Aluminum vs Carbon Arrows – Which is Better?

Can’t figure out what material to choose for your arrows?

Don’t lose your mind wading through hundreds of lengthy and confusing reviews. We’ve found that one is excellent for beginners and the other for those who want something more durable. 

We’ll tell you everything you need to know without making it overly complicated and complex!

TL;DR: Aluminum vs Carbon Arrows

If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick summary of the information we’ll cover: 

What Are Aluminum Arrows and When Did They Start Being Used?

Product makers often use aluminum because it is cheaper. In 1939, James Easton created an arrow shaft with this material. Many archers still have this equipment today because people have tested them for decades. 

Before this invention, people made arrows with wood. For thousands of years, this material was the go-to. However, archers found their equipment would warp and break. Easton solved this problem by using a sturdier material that was still cost-effective. 

Some people still use wooden arrows today. But most archers only choose these arrows when they’re feeling nostalgic, and aluminum is much more common. This material isn’t the most popular on the market today, but many people love its accuracy and price point. 

What Are Carbon Arrows and When Did They Start Being Used?

Eventually, archers grew tired of how heavy and slow aluminum arrows are. This need for speed led to the invention of carbon arrows. This product has since become the most popular type on the market. 

Carbon arrows are still relatively new, only about 30 years old. Despite being more expensive, people are willing to buy them because they are stronger and faster than aluminum ones. 

This equipment also has deeper penetration. Next to accuracy, this factor is the most critical in choosing an arrow, especially for hunters. 

Relevant Characteristics Between Aluminum and Carbon Arrows

Here’s a quick break down comparing aluminum and carbon arrows: 

Similarities and Differences

Now that you know the history of these arrows, we’ll explain the differences between them. Both arrows have advantages and disadvantages. Learning about these factors will help you decide which arrow is best for you.

Let’s get started!

Aluminum and Carbon Arrow Differences

First, let’s discuss how they’re different:

Weight

Carbon arrows are much lighter than aluminum ones. With this reduced weight, you get a much faster shot. However, remember that speed isn’t the most critical factor in an arrow. 

Having an incredibly fast arrow is enticing, sure. But speed only matters if you’re already an accurate shot. Speed can be helpful if you're hunting a quick animal, but you also need to consider other factors, such as penetration. 

Durability

If you’re looking for a strong arrow, carbon is the way to go. These arrows are more flexible and have less vibration, making them less likely to weaken. 

Aluminum arrows are much weaker and bend easily. You will need to straighten them often. They will need extra care or to be replaced often. 

Reusability

Because they’re weaker, you won’t be able to reuse aluminum arrows as much. If you are very careful with them, you can stretch out the usability. However, you will simply never be able to use them for as long as a carbon arrow. 

Sizes

Aluminum arrows have a lot more size options than carbon arrows do. These extra options allow archers to fine-tune their arrows to a near-perfect fit for their bodies and needs. 

Penetration

If you want to hunt animals with thick hides, you should consider using carbon arrows. Because they’re sturdier, they can penetrate more deeply. 

Aluminum and Carbon Arrow Similarities

Next, we’re going to cover a few areas where these two arrows are more similar:

Aluminum arrows are just as accurate as carbon arrows. Of course, accuracy will vary depending on many other factors, including how experienced an archer is. But you will get the same results shooting a carbon arrow as you will an aluminum one under the same conditions. 

Pros and Cons of Aluminum Arrows

So, what are the pros and cons of aluminum arrows? 

Pro: Lower Price

While prices have increased, aluminum arrows are still cheaper than carbon alternatives. A tight budget may mean these arrows are the way to go. 

However, you should only buy these products if you know you can take good care of them. For this reason, new archers may struggle with this option. 

Con: Easily Bend

These arrows bend easily, and you have to straighten them often. Shooting a bent arrow can cause a stress crack, which can lead to shattering. 

When an arrow breaks, you can be hit and severely injured. If you choose to go with this type of arrow, make sure to inspect it for bends before every use. 

Pro: Easier to Remove From Target

Pulling out an arrow that is deep into a target can cause damage if you aren’t careful. Because aluminum arrows are thicker, they are easier to remove. 

You can safely remove carbon arrows as long as you go slowly. However, if you have difficulty with this process, aluminum arrows might be best. 

Con: Slower

Many archers dislike aluminum arrows because they are slow. The heavier an arrow is, the slower it shoots.  

Speed is never necessary for target archery and very rarely while bow hunting. However, that doesn’t mean people don’t want fast arrows. Shooting a fast arrow gives you an adrenaline rush. If you’re looking for this excitement, you might not want an aluminum arrow. 

