Arrow Chart & Selection Guide

Q: What arrows should I buy for hunting?

For hunting: Carbon arrows are best. Recommended models: Easton 4MM or 5MM (340-400 spine), Carbon Express Maxima Red (350-400), Gold Tip Hunter (340-400), Victory RIP TKO (300-400). Target weight: 400-500 grains total for deer, 500-600 grains for elk. Choose spine based on your draw weight and arrow length using our arrow spine calculator.

Q: What's the difference between carbon and aluminum arrows?

Carbon arrows: Lighter, faster, more durable, weatherproof, better for hunting. Cost: $80-200/dozen. Aluminum arrows: Heavier, more consistent straightness, better for indoor target, cheaper. Cost: $60-120/dozen. Carbon-aluminum hybrids (A/C/C, A/C/E): Combine both advantages, most expensive ($150-250/dozen), used by Olympic archers. For hunting and outdoor use, choose carbon. For indoor target competition, aluminum or carbon-aluminum.

Q: What are the best arrows for beginners?

Best beginner arrows: Budget carbon - Carbon Express Predator ($80-100/dozen), Gold Tip Warrior ($70-90/dozen). Mid-range - Easton Inspire ($100-130/dozen), Victory VAP TKO ($110-140/dozen). Buy proper spine for your bow (use spine calculator), get at least 6 arrows to start, and choose durable carbon arrows that can handle beginner mistakes. Avoid cheapest arrows (inconsistent spine, break easily).

Q: Should I buy carbon or aluminum arrows for target archery?

For target archery: Indoor target (18-20 meters): Aluminum (Easton X10, ACE, X7) or carbon-aluminum (A/C/C, A/C/E) for tightest groups. Outdoor target (50-90 meters): Carbon-aluminum hybrids (A/C/E, A/C/C) or high-end carbon (Easton X10). 3D archery: Carbon arrows (lighter, faster trajectory). Olympic recurve: Most shoot A/C/E or X10 for competition. Budget target shooting: Easton Inspire or Jazz aluminum.

Complete guide to choosing the right arrows.
Compare carbon, aluminum, and wood arrows for hunting, target, and traditional archery.
Popular models, specifications, and expert recommendations.

🎯 Quick arrow selection

Hunting? → Carbon arrows 400-500 grains
Target archery? → Aluminum or carbon-aluminum
Traditional bow? → Carbon or wood arrows
Don't know your spine? → Use spine calculator

Arrow material comparison: Carbon vs Aluminum vs Wood

Feature	Carbon	Aluminum	Carbon-Aluminum	Wood
Weight	Lightest (6-9 GPI)	Medium (8-11 GPI)	Medium (8-10 GPI)	Heaviest (9-12 GPI)
Speed	Fastest	Medium	Medium-fast	Slowest
Durability	Very durable (flexes, rarely breaks)	Bends permanently, dents easily	Very durable	Breaks easily, warps
Straightness Tolerance	±.001" to ±.006"	±.001" to ±.003"	±.0005" to ±.001"	±.010" to ±.025"
Weather Resistance	Excellent (unaffected)	Poor (oxidizes)	Excellent	Poor (absorbs moisture)
Cost (per dozen)	$80-$200	$60-$120	$150-$250	$50-$100
Best For	Hunting, 3D, outdoor target	Indoor target	Olympic competition	Traditional archery
Spine Consistency	Good (±5 lbs within dozen)	Excellent (±2 lbs)	Excellent (±1-2 lbs)	Variable (±10-15 lbs)

Which arrow material should you choose?

Hunting (compound or recurve): Carbon arrows. Durable, fast, weatherproof. Essential for bowhunting.
Indoor target archery: Aluminum (XX75, X7) or carbon-aluminum (A/C/C, A/C/E) for maximum consistency.
Outdoor target / Olympic: Carbon-aluminum hybrids (A/C/E) or high-end carbon (X10) for best groups.
3D competition: Carbon arrows for flat trajectory and speed advantages.
Traditional archery: Carbon (for durability) or wood (for authenticity). Both work well.
Beginner on budget: Budget carbon arrows (Predator, Warrior) for versatility.

