Proper Arrow Length

[Wanttohuntmore]

For the last 6 yrs, I've been using arrows that are 2" longer than what I could cut them too.  Is there any negative effects from having too long of arrow?  They shoot great, but will they shoot better if shorter?  I know they weigh more, which I don't care about either way, the extra 20 grains doesn't bother me either plus or minus.  I'm more concerned about the accuracy...  Reason I cut them long, was so that everyone in camp could use the other's arrows if needed, but with all the differences now, I'm considering cutting them back the 2 inches if it'll gain me some accuracy.  Now that my season's are done this year, I'm feigning on hunting and already planning next year's hunts!!!!!!!!  Going stir crazy!  Thanks!

[Annette]

Have you been shooting the same bow for 6 years?

[skynyr]

With all of the variances of today's equipment I'd let the other guys buy their own stuff. The arrow needs to be tuned to the bow it is being fired from to be accurate. The slightest change can alter the point of impact substantially therefore the idea of a universal arrow is a lost cause. Sure they may be able to shoot it but they will most likely have to adjust their arrowrest and/or sights (if sights are used). As far as the extra two inches is concerned, I wouldn't be concerned if your getting good flight. After all the heavier the arrow, the more efficicient it is which in turn makes it easier on the bow. Less weight translates to more vibration. If your not getting good groups then I'd consider adjusting the length (spine) to find that happy medium. You don't want the arrow too stiff and you don't want it to be too flexible either.  That's my  anyway.

[skynyr]

Or you might want to consider this program, it helped me clean up my arrow tuning immensely. It was well worth the money imo.     http://www.thearcheryprogram.com/

[Wanttohuntmore]

Thanks for the replies.  Yes, bow is 6 yrs old this year, and these arrows were tuned (bare shaft tuned by me) WB rest, and shot both with field points and broadheads closely matching now.  Mostly was wondering how much the extra length would affect tuning.  The other 2 bows were also tuned with the same arrows.  I keep thinking of upgrading my Martin Phantom II to a Mathews or Bowtech, but haven't shot one yet, and am afraid to!!!  That said, with my setup on range I'm very comfortable out to 60 yds.

[Todd_ID]

I'd leave well enough alone if you're happy with the accuracy.  2 inches means about 18-20 grains of weight you'd be giving up, and that's not overly desirable.  It also means added stiffness in the arrow; that's generally not a major problem, but it's working now, so why mess with it? 

[D-Rock425]

I like to keep the tip of my arrows in front of my riser that way you don't put yourself at risk while shooting broadheads

[CRITTERSTICKER]

with cutting off 2 inches and losing the weight your arrows may hit a tad high if you are concerned with tuning..but like others have posted, a lighter arrow means more vibration when releasing the arrow..i would cut an arrow or two and experiment before making wholesale changes.

[Charlie]

  That said, with my setup on range I'm very comfortable out to 60 yds.

"If it ain't broke, don't try to fix it" Sounds like it "Ain't broke".

[coachcw]

It weekens the spine a bit , but if you shoot broad heads well no real need to change .

[NWWABOWHNTR]

as you shorten the arrow the arrow will become more stiff if you keep the same point weight. So if they shoot well where you have them... why cut them?  If you decide to go to a shorter arrow,  try bareshaft tuning one first and see how they shoot.  Might have to swicth to a weaker spined arrow to get it to fly right or a heavier grain point

[coachcw]

Yeah what he said . you may try a penitration test aswell at twenty yards a stable arrow will hit harder even if both seem to fly good , What kind of poundage due you shoot?