Pre Season Maintenance: Arrow Shafts

Gone are the glory days of aluminum shafts but there are still plenty of hunters that use them. With the rise in popularity of carbon shafts 10 years ago the majority of hunters are enjoying the benefits that come at a slightly higher cost. Most believe that the costs will be justified by the durability.

I started using Eastons ACC series of arrow shafts in 1994. ACC stands for "Aluminum Carbon Composite" which refers to their construction. A thin walled aluminum shaft wrapped in a carbon composite. This made for a very durable hunting arrow as well as a superior target shaft.

Some years later Beman (which was owned by a French company) started producing an all carbon shaft that would allow for a full sized uninock to be inserted directly into the rear of the shaft. This was called an "ICS" shaft. "Internal Component System." This company was later purchased by Easton.

I started hunting with them around the mid 90's. Actually the first dozen to come into the shop was for me. I still use this shaft for hunting and still use 3 of the original dozen from the 90's. I guess this would be a testimonial for the durability and longevity associated with carbon. Yes, I harvest 2 deer on average per year. The trick is to hunt in sandy soil so that your arrows don't get bent after passing through the animal.

The manufactures recommend inspecting your shafts before every shot. It's not as ridiculous as it sounds really. Before my first practice session usually in late August, I will inspect all of my arrows closely.

The vanes are checked by wrapping my hand completely around them and twisting the arrow several times to be sure that all of the vanes (or feathers) are still intact. Next I will grasp the shaft by the ends and bend until there is a nice arch in the center. Typically you can spot the carbon fibers sticking out pretty easily. Never run your hand down a carbon shaft looking for a crack or splintering as this could result in some serious pain when removing a sliver from your hands or fingers.

With aluminum you can hold the shaft by the nock while supporting the other end of the arrow with a finger underneath. Spin the shaft slowly while looking directly down the shaft. Another way to detect a bend is to let the point rest in the palm of your hand and spin the shaft with your fingers. If a bend is there you will feel the point wobble. The best way is to use a device designed especially for this purpose.

When I shoot into a bag target I have a routine that goes like this. When the shafts are pulled, I wipe the remains from each shaft and while doing this looking for cracks or nicks in the carbon.

When shooting aluminum shafts I will do the same thing and check for a crease or bend at the end near the insert.

If you do find a crooked or bent arrow, put a mark or number on it so that you can easily recognize it and not throw it in your quiver.

Good Luck.