THE DIFFERENCE IN ALUMINUM AND CARBON HUNTING ARROWS
Easton August 14, 2014
Easton manufactures a wide variety of hunting arrows to ensure we can provide hunters the excellence we are known for no matter what hunting style, bow setup or budget they have. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing between arrow shafts made of different materials.
Aluminum Hunting Arrows
Aluminum arrows have the highest precision-to-price ratio of any arrow construction. The
XX75 is the
best selling hunting arrow shaft of all time, but when bow manufacturers started making faster bows, hunters wanted a lighter arrow. An aluminum arrow with the same spine as an all-carbon arrow will always be heavier. So for guys still wanting to shoot aluminum, but get more speed, they have to use an arrow with smaller diameter and thinner walls. Of course, as the aluminum wall of the arrow gets thinner, strength decreases. Some like the heaviness of an aluminum arrow as it transfers the bow’s energy more efficiently at the shot.
Pros
Cost
Precise weight and spine specs
Arrows can sometimes be straightened if bent
Deadly quiet out of hunting bows
More Spine Choices
Cons
Not as “flat” shooting as other arrows
As weight decreases, so does strength
Accessories can be hard to find
Carbon Hunting Arrows
These days, it seems more hunters are filling their quivers with
carbon arrows. There is a lot to like. Weight is the primary reason hunters switch to carbon arrows, but improved penetration thanks to a smaller diameter shaft and durability also helps the decision. Carbon doesn’t bend like aluminum, so straightness issues are not a problem. The higher velocity of carbon arrows helps overcome errors in range estimation.
Pros
Less Wind Drift
“Flatter” Shooting
Arrows can sometimes be straightened if bent
F.O.C can be easily manipulated with accessories
Advancements in arrow manufacturing are leading to more precise weight and spine specs
Cons
Velocity accelerates quickly, but also sheds quickly
Costs more than aluminum
Accessories can be hard to find
Alloy/Carbon Hunting Arrows
Easton is in the unique position of being able to manufacture both aluminum and carbon hunting arrows as well as
hybrid A/C shafts of aluminum and carbon so advantages can be combined. They deliver the strength and durability of a carbon arrow, and the spine consistency, weight tolerances, and accuracy of an aluminum arrow. Because of the enhanced and difficult manufacturing process, A/C arrows tend to be priced higher than all-aluminum or all-carbon counterparts. However, when considering the overall benefits and that the only downside is a slightly higher price, A/C arrows are a fantastic buy and the top choice of many pro-level shooters and bowhunters.
Pros
Best of both worlds
Carbon fibers and epoxy resin matric bonded to the precision 7075 alloy core tube
Arrows can sometimes be straightened if bent
Easton’s exclusive process ensures a strong bond of the carbon fiber to the alloy core
Cons
Slightly Higher Cost
Full Metal Jacket Hunting Arrows
FMJs are the reverse of an A/C arrow, combining the best attributes of carbon and aluminum with a new twist. The small diameter and thick wall carbon-fiber core with
Hidden Insert Technology (HIT) provides superior penetration, durability and accuracy. The aerospace alloy aluminum jacket provides more consistent spine, straightness, and weight than all-carbon arrows.
Pros
Reduced Vibration
Easy arrow removal from targets
Permanent finish
Cons
Slightly Higher Cost
There’s the breakdown of materials used to manufacture Easton hunting arrows and the pros and cons of each. Since Doug Easton made his first arrow shaft in 1922, we have continually raised the bar of quality, innovation and accuracy of our hunting arrows. Because just as important is what material you find works best for your style of hunting is confidence in your arrow. 92 years ago, Easton picked up a new book written by Dr. Saxton T. Pope,
Hunting with the Bow & Arrow, and since then we have been dedicating to creating the world’s finest hunting arrows.
SOURCE:
http://www.eastonhunting.com/blog/differences-in-aluminum-and-carbon-hunting-arrows
