Carbon positives: faster arrow flight, more durable. Negatives: much more expensive, components specific to arrow manufacturer and the big one, arrow failure on release or impact with game. Aluminums: closer tolerance in straightness, less expensive, little chance of arrow failure on release. Negatives: they can be bent or dented and are not as fast at the same draw weight as carbons. My opinion: carbons for 3-D, aluminums for hunting and target.