The Jaguar 1 by EK Archery — the JAG1 to regulars — comes up regularly in advice given to beginners. The reason comes down to one word: modularity. A single crossbow accompanies a shooter from their first attempts up to 175 lbs, simply by changing the bow. Anthony and Nolwenn handle it in the video above; what follows covers the main points.

A recurve mechanism, meaning few parts to keep an eye on

The JAG1 is a recurve crossbow: no pulleys, meaning a simple and reliable mechanism. Cocking requires no particular effort thanks to the cocking rope supplied with the weapon.

Maintenance follows the same logic: waxing the string and rail every 5 to 10 shots is enough to keep everything in good condition. Nothing else to plan for.

Four power levels for a single crossbow

This is the model's real selling point. The Jaguar 1 is available in 40, 95, 150 and 175 lbs, and switching from one power level to another is done by replacing the bow. In practice:

• 40 and 95 lbs: for a young shooter or a first-time user, without straining;
• 150 lbs: the versatile model, the one tested in the video;
• 175 lbs: up to 220 FPS, with shots possible up to 40 meters.

A family can therefore share the same crossbow by adjusting the power for each user, and a beginner can move up the range without buying a completely new weapon.

Standard or Deluxe: what changes

Two versions share the catalog. The standard version comes with an open sight. The Deluxe version adds a red dot, a quiver, and a carrying sling, in black or camouflage.

On the price side, the 175 lb black model stays under €140, which explains the power-to-price ratio frequently cited for this model.

Which bolts to use?

The Jaguar 1 is shot with 16-inch aluminum bolts, a common format, easy to find and affordable. Carbon bolts also work: lighter and more durable, they take over when the shooting pace increases.

Cocking and shooting, step by step

The video details the use of the manual cocking rope, supplied with the crossbow:

1. insert the hooks of the cocking rope into the arms of the string;
2. on this model, the string stopper is a little thick: slide the hooks into the arms then slide them into the correct position;
3. place your foot in the stirrup, grip the throat at the rear, then pull until you hear a click;
4. remove the hooks by sliding them toward the thinner part of the arm;
5. place the bolt with the red vane facing the inside of the rail, nock properly in place;
6. in the shooting position, disengage the safety and align the sights.

At 150 lbs, cocking by hand remains accessible: Nolwenn, 1.65 m tall, manages it without difficulty in the video. The cocking rope is therefore not mandatory at this power level.

The limitation to know

One point is worth raising before purchasing: the Jaguar 1 is not designed for crank cocking. Shooters looking for that comfort — or higher power — will turn to its bigger sibling, the Jaguar 2.

What the law says in France

• crossbow hunting is prohibited on French territory;
• sales are restricted to adults;
• for transport, the crossbow must be dismantled or fitted with a trigger guard lock.

Who is the Jaguar 1 for?

For the recreational shooter aiming between 30 and 40 meters, for the beginner who wants to improve without changing weapons, and for anyone who prefers maintenance reduced to two gestures. For crank cocking or higher power, the choice falls elsewhere in the range.