Pro: Won’t Crack in the Cold

While it is sturdier than aluminum, carbon is prone to cracking in colder climates. This problem leads to shattering when you shoot and can be very dangerous. 

You can avoid being injured by inspecting your arrows before shooting. However, if you want to avoid this issue altogether, aluminum arrows are a better option. 

Take-Away

If you’re just getting into archery, consider going with aluminum. You may not know how to maintain or shoot your equipment correctly yet, and you're most likely going to lose some arrows. So, you don’t want to spend a lot of money on carbon arrows only to have to turn around and replace them. 

You should also consider these products if you plan on shooting in cold climates. Carbon arrows tend to shatter under these conditions, so they’re not the best option. 

Pros and Cons of Carbon Arrows

Now let’s move on to carbon arrows. What are the pros and cons? 

Pro: More Durable

Carbon arrows are a lot stronger than other alternatives. Instead of bending like aluminum, it returns to the original shape. You can abuse this type without worrying about them breaking. 

Con: More Expensive

There’s no getting around it: carbon arrows are more expensive than other materials. This factor turns a lot of archers away because they simply can’t afford them.

However, these arrows will last longer. If you find yourself constantly replacing your aluminum arrows, carbon may be an investment worth making. 

Pro: Deeper Penetration

Carbon arrows will stick further into your target. This penetration makes this type fantastic for hunting. You won’t have to worry about getting through an animal's thick fur and skin with this product. 

Your bow can handle more types of carbon arrows because they straighten out quickly after bending when fired. So, your bow will only need minor adjustments to switch between sizes. 

Take-Away

If you want a strong arrow that can take a lot of abuse, carbon arrows are your best bet. You’ll need to spend a little more, but it’s worth it for a long-lasting product. This type works fabulously for hunting because it has deep penetration. If you’re after an animal with thick fur or hide, you’ll want to use carbon arrows. Or, if you want the adrenaline rush that comes with shooting very quickly, go with these. 

What About Full Metal Jacket Arrows?

Full metal jacket (FMJ) arrows have carbon inside, with aluminum covering. While this alternative is even more expensive, archers love that it combines the pros of the other two types. 

The thick-wall core ensures substantial penetration, durability, and accuracy. The metal jacket provides a consistent spine and straightness. These arrows also have reduced vibration, are easily removed and have a permanent finish. 

Typically archers switch from carbon to these arrows because they’re worried about shattering. But, a lot of people have trouble with FMJs because they tend to bend.  

Factors to Consider Before Choosing an Arrow Type

Here are a few things aspects to consider when choosing an arrow type:

Experience Level

If you’re just starting your archery journey, you’re probably going to lose a few arrows along the way. While you’re still learning proper techniques, you might want to purchase cheaper equipment that you won’t care about replacing. 

As you get more confident, you can choose to spend more money. You’ll be much more likely to break an arrow the more you practice. 

What You’re Shooting

What you're shooting will change what's most vital for you in an arrow. If you’re bow hunting, penetration will be more important to you than it would be if you were only target shooting. 

On the other hand, potential cracking in cold weather won’t matter to you if you plan to shoot targets inside. 

When and Why Would I Use Aluminum Arrows?

Use aluminum arrows if you’re on a tight budget and want to target shoot. Your wallet will smile at the lower price. Plus, you’ll have no trouble removing these thick arrows. 

However, unless you want to spend more money replacing them, you’re going to need to be careful. Inspect your arrows for bends every time you go to shoot. If you find one, straighten it out. You should also avoid hitting hard objects. 

When and Why Would I Use Carbon Arrows?

You should buy carbon arrows if you want to spend more money on a durable product and plan to bow hunt. These products are sturdier and have deeper penetration. So, you won’t constantly be bending your arrow. Plus, you'll be able to down even the thickest-furred animal. 

Only buy these arrows if you plan to shoot in warm areas where you won’t have to worry as much about cracking. Always inspect your equipment for damage before using it. 

Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind

Here are a few considerations to think about when buying arrows:

Arrow Length

You need an arrow that is the correct size for your bow. To figure out how long your arrow should be, nock your arrow and then draw your bow. Have someone measure from the end of the shaft to one and a half to two inches from the rest. 

The longer an arrow is, the safer it is. More experienced archers may choose to go with a shorter arrow to increase speed. 

Arrow Weight

Bottom Line

Aluminum arrows are fantastic if you’re new to archery or live somewhere cold. These products are cheap and easy to pull out of your target. However, you’ll find they’re slow and bend easily.

On the other hand, carbon arrows work well for hunters or anyone looking for speed. This equipment is stronger with better penetration. However, it is more expensive and has fewer sizes available. 

No matter which you choose, you’ll make an accurate shot if you know what you’re doing. So pick the best option for your needs and get shooting!