The 10 Best Arrows for Bowhunting

Updated March 2023

Choosing the perfect arrow for hunting can be a confusing task when looking at all of the available options. Should you use a heavier arrow for better penetration or a lighter arrow with faster speed? Arrows come in all shapes and sizes, and each have their own use. This article will break down how to choose an arrow, what measurements to pay attention to and what they mean. Below are reviews of some of the best and most popular arrows on the market as well as tips for getting the best performance out of your arrows.

Recommended All-Purpose Arrows for Bowhunting

Arrow Basics

Nock – The nock of an arrow is the v-shaped groove attached to the end of an arrow where the arrow attaches to your string. This is usually a plastic piece that can be removed or adjusted if needed.

Vanes – Vanes, or fletchings, are the fins attached to the rear of the arrow just in front of the nock. Most arrows are constructed with 3 vanes. Vanes help to guide an arrow property in flight for repeated accuracy.

Shaft – The shaft is the backbone of the arrow. Most hunting arrow shafts are made of carbon because it is light and durable. Shafts are rated based upon their flexibility and straightness.

Insert – The insert is the part that is glued into the tip of the arrow shaft. The insert is what connects the arrow tip to the shaft via a threaded component.

Tip – The tip of any arrow is where you attached a field point or a broadhead on the font of the arrow. The weight of the tip can have different effects on arrow flight.

How to Choose an Arrow and Things to Consider when Purchasing

Length – The length of an arrow is an important measurement that is based off of your draw length. It should be noted that your draw length does not equal your arrow length. When determining a proper arrow length, you should add on 1-2 inches to your draw length so there is enough arrow length to fit properly on your rest. The longer your arrow is, the heavier it will be. Most arrows come in a standard length of 31 or 32 inches. Your local archery shop can help cut arrows down to the correct size.

Total Weight – The total weight of an arrow will determine its speed, power and penetration. In general, lighter arrows will have a higher speed and flatter trajectory but less penetration, whereas a heavier arrow will have a slower speed but deeper penetration and more inertia behind it. Most arrow shafts weight between 300 to 400 grains. Another weight measurement is grains per inch or GPI. GPI is simply how many grains make up an inch of an arrow shaft and is important for determining the weight of a cut arrow. An arrow over 400 grains is enough weight for any game in North America. Front of center, or FOC, is another weight measurement that simply means the percentage of the arrow weight on the front half of an arrow measured from a perfect point of balance. An arrow with a higher FOC will generally have more forgiveness, better accuracy, power and consistency. Finally, another aspect that determines the weight of an arrow is the broadhead or field point. Most broadheads weight 100 or 125 grains and should be factored into the final weight of an arrow.

Material – Most modern arrows on the market are made of carbon composite. This is because carbon is a lightweight, strong and durable material that helps to increase speed, accuracy and penetration. Historically, many hunters used aluminum arrows until carbon became popular.

Spine – The spine of an arrow is usually measured by its flex or resistance to bend. This is called the arrow’s degree of stiffness. Your average carbon hunting arrow will have a spine stiffness of 350-600. The higher the number, the more flex an arrow has. In general, a longer arrow will be more limber, whereas a shorter arrow will be stiffer. Newer faster bows will favor arrows with a stiffer spine and less powerful bows will need more limber arrows.

Diameter – Arrow diameter will have an effect on an arrow’s penetration and accuracy. Arrows with a standard diameter shaft are great for most hunting situations. In recent years, smaller diameter, or micro diameter arrows have become popular. The advantage of micro diameter arrows is that they are hard hitting, deeper penetrating and have less of a chance of wind drift while in flight.

Straightness Tolerance – An arrow’s straightness tolerance has to do with its precision. All arrows will have a straightness tolerance rating usually represented by a “+/-” measurement. In general, more expensive elite pro-grade arrows will have a straightness tolerance of +/-.001”. Alternatively, arrows with a straightness tolerance closer to +/-.006” are considered beginner arrows that will have a cheaper price tag. When deciding on an arrow, remember that the straighter the arrow, the more expensive it will be.

The 10 Best Arrows for Bowhunting

1. Carbon Express Maxima Red – The Carbon Express Maxima Red arrows are some of the most popular hunting arrows trusted by hunters all over the world. The Maxima Reds are each laser checked for straightness to a remarkable 1/10,000 of an inch for guaranteed straightness and a matched set. The Launchpad Precision Nock come standard on all Maxima Red arrows to deliver a controlled arrow release, better shaft alignment and more consistent accuracy shot after shot. The Dynamic Spine Control feature of this arrow consists of high-tech carbon material construction that manages the arrow’s spine in a way that makes broadheads fly better. The Carbon Express Maxima Red arrows are a great all-around choice of arrow from a trusted brand for any type of bowhunting.

