How to Select Carbon Arrows

Archers must select an arrow capable of providing speed and penetration power. Although a lot of varieties exist on the market, carbon arrows often provide a better alternative to wood or aluminum arrows. Selecting a quality carbon arrow requires you consider various factors. Some carbon arrows provide more speed. Others provide more penetration. Fortunately, if you follow a few guidelines, you can select a carbon arrow that fits your needs.

Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Match the type of carbon arrow to your uses. Three primary types of carbon arrows exist on the market: pultruded, cross-weave and composite. Pultruded arrows consist of fibers that face one way, so they do not resist internal vibrations created by the bowstring. Cross-weave arrows consist of bi-directional fiber patterns that resist internal vibrations well. Composites consist of a carbon-aluminum mix. They provide the greatest strength and straightness, but they tend to cost more.

    • 2

      Match the arrow's length to the archer's draw span. For instance, when you fully draw the arrow, the arrow tip should protrude about 1 3/4 inches from your bow's pivot point. The pivot point consists of the notch on the bow where the arrow shaft rests.

    • 3

      Match the arrow's weight with your bow. Too heavy of an arrow will cause a slow shot. To light of an arrow can shoot erratically. Select an arrow that weighs 5 to 9 grains per lb. of draw power of your bow. If you own a 50 lb. bow, the lightest arrow that would work for you equals 250 grains. The heaviest equals 450 grains.

    • 4

      Compare fletching. The fletching consists of an arrow's feathers, and different fletchings affect speed differently. Plastic fletchings weigh three times more than feather fletchings. Feather fletchings increase stability because their texture catches the wind. Feathers, however, can collect moisture and decrease flight speed.

    • 5

      Choose an arrow that fits your budget. As of March 2010, carbon arrows with plastic fletchings cost $40 to $90 per dozen. Feather fletching carbon arrows cost $50 to $140 per dozen. Standard pultruded and cross-weave arrows cost $40 to $50 per dozen. Composite arrows cost $50 to $75.