Heavier Arrows or More FPS?

[highside74]

The question:  When shooting game larger than a deer, i.e. elk, what is more important?  Speed or weight? 

Some of the reading I've done leads me to believe a heavier arrow is better because it is slower and quieter whereas a lighter arrow is faster and noisier.

It's not about speed or noise it is about energy down range.

Swing a plastic bat fast and hit a baseball. Then swing a wood bat slow and hit that same baseball. The heavier bat even though moving slower carries more energy. Same with arrows. Heavier is always better at slow speeds such as your 217fps. When the arrow gets to its target you want as much energy stored as possible. When you start gaining speeds above 270 or so fps then you can mess with lighter vs heavier but not now.   

[tgomez]

I wouldn't want a heavier arrow if my set up was only 217fps. A heavy arrow out of a slow bow will drop like a rock. For instance take your bow and look at your pin gaps, then take a fast bow and look at the pin gaps. Once you get past 40 yards your gap will get greater and greater. I preffer speed over weight, but to each there own. 24.5 inch draw is a short draw length, so your speed will suffer a little. Just know your effective range with your set-up and don't press the issue whether you choose speed or weight. Best of luck to you.

[dreamunelk]

I prefer a heavier FOC.  That said there is a lot on information and opinions on the web.  I would change to a higher quality arrow and then shoot for a FOC of 12-15%.  You are shooting slow so a little more will make a difference down range. 
I also suggest you do some research and go with what you think you will be comfortable with.  It really comes down to what your personal choice and ethics. 

[coachcw]

About balance and pin gap . 420_460 ,grains 270/290 fps should be a sweet spot