Are expensive arrows worth it?
As a general rule, expensive arrows are high-quality arrows and tend to be more consistent. However, the shooter has to have the right skill and mastery to get what you pay for. Otherwise, it is not worth the money.
Tiger Archery 30Inch Carbon Arrow
- Length:30", Outer diameter: 0.309 inch. Fletching with 2 black 1 white vanes. For draw weight 35-60 pounds recurve, compound, or long bows.
- They are solid & well made. Precision carbon hunting arrows made for extended durability and long lasting target practice.
- Colored plastic fletching make flight always pointed the right way. The tips are nickel plated stainless steel which is perfect for target practice & outdoor shooting.
- With replaceable nocks for free. Nocks are not fixed by glue. It can be adjustable for your bow.
- The arrows came extremely well packaged and the quality is also impeccable.
Some archers find it necessary to buy expensive arrows, especially for known brands, because they have already proven their quality. However, you must remember that expensive archery arrows may not make up for their price tags if you don’t have enough experience in shooting them.
So, it is better to practice more often until you get to familiarize the performance of different arrows. And before buying an expensive archery arrow, make sure to examine its quality. This point is because you might get discouraged if you cannot handle it well.
Here are some factors that you need to consider:
- Expensive arrows fly straight and fast. However, a cheap archery arrow can also fly straight and fast if used properly.
- You don’t need to replace expensive arrows as frequently, though this is subjective and depends on what type of arrow and how often you use it.
- They are easy to use and maintain, though this is an essential quality that an arrow should have.
- They don’t easily break because they are most likely to be durable, but this differs from one brand to another.
- They come with a warranty so the company can replace them for free if something goes wrong. However, most reputable brands have money-back guarantees that you can use if you are not satisfied with their product, even if they are inexpensive.
- They fly better than cheap arrows and can be more accurate, but this is subjective and depends on the archer’s skills.
- Using expensive arrows for your first arrow might not be a good idea because you may end up wasting money or get discouraged if they do not perform well for you.
Gold Tip Hunter XT Arrows with 2-Inch Raptor Vanes
- Balance of performance, accuracy, and value
- Straightness tolerance: +-.003"
- Weight tolerance: +-2 gr
- Factory fletched with 2 in. Raptor vanes
- Vane Colors May Vary (Green, Orange, Yellow, Red or Blue)
In the end, it is best to buy expensive arrows if you are a professional archer or in competitions. They can help you save money in the long run because they last longer.
However, it is vital to assess their quality first before buying them. If you are not an expert in using good arrows for your bow, then it’s better to purchase cheaper ones that you can easily replace when they get damaged.
Why are arrows so expensive?
Common attributes of an expensive arrow:
Quality Materials
Expensive arrows usually have aluminum or carbon alloy materials. They are durable and have high resistance to damage.
Aerodynamic Design
With good aerodynamics, an arrow can fly straight at a target with little drag force, thus increasing the accuracy.
Accuracy
Expensive arrows are usually more accurate than cheap ones because of their design and the materials used to create them.
Longer life / more durable
Expensive arrows may last longer, but this depends on how often you use them and their materials.
The ability to maintain balance
Expensive arrows usually have a better balance, making them fly straight and accurately at longer distances than cheap ones.
Faster Shot Speed
Expensive arrows are usually faster because of the materials. This attribute is beneficial for hunting specific prey that requires speed to catch.
Expensive arrows are high quality, and worth the price, but not all costly arrows are the same. So, it is best if you know what kind of arrow you need before buying them; otherwise, it would be useless.
Pointdo 30inch Carbon Arrow Fluorescence Color Targeting and Hunting Practice Arrows
- Material: Carbon fiber. Full of shaft length:30", Outer diameter: 7.8mm. Spine 500 For 25-60 pounds recurve, compound bow
- The Shaft and fletching is fluorescent, 2 yellow and 1 white and easy to find
- 6pcs Nocks for Free. The nock are not glued, it can be adjustable for your bow. 12pcs O-Ring for Locking the screw tip.
- They are well made. The arrow good for target practice and hunting.
While only a few people can afford expensive arrows, it is still worth saving up for them because they are more durable and have better qualities than cheap archery arrows don’t have.
However, it is all about optimizing your skills and knowing what you need for your arrow to perform well, and not how much it costs.
Contents
Do expensive arrows make a difference?
An expensive archery arrow is not much better than a cheaper one. The performance of an archery arrow would still depend on the archer’s skill and how well you shoot. The ability to choose different weights and fletching can help improve shooting accuracy.
An expensive set of arrows might not be a priority for a beginner. But it may seem more appealing once you have been shooting for a while and can decide how serious of a shooter you are.
