by: Keith Riehn for Bass Pro Shops -
Think about what you are trying to achieve with your bow and arrows and make you arrow choice accordingly. In choosing the right arrow for your set up, there are a few things you need to focus on. For successful big game harvest, choosing the right arrow for your set up is essential. This is an area overlooked by many beginners. Too often a hunter just getting started will buy used arrows where they can find them at a bargain or accept some hand-me-downs from a buddy. This is fine for establishing good form and getting used to shooting a new bow, but shooting an arrow that does not fit you or your bow can cost you dearly in the field. In choosing the right arrow for your set up, there are a few things you need to focus on — the weight of the arrow and speed you are trying to achieve.
Many hunters put emphasis on a heavy arrow, which tends to absorb vibration and aid in smoother and quieter shots. Heavier arrows are also a bit more bow and accessory friendly since the shock of each shot is reduced. Continuous vibration leads to loose accessories and bow wear. Hunters who prefer a lighter arrow like the flat trajectory they achieve from faster arrow velocity. The obvious benefit of faster arrows is the forgiveness you get in judging distance in field. With this in mind there are some definite guidelines to follow in choosing the right arrow for you. Most hunters use a set of guidelines set up by the Archery Manufacturer’s Organization (AMO). The minimum standard arrow weight is approximately 6 grains for each pound of your bow’s draw weight. For instance; if you are comfortable at a draw weight of 65 pounds, you would want an arrow at least 390 grains. (65lbs. X 6gr. = 390gr.) Archers who are trying to achieve faster arrows for competition in 3D or target shooting will often drop to 5 grains per pound of draw weight, but this is not recommended for hunting.
Let’s break down your choices into 3 categories:
Heavier arrows weighing between 8-10 grains per pound of draw weight will maximize penetration and produce smoother recoil. Hunters who rely on close encounters and do not anticipate the need for shots over 20 yards will like the results they achieve with these hard-hitting arrows. Shooting a heavy arrow requires a bit more skill in judging distance due to the lack of velocity, but the extra effort can prove deadly when the shot connects, especially on larger game such as elk or moose. Aluminum arrows have been serving the purpose for hunters for many years and have held up through the test of time.
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| Aluminum arrows have been serving the purpose for hunters for many years and have held up through the test of time. |
Medium-weight arrows between 6-8 grains per pound of draw weight are the most practical solution to finding a good fit for most hunters. Shooters will find that they are able to get the best solution for most situations with a mid-weight arrow. Usually, a hunter will be able to maintain a quiet bow, generate good arrow speed, and produce enough energy to make effective shots on big game no larger than whitetail deer. This would be a good choice for a beginning archer until they have a chance to establish a feel for their own needs.
Light-weight arrows include those under 6 grains per pound of draw weight. Hunters who are looking to get the flattest trajectory possible may choose to push the limits of a 5-grain minimum. Some situations may call for longer shots, such as in open country or hunts over food plots. A great deal of practice will give some hunters the confidence to make these longer shots. Fast arrows will aid these hunters in making the shot.
Once the desired weight has been determined it is time to consider the best arrow shaft stiffness for your given set up. If you choose to use a mechanical release, you have more flexibility in choosing the proper stiffness. As the arrow leaves the bow using a mechanical release most of the flex that will occur will be up and down so there is little, if any problems, with arrow clearance. Finger shooters need to pay closer attention to the flex of the arrow because there will be some side-to-side motion of the arrow as it leaves the string. This is caused by the string having to move around the fingertips as the string is released. Most arrow manufacturers have an easy-to-use chart that will aid you in finding the correct arrow stiffness. To use these charts you will need to know your length of arrow, the desired weight of point, and your desired draw weight. It is important to stay consistent from field point to broadheads to maintain a balanced arrow and a well-tuned bow.
Hunters will find a wide variety of shafts available from many reputable manufacturers. As stated earlier, they each have their own chart to point you in the right direction. Some hunters like to shoot a little heavier arrow than the one recommended and others will step down a size in weight. You will have to decide what is best for you.
Arrows are available in several different materials. The two most common are aluminum and carbon. Arguments can be made for choosing one over the other but it basically, like most things in archery, will come down to personal preference. Purchase 4-5 inch fletchings to start and then make adjustments as your preferences change.
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| Aluminum arrows have been serving the purpose for hunters for many years and have held up through the test of time. |
Aluminum arrows have been serving the purpose for hunters for many years and have held up through the test of time. A few of the biggest assets for aluminum shafts are reliable arrow flight, reasonable prices, and great penetration. Carbon arrows have made a big impact in the archery business. The strength and durability of carbons have given hunters the confidence to pay extra for arrows knowing they are not easily bent or destructed. In general, carbon construction has allowed arrows to be made lighter without sacrificing strength and durability, which in turn allows for faster arrow speed and flatter trajectory.
After you have decided on the right arrow and point weight for your set up, the last thing you need to decide is what type and size fletchings you prefer on the back end of your arrow to help stabilize flight. The two more popular options are plastic veins and feathers. You will find both in sizes ranging from 2-5 inches. As a general rule, the larger the fletching, the quicker the arrow will stabilize after leaving the bow. The only draw back to larger fletchings is that you will lose a few feet per second (f.p.s.) of arrow speed. Smaller fletchings have less wind resistance, offering less speed loss but also less ability to stabilize the arrow. A good choice would be 4-5 inch fletchings to start and then make adjustments as your preferences change. As far as choosing between plastic veins and feathers, there are few things to consider. Plastic veins are durable and a bit less expensive. They tend to allow for faster arrow flight when compared to the same size as a feather. However, feathers usually will provide quicker arrow stabilization and they have an attractive, traditional look to them.
Nothing beats trial and error in selecting archery equipment. What works well for one person may not be the choice of another. Choosing arrows is no different. Think about what you are trying to achieve with your bow and arrows and make you decision accordingly. In the mean time, ask lots of questions and pay attention to each manufacturer recommendations. Straight shooting and less available space in your freezer will be the end result.
