How to Choose Archery Arrows for Beginners

Archery arrows might all look the same at first, but choosing the right ones can make a big difference in your accuracy and safety. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything a beginner needs to know about arrow parts, matching arrows to your bow, choosing the right spine and length, plus care and upkeep. We’ll also review some top arrow sets, so you can compare budget vs. premium options. By the end, you’ll know how to pick arrows that fit your bow and shooting style. Let’s dive in!

Arrow Anatomy: The Basics

Every arrow has four main parts: the shaft (the long body), the nock (the plastic notch at the back), the fletching (feathers or vanes near the back), and the point/insert (the front tip). Together, these parts determine how the arrow flies. For example, the shaft material can be wood, aluminum or carbon-fiber. Modern arrows mostly use carbon-fiber shafts. These carbon shafts are highly consistent from one to the next, thanks to advanced manufacturing. In fact, today’s carbon arrows are much more reliable and durable than old wooden shafts.

• Shaft: The long tube (carbon or aluminum) that forms the arrow’s body. Carbon shafts are light and strong, offering consistent flight.

• Nock: The rear plastic piece that clips onto the bowstring. A snug nock keeps the arrow in place before release.

• Fletching (Vanes/Feathers): Small fins that stabilize and spin the arrow in flight. Most arrows have three vanes (plastic) or feathers (traditional). These stabilize the arrow by creating drag at the back, keeping the arrow pointed straight.

• Point/Insert: The metal tip at the front. Hunting points (broadheads) are sharp for big game; target points (field points) are rounded for practice. Inserts are glued inside the shaft to hold the point and balance weight toward the front.

Understanding each part is crucial. For instance, a heavier front end (more weight in the tip) means more momentum and deeper penetration (good for hunting), while a lighter arrow flies faster. But heavier arrows also arc more and may need more aim adjustment. Similarly, the arrow’s diameter (how wide it is) affects wind resistance: smaller-diameter (4–5 mm) arrows experience less wind drift. All these factors play into choosing the right arrow.

Matching Arrows to Your Bow

Not every arrow works with every bow. You must match the arrow to your bow’s draw weight, draw length, and bow type (recurve, compound, longbow, etc.). Using the wrong arrow can be unsafe or inaccurate.

• Draw Length: Measure your draw length (how far you pull back the bowstring). Your arrows should be about 1 inch longer than this length, so you can draw safely. If an arrow is too short, it can slip off the string and cause injury.

• Draw Weight: This is how hard the bow is to pull. Heavier draw weights require stiffer arrows (higher spine numbers). Lighter bows can use weaker (more flexible) arrows.

• Bow Type: Traditional wooden bows may prefer full-diameter arrows, while modern compound bows often use high-tech carbon. Recurves and compounds have similar matching needs, but always follow the manufacturer’s charts. For example, a 60 lb compound might use a 300–400 spine arrow at 27″, whereas a 30 lb recurve would use a much weaker spine.

How do I know which arrows to get for my bow? A simple way is to use an arrow selection chart or calculator from a reliable archery shop. These tools ask for your draw length, draw weight, arrow length, and point weight to suggest a spine. Archery pros also recommend sticking to brand spine charts. As one guide explains: “Choosing the right arrow involves considering draw length and weight. The arrow must be long enough to be safely drawn… and the arrow’s spine must match the bow’s draw weight”. In other words, always pick arrows from a chart for your bow’s specs, or consult a local pro shop.

How can you best match your arrow to your bow? Start by measuring and noting your draw length and weight. Then pick an arrow spine that matches. For example, Gold Tip’s chart says a 400 spine arrow (fairly stiff) is good for ~60 lb draw at 27″. If you have a 60 lb bow and a 27″ draw length, Gold Tip recommends 400 spine (but if your arrow is longer, you might need 340 spine). Always adjust if you use a different arrow length or heavier points. As Archery 360 notes, “the higher the draw weight and longer the arrow or heavier the point, the stiffer (lower number) spine you need”.

In practice, many shops let you provide your bow specs to get cut arrows. A custom-cut arrow will match your exact length. Always double-check: an arrow that’s the wrong spine can flex too much or too little, leading to wobbly flight. Getting this right is one of the keys to accuracy.