Common Arrows Used by Archers
Aluminum arrows
One of the most common types of arrows available today is aluminum arrows. Aluminum arrows will be one of the cheapest targets to hit, and if you shoot aluminum arrows with a traditional bow, it is unlikely that they will break or warp.
However, aluminum can be more prone to bending than some other materials. Therefore, it may not be easy to return aluminum to its original shape if you bend it.
Carbon Arrows
| Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Strength | Exceptional, high strength-to-weight ratio |
| Stiffness | Extremely stiff, minimal flexing |
| Fatigue resistance | Excellent, retains performance over many shots |
| Vibration dampening | Very good, reduces noise and hand shock |
| Spine consistency | Highly consistent |
| Tailorability | High, wide range of shaft diameters and wall thicknesses |
| Durability | Excellent, resistant to impact, corrosion, and weather extremes |
| Weight | Lightweight |
| Cost | Higher initial cost |
| Environmentally friendly | More sustainable, recyclable material |
Carbon fiber
Carbon fiber arrows will cost more than aluminum and will also perform better. In addition, these arrows will likely not bend and are sturdy enough to last a long time.
However, they may still break or warp if you shoot them with enough force. They also require additional accessories such as fletching and nocks. These items add to the overall cost of an arrow set, and beginners should be aware that these arrows may not always come pre-fletched or nocked.
Wooden arrows
Wooden arrows are the traditional option for many archers. They are typically more expensive than aluminum arrows, but they can be very sturdy. In addition, wooden arrows are less susceptible to bending than aluminum and carbon fiber alternatives.
These traditional hunting tools may need additional accessories such as fletching or nocks, so new archers should consider the cost of these items when thinking about how much their new bow might cost.
Hybrid hunting arrows
Hybrid hunting arrows are also available to archers. These arrows are usually made of aluminum, carbon fiber, or wood. They will typically be more expensive than any other material but cheaper than a wooden arrow with a carbon-fiber core.
The aluminum or carbon fiber used in this arrow type is lighter and has less drag than a wooden arrow. As a result, these arrows tend to be more durable and expected to last for years with proper use and care.
Bowhunters and traditional archers primarily focus on three factors: draw weight, arrow weight, and the price of their equipment. The materials used will play a role in how well your bow performs, especially in terms of cost. The more expensive your bow, the higher your expectations should be when it comes to performance.
Aluminum Arrows
| Material | Aluminum |
| Strength | Good, but less strong than carbon for the same weight |
| Stiffness | Stiff, but flexes more than carbon |
| Fatigue resistance | Moderate, can weaken over time with repeated use |
| Vibration dampening | Moderate, transmits more vibration |
| Spine consistency | Good, but can vary slightly within the same set |
| Tailorability | Moderate, fewer options available |
| Durability | Good, but can bend or dent more easily than carbon |
| Weight | Heavier for the same strength and stiffness |
| Cost | Lower initial cost |
| Environmentally friendly | Less sustainable, limited recycling options |
Archery is an expensive sport overall, but hunters don’t necessarily need to purchase an arrow that matches their bow. However, if you pay for high-quality bows, it may be worth the extra money to pay for high-quality archery arrows.
On average, an expensive arrow may cost around $150-$200 per dozen, depending on its brand, length, weight, and material. In comparison, the budget practice arrow can be around $40-$50 a dozen.
If you are looking for a better arrow without breaking your budget, aluminum arrows are best suited if you are just getting started.
An alternative option would be fiberglass arrows, which are relatively inexpensive and can take more of a beating than carbon fiber or aluminum shafts. However, you will likely see decreased performance when using fiberglass arrows.
When thinking about expensive arrows, don’t necessarily think that expensive ones are better. However, it is essential to keep your expectations high for the equipment you purchase and decide what arrow material best fits your needs.
Does arrow brand matter?
Arrow brand does not matter as long as you master archery’s proper form and technique. A carefully crafted arrow may produce perfect spine and straightness, but it is your skills and posture that determine whether you will win or lose during archery.
There are many different brands of arrows on the market today. The most common expensive arrow brands are Carbon Express and Easton Archery.
Carbon Express has been the gold standard in arrow technology for decades, with all their products built to exacting standards from the finest materials available. Their broad range of arrows is sure to cover any need a bowhunter or target archer could have.
Easton Archery is another company with a long history in arrow making. Their focus on technology and innovation has produced some of the most advanced arrows used by hunters and target archers alike.
Some people think that the arrow brand makes a difference and should always use it. Others think it doesn’t make a difference as long as the arrows have good quality.
Easton Aluminum Genesis Arrow
- 7075 aerospace alloy finish
- ± .005" straightness tolerance
- Pre-installed G-UNI bushing
- 12.2 GPI shaft weight
- 30"l. shaft
- .282" O.D.
