Shorter or Longer Arrow - Any Difference
Contributors to this thread:Equipment
From: Dave S
05-Jan-09
Is a longer arrow 29" or shorter 27" of the same brand better in flight ( stability, penetration, ect...) I have 29" arrows now but I could go to 27 or 26.5" any benifits one way or another ?
From: neverdull
05-Jan-09
your longer arrow will have a weaker spine than the shorter one, you probably will not notice to much differance between the two unless you change the weight of your points.
From: x-man
05-Jan-09
It's not that simple. Your bow(draw length, draw weight, cam type, IBO speed rating, ect...), combined with your point weight dictate a specific spine rating that will provide optimum arrow flight. Only then can we answer your question.
From: Scout 24
07-Jan-09
I just cut my Axis shafts back 2" also to fit a new bow. Definately stiffened it up abit and the 17 grain weight loss picked up 4fps. I only cut one initially to see how they would fly. The shortie grouped right with the longer shafts.
From: LongbowBob
07-Jan-09
You wouldn't go elk hunting with a .17 Rem even though the bullet goes 4000+ fps. You would pick a slower and heavier bullet, balancing out speed and bullet weight. It is the same thing with archery. A heavier arrow will penetrate better, even at a lower speed. Your choice, speed or penetration.
LBB
From: Purdue
07-Jan-09
The shorter arrow will be lighter and therefore faster off the bow.
The longer heavier arrow will retain its velocity better than the lighter arrow.
The shorter, faster arrow will have more drag therefore reducing penetration.
The longer arrow will flex more upon impact, therefore reducing penetration.
The shorter arrow will have a slightly higher FOC.
The longer arrow might allow for a larger broadhead (guillotine).
Not a dimes worth of difference for the average hunting situation assuming both arrow's spines are correct for your setup.
Good luck.