How To Cut Carbon Arrows

Many archers prefer carbon arrows due to their specific advantages. They're not only lighter and faster but also highly durable and consistent. In some situations, they may need to be trimmed before use. The proper arrow length can impact your archery performance: too long or too short might throw off your accuracy, altering both trajectory and consistency.

Cutting arrows is not tricky, but it must be done correctly. This includes employing high-quality tools and abrasives. In this guide, our Benchmark Abrasives team explains how to cut carbon arrows for maximum performance.

WHAT ARE CARBON ARROWS, AND WHY ARE THEY SO POPULAR?

Carbon arrows are built mostly of carbon fiber, which is recognized for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This construction sets them apart from other types of arrows, such as aluminum or wood. Here's why they're such a popular choice among archers:

• Carbon arrows are lighter than many other materials, which can result in quicker arrow speeds when shot with a bow. This speed can result in a flatter trajectory and more accurate shots. 
• Carbon fiber is noted for its tenacity. Carbon arrows are resistant to bending, so they remain straight over time. Carbon arrows, as opposed to wooden or aluminum arrows, are less prone to warping and bending. 
• Each carbon arrow manufactured has a higher degree of homogeneity in weight and spine (the stiffness of the arrow) than arrows made of natural materials. This consistency can result in more predictable shots.
• Carbon arrows are compatible with a variety of bows, including recurves, compound bows, and longbows. This makes them an adaptable option for archers of many disciplines. 
• Many carbon arrows include customizable features, such as changeable nocks, allowing archers to tailor their equipment to their needs. 
• Because of these advantages, carbon arrows have grown popular among both recreational and competitive archers. They provide a mix of speed, strength, and consistency that is difficult to replicate with other materials.

SAFETY FIRST: PRECAUTIONS BEFORE CUTTING

 When cutting carbon arrows, you should prioritize safety. You shouldn't ignore a bowstring or an arrowhead, and you should remember the environment in which you work, too. Taking care can help to avoid accidents and ensure a suitable cutting procedure. Here is what you should bear in mind:

• Always wear protective eyewear to protect your eyes from carbon shards and dust. Gloves will not only protect your hands from accidental injuries but will also prevent any adverse reactions to the carbon dust. 
• Carbon dust can be hazardous if inhaled. To reduce risk, work in a well-ventilated room or outdoors. This will assist in dispersing any airborne particles, lowering the risk of inhalation. 
• Before you begin, clear your desk of any extra stuff. A neat environment reduces the likelihood of unintentional cuts, trips, and other catastrophes. Furthermore, it makes it easier to concentrate on the task at hand and make exact cuts.

HOW TO DETERMINE THE PROPER LENGTH FOR YOUR CARBON ARROWS

Finding the appropriate arrow length is critical for peak archery performance. An arrow that is too short or too long will degrade your accuracy and overall shooting experience. Here's a simple approach to finding the appropriate length for your carbon arrows:

To determine your draw length, stand with your arms spread out to your sides, producing a "T" shape. Measure the distance between the tips of one's middle fingers and divide it by 2.5. The result is your approximate draw length.

Pro Tip: Always add an extra inch or two to your desired draw length. This extra length provides a margin of safety, preventing your arrow from coming up too short during a complete draw. Furthermore, the additional length enables finer tuning adjustments if desired.

The type of bow you choose can influence your arrow length selection.

• Recurve Bows: For recurve bows, add one to three inches to the draw length. This guarantees that the arrow exits the bow safely, especially if you're using an arrow rest. 
• Compound Bows: These bows are more forgiving. Typically, adding an inch to your draw length is sufficient, but ask the bow's manufacturer or a reputable coach for precise recommendations.

MARKING AND PREPARING AN ARROW FOR CUTTING

Once you've calculated the proper length for your carbon arrow, mark and ready it for cutting. Proper preparation leads to a clean cut and accurate outcomes.

