Carbon arrows

The most popular and most commonly used arrow is the one made of carbon.

What exactly is carbon?

Carbon fibers – in common parlance also abbreviated to carbon fibers or (from the English carbon fibers ) carbon or carbon fibers – are industrially manufactured fibers from carbon-containing raw materials, which are converted into graphite-like carbon by chemical reactions adapted to the raw material.

The most important property of carbon fibers as a stiffening component for lightweight construction.

Since when have carbon arrows existed?

The first usable carbon arrows were produced in the 1970s. However, there was still a long way to go before the perfect (modern) carbon arrow was developed. Since then, carbon arrows have replaced many other materials (e.g., wooden arrows) in both recreational and competitive archery. Research into the production of carbon arrows continues even today. The development will likely never be truly complete.

The advantages of the carbon arrow

First and foremost, it's probably the durability that sets this arrow apart. It's hard to believe, but anyone who's ever shot wooden, aluminum, or bamboo arrows will appreciate this advantage. However, if a carbon arrow is damaged, it will tear (or splinter). Reusing it can then be quite dangerous. Unsightly injuries occur time and again. Carbon fibers are almost impossible to stop against human skin (arrow breakage).

An arrow of this design won't bend. The material is simply strong enough to prevent any "bends."

Weight and vulnerability

Compared to aluminum arrows, carbon arrows are significantly lighter. This can also be a disadvantage. At long distances, aluminum arrows are naturally much more stable, depending on the draw weight. Wind can seriously deviate carbon arrows from their trajectory at long distances. Countless tables and "calculators" are available online to help you build your perfect arrow, either yourself or order one from an arrow specialist.

Manufacturers & Prices

Countless... would be the word for the many manufacturers of carbon shafts. From cheap Asian online sellers to tournament arrows in the three-digit euro range, virtually everything is available. Many Austrian retailers recommend good carbon shafts starting at around €6-8. Of course, opinions differ here. Everyone eventually finds their favorite arrow and then switches to it shortly afterward. 😁

Strength, weight, length & spine value

Conventional carbon arrows are mainly available in diameters of 4.2 - 6.2 mm.

Arrow weights are traditionally measured in grains, with one grain equal to 0.0648 grams. Typical arrows today weigh between a few hundred and about 500 grains, but old English war arrows could weigh more than 800 grains, or more than 52 grams.

Shaft lengths vary. Archers with a long draw length, in particular, are often faced with a challenge when trying out new arrows. The range of products available over 32" is manageable.

The spine value must match the characteristics of the bow in order to achieve good shooting behavior.

Conclusion

Whether you build it yourself or have it done is irrelevant. This means you should go to a trusted dealer and get advice. Always shoot new arrows first (test the raw shaft).