Best arrows for hunting

Hunting arrow requirements

Successful hunting arrows need:

Sufficient total weight: 400+ grains for deer, 500+ grains for elk, 600+ for dangerous game
Proper FOC balance: 10-15% front-of-center for penetration
Correct spine: Match to your bow's draw weight and arrow length
Durability: Must withstand impact with bone, ground, and targets
Consistent straightness: ±.003" or better for broadhead accuracy

Top hunting arrow models (carbon)

Arrow Model	GPI Range	Diameter	Spine Range	Best For	Price/Dozen
Easton 4MM Match Grade	9.5-10.3	4mm (.204")	300-500	Whitetail, mule deer, elk	$140-180
Easton 5MM FMJ	11.5-12.8	5mm (.246")	340-500	Heavy arrows, elk, dangerous game	$160-200
Carbon Express Maxima Red	9.0-10.4	Standard (.300")	250-500	All-around hunting, proven design	$120-150
Gold Tip Hunter XT	9.5-10.7	Standard (.246")	300-600	Versatile hunting, good value	$110-140
Victory RIP TKO	9.8-11.4	Standard (.204"-.246")	300-500	Deep penetration, tough shafts	$130-160
Black Eagle Rampage	9.0-9.7	Standard (.246")	350-500	Budget-friendly, reliable	$90-120
Easton Axis (original)	8.3-9.5	4mm (.204")	260-500	Classic micro-diameter hunting	$120-150

Hunting arrow recommendations by game

Whitetail / Mule Deer (400-500 grain arrows):

Easton 4MM Match Grade 340-400 spine with 125 grain broadhead = 450-480 grains
Carbon Express Maxima Red 350 spine with 100-125 grain head = 420-450 grains
Gold Tip Hunter XT 400 spine with 125 grain head = 440-470 grains

Elk / Black Bear (500-600 grain arrows):

Easton 5MM FMJ 340 spine with 150-175 grain broadhead = 550-600 grains
Victory RIP TKO 340 spine with 150 grain head + 50 grain insert = 540-570 grains
Carbon Express Maxima Red 350 spine with heavy components = 520-560 grains

Moose / Brown Bear (600+ grain arrows):

Easton 5MM FMJ 340 spine with 200+ grain broadhead and heavy inserts = 650-700 grains
Gold Tip Ballistic XT with heavy outsert and 200 grain head = 640-680 grains
Focus on momentum and extreme FOC (19%+) for maximum penetration

Shop hunting arrows at Lancaster Archery → | Amazon hunting arrows →

Best arrows for target archery

Target arrow priorities

Target arrows optimize for:

Consistency: Tight spine tolerance (±1-2 lbs per dozen) for identical flight
Straightness: ±.001" or better prevents fliers and widens groups
Weight matching: ±1-2 grains per arrow ensures identical trajectories
Wind resistance: Smaller diameter arrows drift less in crosswinds (outdoor)
Scoring: Larger diameter helps cut lines for better scores (indoor)

Top target arrow models

Arrow Model	Material	Straightness	Weight Match	Best For	Price/Dozen
Easton X10	Carbon-Aluminum	±.0005"	±0.5 gr	Olympic competition (gold standard)	$350-450
Easton A/C/E	Carbon-Aluminum	±.001"	±1 gr	Olympic recurve, outdoor target	$220-280
Easton A/C/C	Carbon-Aluminum	±.001"	±1 gr	Compound target, versatile	$180-240
Easton ACE	Aluminum-Carbon	±.001"	±1 gr	Indoor target (larger diameter)	$200-260
Easton Inspire	Carbon	±.003"	±2 gr	Budget target, 3D competition	$100-130
Easton X7 Eclipse	Aluminum	±.001"	±1 gr	Indoor target (classic choice)	$120-160
Easton XX75	Aluminum	±.002"	±2 gr	Budget target, practice	$60-90
Carbon Express Nano SST	Carbon	±.001"	±1 gr	3D competition	$140-180
Victory VAP Elite	Carbon	±.001"	±1 gr	3D, outdoor target	$150-190

Target arrow recommendations by discipline

Olympic Recurve (70 meter outdoor):

Top choice: Easton X10 or A/C/E (what champions shoot)
Mid-range: Easton A/C/C or ACE for excellent performance at lower cost
Budget: Easton Inspire carbon or X7 Eclipse aluminum

Indoor Target (18-20 meter):

Large diameter for line-cutting: Easton ACE, X7 Eclipse
Aluminum shines indoors: XX75 Tribute, Jazz for practice
No wind = straightness matters more than micro-diameter

3D Competition:

Speed matters: Carbon Express Nano SST, Victory VAP Elite
Micro-diameter arrows: Easton Axis 4MM, Gold Tip Kinetic
All-around: Easton Inspire for balance of speed and precision

Compound Target:

Serious competition: Easton X10 or A/C/C
Club level: Carbon Express Nano Pro, Victory VAP
Practice: Easton Inspire or Aluminum Jazz

Shop target arrows at Lancaster Archery →

Traditional archery arrows (carbon & wood)