Using Tape To Mark The Desired Cut Location: Rather than marking directly on the arrow, which might result in permanent marks or scratches, use a small piece of tape. Place the tape around the shaft where you intend to cut. Then, using a pen or fine marker, draw a clean line across the tape. This improves visibility and lowers the possibility of errors during cutting.

Aligning The Arrow Shaft Properly With The Cutting Tool:  Before you begin cutting, make sure the arrow shaft is straight and aligned with the cutting tool. Secure the arrow in a firm place, ensuring it is level. For a straight cut, use a cutting tool, such as an arrow saw, with the blade perpendicular to the arrow. Check the alignment from numerous angles before beginning to verify precision.

By following these instructions, your arrow will be appropriately set up, making the cutting process more accessible and more exact.

HOW TO CUT CARBON ARROWS WITH AN ARROW SAW

Cutting carbon arrows demands precision, and an arrow saw is the preferred equipment for this purpose. These are the supplies you'll need:

• Benchtop miter saw, or cut-off saw.
• Cutting disc dimensions: 2" x 1/16" x 3/8" or 2" x 1/32" x 3/8". 
• High-grit silicon carbide sanding sheets. 
• Tabletop vice clamp. 
• To avoid exposure to carbon dust, wear protective glasses, gloves, and a mask.

Once you've determined where you want to cut, place the arrow on the saw's rest, ensuring that your indicated spot lines up with the blade. The arrow must be perpendicular to the blade. Most miter or abrasive saws include an incorporated vice clamp; if yours does not, use a separate desktop vice to hold the arrow in place.

As you place the arrow in the clamp, lower the saw's adjustable arm to match the cutting disc edge with the shaft's indicated endpoint. Position the shaft slightly downwards to provide a safety margin, ensuring that the disc contacts just beyond the measuring line and towards the tip of the arrow. This precaution allows for any future adjustments. Then follow these steps:

• Turn on the arrow saw and let it reach maximum speed before you begin cutting. 
• Pull down on the lever to guide the disc gradually through the arrow shaft. 
• Maintain consistent pressure, allowing the saw to operate without force. Ensure that the arrow stays straight during the cut. If you encounter opposition, slow down and realign. A steady, controlled motion is essential for a clean, smooth edge. 
• After cutting, turn off the saw and inspect the cut end of the arrow. It should be level and smooth, with no rough edges.
  

Your arrow has now been precisely cut and is ready for further tuning, fletching, or immediate usage. 

HOW TO CUT CARBON ARROWS WITH A ROTARY CUTTER

A rotary cutter is a fast-spinning handheld multitool that can cut through a variety of materials. To avoid the deformation of carbon arrows during the cut, make sure your rotary cutter has a circular carbide blade.

Begin by collecting the following supplies:

• Rotary cutter equipped with a circular carbide blade. 
• C-clamp
• Safety glasses
• Face mask

Begin by placing the rotary cutter horizontally on the edge of your work area, ensuring that the blade is upright and extends beyond the table's edge. To ensure stability, use a g-clamp to secure the rotary cutter to your workplace. This guarantees it remains stationary while in use. Then follow these steps: 

• Turn on the rotary cutter while wearing your safety gear. Once it has reached maximum speed, line the arrow with the previously drawn marks. 
• Gently press the arrow shaft against the blade, allowing it to cut through the carbon. Push the arrow into the blade until it emerges from the opposite side. If you have difficulty cutting the arrow straight through, gently spin it while it is against the blade. This rotation frequently results in a smoother cut.

HOW TO USE A DREMEL TO CUT CARBON ARROWS

Using a Dremel can make cutting carbon arrows easier. When used correctly, this small yet effective tool guarantees a precise and tidy cut. The following supplies are required:

• Dremel tool 
• cutting wheel attachment 
• grinding wheel attachment
• safety glasses 
• face mask

After placing the carbon arrow on a sturdy surface, fasten the Dremel's cutting wheel to it. Next, execute the subsequent actions:

• Make a notch in the arrow shaft, ideally in the middle of the distance from tip to nock. This first notch serves as a reference and guarantees precision in the following stages. 
• The grinding wheel attachment should be used in place of the cutting wheel. Expand the previously created notch gradually, making sure it's big enough to fit the Dremel's blade.
• Turn on the Dremel after making sure the blade fits firmly into the notch. With a firm hand and making sure the Dremel stays perpendicular to the arrow for a straight cut, start cutting into the arrow shaft. 
• Keep cutting until the entire arrow has been thoroughly chopped through.

