How to Pick Arrows and Broadheads for Your Bow

Selecting arrows and broadheads may seem like a simple process, but the more you read and talk to other archery hunters this process can become quite confusing. In reality, there are certain aspects of arrows and broadheads that are necessary, but for the most part which ones you select comes down to personal preference. 

This article will break down important factors to consider and leave you with all the information needed to pick the perfect arrow and broadhead for your next deer hunt. 

Necessary Aspects of an Arrow

There are two absolutely necessary aspects of your arrow, these are the spine rating and the length. 

Draw length and arrow length are related but not equal, in that a longer draw length will require a longer arrow. Determining the correct arrow length is simple, just nock a full length uncut arrow and have someone mark it where it is flush with the front of your riser. 

An arrow that is too short can be dangerous to you as a shooter if there is not enough clearance while an arrow too long may negatively affect the fight. 

The most important aspect of an arrow is the spine. If the spine is incorrect the arrow may cause contact between the bow and the arrow leading to erratic flight and inconsistent shots as well as possibly compromising your safety.

There are two types of spine, static and dynamic. Both of these refer to the stiffness of the arrow. Static spine is what you use to select the correct arrow and dynamic spine can be manipulated if you choose. 

Static spine calculated by taking the inches an arrow flexes when 1.94 pounds of weight is hung from the center and multiplying it by 1,000. Dynamic spine is the way an arrow reacts when it is released. This can be manipulated by shortening the arrow, changing your draw weight, and changing the weight of your point.

Arrow manufacturers save you the calculations and print the spine rating on the arrow shaft. The only thing to know is that the lower the spine rating, the stiffer the arrow, for example a 340 spine is stiffer than a 400 and so on.

Selecting the correct arrow spine is as simple as referring to the chart provided by the arrow manufacturer of your choice. These charts take all the guesswork out, all you have to do is read the rating that coincides with your draw weight and arrow length.

Arrow Material

Arrows are made from aluminum, carbon, or a combination of both. Each material has its pros and cons and most would agree to stick with a carbon or a combination of both which are referred to as full metal jacket arrows in the archery world. Here’s what you should consider when choosing an arrow material.

Aluminum arrows are heavier, which means that they are quieter and slower than other arrow materials and they do have the tendency to bend.

Carbon arrows are the most commonly shot arrows and for good reason. They are lighter, faster, penetrate better, and will not bend. They are more expensive than aluminum but less expensive then arrows made from a combination of carbon and aluminum.

The combination of aluminum and carbon, often times referred to as full metal jacket arrows combine the best qualities of aluminum and carbon but they also have the possibility of bending and are the most expensive arrows on the market.

Shaft Diameters

Another consideration when selecting arrows is the diameter of the shaft. Arrows come in several diameters: Standard (6.5mm), Reduced (6mm), Micro (5mm), and ultra micro (4mm). 

The smaller the shaft diameter shafts have gained steam in recent years. The smaller the diameter the less surface area so there is less friction behind the broadhead allowing for increased penetration.  

The downside to smaller diameter arrows is that they are more expensive, less durable, and there are more limitations on inserts and nocks that can be used with them.

Smaller diameter arrows may provide advantages to hunters with lighter draw weights and shorter draw lengths or for the spot and stalk western hunters that may be shooting at long ranges. If you hunt in moderate winds and shoot relatively short distances they may not be worth the money and extra modification. Honestly, any diameter arrow will get the job done.

Broadheads

When it comes to deer hunting, select a broadhead with a weight of 75 grains or more. The majority of whitetail hunters prefer a broadhead that weighs 100 or 125 grain. You may pick a heavier broadhead but it is not necessary.

There are two types of broadheads, expandables (mechanical) and fixed blades. This topic has been the focal point of the largest debates among archery hunters. With regards to deer hunting, they both work and it’s really a personal preference but consideration of hunting style should be taken into account.

Expandable broadheads are mechanical so the blades deploy on impact. Often these broadheads have a larger cutting diameter, and need little to no tuning. They do however lose energy because of the mechanical component which can lead to lack of penetration, they are one-time use, and although a rarity, there is the possibility of failed blade deployment.

Fixed blades are not mechanical so they lose less energy on impact allowing for increased penetration, never fail to deploy, and they are usually made of more durable steel and can be used more than once. The downsides are a smaller cutting diameter, and they require the tedious process of tuning to shoot consistently.

Although the broadhead you choose comes down to personal preference, consider your hunting style. If you hunt strictly from a treestand or open country, prefer a larger cutting diameter and less work tuning your arrows choose an expandable. If mechanical failures are a worry and you hunt mainly on the ground in tall grasses a fixed blade may be the ticket. 

Don’t Overthink It!

Selecting arrows and broadheads for your bow can be as simple or confusing as you want it to be. It doesn’t matter which arrow or broadhead you shoot as long as the spine and length are correct and your broadhead is sharp. Remember practice makes perfect and shot placement is king when it comes to taking your setup to the woods and wrapping your tag around a deer.

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