When it comes to tweaking their equipment to boost efficiency in the field, bowhunters are always on the lookout for those advancements in technology and design that will take accuracy and terminal performance to new heights. And there are two general schools of thought regarding arrow selection. First, there are those speed freaks who proclaim that lightweight arrows fly faster with less arc, which leads to increased accuracy. And then there are muscle heads who prefer heavyweight arrows designed to deliver more energy — arrows that fly slower but resist wind better and penetrate deeper. Both are convinced their approach delivers the best possible results in the field.
As an archery retailer, it’s not in your best interest to attempt to influence this debate in either direction, but to provide a vast selection of arrows to satisfy every point of contention — and to profit from the results. Fortunately, today’s bowhunters — and archery retailers — have a wide selection to choose from in both categories. No matter if your customer is shopping for arrows for a compound bow or a crossbow, be sure to have a good inventory in each weight class to fit every personal taste and conviction. Here are five examples to put you on the road to more sales.
Carbon Express Maxima Sable RZ
Carbon Express’ Maxima Sable RZ lightweight hunting arrow utilizes the company’s exclusive TriSpine technology with 360-degree spine consistency to stabilize and maintain how the arrow flexes in flight for up to four times the accuracy of standard single-spine arrows. As a result, broadheads shoot more accurately and consistently thanks to the reduction in the exaggerated effect of broadhead-tipped arrows. Constructed from 100 percent carbon, the Maxima Sable RZ offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and in testing has shown a 10+ percent increase in accuracy as compared to similar arrow models of the past. Each shaft features stealthy black graphics and includes precision machined Carbon Express inserts, premium Launchpad nocks and shaft-protecting Bulldog nock collars.
MSRP: $164.99/Per dozen shafts; $89.99/Per six-pack fletched arrows
CONTACT: www.feradyne.com/carbon-express
Easton Archery Sonic 6.0
The Easton Archery Sonic 6.0 6mm hunting arrow is engineered for high-performance speed and accuracy — built from scratch in the USA using Easton’s seamless Acu-Carbon process for 100 percent weight and spine consistency from shaft to shaft and from dozen to dozen. Lighter overall mass weight also provides for a wider range of arrow build options — from lightweight speed setups to high-FOC/high-momentum heavyweights. The Sonic 6.0 features another Easton first — helical fletching utilizing a 2-inch Bully vane, designed exclusively for Easton by Bohning to provide the utmost in broadhead accuracy. The Sonic 6.0 is available in six spines (250, 300, 340, 400, 500 and 600), providing a high-performance option for every bowhunter.
MSRP: $89.99/Six-pack fletched
CONTACT: www.eastonarchery.com
Gold Tip Black Label Quantum
Gold Tip’s Quantum is the newest addition to its Black Label family of hunting arrows. Built for freight train penetration and with a .204-inch micro-diameter, the Black Label Quantum cuts down on the wind drift archers might experience with larger-diameter arrows. Straightness tolerance is +/- .0025-inch and weight tolerance is .2 grain. Arrows include a ballistic collar (13 to 19 grains), aluminum inserts (24 to 26 grains) and an Accutough nock (11.6 grains). The Black Label Quantum brings together laser straightness, toughness and micro-diameter penetration, resulting in performance that flat-out kills — combined with night renegade graphics for a subtle look that matches its performance.
MSRP: $164.99/12 shafts
CONTACT: www.goldtip.com
Ravin XK5 500-Grain
The 100 percent pure carbon construction XK5 500-grain arrow (inclusive of a 100-grain field tip or broadhead) has a straightness tolerance of .001-inch and is the highest premium arrow in Ravin’s lineup. Delivering extreme knockdown power and increased kinetic energy, it is ideal for big-game hunting and comes in standard or match-grade lighted varieties, with Ravin-engineered polymer nocks and high-impact, brass threaded inserts with aluminum nock bushings. XK5 arrows have 2-inch high-profile offset vanes and come in a six-pack. For use with only Ravin crossbows.
MSRP: $119.99/Six-pack
CONTACT: www.ravincrossbows.com
Victory Archery VAP
For extreme FOC and the kinetic energy to take down the toughest big game, the Victory Archery VAP 166-inch micro-diameter hunting arrow is constructed of high-modulus carbon fiber for maximum speed, penetration and durability while preventing wind deflection on long-distance shots. Spine aligned by the dozen and weight matched to ± .5 grains, it delivers consistency and tight groups. Available in Elite, Gamer and Sport models, they have a straightness tolerance of ± .001, ± .003 and ± .006 inches respectively. Victory’s ICE nano ceramic coating provides improved penetration and easy target removal, while custom hand fletching guarantees optimum vane alignment and adhesion. VAP hunting arrows are available in 250 to 500 spines and come with a 50-grain Shok TL broadhead adapter.
MSRP: $84.99/Six-pack, fletched; Sport model
CONTACT: www.victoryarchery.com