How To Cut Carbon Arrows

Many archers favor carbon arrows for their distinct advantages. Not only are they lighter and faster, but they’re also incredibly durable and consistent. In some cases, however, you may need to cut them before use. The right arrow length can influence your archery performance: too long or too short can throw off your accuracy, affecting both trajectory and consistency. 

Cutting arrows isn’t complicated, but it needs to be done properly. That includes using the highest-quality tools and abrasives. In this guide, the team at Red Label Abrasives outlines how to cut your carbon arrows for optimal performance.

What Are Carbon Arrows and Why Are They Popular?

Carbon arrows are arrows made primarily from carbon fiber, a material known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. This construction differentiates them from other types of arrows, such as aluminum or wood. Here's why they've become a popular choice among archers:

• Carbon arrows are lighter than many other materials, which can translate to faster arrow speeds when shot from a bow. This speed can provide a flatter trajectory and potentially more accurate shots.
• Carbon fiber is known for its toughness. Carbon arrows are resistant to bending, which means they maintain their straightness over time. Unlike wooden arrows, which can warp, or aluminum arrows that can bend, carbon arrows are less prone to such deformities.
• Each carbon arrow manufactured tends to have more uniformity in weight and spine (the arrow's stiffness) than arrows made from natural materials. This consistency can lead to more predictable shots.
• Carbon arrows can be used with various types of bows, including recurves, compounds, and longbows. This makes them a versatile choice for archers of all disciplines.
• Many carbon arrows come with customizable features, such as adjustable nocks, allowing archers to fine-tune their equipment to their preferences.

Due to these benefits, carbon arrows have become a favorite among both recreational and competitive archers. They offer a combination of speed, strength, and consistency that's hard to match with other materials.

Safety First: Precautions Before Cutting

When cutting carbon arrows, you want to prioritize safety. Just as you wouldn't neglect the bowstring or arrowhead, you shouldn't neglect the environment in which you're working. Taking precautions can prevent accidents and ensure a successful cutting process. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• Always wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from any carbon shards or dust. Gloves will not only keep your hands safe from potential cuts but also prevent any unwanted reactions with the carbon dust.
• Carbon dust can be harmful if inhaled. Work in an area with good airflow or outdoors to minimize the risk. This will help disperse any airborne particles, reducing the likelihood of inhalation.
• Before starting, clear your workspace of any unnecessary items. A tidy area minimizes the chances of accidental cuts, trips, or other mishaps. Additionally, it makes it easier to focus on the task at hand and ensure precise cuts.

How to Determine the Correct Length for Your Carbon Arrows

Finding the right arrow length is crucial for optimal archery performance. An arrow that's too short or too long can affect your accuracy and the overall shooting experience. Here's a straightforward guide to determining the correct length for your carbon arrows:

To measure your draw length, stand with your arms extended out to your sides, forming a "T" shape. Measure the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the other, then divide this number by 2.5. The result is your approximate draw length.

Pro Tip:It's always wise to add an extra inch or two to your determined draw length. This additional length offers a margin of safety, ensuring your arrow doesn't come up too short during a full draw. Plus, the extra length allows for finer tuning adjustments, should you wish to make any.

The type of bow you use can influence your arrow length choice.

• Recurve Bows: For recurve users, it's generally best to add one to three inches to your draw length. This ensures the arrow clears the bow safely, especially if you're using an arrow rest.
• Compound Bows: Compound bows are more forgiving. Usually, adding just an inch to your draw length will suffice, but consult the bow's manufacturer or a trusted coach for specific recommendations.

Marking and Preparing the Arrow for Cutting

Once you've determined the correct length for your carbon arrow, the next step is to mark and prepare it for the cutting process. Proper preparation ensures a clean cut and accurate results. 

• Using Tape to Mark the Desired Cut Location: Instead of marking directly on the arrow, which can sometimes lead to permanent marks or scratches, use a small piece of tape. Place the tape around the shaft where you want to make the cut. Then, using a pen or fine marker, draw a clear line on the tape. This ensures visibility and reduces the risk of any errors during cutting.
• Aligning the Arrow Shaft Properly with the Cutting Tool:Before you begin the cut, it's essential to ensure the arrow shaft is straight and aligned with your cutting tool. Secure the arrow in a stable position, making sure it's level. When using a cutting tool, like an arrow saw, the blade should be perpendicular to the arrow for a straight cut. Check the alignment from multiple angles before starting to ensure accuracy.

