1. Arrow spine should match the draw weight of the bow. Arrow manufacturers all post charts on their websites where customers can match their type of bow, their draw weight and their draw length and follow the chart to purchase the best possible arrow for their bow. I.E.: See Gold Tip’s website if purchasing Gold Tip Arrows, Easton’s website for Easton’s etc…
Spine is typically indicated with a number next to the decal on the arrow shaft and is denoted in thousandths of an inch (ex: 500 spine = 1/2 inch). The strength of the bow causes the arrow to bend. The spine of the arrow specifies the degree of bending, not the diameter. The higher the number the weaker the arrow, a lower number meaning a stiffer arrow. The arrow must be neither too soft nor too hard, depending on the draw length and draw force. If the spine fits as far as possible, the arrow will remain in its shooting line even though it’s been bending. This is commonly refered to as the “Archer’s Paradox”.
Note: Shooting a bow with an arrow that is under-spined (too weak) or damaged in any way can result in serious injury!
2. Beginners should start with arrows which are fletched by the manufacturer or by a professional in a recognized archery shop. Fletching refers to the feathers or vanes glued to the arrow shaft to stabilize the arrow in flight. Typically, an arrow will have 3 feathers or vanes with one being of a different colour. Known as the “cock feather” this odd-coloured feather should always point away from the riser (the bow’s handle).
3. Beginners should also prefer screw-in type field tips as these can easily be replaced if damaged. Lighter or heavier points can also be fitted to the arrow to change its weight and therefore its flight dynamics. Points should typically be of a slightly smaller diameter than the arrow shaft or insert itself, allowing for easy removal from practice targets. Ask an experienced archer or a professional at a recognized archery shop for advice before replacing factory-provided points.
4. Arrow’s can be cut to length to better fit the Archer using them. Shortening an arrow makes for a stiffer and lighter arrow. This can have a major impact on flight dynamics. Beginners should ask a competent professional to shorten their arrows if needed. An arrow should never be cut so short as to be able to fall off the arrow rest or riser’s shelf when at full draw. It should protrude at minimum an inch in front of the riser at full draw.
CAUTION!: Wear appropriate respiratory protection!!! Arrows should only ever be cut with an arrow-cutting jig in a well ventilated area such as a garage or outside. Care should be taken to aspirate and filter the dust as well. Cutting carbon fiber or fiberglass arrows can expose you to fine particulates known to cause cancer and other respiratory ailments.
Please ask us any further questions at info@archersperrotamois.com