If you’re new to archery, you’re probably wondering why there are so many different kinds of arrows. How will I ever choose the best arrows for my compound bow? I mean an arrow is an arrow, right? Well, sort of but not really. Sure, they all have a tip at the front, a nock at the back, and fletchings or feathers to help them fly. But what makes this arrow different from that arrow?

There are so many different kinds of arrows because there are so many variations to the sport of archery. Different types of archery, different types of bows, different draw lengths, and draw weights. Finding the best arrows for your bow may take a bit of digging but it can be done.

As you’ll discover, there’s much to know about the different types of arrows. The wrong arrow will cause headaches and frustration, but the right arrow, tuned to your bow, will provide consistent accuracy shot after shot. And, to maintain consistent accuracy, all your arrows must be as identical as possible including the same spine, length, vanes, tips, nocks, and weight. Any variance could decrease your accuracy.

Let’s look at the various arrows available and how to choose the right one for your bow and level of experience.

There are a few things to consider when choosing the best arrows for your compound bow, including:

1. Type of archery you’ll be doing
2. Your draw length
3. Your draw weight

What Type of Archery Will You Be Doing?

Deciding on the best arrows for your compound bow depends on what you plan to do with it.

If you choose to hunt, the best arrows for hunting are a combination of arrow and broadhead that will provide a clean, quick kill.  Generally, you’ll use a heavier arrow due to better penetration.

Bow Hunting

You will also want to fine-tune your hunting arrows specifically to your hunting bow, not your target bow, to get a more accurate shot.

3D Targets

If you’re shooting 3D targets, you’ll have more arrow options. Some archers like a standard diameter arrow while others like fatter arrows. I’ve had no problem shooting either size. It’s just a matter of preference.

Types of Arrows

Types of arrows used for compound bows generally include:

• Carbon
• Aluminum 
• Alloy/carbon hybrid – a blend of carbon and aluminum

Carbon Arrows

Probably the most popular type of arrow is the carbon arrow.  Carbon arrows are popular because they are lighter, faster than aluminum arrows, and do not bend as easily.

While carbon arrows are popular, it is important to note carbon arrows cost a little more than aluminum arrows, making them something to consider before purchasing.

I use Gold Tip arrows the most, for 3D targets and hunting.

Aluminum Arrows

Aluminum arrows aren’t used as often as carbon arrows, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ve lost their usefulness. This type of arrow is good if you shoot a lighter-weight bow.

The downside to aluminum arrows is they can bend more easily than carbon arrows but can sometimes be straightened. Compared to carbon arrows, aluminum arrows are inexpensive.

Pro Tip:  If you don’t intend to use your bow for hunting and only intend to target shoot aluminum arrows are a good choice.

Alloy/Carbon Hybrid Arrows

Many arrows today are a blend of carbon and aluminum.  This combination provides the best of both worlds for strong and lightweight arrows.  

Easton FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) arrows are made with a carbon core wrapped with an aluminum jacket and are a popular choice for bow hunters. Many claim Full Metal Jacket arrows to be the most accurate, but they are a great choice for strength and durability.  

Arrow Length and Why It’s Important

Arrows come in lengths up to 30- to 33-inch-long sections to accommodate many different draw lengths.

Your arrow length is usually 1-2 inches longer than your draw length, or at least an inch past the front of the riser.

You can double-check this by drawing your arrow back and having someone mark your arrow shaft 1-2 inches past where it sits in your rest.

Pro Tip:  Remember to measure twice and cut once!

The only thing you can do with an arrow cut too short is give it to someone with a shorter draw length than you.

Spine

Largely, the right arrow is determined by the spine of the arrow. Arrow spine means the stiffness or flexibility of an arrow and is indicated by a numbering system. (For example, 300 spine, 400 spine, etc.)

Arrows flex a little or a lot when they leave the bow depending on the power behind it, i.e., draw weight. An important thing to keep in mind is the arrow will need to be stronger, the more aggressive the bow, to avoid flexing as the arrow leaves the bow and causes injury.

A spine of 300 is stiffer than a spine of 500. This means when the draw weight is higher the spine should be stiffer. For instance, I shoot around 40-45#; my draw length is 26″, and my arrows have a 500 spine.

Draw Weight and Draw Length

It’s also important to match arrows to draw weight and draw length. Additionally, new archers should learn how to properly care for and maintain their arrows to ensure they last and perform well.

Usually, on the back of a box of arrows, you’ll find an arrow size selection chart to help you determine what type of arrow you need. As mentioned, you’ll need to know your draw length and draw weight. This chart helps you select arrows with the right spine.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a lot of factors that go into choosing the best arrows for your compound bow.

It all starts with what kind of archery you want to do. Choices will depend on whether you intend to bow hunt or shoot 3D target archery.

From aluminum to carbon fiber arrows, and everywhere in between, there is an arrow, tips, nock, and fletching right for you, your style, archery goals, and skill level.

As always, I recommend you go to your local bow shop and talk with them. They’ll be able to help you get started and meet you at your skill level.

If you like this post, you may also like:

• 3 Best Compound Bows for Archery Beginners
• Best 3D Archery Targets for Newbie Archers
• A Guide to Archery for Beginners