By following these steps, your arrow will be set up correctly, making the cutting process smoother and more precise.

How to Cut Carbon Arrows with an Arrow Saw

Cutting carbon arrows requires precision, and an arrow saw is the go-to tool for this task. Here are the supplies you will need:

• Benchtop miter saw or cut-off saw
• 2” x 1/16” x 3/8” or 2” x 1/32” x 3/8” cutting disc
• High-grit silicon carbide sanding sheets
• Tabletop vise clamp
• Protective eyewear
• Protective gloves
• Mask (to avoid inhaling carbon dust)

Once you note where you want to cut, set the arrow on the saw's rest, ensuring your marked spot aligns with the blade. (The arrow must be perpendicular to the blade.) Most miter or abrasive saws come with an integrated vise clamp, but if yours does not, use a separate tabletop vise to hold the arrow in place.

As you set your arrow in the clamp, lower the saw's movable arm to align the edge of the cutting disc with the marked endpoint on the shaft. For a safety margin, position the shaft slightly downwards, ensuring the disc contacts just beyond the measurement line towards the arrow's tip. This precaution allows for potential later adjustments. Then take the following steps:

• Power on the arrow saw, allowing it to achieve its full speed before you begin the cut.
• Pull down on the handle, guiding the disc gradually through the arrow shaft.
• Maintain steady pressure, allowing the saw to work without forcing it. Ensure the arrow remains straight throughout the cut. If you notice any resistance, slow down and realign. A steady, controlled motion is key to a clean, smooth edge.
• After cutting, switch off the saw and examine the cut end of the arrow. It should be even and smooth, free of any rough edges.

With your arrow now cut to the precise length, it's prepared for further tuning, fletching, or immediate use. 

How to Cut Carbon Arrows Using a Rotary Cutter

A rotary cutter is a fast-spinning handheld multitool designed to cut through various materials. For carbon arrows, ensure your rotary cutter is fitted with a circular carbide blade to prevent deformation of the arrow during the cut.

Start by collecting the following supplies:

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

Start by laying the rotary cutter horizontally on the edge of your work surface, ensuring the blade is vertical and protrudes beyond the table's edge. For stability, use a C-clamp to firmly attach the rotary cutter to your workspace. This ensures it remains stationary during use. Then take the following steps:

• With safety gear on, power up the rotary cutter. Once it achieves maximum speed, align the arrow with the previously made marks. 
• Gently press the arrow shaft against the blade, letting it slice through the carbon. Continuously push the arrow into the blade until it emerges through the other side. If you face challenges cutting the arrow straight through, gently rotate the arrow while it's against the blade. This rotation often facilitates a smoother cut.

How to Cut Carbon Arrows With a Dremel

Cutting carbon arrows can be made simpler with a Dremel. This compact, yet powerful tool ensures a neat and accurate cut when done correctly. You will need the following supplies:

• Dremel tool
• Cutting wheel attachment
• Grinding wheel attachment
• Safety glasses
• Face mask

Position your carbon arrow on a stable surface and attach the cutting wheel to the Dremel. Then take the following steps:

• Create a notch on the arrow shaft, preferably midway between the point and the nock. This initial notch acts as a guide and ensures accuracy in the subsequent steps.
• Replace the cutting wheel with the grinding wheel attachment. Gradually enlarge the previously made notch, ensuring it’s ample enough to accommodate the blade of the Dremel.
• With the Dremel blade snugly fitting into the notch, power it on. Begin cutting into the arrow shaft, maintaining a steady hand and ensuring the Dremel remains perpendicular to the arrow for a straight cut.
• Continue the cutting motion until you’ve cleanly sliced through the entirety of the arrow.

How to Cut Carbon Arrows With a Pipe Cutter

Many enthusiasts adjust their arrows using a pipe cutter. You will need the following supplies:

• Pipe cutter with a sharp blade
• Vise or clamp 
• Safety glasses

Before starting, make sure the cutting blade on your pipe cutter is sharp and free of any damage. This ensures a clean and precise cut, minimizing the risk of damaging the arrow. After the inspection, line up the cutting blade of the pipe cutter with the desired cut location on the arrow shaft and take the following steps:

• Cut the arrow. As you apply pressure, gently rotate the handle on the pipe cutter. The blade will start to indent the arrow.
• Continue rotating the handle until you feel a notable resistance, signaling that the blade has cleanly cut through the carbon shaft.

