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Arrow Guide

tips & tricks

For building the perfect arrow.

Preparation / Tip 01

Choose the Correct Spine

  • Always match the arrow spine to your draw weight, draw length, and point weight.
  • An underspined arrow may become difficult to tune and less forgiving.
  • An overspined arrow can reduce performance and consistency.
  • Always consult the AXIRA spine chart before purchasing shafts.

Preparation / Tip 02

Determine the Correct Arrow Length

  • Measure your arrow length at full draw.
  • Ensure the point extends safely beyond the arrow rest.
  • Avoid cutting arrows shorter than necessary.
  • Longer arrows weaken dynamic spine and increase overall weight.

Preparation / Tip 03

Inspect All Shafts Before Building

  • Check every shaft for cracks, dents, or manufacturing defects.
  • Verify straightness if possible.
  • Sort shafts by weight for maximum consistency.

Preparation / Tip 04

Cut Shafts Carefully

  • Use a dedicated arrow saw designed for carbon or aluminum shafts.
  • Wear eye protection and avoid inhaling carbon dust.
  • Rotate the shaft while cutting to achieve a cleaner and squarer cut.

Preparation / Tip 05

Square Both Ends of the Shaft

  • A perfectly square shaft improves insert and point alignment.
  • Even small imperfections can affect flight and long-range accuracy.

Preparation / Tip 06

Clean the Shaft Thoroughly

  • Remove all cutting dust from the inside and outside of the shaft.
  • Degrease surfaces before applying adhesives.

Assembly / Tip 07

Install Points, Inserts or Outserts Correctly

  • For modern carbon target arrows, a high-quality epoxy is generally considered the most reliable option for long-term durability and consistency.
  • Hot-melt like the Bohning Ferr-L-Tite Cool Flex is advised for points and inserts that may need to be removed or adjusted at a later moment. Please note not to apply heat directly to the shaft. Excessive heat can damage carbon shafts and weaken the bond between the carbon fibers and resin.
Installing with Hot Melt
  1. Clean the Shaft

    Remove all dust, grease, and debris from the inside of the shaft.

    A clean bonding surface ensures the strongest hold.

  2. Heat the Point or Insert

    Use a small torch, lighter, or alcohol burner.

    Heat the point or insert, not the carbon shaft.

    The component only needs to be warm enough to melt the adhesive.

  3. Apply the Hot Melt

    Rub the hot melt stick against the heated insert or point until a thin, even layer is applied.

    Avoid applying excessive adhesive.

  4. Install the Component

    Insert the point or insert into the shaft while slowly twisting.

    Twisting helps spread the adhesive evenly throughout the bonding surface.

  5. Align and Remove Excess Adhesive

    Immediately wipe off any excess adhesive that squeezes out.

    Check that the component is fully seated.

  6. Check Alignment

    Before the adhesive completely cools or dries, spin the arrow on an arrow spinner.

    If necessary, make small corrections while the adhesive is still warm.

  7. Allow to Cool

    Let the arrow cool for several minutes before handling or shooting.

Using Glue for Points and Inserts
  1. Clean the Components

    Clean the inside of the shaft and the insert or point with isopropyl alcohol.

    Remove all dust, grease, and residue.

    Allow the components to dry completely.

  2. Apply the Adhesive

    Apply a thin, even layer of adhesive around the insert or point shank.

    Avoid using excessive glue, as this can create air pockets and unnecessary weight variation.

  3. Install the Component

    Slowly insert the component while rotating it.

    Twisting helps distribute the adhesive evenly across the entire bonding surface.

  4. Fully Seat the Insert or Point

    Push the component in until it is completely seated against the shaft.

    Ensure there are no visible gaps.

  5. Remove Excess Adhesive

    Wipe away any excess glue immediately using a cloth or paper towel.

    This creates a clean finish and prevents hardened residue around the shaft.

  6. Check Alignment

    Before the adhesive cures, spin the arrow on an arrow spinner.

    Verify that the point runs true and does not wobble.

  7. Allow the Adhesive to Cure

    Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s recommended curing time.

    Do not shoot the arrows until the adhesive has fully cured.

Assembly / Tip 08

Check Insert and Point Alignment

  • Spin every shaft after installing inserts.
  • Look for wobble or excessive runout.

Assembly / Tip 09

Install and Check the Nock

  • Use the correct nock size for your string.
  • The nock should fit firmly but not too tightly.
  • Ensure proper orientation of the index vane.
  • Install the nock before fletching. The index vane should be aligned with the shaft's spine mark to maintain proper orientation.
Simple Nock Fit Test
  1. Attach the arrow to the string.
  2. Hold the bow horizontally.
  3. Tap the string lightly with your finger.
Correct fit
The arrow should fall off the string with a light tap.
Too tight
The arrow remains attached after several light taps.
Too loose
The arrow falls off under its own weight or with minimal movement.

Assembly / Tip 10

Apply Arrow Wraps (Optional)

  • Wraps make re-fletching easier.
  • Improve arrow visibility and personalization.
  • Provide a clean surface for vane adhesion.

Assembly / Tip 11

Fletch with Consistency

  • Ensure the shaft surface is completely clean before fletching.
  • Use the same vane orientation on every arrow.
  • Maintain consistent spacing and offset.

Assembly / Tip 12

Allow Adhesives to Fully Cure

  • Do not rush the curing process.
  • Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s recommended cure times.

Testing / Tip 13

Perform Final Quality Control

Before shooting, check:

  • Total arrow weight
  • Point alignment
  • Insert alignment
  • Nock fit
  • Fletching security
  • Shaft condition

Testing / Tip 14

Test the Finished Arrows

  • Shoot groups at different distances.
  • Compare arrow performance and consistency.
  • Perform tuning tests if necessary.

one standard. every arrow.

Golden Rules of Arrow Building

  • Consistency beats speed.
  • Measure twice, cut once.
  • Always square your shafts.
  • Clean before gluing.
  • Let adhesives cure completely.
  • Use identical components throughout the set.
  • Replace any damaged shaft immediately.
  • Keep detailed records of your setup.
  • Build every arrow as if it will be the deciding shot.