56 AM
The crossbow dimensions/weights measured out of the box:
that controlled any movement
that might have been experienced
Model
Axle-toAxle-to-Axle Power
Over all
Mass
Mass
as draw-force curves were taken.
Length
W eight
W eight
(full dr aw) Str oke
Axle
The stored energy obtained from
(inches)
(inches)
(inches) (inches) (including (without
the draw-force curve was used
scope)*
scope)*
in conjunction with speed meaDarton Rebel 135 SS
17.25
13.625
13.50
32.00
8.75 lbs
8.06 lbs
surements to calculate dynamic
efficiency.
Speed per Inch of Power Stroke: Speed measurements
The crossbow dimensions/weights measured out of the
The Rebel went through a thorough inspection at the time of receipt. The review focused on string/cables,
were taken with three projectiles. A Pact Chronograph XP
box appear above.
eccentrics, limb and limb pockets, rail, stock, butt plate, trigger housing, trigger and trigger guard. After an inCompetition
Electronics
Th
e
Rebel
went
through
a
thorough
inspection
at
the
depth review of the Rebel, I noticed several small imperfections. I noted aand
few anicks
on the cams,
nicks on thePro-Chrono IR were set in
tandem
to
record
results.
The average speed measurement
time
of
receipt.
Th
e
review
focused
on
the
string/cables,
stirrup and some small scratches on the limbs. Overall, I would rate the Rebel average in the craftsmanship
was
divided
by
the
power
stroke
to determine the speed per
eccentrics,
limb
and
limb
pockets,
rail,
stock,
butt
plate,
category.
trigger housing, trigger and trigger guard. After an in-depth inch of power stroke.
I wasreview
able to of
firethe
theRebel,
Rebel approximately
100 small
times at
my range off my
Stable
Table and
Shooting
Noise
Output:
Sound
measurements were recorded
I noticed several
imperfections.
I Caldwell®
Bags.noted
The product
functioned
during
this segment
of testing.
notable
issues
or concerns
the
three
projectiles.
Thwith
e measurements
were averaged
a few nicks
on theproperly
cams, some
nicks
on the stirrup
and Nowith
product
were
documented.
noted
minor
wearIon
the string
serving,
which
normal
of most
and
the issound
meter
wasproducts.
set to take measurements with the
some
small
scratchesI on
thesome
limbs.
Overall,
would
rate the
Please
ensure
proper
(rail) lubricantcategory.
is used in order to preserve
the string. fiDarton
sells a mimics
product the human ear).
A-weighted
lter (which
Rebel
as that
average
in barrel
the craftsmanship
called RailI Slick
designed
your approximately
Darton crossbow;
please
note
mentioned
product
not Force measurements were
Force:
The was
Trigger
was that
ableisto
fire thefor
Rebel
100
times
at that theTrigger
used my
during
this off
test.my
After
completing
thisTable
portion
of the
test, I continued
to the objective
testing.
in pounds
and averaged. An Imada Digital Force
range
Caldwell
Stable
and
Shooting
Bags. recorded
The product functioned properly during this segment of Gauge was used to determine the peak Trigger Force.
The crossbow is next evaluated on the five criteria outlined below:
Precision Measurements: This provides an indication
testing. No notable issues or concerns with the product were
documented. I noted some minor wear on the string serv- of how close groups are shot together when shooting by
Test Category
Assessment
ing, which is normal on mostProvides
products.
Please ensure that hand from a bench rest or other supportive device. Group
an indication of the amount of energy output by a crossbow relative to the
size
wasAncalculated
using
extreme spread.
proper Dbarrel
lubricantenergy
is used
in order
preserve
ynamic(rail)
Efficiency
expended
throughto
drawing
the crossbow
back.
assessment is made
with
multiplecalled
projectile“Rail
weights.
the string. Darton sells a product
Slick” that is
Provides an indication of the amount of speed output by the crossbow over the
designed
this product was not used
Testing
Sp eedfor
p er Darton
inch o f Pocrossbows;
wer distance from the full-draw position to the static brace height position. An
Str
o
ke
during this test. After completing
thisis made
portion
of theprojectile
test, I weights. The lab results of the Darton Rebel 135 SS demonstrated
assessment
with multiple
continued to the objective testing.
above average
performance.