Features:

Launchpad Precision Nock
Dynamic Spine Control
Performance Vanes
+/- 1.0 grain weight tolerance

Specifications:

Size: 350 grains (9.07 gpi)
Diameter: .300”
Length: 31.5”
Straightness: +/-.0025”
Weight Tolerance: +/-1.0 grain

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

2. Easton Full Metal Jacket – Easton’s Full Metal Jacket arrows provide hunters with a hard-hitting arrow with extra knockdown power. The Full Metal Jackets provides deeper penetration resulting in bone crushing power and shorter blood trails. What make’s the Full Metal Jackets unique are their carbon core that is wrapped with an aerospace grade alloy aluminum jacket. These are some of the toughest arrows you can buy and are guaranteed to get the job done every time. The Full Metal Jackets were designed for increased strength and performance and come fletched with Blazer vanes.

Features:

Tough carbon core with a durable aluminum alloy jacket
Nocks and inserts included
Fletched with Blazer vanes
Durable N-Fused carbon

Specifications:

Size: 340 grains (11.3 gpi)
Spine Deflection: .340”
Length: 32”
Straightness: +/-.003”

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

3. Carbon Express Maxima Hunter – The Maxima Hunter arrows are some of the fastest, most accurate arrows from Carbon Express. The precision design of these arrows delivers tighter tolerances than traditional carbon arrows. The Dual Spine Weight Forward fusion technology is constructed of different carbon materials that create 2 spines in 1 to help manage energy better and make arrows recover faster, retain more speed and deliver unparalleled accuracy. The Maxima Hunters feature a BuffTuff design which provides consistent strength and durability. These arrows are a great choice for bowhunters who want a reliable arrow that will hold up in any situation.

Features:

Dual Spine Weight Forward technology
Guaranteed straightness
Blazer vanes

Specifications:

Size: 350 grains (9.07 gpi)
Diameter: .300”
Length: 31.5”
Straightness: +/-.0025”
Weight Tolerance: +/-1.0 grain

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

4. Gold Tip Hunter XT – The Gold Tip Hunter XT’s are some of the most versatile arrows ever made. The Hunter XT is a mid-weight arrow that features a balance of speed and penetration making it ready for any situation. This arrow is constructed of Gold Tip’s Smart Carbon Technology for unmatched durability and straightness. The Hunter XT’s have become the “go-to” hunting arrows for many thousands of bowhunters. The durable shaft on these arrows provide increased performance and accuracy for serious bowhunters who need arrows to last for a long season in the deer woods.

Features:

Accu-lite insert
GT nock
Guaranteed straightness
2 inch Raptor vanes

Specifications:

Size: 340 grains (8.9 gpi)
Diameter: .300”
Length: 32”
Straightness: +/-.003”
Weight Tolerance: +/-2 grains

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

5. Beman ICS Hunter Classic – The Beman ICS Hunter Classics feature everything bowhunters need – a quiet draw and the right combination of speed and durability. The ICS Hunters come equipped with high-strength C2 carbon composite and ICS elite straightness. Beman arrows have been field-tested by millions of archers and have quickly become a go-to arrow for many types of North American big game. The Hunters Classics are a timeless arrow that delivers trusted results.

Features:

Micro-smooth finish
Carbon construction
Precision straightness
2 inch vanes

Specifications:

Size: 400 grains (8.4 gpi)
Diameter: Standard
Length: 29”
Straightness: +/-.003”

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

6. Carbon Express Maxima BLU RZ – The Carbon Express Maxima BLU RZ arrows combine lightweight speed and accuracy to deliver a world class hunting arrow. The BLU RZ’s are made with Carbon Express’ proprietary Diamond Weave carbon material and features high-tech carbon shafts designed with stiffer ends that isolate the arrow’s flex in the middle of the shaft. These arrows fly excellent with both broadheads and field points. The lightweight design of the BLU RZ’s are a great choice for bowhunters who want maximum kinetic energy out of a lighter arrow.

Features:

Lightweight performance
2 inch vanes
Best-in-class consistency

Specifications:

Size: 150 grains (6.59 gpi)
Diameter: .286”
Length: 31.5”
Straightness: +/-.0025”
Weight Tolerance: +/-1.0 grain

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

7. Easton Axis – The Easton Axis was designed to be the best small diameter carbon arrow available that is faster, deeper and deadlier than all others. The Axis’ micro profile focuses kinetic energy into an ultra-small frontal area for less friction and greater penetration. The Axis penetrates deeper as the shaft passes through animals with minimal friction behind the broadhead channel. The small diameter also means the Axis flies much better in crosswinds than regular diameter carbon arrows. This allows for increased accuracy and resiliency of the arrow. Many hunters have trusted Easton Axis’ for their superior accuracy and effectiveness.

Features:

24% more kinetic energy density that standard diameter carbon arrows
Increased penetration
5mm micro diameter carbon composite fibers
Pre-installed 5mm X nocks

Specifications:

Size: 340 grains (9.5 gpi)
Length: 32”
Straightness: +/-.003”

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

8. Gold Tip Hunter Pro – The Gold Tip Hunter Pro is a mid-weight arrow that features a balance of speed and penetration for use in any situation. The Hunter Pro is constructed of Gold Tip’s Smart Carbon Technology for unmatched durability and straightness. Similar to other Gold Tip arrows, the Hunter Pro is used by many hunters worldwide due to their quality design and lasting durability. Overall, the Hunter Pro is a versatile arrow that is designed to fill multiple needs while providing unmatched accuracy.

