What are aluminum arrows?

Aluminum is a material traditionally used to make arrow shafts. Arrows made from metal can be molded into a straight form, which makes them more accurate. Aluminum is also light and inexpensive.

Aluminum was first used to make arrow shafts in 1939. They were popularized in 1941 when Larry Hughes used them to win the American National Archery Championship. Aluminum arrows can be made in more consistent shapes and weights than wood, which was the prior material of choice. The greater force of compound bows may also shatter the shaft of a wooden arrow. A disadvantage of aluminum arrows is that they usually must be discarded if they are hit and dented by another arrow.