It depends.....Speed and toughness go to the carbons. A similar weighted carbon will always be tougher than the similar weight alum. To get similar toughness from the alum, you go with the heavy alum, defeating the advantage of the speed. Then there is this consistancy thing. Many, including many on this site, have had MUCH better results regarding consistant spine from alum. You can get good consistancy from high quality carbons, or alum/carb/comp (ACC), but they are heavier and expensive.

It also depends on your intended use. If on the 3D course, where many arrows slam the same spot and yardage is critical, go with good quality carbons or ACC. If shooting indoor spots, speed or arrows smacking is no issue, go with with good aluminums. You can get a bigger diameter shaft to cut a few more lines, for a decent price. For hunting, well, that debate will rage forever. Light, heavy, fast, slow, carbon, alum, expand, cut to tip, trocar style. That becomes much a matter of personal preference.

Bottom line is play around and suit them to your intended game. One perk is alum, even the best ones made, are about half the cost of the high end carbons, so it is easier to play with different combos.

JMAC