Bare shaft tuning results!

[ontariohunter]

I bought a few arrow test kits for bare shaft tuning. I bought black eagle trad arrows (400/500/600 spines with many different point weights).

After many many hours of trying different spines, point weights, shaft lengths, shooting at 10/20/30yds - I ended up with 3 different arrow configuration that worked great. One of those stood out above and beyond, and that’s why I am here to share those results and get some thoughts.

Bow: Fred Bear Super Kodiak #30 60”, 37-38lbs at my draw.

Arrow configuration that flew “the best”:
Weight: 560 grains overall
Grains per pound of draw: 14.9
Point: 200 grain field point with 50 grain brass insert
FOC: 21%
Length: 33 (end of insert to throat of nock) - 2 inches longer than my 31” draw

This arrow setup is for learning trad archery. I am not hunting yet, I am getting my feet under me still. I will be buying a new #40+ bow for hunting season and will build a new setup.

My opinion, the arrows seem heavy and my FOC is higher than I’d like. However, this was the configuration I got to fly the best (like really well at all different ranges consistently).

Should I be happy that my bareshafts fly really well and move on? Should I try and find a way to lower FOC and arrow weight with another configuration?

I know this may spark some debates as many folks see these things differently, but I’m open to the convo! Learning here and want to soak it all in.

[bowmaster12]

Only reason to change would be if you arent happy with the arrow trajectory at the distances you shoot.  Otherwise there is no negative to heavy total arrow weight and high foc imo.  Each peraon has trajectory that the are willing to except.  The main thing is you hit where you aim and the arrow is straight when it hits there.  Im a fan of heavy foc and total weight because the arrow flight i get.

[the rifleman]

This is a very heavy arrow for your bow.  You'll notice a significant drop beyond 20 couple yards.  But you indicated that it was for learning trad and if you're ok w it and shooting 20 and in working on form I'd say it's a start.  I think you'd be much happier getting a 600 or 700 spine arrow to tune w less tip weight for around 10gpp.  But again, it's all up to you.

[JamesD]

I come from the heavy side of arrows. 560 isn't too heavy in my opinion. I have a 30.5" draw and currently shoot 41# @ 30". I shoot wood arrows with 290 up front (30 5/8" BOP). They weigh from 750 - 815 grains. My bow seems to really like 770 - 790 grains. 20-21% FOC.

[tzolk]

I shoot around 21% + foc and am pretty happy with my set up as well. What spine is the arrow that stood out? What are the other two setups and spines? I bet your bow is quiet with that 560 gr arrow.