Traditional arrow options

Traditional archers shooting longbows, recurves without sights, or primitive bows can choose:

Carbon arrows: Modern performance, authentic appearance (wood-grain wraps available)
Wood arrows: Authentic traditional experience, natural materials
Hybrid arrows: Carbon core with wood veneer for looks and performance

Carbon arrows for traditional archery

Arrow Model	GPI	Spine Range	Features	Price/Dozen
Gold Tip Traditional	8.5-9.8	340-800	Wood-grain finish, 5/16" diameter	$100-130
Carbon Express Heritage	8.9-9.5	350-800	Classic wood look, tough carbon	$90-120
Easton Aftermath	7.8-8.9	340-700	Traditional diameter, modern performance	$100-130
Black Eagle Vintage	9.2-10.1	400-700	Real wood grain, carbon core	$110-140

Wood arrow specifications

Wood Type	Typical Spine Range	Diameter	Best For	Price/Dozen
Port Orford Cedar	40-75 lbs	11/32" (most common)	All-around traditional, most popular	$70-100
Douglas Fir	35-65 lbs	11/32"	Budget wood arrows, practice	$50-70
Sitka Spruce	35-70 lbs	11/32"	Historical reproductions	$60-90
Chundoo (Bamboo)	45-65 lbs	23/64" (large)	Heavy arrows, primitive archery	$80-120

Wood arrow spine chart (Port Orford Cedar 11/32")

Draw Weight	Arrow Length 28"	Arrow Length 30"	Spine Rating
35-40 lbs	60-65 lbs spine	55-60 lbs spine	Approx. 700 carbon equiv.
40-45 lbs	55-60 lbs spine	50-55 lbs spine	Approx. 600 carbon equiv.
45-50 lbs	50-55 lbs spine	45-50 lbs spine	Approx. 500 carbon equiv.
50-55 lbs	45-50 lbs spine	40-45 lbs spine	Approx. 450 carbon equiv.
55-60 lbs	40-45 lbs spine	40-45 lbs spine	Approx. 400 carbon equiv.

Note: Wood arrow spine is measured differently than carbon. The spine number represents the draw weight the arrow is designed for, not deflection measurement. Always buy wood arrows slightly weaker (higher spine lbs) than your draw weight for traditional bows shot off the shelf.

Carbon vs wood for traditional archery

Choose carbon arrows if you want:

Durability (won't break on hard impacts)
Consistency (all arrows fly identically)
Weather resistance (no warping or moisture absorption)
Modern performance with traditional looks

Choose wood arrows if you want:

Authentic traditional experience
Natural materials and historical accuracy
Ability to craft/customize your own arrows
The satisfaction of shooting "real" traditional arrows

Shop traditional carbon arrows at 3Rivers → | Wood arrows at 3Rivers →

Arrow recommendations by bow type

Compound bow arrows

Hunting compound (50-70 lbs draw):

Spine: 340-400 (most common)
Weight: 400-500 grains total
Diameter: 4mm or 5mm micro-diameter for wind resistance
Models: Easton 4MM, Carbon Express Maxima Red, Victory RIP TKO

Target compound (50-70 lbs draw):

Spine: 300-400
Weight: 350-450 grains (lighter for speed)
Straightness: ±.001" or better
Models: Easton X10, A/C/C, Carbon Express Nano SST

Recurve bow arrows

Olympic recurve (35-50 lbs draw):

Spine: 500-700 (most shoot 600)
Weight: 380-420 grains typical
Straightness: ±.001" (A/C/E or X10)
Models: Easton A/C/E, X10, ACE

Barebow recurve (35-50 lbs draw):

Spine: 500-700
Weight: 400-450 grains
Models: Easton Inspire, Carbon Express Heritage, Gold Tip Traditional

Recurve hunting (40-55 lbs draw):

Spine: 400-600
Weight: 450-550 grains
Models: Carbon Express Maxima Red, Gold Tip Hunter, Easton Aftermath

Traditional longbow arrows

Traditional longbow (40-60 lbs draw):

Spine: 400-700 (carbon) or 40-65 lbs (wood)
Weight: 450-600 grains (heavy arrows for smooth shooting)
Length: Draw length + 2-3 inches minimum (shooting off shelf)
Models: Gold Tip Traditional, Port Orford Cedar 11/32", Carbon Express Heritage

Popular arrow brands & series

Easton (industry leader)

X10: Top competition arrow (carbon-aluminum), Olympic gold standard
A/C/E / A/C/C: Carbon-aluminum hybrids for target and 3D
4MM / 5MM: Micro-diameter hunting arrows, Match Grade and FMJ variants
Axis: Original micro-diameter hunting arrow, proven performance
Inspire: Budget carbon target arrow, great value
X7 / XX75: Classic aluminum target arrows