HOW TO USE A PIPE CUTTER TO CUT CARBON ARROWS

Many enthusiasts use a pipe cutter to tweak their arrows. The following supplies are required:

• A pipe cutter with a keen edge 
• Clamp or vice 
• safety glasses

Make sure your pipe cutter's cutting blade is sharp and undamaged before beginning. This reduces the possibility of breaking the arrow by guaranteeing a neat and accurate cut. Following the inspection, align the pipe cutter's cutting blade with the intended cut area on the arrow shaft and proceed as follows:

• Cut the arrow. Turn the pipe cutter's handle in a gentle circular motion while applying pressure. The arrow will begin to imprint from the blade. 
• When you notice a noticeable resistance, which indicates that the blade has precisely sliced through the carbon shaft, keep moving the handle.

PROCEDURES AFTER CUTTING CARBON ARROWS

After cutting your carbon arrows, you must take care of the last details. These procedures guarantee your arrows' lifespan and safety in addition to their usefulness. Gather the following materials:

• Sanding sheets made of silicon carbide or an arrow-squaring tool 
• Clean rag or cloth 
• Isopropyl alcohol or a mild detergent 
• Magnifying glass or close examination tool (Optional)

• Square the Arrow's End

The end of the arrow might not be square after cutting. This may impact how well the parts you attach, like inserts or broadheads, fit and how well they fly. To make the end of the arrow absolutely square, carefully run the arrow squaring tool around it. Fine-grit sanding sheets can also be used in place of an arrow-squaring tool if you don't have one. Make sure the arrow is rotated consistently to achieve a level, even surface.

• Make the Arrow Clean

The next step is to clean the arrow shaft because carbon arrows can gather dust and residue after cutting. Using a clean cloth or rag, moisten it with isopropyl alcohol or a mild detergent solution. After that, carefully clean the entire arrow shaft, being sure to get rid of any carbon dust and leftover residue. Let the arrow air dry completely before storing or using it.

• Check for Cracks or Splinters

The integrity of the arrow may be compromised by splinters or cracks, which could make it risky to use. Examine the cut end visually, and if one is available, examine it up close with a magnifying glass or other instrument. If you find any splinters, fine-grit sandpaper can usually be used to smooth them down. However, it's best to throw that arrow away and refrain from using it if you see cracks, especially if they run lengthwise. Arrows with cracks may shatter when released, endangering people's safety.

• Putting the Nock And Insert Back In (If Removed) 

Reinstalling the nock and insert is the next step after cutting your carbon arrows to the correct length. Make sure they are positioned precisely and securely for the best results. The following are necessities:

• Epoxy or strong arrow adhesive 
• Nock turning or alignment tools (optional but preferred)
  

Put a tiny bit of arrow adhesive, also known as epoxy, on the insert and the inner rim of the arrow shaft. Make sure the insert fits flush with the end of the arrow as you carefully slip it into the shaft. Any misalignment might have an impact on broadhead fitting and arrow flight. As directed by the manufacturer, let the adhesive cure for the specified amount of time. By doing this, a solid bond between the insert and the arrow shaft is guaranteed.

Pro Tip: Verify the alignment before fitting the nock, particularly if your fletchings or vanes have a particular orientation. Turn the nock until it consistently lines up with the rest of your arrows, either by using a nock alignment tool or by comparing it to your other arrows. This guarantees that the flight characteristics of your arrow set are all the same.

CONCLUSION

Archery is a detail-oriented and precise sport. A well-maintained and adjusted set of equipment can significantly impact one's performance. This comprehensive tutorial offers insights into one of the most crucial elements for archers: the ideal length for an arrow.