The crossbow yielded almost
Provides an indication of the noise output characteristics
of a crossbow
at the "point
No ise Outp ut
The crossbow
was next blank"
evaluated
on the
five
criteria
spotprojectile
on speeds
range utilizing
a series
of shots
with multiple
weights.with the numbers advertised. Further, a 400
outlined below with bold headings:
grain arrow user should expect speeds over 350 feet per secan indication of the amount of force required to discharge a given
Tr igger
Fociency:
r ce
Dynamic
Effi
TheProvides
dynamic
effi
ciency
portion
of
ond (fps). The peak force measurements revealed numbers
crossbow.
the test utilized a Revere Load Cell controlled by a winch higher than the advertised measurements. However, those
Provides an indication of how close groups aremeasurements
shot together by shooting
a completely out of line with what I
device; thePrLoad
werefrom
not
ecisio nCell
Testconnected to the crossbow with a cockbench rest or other supportive device.
ing aid. The crossbow was mounted
in a shooting platform have measured from other companies; results over or under
3 to 4 percent of the peak weight may not be considered
Force-Draw Curve
Detailed Test Results
out of conformance for some. An important measurement
200.0
that cannot be overlooked in this report is speed per inch
Dynamic Efficiency:
175.0
of power stroke. The Rebel exhibits an average of just under
150.0
The dynamic
efficiency portion of the test utilizes a Revere Load-Cell controlled by
winch
thepower
load-cell
25afps
perdevice;
inch of
stroke, which is impressive. A prior
connects to125.0
the crossbow with a cocking aid. The crossbow is mounted in a shooting
platform
that controls
any
Darton
product
tested several
years ago reached just over 22
movement that might be experiencedSTORED
as Force-Draw
curves are taken. The stored
energy
obtained
from the
ENERGY
fps
per
inch
of
power
stroke.
When
considering power, one
157.4speed
lb-ft measurements to calculate dynamic efficiency.
Force-Draw100.0
curve, is used in conjunction with
must
also
evaluate
effi
ciency.
Dynamic
efficiency tends to
ent
75.0
be
what
many
engineers
concentrate
on.
The results were
Peak Force = 188.8 lbs
50.0
ent
around what I would expect from this eccentric design and
25.0
limb combination. The unique draw-force curve displays
ent
0.0
upfront loading of weight, a plateau and a steady decline.
0
3
5
8
10
13
What is interesting about this draw-force curve is that the
Distance (inches)
Rebel holds 50 pounds at full draw. This is unique in that the
Force-Draw Curve
crossbow reaches a high load
and steadily declines toward
200.0
Performance Information
the last portion of the drawing sequence; very few crossbows
175.0
hold this little amount of weight at full draw.
Peak Fo r ce
188.8
lbs
150.0
The sound measurements were higher than I hoped but
Sto r ed Ener gy
157.4
lb-ft
not out of125.0
line. Other products
I have tested over the years
STORED ENERGY
157.4numbers,
lb-ft
happened100.0
to measure close to these
so an average
D ynamicW
Efficiency
425
gr ains
71.2o f PS
p er cent
75.0
eight
Sp
eed
Per Inch
p er Inch o f Po wer
score is respectable.
Darton tried
to
reduce
noise/vibration
Peak Force = 188.8 lbs
50.0
gr ains
Str o ke (PS)
with limb alignment
features, a barrel dampener, string and
D ynamic425
Efficiency
475 gr ains25.5 72.9
p er cent
25.0
limb dampeners
and a soft touch stock. With the amount of
475 gr ains
24.4
D ynamic Efficiency
525 gr ains
74.7
p er cent
0.0
stored
energy,
high-energy
output
and8 reduction
in product
525 gr ains
23.5
0
3
5
10
13
Distance (inches)
Aver age
24.5
103
Po wer Str o ke
Force (lbs)
Force (lbs)
Dimensions
13.5
inches
Speed/ Performance Measurements:
werstroke.
