Why You Should Always Match Your Arrows To Your Bow

Matching your arrows to your bow is one of the most critical aspects of archery. A well-matched arrow will ensure not only accuracy but also safety and longevity for both the arrow and the bow. Archery, whether for sport or hunting, relies on precision, and using mismatched equipment can lead to erratic shots and even injuries. In this article, we will cover why it is essential to choose the right arrows for your bow, focusing on factors like arrow length, spine strength, and draw length. We will also provide concrete data and examples that professionals use to make informed decisions.

How to Determine Arrow Length Based on Draw Length

One of the key measurements in archery is the draw length. The draw length refers to how far back you pull the bowstring. It is essential to choose an arrow that matches your draw length correctly.

To measure your draw length, extend your arms to the side and measure your wingspan from fingertip to fingertip. Then, divide that number by 2.5. For example, if your wingspan is 70 inches, your draw length is 28 inches.

Once you know your draw length, you can choose an appropriate arrow length. As a rule of thumb, your arrows should be 1 to 1.5 inches longer than your draw length for safety and optimal performance. So, for a 28-inch draw, you should use arrows that are about 29 to 29.5 inches long. For a 30-inch draw, an arrow of around 31.5 inches will work best.

Spine Strength: Why It’s Crucial

The spine of an arrow refers to its stiffness. Arrows that are too stiff or too weak for your bow will cause your shots to be inconsistent. For compound bows, selecting the correct spine strength is vital because of the high power generated by these bows.

Spine strength is measured by how much an arrow bends when a force is applied. For example, if you are using a 70-pound compound bow, you should look for arrows with a spine rating of around 340. For bows with lighter draw weights, say 50 pounds, a spine rating of 500 may be more appropriate. This means a heavier bow requires stiffer arrows to handle the force without bending too much. Using arrows with the wrong spine can lead to dangerous situations, such as the arrow breaking upon release.

Easton arrows are a popular choice for compound bows due to their precise spine ratings. Their arrows come with clearly marked spine ratings, making it easier for archers to choose arrows that perfectly match their bow’s draw weight.

Choosing Arrow Weight for Performance

Arrow weight is measured in grains per inch (GPI). Heavier arrows offer more penetration, which is important for hunting, while lighter arrows provide higher speed, which is often favored in target shooting. However, a balance must be struck between speed and penetration.

To calculate the overall arrow weight, combine the GPI of the shaft, the weight of the arrow point, fletching, and nock. A typical hunting arrow weighs around 400 to 500 grains, while target arrows may weigh around 300 to 400 grains.

Using an arrow weight calculator will help you find the best balance for your needs. For example, if you use a bow with a 60-pound draw weight, an arrow weighing about 350 to 400 grains will provide good speed and accuracy.

Arrow Length and Spine Selection: Real-Life Examples

Consider two archers with different setups. Archer A has a 28-inch draw length and uses a 60-pound compound bow. Archer B has a 30-inch draw length and uses a 70-pound compound bow.

• Archer A: With a draw length of 28 inches, their arrow length should be about 29.5 inches. For a 60-pound draw weight, a spine rating of around 400 would be appropriate. This setup provides a balance between speed and stability.
• Archer B: With a 30-inch draw length, Archer B should use arrows that are 31.5 inches long. Their 70-pound draw weight means they need a stiffer arrow with a spine rating of 340. This stiffer spine will prevent the arrow from bending excessively, ensuring straight, consistent shots.

The Impact of Arrow Length on Accuracy and Safety

Using an arrow that is too short for your draw length is dangerous. If the arrow is too short, it may not extend beyond the bow’s rest, leading to serious safety risks, such as the arrow snapping upon release. On the other hand, an arrow that is too long can affect accuracy by slowing down the arrow’s speed.

For example, if you have a 28-inch draw length and use a 26-inch arrow, the arrow could fall off the rest or even break, which could lead to injury. Conversely, if your arrow is too long, it will fly slower, causing your shots to drop sooner, and you may miss the target.

Statistics show that archers who use improperly matched arrows are 25% more likely to experience erratic flight paths. The correct arrow length ensures consistency, accuracy, and safety, making this a critical aspect of archery.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Arrows

One of the most common mistakes archers make is assuming that any arrow will work with their bow. This is not true. Compound bows, in particular, generate significant force that can damage arrows that aren’t rated for the bow’s draw weight. Always use an arrow spine chart to determine the correct stiffness for your bow’s specifications.

Another mistake is using arrows that are too light. While lighter arrows increase speed, they can also reduce penetration, making them unsuitable for hunting. If you plan to hunt, you need arrows that offer sufficient weight to deliver a lethal blow.

Lastly, archers often forget to consider arrow point weight when calculating total arrow weight. Heavier points, such as 125 grains, will require a stiffer arrow spine to maintain performance.

How to Cut Arrows to the Right Length

If your arrows are too long, you can cut them down to the correct length. However, this should only be done with the proper tools and expertise. Cutting carbon arrows incorrectly can cause splintering, rendering the arrow unusable. Use a specialized arrow saw, and always measure twice before cutting.

Ensure you leave an extra inch or so beyond your draw length to prevent the arrow from being too short. Most archery shops offer arrow-cutting services, ensuring precision.

What Arrow Size Should I Use?

Many archers wonder, “What arrow size should I use?” The answer depends on multiple factors: draw length, bow type, spine rating, and intended use. For example, a typical compound bow setup with a 30-inch draw length would require arrows around 31.5 inches long with a spine rating of 340 if the bow’s draw weight is 70 pounds.

For smaller setups, like a 27-inch draw length with a 50-pound compound bow, arrows around 28 inches long with a 500 spine rating would suffice. The key is to match the arrow length and spine rating to your bow’s specifications to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

In archery, using arrows that match your bow is essential for safety, accuracy, and overall performance. Understanding key factors like draw length, arrow length, spine strength, and arrow weight is crucial for selecting the right arrows for your bow. Whether you’re using a compound bow for hunting or target shooting, making informed decisions will significantly improve your accuracy and consistency.