Choosing arrows and shafts
An arrow shaft links your bow’s draw setup to the point of impact, so its stiffness and finished build need to agree with how you shoot.
The short answer
Choose arrows by using the shaft maker’s current chart for your exact bow and arrow setup, then confirm the full build’s component compatibility.
Spine and shaft stiffness
Spine is the shaft’s stiffness. Use the shaft maker’s current chart for your bow and arrow setup. Easton’s online selector starts with archery type and hunting or target choices. Its separate hunting and target charts list bow poundage and arrow cut length, with point-weight adjustments.
Grains per inch
Grains per inch is the mass of the bare shaft per inch. Compare it along with point, insert, and nock weight to understand the finished arrow.
Straightness grade
Straightness is the maker’s stated tolerance for how straight a shaft is. Compare grades within the same maker’s range when building or replacing a matched set.
Points, inserts, and nocks
Check point, insert, vane, and nock compatibility with the shaft family. Use the maker’s chart to confirm the full arrow build.
What the listings actually show
This gear shares the Arrows department listing with Choosing arrow components; the department page shows the live count.
Before you buy
Inspect carbon shafts after impact and follow the maker’s inspection steps. Easton says not to use shafts with cracks, splits, or other damage. (Easton arrow safety guidance)
Arrows and Shafts Choosing arrow components Choosing broadheads
What information do I need for an arrow chart?
Use the fields and instructions in the shaft maker’s current chart for your exact setup. Easton provides separate hunting and target shaft charts.
How do I choose spine?
Use the current chart for your exact setup instead of selecting a spine number by itself. A different shaft length or point weight can change the chart recommendation.
When should I retire a carbon shaft?
Inspect it after an impact and do not shoot a shaft with cracks, splits, or other damage. Follow the shaft maker’s inspection instructions.