- Includes N-Nock, 59-grain point, and G-UNI bushing
You should pay attention to the weight and spine of each arrow. In addition, you must be sure that you select the matched bow and the archery arrow for best performance.
The most popular brands of arrows don’t necessarily mean they are better than other brands. However, quality control and good manufacturing practices will produce a better projectile regardless of the brand.
You have to consider many factors when determining the right arrow for you. However, whether or not an exclusive brand makes an arrow or it’s generic, as long as you have a good form and technique, you should do just fine.
What spine should my arrows be?
The recommended spine of an arrow should be based on the specifications of the bow and arrows. For example, a longbow with a draw weight of 45 lbs. should use 30 or 31-inch archery arrows. If you select the one that is too stiff for your bow, it will lack the flex needed to propel and straighten itself.
Arrow spine is the stiffness of an arrow shaft. A stiffer arrow will generally fly faster and with more energy than a more flexible one of the same designs since it resists deformation during shooting, particularly useful when shooting at higher draw weight.
However, this point also means that it requires more energy to draw back the string fully, resulting in a greater chance of the archer’s aim being disturbed. Thus, while a faster and more powerful arrow may be desirable, it must also present some degree of flex to allow for consistent and accurate flight.
You can measure the arrow spine by the material’s thickness or ‘diameter’ at some given distance from one end of the arrow. This measurement is usually taken as a reference diameter. You can also measure the arrow spine in pounds per square inch.
Advantages of Arrows with a Good Spine
It improves accuracy
Arrow spine contributes to the arrow’s accuracy because it affects the shaft’s flex while propelled. When an arrow flexes, its flight path changes and makes it harder to hit a target.
If an arrow has too much spine for the draw weight, all of its energy is used up flexing and will not fly very far. Conversely, when it doesn’t flex enough, not all of its potential energy is transferred to the target, and it will travel shorter distances.
Fiberglass Arrows
- Low cost: Fiberglass arrows are very inexpensive and often cost as much or less than wooden arrows.
- They are a good choice for beginners and youth archers who want to keep the initial investment in archery equipment low.
- Durable: Fiberglass arrows are more durable than wooden arrows and can withstand continued use and reuse.
It helps to stabilize the trajectory
If you have ever seen an arrow hit a target, then it probably flexed just enough to go where you were aiming. This is because the flex helps the archery arrow to have a more accurate shot.
On the other hand, the too stiff or too flexible one will most likely veer off-course because a stiffer shaft provides a straighter flight path.
They have a longer effective range
Because stiffer arrows can hold their speed and energy for a more extended period, they also have an effective range than more flexible arrows. This fact is the reason why target shooters want an arrow that flies straight and fast because it would be easier to hit the center of the target.
They are less susceptible to crosswinds
Stiffer shafts that are not very flexible are more resistant to crosswinds, making it easier for them to hit the target even in windy conditions. When you have a stiffer arrow, the shaft will have a straighter flight path rather than push by the wind.
Disadvantages of arrows with too much spine
It is more likely to cause injuries
Stiffer shafts can increase the safety risks because it is easier for them to break bones when they hit someone. Therefore, they are more rigid and harder to flex, which means they transfer most of their energy into the target.
This point also means that they can cause more damage than a flexible shaft because it will not have the chance to flex and dissipate its energy before it hits the target.
Generic Arrows Compound
- Under and up to $25/ea.
- Beginner-Friendly.
- Suitable for Compound and Recurve Bows
It is likely to have a shorter lifespan
Arrows with too much spine are less durable because, over time, they tend to break down faster than flexible ones. This is because flexible shafts are less likely to be pushed beyond their limits and continue to fly straight.
A well-made arrow has a spine that balances its material’s weight, toughness, stiffness, and durability. The best way to determine your arrow’s ideal spine is for you to go out with your bow and arrows and test which one flies the straightest.
What other experienced archers have to say about expensive vs. cheap arrows
If you seek the experience of others who have gone before you, you can find wisdom in archery forums. Here are some excerpts that will definitely help in your dilemma:
“… They are more expensive because they differ less in weight, diameter, and spine.” – u/pcnx
“If it’s worth it depends on you… When you get to a certain level, your standards will go up.” – u/NotASniperYet
“The difference between expensive arrows and cheap arrows is predominantly the manufacturing tolerances and the design of the arrow.” – u/Black_mage_
“I buy expensive carbon because they are straighter and truer in weight than less expensive arrows.” – u/SHPoet
“I suggest getting the best arrows you can afford… Archery has a lot to do with confidence.” – u/cgs1967
“Do you build your own, or have them built? If I were having mine built I would buy a relatively expensive shaft.” – u/bbjavelina
“I have approx 10 dozen arrows right now from not expensive to expensive. I have no favorites, they all do what i want them too…” – u/Grizz
Musen 28"/30" Carbon Archery Arrows
- The arrows are equipped with TPU rubber vanes. Keep a good balance and a straight flight path when shooting. Have good performance in various weather conditions in the wild environment.
