I'm rather new to wood arrow shafts and wondering what are the pros/cons of using 11/32 or 23/64 shafts. At this juncture I have in mind parallel shafts. Thanks.
I like 23/64 because they're a bit heavier, but I don't think there is much difference in shooting.
It is harder to find tips / nocks that are specifically designed for 23/64. The tips and nocks for 11/32 work fine but they leave a little bit of the taper exposed and if you are a perfectionist, that will bother you as it does me. :)
I doubt you would notice any difference in performance either way though.
Enjoy!
There are advantages and disadvantages, Years ago I purchased a bow from Dan Quillan when I was stationed at Benning. He suggested a full length 23/64 arrow...it flew well and killed well. Now I shoot a cedar tapered arrow...I like the flight I get from those (I think my release is a bit cleaner with the smaller knock) and they kill well. I will say arrow flight is way way more important than a typical hunter new to the sport may realize...flight has to be super sweet to get good penetration. I like many trad archers learned that the hard way over the years. Therefor, whatever gives you the best arrow flight is the answer.
All things the same-ie spine grain weight, etc- the 11/32" diameter shaft wil be of higher quality than the larger diameter.
Boy is that ever a true statement by Kelly above................just look how hard it is to find Cedar 75/80 in 11/32 today.
To fix the taper issue on the point end. If you have a disc style (woodchuck taper tool or home made job) shoulder your point taper. You'll never go back to hand grinding!
The others benefit us getting heads perfectly true. If the taper is off the head will be also. No more screwing around trying to get alignment!!! Plus it looks nice and clean. Never tried it on the nock end as I also shoot tapered shafts.
I agree with kelly.
The grain has to be straighter the thinner the shaft.
5/16 in high spine the grain has to be perfect.
That is one reason why shafts made by Surewood Shafts are so popular today. You get straight grain that runs the full length of the shaft in 11/32".