weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

Well some of you may have read the post I have asking if my setup is ok. I went out lastnight and bought 5575 arrows at 28.5" planning on shooting 100 grain tips.

I keep finding charts across the internet that say I am just on the high end of being too close to shoot these arrows out of my bow. A Matthews Switchback XT set at 70 pounds with a 29" Draw Length.

The only chart that I am clearly off is from Gold Tips site. I was just wondering if maybe they over rate their arrows a little to cover their butts. Or am I just really wishing that I could shoot these arrows.

Is the main thing with a stiff/weak spline issues with tuning the bow? I am not trying to argue anybodies knowledge on this issue. Just simply trying to learn more about it. And for some reason the search function for these forums does not work for me.

Also, what should my total arrow weight be for a hunting situation? Thanks in advance for all the info. Hopefully you are all willing to share ;)

RE: weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

Don't rely on charts - period. See my response on your other post.

Yes, you will find it very difficult to get good broadhead flight with a weak arrow. Since the object of any selection you make on bow or arrow is to get good broadhead flight, hopefully you can see why this is important.

In my opinion, heavier is better, especially if it's on the front of the arrow (spine issues come into play here also). This kind of weight gives your arrow more stability, better penetration and more bone-breaking capability.

It's important to learn how to tune your arrows. If search doesn't work, just browse through the last several pages of posts - there's tons of recent info written on this. Most bow shops do not properly tune arrows to shoot their best. You have to learn to do it yourself if you want the best results.

RE: weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

There are archery software programs out there that are invaluable in helping to determine spine. Definitely check in to one of those. There is no way those charts are going to cover all individual shooting setups. Doesn't hurt to get feedback from others, either. These guys on this board have been exceptionally helpful to me.:)

RE: weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

But what are the advantages/disadvantages to shooting to weak or heavy of an arrow?

If I'm too weak, is there a safety issue from it? Will the arrow explode? I doubt it but I'm curious.

I'm sure it would be faster with a lighter arrow, but does that mean I won't get enought penetration?

RE: weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

A faster ,lighter arrow "may" start out with more initial kenetic energy,but a heavier arrow will carry more momentum to the target,thus penetrating deeper.

RE: weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

BTW the word is spine, not spline. :)

RE: weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

Some of these points can and will be argued as long as there are archers. Find a combo that works for you and stick with it. I personally prefer a light arrow 340-350 grains with 12% to 15% FOC. I shoot a 60# bow, and last year this combo had plenty of momentum/KE to completely pass through my Mulie at 51 yards. If I am in a Treesatand where shot distance is limited, I would have no problem using heavier arrows. I just don't see the need;)

Dan

RE: weak/stiff spline...proper arrow weight, all that good stuff.
 

There are NO advantages to shooting too weak of an arrow.Yes,they can be dangerous and explode if EXTREMELY weak and the spine will weaken much quicker due to the excessive osscilation.Weak arrows are not as accurate as properly spined arrows,period.


Heavy or stiff spine will be much more forgiving to shooting issues than weakbut you can still have tuning issues with a stiff spine but it usually requires the arrow to be WAY stiff to show.There are some forgiveness factors than can show up as well with stiff arrows but most people can't see them at hunting distances.

A slightly stiff arrow will help with broadhead flight as well,because the stiffer arrow helps to keep the broadhead from taking over in flight and planing on you.


Heavy arrows will help bust bone but penetration has way more variables than that.