I picked up a dozen shafts to build my hunting arrows and was wondering what the best way to add weight. I'd like a finished weight of at least 450 gr, and at this point with the 125gr slick tricks I'm coming out ~425. I figured I'd just go with brass inserts but was wondering if I'm missing something?

I got in a practice session last night at dusk. Sure is a challenge when you have trouble making out your aiming point on the target. Shot the last group at 40 yds and was pretty happy to have three in about a 4" circle, but one flyer opening it up to paper plate size group.

I'm not sure another 25 grains is worth the effort.

Most of the time adding weight for bigger more complicated species is 100 grains or more.

I don't think In all the game I have shot with weights from 425 475 I could notice anything different or better. There is a huge difference from 380 to 525 plus though.

Jim,

If I decided to go 500+ gr route, what would you suggest for adding the weight? I might just build 1/2 doz ~425 gr, and 1/2 doz 500+. Also do you foot the insert on the heavier arrows?

This is the only way I have ever done it


http://www.3riversarchery.com/3Rivers+Arrow+Weight+Tubes_i6731X_baseitem.html

It's simple for guys that build their own arrows, a bit tougher to add to a shaft with already glued inserts. However I have done it from the nock end when I do not glue in the nocks.

I actually don't glue in my nocks any longer so it's much easier that way.

BTW,

I assume that this is a practice head. The blades and tip are a good example a fine camera work!

Jim,

Random net image. Just wondering if it's necessary to foot the insert to strengthen the arrow.

Bear in mind that adding a bunch of weight to the front end will weaken the spine of the arrow

More weight up front doesn't weaken the spine, but it can require a stiffer arrow.

I figure I'll build up 3 ea with brass inserts and weight tubes, and see which group best.

This is the reason I have always used the full length weight I linked above. It does not change the balance point, much if at all.

It also does not change the spine or create balance ( in regard to spin) issues that an out of round connection at one end might create.

Absolutely it weakens spine. Dynamic spine is based on static spine, front weight and energy.

Kent

I have added weed eater line to inside of shaft to add some weight

worked well

I'm at 409g with 100g slick tricks magnums. I'm targeting Kansas bucks and my bow has been tuned for these arrows. I don't want to screw up the bow and arrow system that is working, but do you think that adding weight to my arrows via the tubes from 3 rivers would be smart? Would it require re-tuning? And if it were smart to add weight...how much?

Leave the arrow alone. You have plenty of weight. I run a 375 grn arrow setup and I know that at 40 yds or less it's going to do its job.

Thanks Harlon. That is what I needed to kmow.