An arrow is a shaft tipped with either a field point or broadhead on one end and a fletching and a nock on the other. Each arrow has a threaded end where you can screw the broadhead or field point in place. The wrong combination of field point or broadhead and arrow will surely result in inaccurate shots.
Types of Crossbow Arrows
Choosing the right crossbow arrows for your crossbow can be a challenging yet exciting task as it can be a bit technical. Finding the right one depends on the draw weight, the power stroke and brand of crossbow you are using. Most crossbow companies include minimum arrow length & weight in the package you have chosen to use with the crossbow. Using an arrow shorter or lighter than recommended by your manufacturer can result in a broken crossbow or worse, a rogue arrow.
Types by materials:
Aluminum Arrows - Most common. Tend to bend or break over time
Carbon Arrows - More durable and lighter than aluminum arrows
Mixed with Aluminum and Carbon
PolyLactic Acid Arrows - Fully biodegradable
Nocks are also important when choosing arrows. Crossbows are different and
need either flat, moon, fill moon or capture nocks. You must keep this in mind
when buying.
Arrow Length and Weight
As mentioned earlier, choosing the right length and weight is important. Choosing the wrong
one can be a huge safety issue. Crossbow arrows come in different lengths ranging from 16 inches to 22 inches. You will need to refer to your crossbows user manual or the manufacturer.
Arrow Vanes
Vanes or fletching are the wings of your arrow and keep arrows flying straight. Without fletching, an arrow will not fly as far as and can’t deviate from its indented target. It is important that you take utmost care when handling, installing or removing fletching. If these become bent or broken you can bet you will not hit your target no matter how accurate you are.
Assembling Arrows
When assembling, remember to use the right amount of pressure, especially when inserting broadheads or fletching. Applying too much force when removing or installing the fletching can damage the integrity of the
crossbow arrow. It is recommended to align the blades of your broadhead to the fletching as much as possible for maximum performance.