All I can tell you is when I shot aluminums I bought a dozen arrows every season.7 years ago I started shooting carbons and I' m still shooting some of these arrows.I picked up a few used arrows off a shop during that time but am just now getting ready to buy new arrows.Let me clarify one thing,I am shooting the older pultruded style AFC arrows.I haven' t shot the new ICS type arrows yet.I do believe the outserts on the AFC helps keep the arrows from splitting on hard impact.From my experience there is no question carbon is more durable.I could never dig a 2213 out of a pine tree or shoot one thru a fence board and not bend the arrow.There is no doubt in my mind that carbons are more economical in the long run.

As for Chuck adams comments he' s on the payroll of the largest maker of aluminum arrows.I have a lot of respect for him as a hunter.But also know that he said in his first book that cam bows (vs round wheel) were too noisy and radical for hunting.We all know how that has turned out.Easton also made a big deal about carbon arrow splintering and making game inedible.At least that was before they bought out beman to get more share of the carbon market.

From my experience carbon does penetrate better.If you shoot a deer and hit the shoulder and your aluminum arrow bends(which I have had happen)What does that do for penetration?Carbons are stiffer for a given spine to weight ratio and this in my opinion makes them more forgiving.

I do believe that the quality of the carbon arrow you by does matter.Some of the cheaper models are not stright enough for my liking and can vary in weight per dozen.If you buy quality arrows this is not a problem.

Arthur P. I do respect your opinions,however we obviously have had different experiences with carbons.I can only relate mine.

CB