Apr15AT102-106T-R-V.indd 103
3/4/15 7:42 PM
5 gr ains
W eight
71.2 Peak
cent
(gr ains)
shotp
Foer
r ce
5 gr ains
72.9Sto r edp Ener
er1cent
gy 425
Chr ono 1
2
74.7D ynamic
p erEfficiency
cent
5 gr ains
344.3
344.7
Chr ono
75.0
Force-Draw Curve
W eight
157.4 lb-ft
175.0
(gr ains) Chr ono 1 Chr ono 2
2188.8
shot lbs
Ar r ow
W eight
(gr ains)
343 157.4
25.0
343
0
3
344.5
475 gr ains
343
4
344.5
343
5
344.3
343
lb-ft 1
330.1
p er cent
3
74.7
329.7
2
71.2
72.9
475
5
8
3
330.0
Distance (inches)
4
33-.2
p er cent
p er cent
5
shot
Chr ono 1
Chr ono 2
150.0
Peak Force = 188.8 lbs
50.0
525 gr ains
inches
200.0
100.0
425 gr ains
0.0
24.4
23.5
24.5
13.5
125.0
D ynamic Efficiency
D ynamic Efficiency
urements:
475 gr ains
525 gr ains
Aver age
Ar r ow
Ar r ow Information
STORED
ENERGY
Performance
Information Speed
lb-ft
Force (lbs)
157.4
Force (lbs)
e
Speed measurements were taken with
three projectiles. A Pact Chronograph XP
and a Competition Electronics Pro-Chrono
Force-Draw Curve
IR are set in tandem to record 200.0
results. The
Po wer Str o ke
Information
average speed measurement is175.0
divided by
188.8the powerstroke
lbs
to determine150.0
the speed per inch of powerstroke.
329.4
125.0
328
100.0
10
329
50.0
25.0
13
328
317.6
316
317.4
316
3
317.5
316
4
317.4
Peak Force = 188.8 lbs
329
0
525
STORED ENERGY
2157.4 lb-ft
329
75.0
0.0
1
3
5
5
8
Distance (inches)
avg (fps)
10317.3
316
13
316
mentioned threshold. The
Rebel’s design features
supported these positive
results. Those features will
be discussed further in the
article.
In The Field
The snow is at an alltime high in my area and
Speed/ Performance Measurements:
hunting season is over. This leaves me little to do but take a
Sp eed Per Inch o f PS
Sp eed p er Inch o f Po wer W eight
scenic walk with Darton’s latest offering. I had done an aderoke:
Sound
Measurements
425 gr ains
25.5
Str o ke (PS)
quate
amount of shooting with the Rebel and felt it would
Sp eed Per Inch o f PS
Sp eed p er Inch o
f Po wer W eight
Speed per
inch of Powerstroke: 475 gr ains
W eight
aken with
24.4
fare
well
in25.5
the field. I sat on a ridge overlooking a swamp.
o
ke
(PS)
425
gr
ains
Str
(gr ains)
425
475
525 gr ains 525
23.5
onograph XP Speed measurements
were taken
with
475 gr ains
24.4
I
positioned
one target 35 yards downrange. As I circled it,
Par ameter
Peak A
-WAver
eighted
No
ise
24.5
s Pro-Chrono three projectiles. A Pact Chronograph XP age
525 gr ains
23.5
1
96.6
95.8
94.4
I
focused
my
scope toward my target, which was located
d results. The and a Competition
Aver age
24.5
Po werElectronics
Str96.6
o ke Pro-Chrono
inches
2
95.2 13.5
94.3
next
to
a
set
of
hemlocks. I fired roughly 30 arrows while in
is divided by IR are set in 3tandem to record
The
Po wer Str oNoise
ke
inches
Output:13.5
96.5 results. 95.1
94.4
by
the field. Fortunately, none missed and the practice setting
e the speed peraverage
inch ofspeed
powerstroke.
4 measurement
96.4 is divided95.2
94.2
Sound measurements
were recorded
threeimage of what I experienced during the
the
powerstroke
to determine
speed
inch of powerstroke.
5it can
96.3
95.0
94.2 overcome
weight,
be
diffithe
cult
to per
combat
and
noise/ proved
to be awith
mirror
projectiles.
The
measurements
were
averaged
6
96.2
95.1
94.2
Speed
Ar r ow Information
Ar r ow
vibration.
precision
shooting.
Speed
Information
and the sound meter
wasArset
Ar94.2
r ow
r owto take
7r ow
96.3
95.2
WAreight
W
eight
We
W
W
eight
eight
eight
Th
trigger
is
an
important
aspect
of
a
crossbow.