Understanding Arrow Spine and Length

Arrow spine is a measure of stiffness. A lower spine number means a stiffer arrow (less bend), while a higher number is more flexible. For instance, a 300 spine is very stiff; a 500 spine is weaker (flexier). Matching spine to bow power is critical: if your arrow is too weak, it will flex wildly; too stiff, and it resists flexing at release. Either way, you’ll get an erratic flight.

What does arrow spine mean? Imagine shooting a rubber stick with a bow. A weak (flexible) stick will flop on release; a too-strong stick barely bends. Spine measures this bending. Archery experts say: “Arrow manufacturers offer spine charts… the higher the number, the weaker the spine. Matching spine to your equipment is critical for accuracy”.

What poundage is a 400 spine arrow good for? There’s no one-size answer, but we can give a guideline. As mentioned, Gold Tip says a 400 spine arrow is suitable for a 60 lb draw at 27″ with a standard point. In practice, roughly speaking, a 400 spine arrow often works for *mid- to high-*draw-weight setups (~50–60 lb) on a medium arrow length. If your draw weight is lower (30–40 lb), you’d need a higher spine number (weaker arrow). If higher (>60 lb), go lower spine (stiffer arrow). Always check your arrow maker’s chart for your exact setup.

How long should your arrows be? Arrows are typically cut to just above your draw length. For safety, they should be at least as long as your draw length or a bit more. A common rule is one inch longer than your draw. Remember, an arrow too short can fly off the shelf; an arrow too long just adds a tiny bit of weight. You can always trim arrows later if needed.

4 mm vs 5 mm Arrows – Which is Better?

You might wonder if thinner 4 mm arrows are better than thicker 5 mm ones. Thinner (micro-diameter) arrows do have some advantages: because they present less surface area to the wind, they experience less wind drift. As one archery source explains, thinner arrows are “far less affected by cross-winds”. In theory, that means 4 mm arrows hold their line slightly better in the breeze. Thinner arrows can also be a bit lighter, which means more speed.

However, thicker arrows aren’t without benefits. A 5 mm (or larger) arrow has more room for a larger insert and can handle heavy broadheads without as much risk of splitting. Some find full-size arrows more durable and easier to fletch or repair. In practice, both sizes work fine if built to the right spine. For example, Victory’s micro 0.166″ (about 4.2 mm ID) VAP arrows are famed for speed and wind resistance, while traditional 5 mm arrows like Gold Tip Hunters offer extreme toughness.

Bottom line: Use the diameter that fits your rig. If you have a powerful bow and shoot long distances, a micro-diameter arrow (4 mm) might give a slight edge in arrow flight. If you value durability or need heavier arrow options, a thicker arrow will do the job. Both can be accurate when matched properly.

Budget vs. Premium Arrow Choices

When shopping for arrows, you’ll see both budget-friendly sets and high-end shafts. What do you really pay extra for? In general, premium arrows (like high-end carbon or exotic alloy shafts) offer: very tight tolerances (spine and weight sorted), advanced materials (like layered carbon weaves), and longevity. For example, the Carbon Express Mayhem uses a patented weave and precision sorting to achieve “360° spine consistency” and laser-checked straightness. This means every arrow in the pack flies the same.

Budget arrows can still be quite good, especially for beginners. They use simpler carbon or aluminum construction. They might have slightly looser tolerances (±0.006″ straightness instead of ±0.003″), which usually isn’t noticeable for casual shooting. A budget arrow might flex slightly differently arrow-to-arrow, but many newer budget carbon shafts are remarkably consistent for their price. For example, Easton’s lower-priced shafts still use uniform carbon tech, just not the flashiest features.

Key differences: Premium often has fancier finishes (like camo or special vane patterns), lighter weight for speed, or thicker walls for durability. Budget arrows focus on value and may cost 30–50% less. For a beginner, budget arrows are a smart start—you can get a good carbon shaft pack for $40–$80. If you find archery is a long-term hobby, you might later “upgrade” to a premium arrow for the last 5% of performance. But remember: perfect form and tuning are more important than arrow label.

Arrow Maintenance Tips

Once you have your arrows, take care of them and they’ll last a long time. Inspect regularly. Before every shoot, glance down your arrows for cracks, dents, or splintered carbon. A damaged shaft can break under tension. The fletching (vanes/feathers) can peel up over time; if a vane is torn or loose, replace it. Same with nocks – if a nock looks cracked or fits loosely on the string, swap it out.

