Best Hunting Arrows for a Compound Bow: Fit, Spine and Safety

The best hunting arrow is one matched to your compound bow and your draw length, with a safe shaft length and a spine appropriate to the complete setup. A popular arrow is not automatically the right arrow for you. Start with the shaft maker’s selection chart, the bow maker’s minimum arrow-weight requirement, and the broadhead and components you plan to use.

This guide explains what to compare and includes examples of current listings. They are editorial comparisons based on product details, not claims of hands-on testing. An archery shop can measure your setup and help cut and tune arrows. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Do not use a generic rule such as “cut all arrows half an inch longer than draw length.” Clearance depends on the individual bow, rest, arrow and broadhead. Never draw a broadhead back where its blades can contact the bow, rest or your hand. For an Easton shaft, start with Easton’s arrow shaft selector; for other brands, use the appropriate manufacturer’s chart.

The examples below show one available spine and package configuration each, not a recommendation that 400 spine fits your bow. Select the correct spine and length from the manufacturer’s chart before buying; check the exact listing for included inserts, points and nocks. Availability can change.

Fletched arrows

Gold Tip Hunter 400 Hunting Arrows, 6 Pack

The current listing describes six factory-fletched 400-spine arrows with 2-inch Raptor vanes. Check the included components and whether the selected spine matches your bow.

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Bare shafts

Gold Tip Hunter XT 400 Arrow Shafts, 12 Pack

The listing is for a 12-pack of 400-spine shafts. Shafts may need cutting, fletching and compatible components before use; confirm exactly what is included with the seller.

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Fletched arrows

Easton 5mm Axis SPT 400 Fletched Arrows, 6 Pack

A listed six-pack of 5mm Axis SPT arrows in 400 spine. Confirm the configuration and compatible inserts and broadheads before ordering; the listing showed limited stock when checked.

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Carbon composite shafts come in many diameters, spines and weights. Aluminum shafts also come in a range of sizes and can bend when damaged. Neither material is automatically safer, faster or more accurate for every setup: inspect each arrow and choose a model intended for your equipment. Manufacturers also make composite designs that combine materials. Wood arrows require careful matching and are generally associated with traditional archery; use only shafts approved by the arrow and bow makers for your setup.

Spine describes a shaft’s stiffness. In the common static-spine rating system, a lower number generally indicates a stiffer shaft within comparable ratings; the correct choice still depends on the manufacturer’s chart and your setup. Grains per inch describes shaft weight per unit of length, not the weight of a complete arrow. Calculate or weigh the finished arrow with all its components installed.

Fletching consists of vanes or feathers that help stabilize the arrow in flight. The nock is the small component at the back that engages the bowstring; it is not a type of fletching. Match the nock to both shaft and string, and check that vanes clear the rest and other bow parts. Confirm broadhead and insert compatibility, follow the component manufacturers’ instructions, and keep broadheads covered in a suitable quiver.

Before each shot, inspect the shaft, nock, insert, point and fletching. A cracked, splintered or otherwise damaged carbon arrow can break on release and cause serious injury. Follow the arrow manufacturer’s inspection and flex-test instructions, bending the shaft away from yourself and others. If it cracks, splinters, makes a cracking sound, or you suspect damage, do not shoot it; discard it safely. Never shoot a loose or damaged nock. See Easton’s arrow safety and inspection instructions for its detailed procedure.

Check arrows again after hard impacts or missed shots. Do not straighten or reuse a damaged shaft simply because it appears to fly normally. Seek help from an archery shop if you are unsure.

Compound bows offer adjustable features on many models, but fit, tuning and consistent practice matter more than a universal claim that one bow style is always more accurate. Make adjustments according to the bow manufacturer’s instructions or have a qualified technician help. Check local hunting regulations for legal equipment, broadheads and seasons. Practice at distances you can handle consistently and wait for a safe, ethical shot.

Use the chart for the specific shaft, with your actual draw weight, correct shaft length and point weight. A shop can help with measurements and tuning. Do not assume that 300, 340 or 400 spine fits every compound bow.

Finished shaft length must provide safe clearance for your specific bow, rest and broadhead. It is not determined by adding the same amount to every person’s draw length. Ask a qualified shop to measure your setup before cutting.

No single finished weight guarantees accuracy or penetration. Shaft selection, arrow flight, broadhead, shot placement and the bow’s specifications all matter. Meet the bow maker’s minimum and tune the complete setup.

No. Do not shoot an arrow with a crack, splinter or suspected damage. Follow the manufacturer’s inspection guidance and discard a damaged arrow safely.