Features:

Extreme durability with tight tolerances
100% carbon construction
GTO nocks and bushings for nearly perfect nock alignment
2 inch Raptor vanes

Specifications:

Size: 340 grains (8.9 gpi)
Diameter: .300”
Length: 32”
Straightness: +/-.001”
Weight Tolerance: +/-0.5 grain

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

9. Bloodsport Punisher – The Bloodsport Punisher arrows are formulated with a higher front-of-center weight that is designed to deliver a hard-hitting arrow upon impact. The Punishers are a standard diameter arrow that have exceptional down-range accuracy for bone-crushing penetration. These arrows are made of 100% carbon using Rugged Wrap construction to deliver fatal results. What makes these arrows unique is their white Blood Ring helps to see the color of the blood to determine the type of hit on the animal. The Bloodsport Punisher are an excellent option for those looking for an affordable arrow that offers superior results.

Features:

Ultra-durable rugged wrap construction
Incredible straightness
Durable and dependable

Specifications:

Size: 350 grains
Diameter: .244”
Length: 31”
Straightness: +/-.004”

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

10. Easton Bloodline – The Easton Bloodlines are a fast, flat shooting arrow constructed of 100% carbon fiber that delivers ultimate speed and durability. This arrow features Easton’s Kinetic Energy Density for increased penetration and high-velocity speed at the same time. The Easton Bloodlines are comprised of super-strong composite that reduces vibration for straighter shots and increased durability. These arrows feature a low profile H diameter allowing them to travel at an intense speed that cuts through the wind and maintains accuracy.

Features:

Small diameter for greater penetration
High kinetic energy
Strong carbon design

Specifications:

Size: 330 grains (8.7 gpi)
Diameter: .285”
Length: 31.5”
Straightness: +/-.003”

Click here to view these arrows on Amazon

Most Popular Brands

Easton – Easton arrows are well-known by many hunters for their quality and durability. Easton is the manufacturer of high-quality baseball and softball products and their arrows are no different. The release of their Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) arrows have become extremely popular amongst hunters for their superior strength and penetration. I have personally use Easton’s Bloodline arrows for years and have been very happy with them.

Carbon Express – Carbon Express is another solid company that offer great arrows for all hunting situations. Carbon Express is owned by the parent company, Feradyne Outdoors, who own many other popular hunting companies such as Rage Broadheads, Block Targets and IQ Bowsights. Their Maxima series of arrows are highly regarded in the bowhunting world for their affordability and quality. You cannot go wrong with any arrows from Carbon Express.

Gold Tip – Gold Tip arrows are some of the best arrows you can buy. Gold Tip specializes in making quality arrows and arrow components. Gold Tips has been around for years and continue to delivery superior products. Gold Tip also makes target arrows that are trusted by competition archers from all over. Gold Tip arrows tend to run on the higher side in terms of price but are worth every penny.

Tips for Getting the Best Performance out of Your Arrows

Quality Equipment – Investing in a quality bow sight and arrow rest will help to ensure you are getting the best performance and accuracy out of your arrows. Also, making sure that your bow is tuned properly will provide an advantage. Once you find the perfect set of arrows, you should consider a good quiver to protect them while in the field or at the range.

Proper Arrow Length – Using arrows that are the proper length for your bow is important. Your local archery shop should be able to tell you the correct arrow length that will fit your bow and most will even cut them to length for you. Having a professional cut your arrows correctly with the right equipment will avoid any splintering of the fibers which can be dangerous.

Consistency – You should always make sure that each of your arrows are the same and are consistent with one another. You should use the exact same field points on each arrow as even a slight weight difference can have an effect on accuracy. Using different brands or models of arrows will most likely cause differences in flight.

Fletchings – Fletching, or vanes, on an arrow act as rudders that help steer the arrow straight. When you start shooting tighter groups, you increase your chance of damaging a fletching. Make sure to replace fletchings when they become damaged or wear out as a damaged fletching will have an impact on accuracy. Bohning’s Blazer vanes are a great option on Amazon.

Broadheads – When getting ready for hunting season, many hunters will practice with field points and then screw on broadheads once the season starts. Sometimes, broadheads fly different than field points. If you are able, you should always practice with broadheads that you are planning to hunt with to determine if you need to make any adjustments to your bow.

Lighted Nocks – Lighted nocks are a great tool that helps to see where your arrow goes and can assist in tracking an animal. Upon release of an arrow, the nock illuminates making the arrow easier to see while in flight. These nocks are also great for helping to see your arrows at long distances. Nockturnal’s lighted nocks are a great option on Amazon.

Summary

As you can see, there are a lot of different factors that go into selecting the right arrow. Choosing the correct arrow is just as important is choosing the right bow. With all of the different measurements and technical aspects of hunting arrows, you should now be able to choose the best arrow for yourself. Arrow choice comes down to your specific needs, bow set up and hunting style. It doesn’t hurt to try a few different brands, weights and models of arrows until you find one that shoots right for you. For more articles and buyer’s guides, please check out other posts from Bowhunting Depot!