Best Hunting Arrows

The performance and quality of your hunting arrow could mean the difference between center punching a deer’s lung or hitting the tree that he’s standing next to when you let your arrow fly.

Arrows might look the same, but their resemblance ends with aesthetics because they don’t offer the same level of performance. Arrows vary extensively from brand to brand, each with different size, weights, spines, and a host of other important options! Bowhunters, read our full review of the top products in the USA archery market.
Shooting the right arrow is crucial for your success as a hunter. The best carbon hunting arrows are more reliable and have higher levels of accuracy – the end result is you being more successful in the field.

You should take into account the type of hunting that you’re most likely to do, along with the game you’re likely to go after. After that, simply fine-tune your individual set up on each arrow (checking hunting shaft, spine options, and points) and in your quiver to fly accurately and penetrate the targets.

Best Hunting Arrows Comparing

Image	Product	Technical Details	Price
Our Top Pick	Carbon Express Piledriver Crossbolt	Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 35.75 x 5.3 x 5.25 inches; 1 Pounds Item model number ‏ : ‎ 52140-P Date First Available ‏ : ‎ August 7, 2015 Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Eastman Outdoors (Sports)	Check Price On Amazon
EDITORS CHOICE	Musen 30 Inch Carbon Archery Arrows	Shaft Material: Carbon Shaft Length: 28 in/30 in Full Length: 29.5 in/31.5 in GPI: 13 grain Weight: 34g each	Check Price On Amazon
BEST VALUE	Easton Archery Full Metal Jacket Hunting Arrows	Tough carbon core with durable alloy jacket Made for increased strength and performance Includes nocks and HIT inserts	Check Price On Amazon
RUNNER UP	Carbon Express Maxima RED Fletched	Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 33.5 x 0.25 x 0.25 inches; 9.44 Ounces Item model number ‏ : ‎ 50753	Check Price On Amazon
Runner Up	Gold Tip Hunter PRO Arrows	Item model number ‏ : ‎ HPRO340A2-Parent Date First Available ‏ : ‎ August 4, 2015 Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Gold Tip	Check Price On Amazon

Best Hunting Arrows Buying Guide

How to Choose the Best Arrows for Hunting

There are lots of factors in nature that will always be out of your control.

However, your equipment is one of the factors that you can control. Plus choosing the right arrow can make a real difference when it comes to performance.

Arrow diameter

The popularity of smaller diameter arrows has grown immensely over the past few years. Usually, the smaller the diameter of the arrow, the better the potential of penetration and the lower the opportunity for wind drift.

It’s important to keep in mind that as the arrow diameter is reduced, special insert systems are needed. Many insert systems require specialized attention for correct installation.

If you’re pondering over a micro or nano diameter shaft, ensure that you’ve researched all insert options to decide which best suits your needs.

Spine

Arrow spine is generally reflected in a three-digit number and referred to as deflection which is often printed on the arrow shaft itself.

Most often, you will find numbers ranging from 300 to 500 depending on the arrow manufacturer. An arrow’s spine is measured by suspending a shaft over a 28” gap and hanging 1.94lb directly in the middle of the shaft.

When choosing the correct spine for your setup, you will need to consider factors such as arrow length and head weight. If an arrow is cut longer than 28” the spine will be weaker than the advertised measurement while an arrow cut short than 28” may result in increased stiffness.

Weaker shafts produce inconsistent arrow flight and performance.

Straightness Tolerance

Arrows can generally be broken down into three straightness categories: .006” .003” and .001” The key to this number is when most manufacturers measure this they are only measuring the middle 28” of the shaft. Shorter arrow lengths can sometimes lead to better consistency than longer lengths on the same shaft.

Distances under 40 yards with a .006” shaft will provide exceptional performance. However, you may notice that more arrows per dozen fly inconsistently.

For distances exceeding 50 yards, you will find a much better performance in a .003” shaft and even better in a .001” shaft.

Front of Center

Front of center (FOC) weight is the percentage of arrow weight on the front half of the arrow as measures from the perfect balance point.

If you’re considering building an arrow with a higher FOC, it’s important to consider your arrow spine. The more weight you add to the front of your arrow, the more you are weakening the spine. Therefore, you may need to upgrade a stiffer spine to achieve optimal performance from your bow.

Total weight

Arrow performance on arrows is variable depending on the impact angles to muscle density.

Generally, an arrow of upwards 400 grains will kill most things in North America, but certain situations will dictate some improvisation.  Carbon fiber and aluminum arrows are more than a bit lighter than their traditional wood counterparts, luckily those antique (maybe even ancient) arrows have been left to a more medieval time.  No matter what ammo archers pick up for their next shots downrange, may your finger be steady and your blood trails are short!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right arrows for hunting?

Choosing the right arrow depends on a lot of variables including type of game being hunted, distance traveled, weather conditions, wind speed, terrain, etc. It also depends upon personal preference (like how we prefer the Carbon Express 4mm FMJ). Some people prefer heavier arrows because they feel they penetrate deeper and hold together better during recoil. Others like light arrows because they don’t weigh them down too much.

Is a heavier arrow better for hunting?

Yes, a heavier arrow is usually preferred over a lighter one. A heavy arrow has less tendency to wobble or move side to side which makes shooting easier. Also, a heavier arrow tends to travel farther before losing its energy. For example, a.005″ carbon arrow might shoot 100yds at 30mph whereas a.007″ carbon arrow could shoot 150yds at 25 mph. So, yes, a heavier arrow is definitely preferable for hunting purposes.

What arrow is best for a compound bow?

The answer really depends on the individual needs of each person who owns a compound bow. If you want maximum power out of your bow then you should go with a heavier arrow such as.008″. On the other hand, if you just want something easy to use and not worry about breaking off every shot then you would probably benefit by using a lighter arrow such as.004″.

 What arrow should I use for deer?

Deer hunters typically use.006″-.010″ diameter arrows that can handle around 300 yards per second.  Most all hunters choose a broadhead tip to pierce the layers of deer hide and muscle for a way cleaner kill. However, the thing to remember is there are many different types of arrows on the archery market so make sure you know exactly what kind of arrow you’ll be using when you buy it.