As one archery guide advises: “Proper maintenance of your arrows is essential… Regularly inspecting for shaft bends, cracks, or damage to the fletching can prevent in-flight failures. Replacing worn components… can extend the life of your arrows.”. In short, don’t shoot a visibly cracked or bent arrow! Also, avoid storing arrows in extreme heat or allowing them to get wet and dry quickly; keep them in a quiver or case.

A simple way to check straightness is to roll each arrow shaft on a flat table. If it wobbles, it’s bent. Bent arrows should be retired (reuse as crafts or DIY). As a beginner, make it a habit: inspect, fletch-check, nock-check before each session. A little maintenance goes a long way toward safe shooting and good form.

Top Beginner Arrow Reviews & Comparison

Below are four popular arrow sets that beginners often consider. Each is sold as a dozen (12 arrows) or a 6-pack (we note the price as given). We highlight the price, key features, and why you might choose each. (Prices approximate USP and include our affiliate tag for easy shopping. See links to buy or learn more.)

Each arrow set above comes with everything needed to shoot (just add points and fletch as needed). We recommend measuring your draw and bow specs before ordering. The Easton and Gold Tip arrows are sold by 12-pack, while Victory and Carbon Express are 6-pack (prices doubled for 12). All links include our affiliate tag for convenience.

Quick Tips (Pinterest Infographic Summary)

• Measure First: Know your draw length and bow weight before picking arrows. Aim arrows ~1″ longer than your draw.

• Match Spine to Power: Use an arrow spine chart. Stiffer arrows (lower number) suit heavier bows. For example, Gold Tip recommends 400 spine for a 60 lb draw at 27″.

• Size Matters: Thinner carbon arrows (4 mm) get slightly less wind drift; thicker arrows handle broadheads better. Choose based on your needs.

• Inspect Often: Check arrows before each use. Look for cracks or nock damage. Replace worn nocks/vane. Good maintenance prevents accidents.

• Budget vs Premium: Entry-level carbon arrows (like Easton 6.5) save money with good quality. High-end models (like Victory VAP or CX Mayhem) offer extra consistency and tech.

• Materials: Most modern shafts are carbon for reliability. Aluminum arrows are cheaper but heavier/slower. Wood is mostly for tradition.

(Feel free to pin this checklist for easy reference!)

More on Bows and Gear

If you’re new to archery, remember bows and arrows go hand-in-hand. For bow selection tips, check out our Beginner’s Bow Buying Guide. Once you’ve picked a bow, come back here to match it with the perfect arrows. Happy shooting, and don’t forget: the right arrow choice is key to a great shot!

FAQs

• How do I know which arrow size and spine to buy? Measure your draw length and get your bow’s draw weight. Use an online arrow selector or spine chart for your exact specs. As noted, “Choosing the right arrow… the arrow must be long enough to be safely drawn… and the arrow’s spine must match the bow’s draw weight”.

• What does arrow spine number mean? It’s the stiffness rating. A lower number (e.g. 300) is very stiff, a higher number (e.g. 500) is more flexible. Matching spine to bow power is crucial: too weak an arrow means erratic flex; too stiff, and the arrow under-flexes.

• Is 4 mm or 5 mm better? Neither is strictly better – it depends on your setup. Thinner carbon arrows (around 4 mm) give less wind drag, while thicker arrows (~5 mm) may offer more durability and work well with broadheads. Both can be accurate ifthe  spine and length are correct.

• What poundage is a 400 spine arrow good for? Roughly a 400 spine arrow suits a 60 lb compound bow at ~27″ draw length (with standard points). If your bow is weaker, use a higher spine; if stronger or your arrows are longer/heavier, use a lower spine.

• How often should I check my arrows? Inspect them before every session. Roll each shaft on a flat surface to spot bends. Check that nocks and fletching are intact. Replace any arrow with cracks or loose parts immediately. This quick check is a good habit for safety and accuracy.

• Are lighter or heavier arrows better? Lighter arrows fly faster and hit flatter, which can improve speed. Heavier arrows carry more kinetic energy and penetration (good for hunting), but they arc more. Beginners should pick an arrow weight suitable for their purpose (e.g. middleweight for general use) and ensure it stays within recommended ranges.

By following these tips and selecting arrows with the right specs, you’ll be setting yourself up for more fun and success in archery. Safe shooting and enjoy the adventure!

Sources: Trusted archery guides and manufacturer specs have been used throughout to ensure accuracy and reliability. Archery Warehouse, Archery 360, Wing and Tail Outdoors.