Arrow Safety - Benson Archery

Carbon arrow safety is crucial for every archer, whether you're shooting in the backyard or tuning a high-performance hunting setup. At Benson Archery, we always remind shooters that carbon arrows can fail if they’re not properly inspected, maintained, or matched to the bow’s draw weight. Brands like Easton Arrows, Victory Arrows, and Carbon Express make incredibly strong and reliable shafts, but even the best arrows must be checked regularly to ensure they’re safe to shoot.

One of the most important steps is flex testing. Before you nock an arrow, gently flex it while listening for cracking or splintering sounds. If you feel any odd vibration, hear a tick, or see lines forming along the shaft, the arrow should be discarded immediately. Carbon failures typically happen along micro-cracks you can’t see without testing, which is why flexing every arrow, especially after a miss or hard impact, is essential.

Always inspect your arrows after shooting. Look closely at the shaft, nock, and insert area. If an arrow strikes a hard object, another arrow, or even the ground at an angle, it can develop hidden damage. Running your fingers along the shaft can help detect raised fibres, soft spots, or dents. A damaged carbon arrow can explode on release, sending sharp splinters into your hand or arm, so it’s never worth the risk.

Matching your arrows to your bow is another major safety factor. As a general guideline, carbon arrows should meet the minimum grains per pound recommended for your compound bow, most manufacturers specify 5 grains per pound (gpp) as an absolute minimum. For example, a 70-lb bow requires a minimum 350-grain finished arrow. Shooting too light can cause excessive stress on limbs and cams, potentially damaging the bow and creating a dangerous situation. Quality shafts from Easton, Victory, and Carbon Express all offer options that easily meet safe weight requirements.

For the best safety, performance, and longevity, Benson Archery always recommends choosing the right spine, maintaining proper arrow weight, and routinely inspecting your gear. A few seconds of checking can prevent injury and keep your equipment performing at its peak.