Th
e
Several
key
of the Rebel were apparent during
measurements
with
the
A-weighted
filterfeatures
(which
96.4
94.1
(gr8
(gr ains)
Chr ono 2
shot
ains) Chr ono
1 Chr ono 295.2 shot
Chr ono 1
Chr ono 2
(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
mimics
human ear).
96.0 did not
95.2
94.2feature.
Darton 9design team
overlook this
Thethe
Rebel
the field test. The crossbow seems rather compact. A cross343
11 10
475
328
96.3
94.2
344.3
343 95.2
475525 329.7 317.6 328
1
525
317.6
316
reaches
a425peak329.7
weight
of
just over 31 1pounds.
A lightweight316 bow
can
sometimes
become
an awkward object in the field.
343
22
330.1
329
316
344.7
343
2 2
330.1 317.4 329
2
317.4
316
trigger
tends
to
get
a
great
deal
of
interest
from
archers
and
Crossbow
designs
do
not
always
lend themselves to be form
Aver age
96.4
95.2
94.2
344.5
343 erent. Users
3 3
330.0
3
317.5
316
when
carried,
meaning
they
are usually not designed
I suspect
this
will
be
no
diff
should
consider
343
33
330.0
329
317.5 329 the316 fitting
To tal Avg
95.3
4
344.5
343
4
33-.2 The 329
4
317.4
316 transported to and from the field.
well
enough
to
be
easily
trigger
profi
le,
meaning
the
draw-force
curve.
trigger
Max
(dBA)
343
4
33-.2
329
4
317.4
316
5 a short distance
344.3
343
5
329.4
328
317.3
316 It has a compact design that makes
Th5e Rebel is form
fitting.
stacks
and
the break
point is
very
distinct
343
5
329.4
328
5
317.3
316
avg (fps)
344.5
343
avg (fps)
329.8
329
avg (fps)
317.4
316
A crisp329
releaseavg
is (fps)
a notable feature;
343
avgand
(fps) rather crisp.
329.8
317.4Darton316 it easy to hold. For example, the distance from the pistol grip
to the butt of the stock fits precisely in the crook of my foremust have worked intensely to create this trigger trait.
The pre- arm. Such a feature allows an archer to effortlessly carry the
cision results crossbow single-handedly. The pistol grip is designed to proSound Measurements
indicate that vide further control. Its position at the center of the crossbow
easurements
W eight
(gr ains)
425
475
525
the
Rebel looks more forward than on most designs yet seems optimal.
Par ameter
Peak A -W eighted No ise
shoots
well.
In The pistol style grip creates an ideal situation for the hand/
475
525
1
96.6
95.8
94.4
finger and trigger relationship. As you move forward from
one
group,
the
k A -W eighted No ise 2
96.6
95.2
94.3
Noise Output:
3
96.5
95.1
94.4
95.8
94.4
extreme
spread the grip, you will notice the trigger guard. The trigger guard
4
96.4
95.2
94.2
95.2
94.3
just
exceeded were
mounts
the forearm. The balance point of the
Sound measurements
recordedjust
withbehind
three
5
96.3
95.0
94.2
Noise Output:
95.1
94.4
1
inch.
I
typicrossbow
exists
approximately
between these components
projectiles.
The
measurements
were
averaged
6
96.2
95.1
94.2
95.2
94.2
and the sound
meter waswhen
set to take
7
96.3
95.2
94.2
cally
expect
the
crossbow
is
bare
(without
a scope). As you grip the
Sound measurements were recorded with three
95.0
94.2
measurements with the A-weighted filter (which
8
96.4
95.2
94.1
results
just
at
or
forearm,
the
ribbed
and
fl
anged
design
provides protection
projectiles.
The
measurements
were
averaged
95.1
94.2
mimics the human ear).
9
96.0
95.2
94.2
and the sound
set to takeunder
inches.
and fiaspect
rm contact
points.
These
features
95.2
94.2
The2trigger
is an important
of a crossbow.
The Darton
design
team does provide
not overlooklittle
this to no
10
96.3
95.2meter was 94.2
The Rebel reaches
a peak weight
just over 3 lbs.
A lightweight
triggerfor
tends
to get many
measurements with the A-weightedThe
filterfeature.