Post-Cutting Procedures

Once your carbon arrows have been cut, you need to attend to the final finishing touches. These steps ensure not only the functionality but also the safety and longevity of your arrows. 

Collect the following supplies:

• Arrow squaring tool or silicon carbide sanding sheets
• Clean cloth or rag
• Mild detergent or isopropyl alcohol
• Magnifying glass or close inspection tool (optional)

Square the End of the Arrow

After cutting, the end of the arrow may not be perfectly square. This can affect its flight and the fit of the components you attach, like broadheads or inserts. Using an arrow squaring tool, gently run the tool around the end of the arrow to make it perfectly square. If you don’t have an arrow squaring tool, fine-grit sanding sheets can also be used. Ensure you rotate the arrow uniformly to get an even, flat surface.

Clean the Arrow

Cleaning the arrow shaft is the next step, as carbon arrows can accumulate residues and dust after cutting. Take a clean cloth or rag and dampen it with a mild detergent solution or isopropyl alcohol. Then gently wipe down the entire arrow shaft, ensuring you remove all residues and carbon dust. Allow the arrow to dry thoroughly before storage or use.

Inspect for Splinters or Cracks

Splinters or cracks can compromise the integrity of the arrow, making it potentially dangerous during use. Visually inspect the cut end, and if available, use a magnifying glass or another close inspection tool. If you discover any splinters, they can usually be sanded down using fine-grit sandpaper. However, if you notice cracks, especially ones running lengthwise, it's safest to discard that arrow and avoid using it. Cracked arrows can break upon release, posing a safety hazard.

Reinstalling the Nock and Insert (If Removed)

Once your carbon arrows have been cut to the desired length, the next step is to reinstall the nock and insert, ensuring they're securely and accurately placed for optimal performance. You will need the following:

• Strong arrow adhesive or epoxy
• Nock alignment tool or nock turning tool (optional but recommended)

Apply a small amount of the arrow adhesive or epoxy around the inside rim of the arrow shaft and on the insert itself. Carefully slide the insert into the shaft, ensuring it sits flush with the end of the arrow. Any misalignment can affect the flight of the arrow and the fitting of broadheads. Allow the adhesive to cure based on the manufacturer's recommended time. This ensures a strong bond between the insert and the arrow shaft.

Pro Tip: Before fitting the nock, you should check the alignment, especially if you have a specific orientation on your fletchings or vanes. Using a nock alignment tool or by comparing it with your other arrows, turn the nock until it lines up consistently with the rest of your arrows. This ensures consistent flight characteristics across your arrow set.

FAQs

Q: Can I Cut Carbon Arrows With Regular Saws Or Scissors?

A: Cutting carbon arrows requires precision and the right tools to ensure the integrity of the arrow isn't compromised. Regular saws might not provide the clean cut needed, potentially leading to splintering or fraying. Scissors are not suitable at all for cutting carbon arrows, as they cannot provide a straight or clean enough cut, and using them might cause damage to the arrow. The best approach is to use tools specifically designed for cutting carbon arrows, such as an arrow saw, rotary cutter, Dremel, or pipe cutter.

Q: How Often Should I Inspect My Arrows For Damage?

A: You should inspect your arrows before and after each shooting session. Regular inspections help in identifying any cracks, splinters, or deformities that might affect the arrow's performance or safety. If you ever hit a hard object or hear an unusual sound upon release, inspect the arrow immediately. Regular checks ensure that you're always using arrows in top condition, optimizing both safety and performance.

Q: Are There Any Risks In Shooting A Damaged Carbon Arrow?

A: Yes, shooting a damaged carbon arrow poses significant risks. A compromised arrow can shatter upon release, potentially causing injury to the archer or others nearby. Moreover, a damaged arrow's flight can be unpredictable, leading to accuracy issues and the potential for unintended damage or injury. If you identify any damage or suspect an arrow might be compromised, it's best to retire it from use immediately. Safety should always be the top priority in archery.

Cut Your Carbon Arrows With Quality Abrasives

Archery is a sport of precision and detail. The right equipment, properly maintained and adjusted, can make all the difference in your performance. This in-depth guide provides insights into one of the most important aspects for archers: the perfect arrow length. 

Cutting carbon arrows requires care, precision, and the right tools. At Red Label Abrasives, we sell the sanding discs and sanding sheets you need to achieve great results. If you have questions or would like to place an order, call 844-824-1956 or fill out our contact form today! We look forward to being of assistance.