Carbon Express (innovation focus)

Maxima Red / Blue Streak: Dual-spine technology, popular hunting arrows
Nano SST / Nano Pro: High-end carbon for competition
Predator: Budget-friendly hunting arrow
Heritage: Traditional-look carbon arrows

Gold Tip (versatile lineup)

Kinetic: Precision hunting and target
Hunter XT: All-around hunting arrow
Traditional: Traditional archery carbon arrows
Warrior: Budget carbon arrows

Victory Archery (premium carbon)

VAP Elite / VAP TKO: High-performance hunting and 3D
RIP TKO: Tough hunting arrows, deep penetration
VForce: Target competition arrows

Black Eagle (micro-diameter specialists)

Rampage / Carnivore: Hunting arrows, good value
Vintage: Traditional archery carbon
Deep Impact: Micro-diameter for western hunting

Complete arrow selection guide

📏 Step 1: Calculate Spine

Use our arrow spine calculator with your draw weight, arrow length, and point weight. Proper spine is critical for accuracy.

📐 Step 2: Determine Length

Use our arrow length calculator. Arrows must be long enough for safety plus clearance past arrow rest at full draw.

⚖️ Step 3: Choose Material

Hunting/3D = carbon. Indoor target = aluminum. Olympic = carbon-aluminum. Traditional = carbon or wood based on preference.

💰 Step 4: Set Budget

Budget: $70-100/dozen. Mid-range: $100-150/dozen. Premium: $150-250/dozen. Don't cheap out on hunting arrows - durability matters.

How many arrows should I buy?

Hunters: 6 arrows minimum (3 for practice, 3 for hunting). Better: 12 arrows.
Target shooters: 6 arrows for indoor, 6-12 for outdoor. Practice arrows separate from competition.
3D competitors: 6-12 arrows. You'll lose some on courses.
Beginners: 6 arrows to start. Add more once you confirm spine is correct.

Arrow quality tiers explained

Budget arrows ($70-100/dozen):

Examples: Carbon Express Predator, Gold Tip Warrior, Easton Inspire
Straightness: ±.003" to ±.006"
Spine tolerance: ±5-10 lbs per dozen
Good for: Practice, casual shooting, beginners

Mid-range arrows ($100-150/dozen):

Examples: Carbon Express Maxima Red, Gold Tip Hunter XT, Easton Axis
Straightness: ±.001" to ±.003"
Spine tolerance: ±3-5 lbs per dozen
Good for: Hunting, 3D competition, serious target practice

Premium arrows ($150-250/dozen):

Examples: Easton X10, A/C/E, 4MM Match Grade, Victory VAP Elite
Straightness: ±.0005" to ±.001"
Spine tolerance: ±1-2 lbs per dozen
Good for: Competition, serious hunting, Olympic archery

Why arrow selection matters more than bow selection

Here's an uncomfortable truth: most archers spend weeks researching which bow to buy, then grab whatever arrows the shop guy recommends without thinking twice. They'll drop $800 on a bow and $80 on a dozen arrows from the bargain bin. Six months later they're frustrated because they can't group consistently, their broadheads won't fly straight, and they've broken three arrows.

The reality is that arrow selection matters as much - or more - than bow selection for accuracy and consistency. Your $1,200 Mathews or Hoyt is only as good as the arrows you put through it. A mediocre bow with excellent arrows will outshoot an excellent bow with mediocre arrows every single time.

I see this constantly at 3D shoots: someone shows up with a $1,500 compound, top-shelf sight and rest, then pulls out budget arrows with ±.006" straightness tolerance. They're shooting 6-inch groups at 40 yards and blaming their release or sight settings. Meanwhile, the guy next to them with a $600 bow and Easton 4MM Match Grade arrows is drilling the 12-ring consistently.

For hunting, arrow quality is even more critical. You're not just chasing tight groups - you need arrows that fly identically with broadheads, penetrate deep through bone and muscle, and don't break when they hit the ground behind your target. That budget dozen that saved you $50? It'll cost you a lost deer when your arrow deflects off a rib instead of punching through, or when your broadhead plane makes the arrow veer left because the shaft isn't straight.

The good news: you don't need the most expensive arrows to shoot well. Mid-range carbon arrows ($100-150/dozen) are excellent for hunting and most target shooting. Carbon Express Maxima Red, Gold Tip Hunter XT, or Easton Axis are all proven performers that thousands of successful hunters use every year.