- The removable field point is made of stainless steel, which is perfect for targeting practice and hunting. Screwed-on 100-grain arrow tips are tight enough and can be replaced according to your personal needs.
- The well-inserted nock is not fixed by glue. You can adjust the orientation of the nocks to fit for recurve bow and compound bow.
Now, after painstakingly condensing all these insights (along with the complete discussions), here are the top takeaways:
- Consistency and Straightness: Expensive arrows are often praised for being straighter and having more consistent weights. This can contribute to better overall accuracy, especially for more advanced archers who demand precision.
- Perceived Quality: Some archers express a preference for expensive arrows, emphasizing the importance of confidence in equipment. The perceived quality of arrows can impact an archer’s trust and belief in their gear.
- Building Arrows: Some archers who build their own arrows may opt for relatively less expensive shafts and customize them to meet their performance requirements. This DIY approach allows for personalization while potentially saving on costs.
- Confidence in Equipment: Archery is noted to have a psychological aspect, and having confidence in the equipment is considered important. While the straightness and weight tolerances of expensive arrows are highlighted, the psychological factor of confidence is also acknowledged.
- Durability and Wall Thickness: The durability of arrows is discussed, pointing out that wall thickness plays a role in toughness and potential splintering. It’s noted that toughness and splintering are influenced by factors like arrow weight and wall thickness, rather than solely price.
- Personal Experience: Archers share their personal experiences, stating preferences for specific arrow models and brands based on reliability and performance. The importance of individual testing and finding arrows that suit one’s shooting style is highlighted.
Tabulation of insights
| Factor | Expensive Arrows | Cheap Arrows |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency and Straightness | Higher | Lower |
| Perceived Quality | Higher | Lower |
| Building Arrows | Less common | More common |
| Confidence in Equipment | Higher | Lower |
| Durability and Wall Thickness | Variable | Variable |
| Personal Experience | Variable | Variable |
As you can see, the main advantages of expensive arrows are their consistency, straightness, and perceived quality, which can boost an archer’s confidence and accuracy. However, cheap arrows can also perform well, especially if the archer builds and customizes them. Durability and personal experience depend on other factors, such as arrow weight, wall thickness, shooting style, and preference. Therefore, the best way to choose arrows is to test them yourself and find what works best for you.
Bowfishing Arrows
- Specially designed to pierce and catch fish, unlike other arrow types that are used for hunting or archery.
- Heavier and more durable than other arrows, which makes them ideal for penetrating deep water.
- Bowfishing arrows are barbed, which helps to prevent the fish from escaping once it has been caught.
Here’s an actual test I conducted–Tiger Archery 30Inch Hunting Arrows vs. Gold Tip Hunter XT Arrows
I was curious to see if there was a big difference in accuracy and penetration between the cheap and expensive arrows.
- I wanted to compare two types of arrows for bow hunting: the Tiger Archery 30Inch Hunting Arrows, which cost me $3 per arrow, and the Gold Tip Hunter XT Arrows, which cost me $10 per arrow.
- I used my Hoyt RX-7 hunting bow, which has a draw weight of 70 pounds and a draw length of 29 inches. I shot the arrows at two distances: 25 yards and 42 yards. I used a bag target.
- I was surprised to find that the cheap arrows performed very well, with similar accuracy and penetration as the expensive arrows at both distances.
- Inspecting the groups of arrows on the target, I noticed that the cheap arrows had a slightly larger spread than the expensive arrows, but not by much–you could even say imperceptibly so.
- The penetration for the cheap ones was 2″ to 5″ vs. the expensive brand. (my target is quite worn out, with uneven consistency from heavy use, so I attribute the 5″ as a likely error)
- I concluded that cheap arrows can be built to be highly accurate and that the difference between cheap and high-end arrows is minimal for most shooters.
- I suggest that the best way to find the right arrow for oneself is to buy a few different ones and test them through one’s own bow.
- Material: 100% carbon
- Straightness Tolerance: +/- .006"
- Weight Tolerance: +/- 2 grains
- Spine Options: 500
- Length: 30"
- Fletching: 3" TPU vanes
- Material: 100% pure carbon
- Straightness Tolerance: +/- .003"
- Weight Tolerance: +/- 2 grains
- Spine Options: 250, 300, 340, 400, 500
- Length: 30" - 32" max
- Fletching: 2" Raptor vanes
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