(which
95.2
94.1
overall
opportunity
forofslipping,
which
is a must
aiming.
looks from archers, and I suspect this will be no different. Users must should consider the trigger
Aver
age
96.4
95.2
mimics the human
ear). 94.2
95.2
94.2
average
for the forceOther
noteworthy
features
seem
to
profile, meaning
curve. The
trigger stacks a short
distance,might
and the break
pointautomatic
is very
95.2
To94.2
tal Avg
the Rebel
was
most
butrelease
wereis abenefi
cial inDarton
theand
field.
Themust
auto-engaging
distinct and
rather crisp.
A crisp
notable feature,
the design
have worked
95.3
Max (dBA)
create this
trigger trait.
well intensely
undertothe
safety,
anti-dryfire components, telescopic sight (reticles
95.2
94.2
The precision results indicate that the Rebel shoots
well. In below),
one group, the
extreme spread
just groove
shown
integrated
string
exceeded 1 inch. I typically expect result just at or
under
2 inches. Thespring
overall average
for the Rebel isand
95.3
and
retention
are essentials
avg (fps)
344.5
343
avg (fps)
329.8
329
317.4
316
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well under the mentioned threshold. The Rebel’s design features supported these positive results.
Those features will be discussed further in the
article.
In The Field:
The snow is at an all-time high in my area and
hunting season is over. Which leaves me little
to do but take a scenic walk with Darton’s latest
offering. I had done an adequate amount of
shooting with the Rebel, and felt the Rebel
would fare well in the field. I sat on a ridge
C.W.
Erickson’s Mfg., LLC
overlooking
a swamp.
P.O. Box
522 I positioned one target
35 yards
down
range.
As I circled the target, I
Buffalo,
MN
55313
focused
though my scope toward my target
Ph: 763-682-3665
located
to a set of hemlocks. I fired roughly
Fax:next
763-682-4328
www.archerhunter.com
30
arrows while in the field. Fortunately, none
missed, and the practice setting proved to be a
mirror image of what I experienced during the precision shooting.
Several key features of the Rebel presented itself during the field test. The crossbow seems rather
compact. A crossbow can sometimes become an awkward object in the field. Crossbow designs do
not always lend themselves to be form fitting while carrying, meaning designed well enough to be
easily transported to and from the field. The Rebel is form fitting. It promotes a compact design that
permits ergonomic holding features. For example, the distance between the pistol grip to the butt of 3/3/15 12:36 AM
Shooting By H and
Executioner Black Eagle
Testing:
425.8
40
1.068
1.450
1.259
13
3.09
14
3.11
15age
Aver
Tr igger Pull
3.21
3.19
The lab results of the Darton Rebel 135 SS demonstrate
above
average performance. The product
Projectile
Precision
Trigger Analysis
produces almost spot on speeds with the numbers advertised.
Further,
a 400-grain
arrow user should
Ar r ow
D istance
Spr ead 1 Spr ead 2 Aver age
Trigger Pull (lbs)
expect speeds over over 450 Feet Per Model/
Second
measurements
reveal
numbers
W eightforce (yar
(inches)
(inches)
(inches)
Br(FPS).
and
ds)
Trigger
Force: The peak
1
3.08
2
3.36
higher than theShooting
advertised
measurements
are 1.543
not completely
by H measurements.
and
Executioner However,
Black Eagle those
427.1
40
1.679 out-of1.611
The Trigger Force measurements were recorded in pounds and averaged. An
3
3.44
line with what I have measured from other
companies,
results
plus
or
minus
3-4
percent
of
the
peak
ImadaBlack
Digital
Force Gauge
is used to determine
the
peak Trigger
Force. 1.259
Shooting By H and
Executioner
Eagle
425.8
40
1.068
1.450
4
3.17
weight may not be considered out of conformance for some. An important measurement that can not
5
3.17
6
3.24
be overlooked in the report is speed per inch of powerstroke. The
worked without any malfunctions. The newest feature is the
7
3.21
Testing:
Rebel exhibits
an
average
of
just
under
25
FPS
per
inch
of
cheek rest. The location of this feature was not ideal for my
8
3.22
powerstroke,shooting
which isstyle.
impressive.
A prior IDarton
product
tested
Nevertheless,
was
able
toSS
adapt
and did above
so
The lab results
of the Darton
Rebel
135
demonstrate
average performance. The product 9
3.31
Precision
Measurements:
several yearsby
ago
reached
just
overforward
22 FPS per
of
moving
thealmost
scope
on inch
the
weaver
style
produces
spot on speeds
withlengthy
the numbers
advertised.