Where you should absolutely spend more: if you're competing seriously or hunting dangerous game. For Olympic recurve or serious compound target, arrows like Easton X10 or A/C/E are worth every penny - the consistency difference is measurable and significant. For elk, moose, or bear, premium arrows with tight tolerances ensure your broadhead flies true when the shot matters most.

Where you can save: practice arrows. Buy a dozen premium arrows for competition or hunting, then grab a dozen budget Predators or Warriors in the same spine for practice. Your groups won't be quite as tight with the budget arrows, but that's fine for practice. Save the good arrows for when it counts.

Bottom line: Don't be the archer with a flagship bow and bargain bin arrows. Invest in quality arrows that match your bow's capabilities. Calculate your spine correctly (use our calculator above), choose the right material for your discipline, and buy arrows with straightness and spine tolerance appropriate for your goals. Your accuracy and consistency will improve more from good arrows than from any bow upgrade.

Arrow selection FAQs

What arrows should I buy for hunting?

For hunting: Carbon arrows are best. Recommended models: Easton 4MM or 5MM (340-400 spine), Carbon Express Maxima Red (350-400), Gold Tip Hunter (340-400), Victory RIP TKO (300-400). Target weight: 400-500 grains total for deer, 500-600 grains for elk. Choose spine based on your draw weight and arrow length using our arrow spine calculator. Shop hunting arrows at Lancaster Archery.

What's the difference between carbon and aluminum arrows?

Carbon arrows: Lighter, faster, more durable, weatherproof, better for hunting. Cost: $80-200/dozen. Aluminum arrows: Heavier, more consistent straightness, better for indoor target, cheaper. Cost: $60-120/dozen. Carbon-aluminum hybrids (A/C/C, A/C/E): Combine both advantages, most expensive ($150-250/dozen), used by Olympic archers. For hunting and outdoor use, choose carbon. For indoor target competition, aluminum or carbon-aluminum.

How do I know what spine arrow I need?

Arrow spine depends on draw weight, arrow length, and point weight. General guide: 30-40 lbs draw = 600-700 spine, 40-50 lbs = 500-600 spine, 50-60 lbs = 400-500 spine, 60-70 lbs = 340-400 spine, 70+ lbs = 300-340 spine. Use our arrow spine calculator for exact recommendations based on your specific bow setup. Lower spine number = stiffer arrow.

What are the best arrows for beginners?

Best beginner arrows: Budget carbon - Carbon Express Predator ($80-100/dozen), Gold Tip Warrior ($70-90/dozen). Mid-range - Easton Inspire ($100-130/dozen), Victory VAP TKO ($110-140/dozen). Buy proper spine for your bow (use spine calculator), get at least 6 arrows to start, and choose durable carbon arrows that can handle beginner mistakes. Avoid cheapest arrows (inconsistent spine, break easily). Shop beginner arrows at Lancaster Archery.

Should I buy carbon or aluminum arrows for target archery?

For target archery: Indoor target (18-20 meters): Aluminum (Easton X10, ACE, X7) or carbon-aluminum (A/C/C, A/C/E) for tightest groups. Outdoor target (50-90 meters): Carbon-aluminum hybrids (A/C/E, A/C/C) or high-end carbon (Easton X10). 3D archery: Carbon arrows (lighter, faster trajectory). Olympic recurve: Most shoot A/C/E or X10 for competition. Budget target shooting: Easton Inspire or Jazz aluminum.

How much should I spend on arrows?

Budget: $70-100/dozen for practice and casual shooting. Mid-range: $100-150/dozen for hunting and serious target shooting (best value). Premium: $150-250/dozen for competition and serious hunting. For hunting, invest in mid-range or premium - arrow failure costs you game. For practice, budget arrows are fine. Don't cheap out on arrows you'll hunt with.

Can I use hunting arrows for target shooting?

Yes, hunting arrows work fine for target shooting, but they're heavier than optimal for target. Hunting arrows are typically 400-500 grains while target arrows are 350-400 grains. The extra weight causes more drop at distance but doesn't affect accuracy significantly at typical target ranges (20-60 yards). Many archers practice with hunting arrows to ensure their setup is identical for hunting season.

What arrows do Olympic archers use?

Olympic archers predominantly shoot Easton X10 or A/C/E carbon-aluminum arrows. These offer ±.0005" to ±.001" straightness tolerance, ±0.5-1 grain weight matching, and exceptional consistency. Cost: $220-450/dozen. For club-level Olympic recurve, Easton A/C/C or ACE provide excellent performance at lower cost ($180-260/dozen). The precision manufacturing justifies the cost for serious competition.