I've been shooting since 1978. Owned many different bows from many different companies. Honestly after buying a 35 inch axle to axle bow some years ago I swore off short bows for target archery. Although the Ascension XR is 35 axle to axle it's still shorter than most target bows, but I can shoot it better than the 37 inch axle to axle Bowtech I was shooting. Holds dead steady and the grip is awesome! Very quiet. And plenty fast to break the IBO or ASA speed limit if you're not careful. Oh, and the main thing that sold me on this bow is the wide draw weight adjustment. I can shoot 55 pound for 3D and drop it down to 40 pounds for indoor. I love this bow!