Further, a 400-grain arrow user should
10
3.14
powerstroke.rail.
While
considering
power,
one must
also
evaluate
Provides
indication
of how Th
close
groups are shot together when shooting by
Another
adjustable
feature
is an
the
butt
plate.
eThe
user
expect
speeds
over over
450 Feet
Per
Second
(FPS).
peak force measurements reveal numbers 11
3.21
from amany
bench
or otherfeel
supportive
device. Extreme spread is the method
efficiencies. can
Dynamic
tendsplate
tohand
beextenders
what
engineer
add
orefficiency
remove
forrest
optimal
and measurements
higher
than thestock
advertised
measurements.
However,
those
are
not
completely
out-of12
3.05
used to calculate
group size.
designers concentrate.
The
results
aremeasured
around
what
would
expect results plus or minus 3-4 percent of the peak 13
comfort.
3.09
line with
what
I have
from Iother
companies,
for this eccentricTh
design
and
limbbe
The
unique
forcee lastmay
feature
iscombination.
an essential
yet
that
14
3.11
weight
not
considered
out
ofsomething
conformance
formay
some. An important measurement that can not
be overlooked
during
thereport
buying
process.
e stirrup
draw curve displays
much upfront
loading
ofisweight,
a Th
plateau
andon the
15age
3.21
be overlooked
in the
speed
per
inch
of powerstroke.
The
Aver
RebelRebel
seems
larger
to
predecessors
for
a steady decline.
What
is interesting
aboutofdraw
curve
is the
Tr igger Pull
3.19
exhibits
ancompared
average
justitsunder
25
FPS Rebel
perand,
inch of
matter,
havehe
tested.
fieldtested
holds 50 lbs.that
at full
draw. other
This which
isproducts
unique
inI that
powerstroke,
is impressive.
Acrossbow
priorDuring
Darton the
product
test,
I had
bootstoward
and
I was
to
the
bendimensions
of the
reaches a high
load
andlarge
steadily
the
last
ofProjectile
drawing
sequence;
veryRebel
few add to the touch and holding feaPrecision
several
yearswinter
agodeclines
reached
just over
22able
FPSportion
persee
inch
ofthe
efi
ts
of
the
latest
design.
A
size
13
can
be
diffi
cult
to
squeeze
tures.
Th
e
compact
design
D istance
Spr
ead 1 permits
Spr ead 2 better
Aver age maneuverability,
crossbow hold this
little amount
of weight
at fullpower,
draw. one must also evaluateAr r ow
powerstroke.
While
considering
W eight
(yar
(inches)
(inches)
(inches)
Model/
Br andthis
ds)
into aefficiencies.
stirrup yet Dynamic
this design
easily
accommodates
boots
an
essential
factor
in
the
fi
eld.
Top
all
this off with a lighter
efficiency tends to be what many engineer
Shooting
by H and
Executioner
Black
Eagle
427.1
40
1.543
1.679 should
1.611 get something out
large.designers are
design
and
most
if
not
all
archers
The sound measurements
higher
than
I
hoped,
but
not
out
of
line.
Other
products
I
have
tested
concentrate. The results are around what I would expect
of425.8
this
latest 40
offering.
over the years happen
measuredesign
close
to these
numbers,
so an
average
is respectable.
Darton
Shooting
By Hcombination.
and
Executioner
Black
Eagle score
1.068
1.450
1.259
for thistoeccentric
and
limb
The
unique
forceHot
Features
Th
e
barrel
dampener
is another component that is simtries to reduce noise/vibration
with limb
features,
barrel adampener,
string and limb
draw curve displays
muchalignment
upfront loading
of weight,
plateau and
e Rebel
has
several
features
thatthe
stood
out during
the
ple and
effective.output,
Few companies incorporate homegrown
dampeners and aTh
touch
stock.
Although
with
amount
ofcurve
stored
energy,
high-energy
asoft
steady
decline.
What
isTesting:
interesting
about
draw
is
the
Rebel
testing.
Its
feel
is
the
foremost
selling
point
from
my
viewdampening
components
into the barrels, where energy typiand reduction in product
it draw.
can beThis
difficult
to combat
overcome noise/vibration.
holds 50 weight,
lbs. at full
is unique
in thatand
he crossbow
point.
Th
e
fl
ared
forearm
and
rear
stock
are
comfortable
cally
resonates
after
the
shot.
Darton
this feature to
The lab results
of the
Darton
Rebel
SS demonstrate
abovesequence;
average performance.
The product
reaches a high load and steadily
declines
toward
the
last135
portion
of the drawing
very
few designed
and promote
safety
and
control.
Th
e
soft
touch
fi
nish
adds
a
reduce
vibration
and
I
believe
it
does
just
that.
produces
almost
spot
on
speeds
with
the
numbers
advertised.
Further,
a
400-grain
arrow
user
should
crossbow hold this little amount of weight at full draw.
little extra to the stock, making
it feel
great
toover
the 450
touch.
Two other
components
stood outreveal
during
the testing. The
expect
speeds
over
FeetTh
Pere Second (FPS).
The peak
force measurements
numbers
higher
than thethan
advertised
measurements.
thoseproducts
measurements
not completely out-ofThe sound measurements
are higher
I hoped,
but not out ofHowever,
line. Other
I have are
tested
with what
I have
measured
from other
resultsisplus
or minus 3-4
percent of the peak
over the years happen toline
measure
close
to these
numbers,
so ancompanies,
average score
respectable.
Darton
weight may
bealignment
consideredfeatures,
out of conformance
for some.string
An important
tries to reduce noise/vibration
withnot
limb
barrel dampener,
and limbmeasurement that can not
be overlooked in the report is speed per inch of powerstroke. The
dampeners and a soft touch
stock. Although with the amount of stored energy, high-energy output,
Rebel exhibits an average of just under 25 FPS per inch of
and reduction in product weight, it can be difficult to combat and overcome noise/vibration.
powerstroke, which is impressive. A prior Darton product tested
several years ago reached just over 22 FPS per inch of
powerstroke. While considering power, one must also evaluate
efficiencies. Dynamic efficiency tends to be what many engineer
designers concentrate. The results are around what I would expect
for this eccentric design and limb combination. The unique forcedraw curve displays much upfront loading of weight, a plateau and
a steady decline. What is interesting about draw curve is the Rebel
holds 50 lbs. at full draw. This is unique in that he crossbow
reaches a high load and steadily declines toward the last portion of the drawing sequence; very few
crossbow hold this little amount of weight at full draw.
The sound measurements are higher than I hoped, but not out of line. Other products I have tested
over the years happen to measure close to these numbers, so an average score is respectable. Darton
tries to reduce noise/vibration with limb alignment features, barrel dampener, string and limb
dampeners and a soft touch stock. Although with the amount of stored energy, high-energy output,
and reduction in product weight, it can be difficult to combat and overcome noise/vibration.
105
Apr15AT102-106T-R-V.indd 105
3/4/15 7:43 PM
n and I believe it does just that.
technology, trackless barrel design, patented barrel dampener, lightweight trigger design, limb alignment
system, and anti-dry fire safety are the list of advertised features that make the Rebel intriguing. Further,
bel trigger is improved from the prior
several other components were noted during my test that were not mentioned in the marketing material, this
s ideal and the manner thatinclude:
the trigger
the soft touch stock, integrated rope cocking groove, model forearm flange and ergonomic ribs and
the archer. Many purchasing
their first
adjustable
butt plate.
ke this trigger.Rebel’s
The final
“hot”
of the
trigger
is facet
improved
from those of the prior products
my
initial
conversations
the seems
folks at ideal
le when drawing.
Let-off
isInachieved
by
I tested
several
years
ago.
The trigger with
weight
Darton
theyofmentioned
safety
I believe
andweight.
the manner
in which
the triggerthat
stacks
andsells.
eventually
orts less holding
The
results
safety
to
be
the
foremost
consideration
in
most, if
releases
creates
little
to
no
surprise
for
the
archer.
Many
ximately 70 percent. One may not think
not
all,
consumer
products
–
especially
purchasing
their
fi
rst
crossbow,
as
well
as
those
with
years
of
g holds the string. However, the energy
crossbows.
I cannot
provide
many
comments
on
experience,
should
like
this
trigger.
Th
e
fi
nal
“hot”
facet
of
the
in a treestand. And with a reduction in
the Rebels safety. Nonetheless,
boasting
aboutto
Rebel
relates
the archer
let-off
. Th
e Rebel
safety as Scorecard
a principal selling point
does
make
me
ArrowTrade
maller
has let-off that is
feel more at ease knowing this company stands
d be
he noise
ources of
of the
on at the
change for
case, it
perfect
llenge.
Evaluation
Criteria
Score
noticeable
when
by what they are produce. In addition,
Darton
has
Adjustability
drawing.
Let-off
a fine tract record of producing
reliable products.
achieved
Users in my community do notishave
product by
Craftsmanship
the cams;
failures often. Which is likely rotating
attributable
to the the string. However, the energy the archer utilizes to draw
Design Integrity
the
mechania crossbow can be a lot, especially in a treestand. With a
mentioned quality standards employed
at the
Features
cal
advantage
reduction
draw weight
toward
the latter
halfme
of the
plant. I for one like to see, more than just hear, how
productsin
perform
and last
and Darton
assures
thatdrawproduced
suping
sequence,
the
archer
is
less
apt
to
strain
himor
herself.
the Rebel is one of its finest.
Performance
ports less hold- In the field, this means a smaller chance of injury and less
Sound
ing weight. The time required to cock the crossbow.
results of the test
Trigger
demonstrated
Suggestions
Vibration
Note: The ratings are based on the
following color codes:
Blue = exceptional,
Green = above average,
Light Green = average,
Yellow = marginal,
Red = unacceptable
that the Rebel
achieves let-off of
approximately 70
percent. One may
not think this
feature is important because a
latch in the trigger housing holds
I noted one feature that did not make the hot list and
should be evaluated by Darton. I have already spoken indepth about the noise and vibration of the Rebel. It is not
always easy to remedy sources of vibration. I can determine
that some vibration is the result of the trigger components
and scope mount. Trying to stop vibration at the source is
always the goal. Reducing crossbow mass has both positive
and negative aspects. In this case, it may have had a negative
effect on noise and vibration. Finding the perfect balance
can be difficult but I am sure Darton and its chief designer
are up to the challenge.
Conclusion
Darton is receiving a great deal of positive feedback
from the Archery Trade Show and Internet forums. Those
that bleed Darton red continue to follow Darlington and his
team as this company continues into its 65th year. Darton’s
leadership has a lot to say about the Rebel. Harpham
believes the Rebel 135 SS is a top-of-the-line crossbow. In
fact, he thinks it is one of Darton’s best crossbows ever.
The ratings in the ArrowTrade scorecard are reflective
of my opinion of the performance and features of the Rebel
Overview:
135 SS. Many of the categories evaluated received an “averDarton is receiving a great deal of positive feedback from the Archery
Show and internet
forumsrating, as well as one “exceptional”
age”Trade
or “above
average”
that I prescribe. Those that bleed Darton red continue to follow Rex and his team as this company
score,
proving
this crossbow to be a respectable product.
the Rebel.
Ted Harpham
continues into its 65th year. Darton’s leadership has a lot to say about
believes the Rebel 135 SS is a top-of-the-line crossbow. In fact, he
thinks it isthe
one selling
of the Darton’s
best. consider highlighting the trigger,
During
process
Being the best is in the eyes of those that use and test this latest product. The users of Darton
compact
features when you discuss this
crossbows continue to voice their opinions, and the Rebel is a product
of thosedesign
messages. and
Those safety
that
buy in, are recruited in or just remain over the lineage of Dartoncrossbow
will likely reactwith
positiveatocustomer.
a company
that is attentive and considerate of what consumers want and need in a product. And I suspect that
A special thanks to Caldwell Shooting Supplies for proDarton believes that listening to its consumers will continue to create innovation, change and ideas
that the design team can use for years.
viding high definition targets and a sturdy shooting table
thaton was
unyielding
during testing. Caldwell is a proven
The ratings in the ArrowTrade scorecard are reflective of my opinion
the performance
and features
of Rebel 135 SS. Many of the categories evaluated received an average
or above
rating, as industry, producing top-of-the-line
supplier
to average
the outdoor
well as one exceptional score, proving this crossbow to be a respectable product. When trying to make
shooting
supplies.
a sale with this crossbow consider the trigger, compact design and
safety features.
r
f
.
d
n
o
l
b
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inp
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onths
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mawas
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s
n
> CHARC Magazine (Tduring
io
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106
pub_charc_tam90x125.indd 1
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3/4/15 7:46 PM