Let’s Dive into Three Rivers Tru-Center V2
The Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 is a hand-held taper tool meticulously crafted by Three Rivers for traditional archery enthusiasts. This tool promises to streamline and perfect the tapering of wooden arrow shafts, a crucial step for achieving optimal arrow flight and consistent accuracy. I was eager to get my hands on this tool, as perfectly tapered arrows are essential to the craft, but a tedious and easily flawed process without the right equipment.
My journey into traditional archery began years ago with a fascination for self-sufficiency and a desire to connect with ancient skills. The romance of crafting my own arrows, fletching them with feathers I’d gathered, and sending them true to the target was irresistible. However, I quickly learned that arrow-making is as much about precision as it is about passion. The traditional methods I had used for tapering were inaccurate and time consuming.
Upon unboxing the Three Rivers Tru-Center V2, I was immediately struck by its solid feel and clean design. The aircraft-grade machined aluminum construction exudes quality, and its compact size makes it easy to handle. It felt like a serious piece of equipment, a far cry from the makeshift jigs I had previously relied upon.
Before this, I’d used a combination of a sanding block and a whittling knife to taper my shafts. This worked fine, but was extremely time consuming, inconsistent, and not very precise. I also considered the Easton taper tool, and the Saunders taper tool, but the Tru-Center V2’s claim of encompassing three common shaft sizes in one tool swayed me. My first impression was a wave of anticipation; I was eager to see if this tool could live up to its promise of making arrow tapering a precise and enjoyable process.
Real-World Testing: Putting Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 in my workshop, which is a converted section of my garage dedicated to all things archery and leathercraft. The workshop has no AC, and it was a very hot and humid day. I was working with a batch of cedar shafts that needed both point and nock tapers.
The tool was surprisingly simple to use right out of the box. I quickly got the hang of inserting the shaft into the appropriate guide (5/16″ for the points) and rotating it against a file. The tool produced smooth, even tapers with minimal effort. The cedar shavings accumulated quickly, but were easy to clean up.
I did notice that I had to apply a bit more pressure than expected to achieve a consistent taper, but this was easily corrected with a slight adjustment in my technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. It has greatly improved the accuracy and consistency of my arrow tapers, which has translated to tighter groupings downrange. The aluminum body has held up well, showing no signs of wear or damage despite frequent use.
Cleaning is straightforward. The shavings are easily brushed out. A light application of gun oil to the guides ensures smooth operation. Compared to my previous hand-tapering methods, the Tru-Center V2 is a game-changer, delivering superior results with significantly less effort.
Breaking Down the Features of Three Rivers Tru-Center V2
Specifications
The Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 is constructed from aircraft-grade machined aluminum. This durable material ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
It features three shaft guides: 5/16″, 11/32″, and 23/64″. These guides accommodate the most common wooden shaft sizes used in traditional archery.
It is designed to create both point and nock tapers. This eliminates the need for separate tools and streamlines the arrow-making process.
The tool is hand-held, offering precise control and ease of use. Its compact size makes it easily portable.
At $65.99, the price point is very reasonable, considering that other taper tools do not have the same utility.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the tool’s performance and user experience. The aluminum construction ensures durability, while the multiple shaft guides provide versatility. The ability to create both point and nock tapers simplifies the arrow-making process.
Performance & Functionality
The Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 excels at its primary function: creating precise and consistent tapers on wooden arrow shafts. The guides ensure accurate alignment, resulting in tapers that are perfectly centered and uniform. This translates to better arrow flight and improved accuracy.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. The tool requires minimal setup and is intuitive to operate. The only real weakness is that you need a file to do the actual tapering, which isn’t included. However, files are easy enough to acquire. The Tru-Center V2 has exceeded my expectations, making arrow tapering a more efficient and enjoyable process.
Design & Ergonomics
The Three Rivers Tru-Center V2’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The aluminum body is lightweight yet durable, providing a comfortable grip. The tool is easy to handle and manipulate.
The tool is surprisingly easy to learn and use. I have mastered it in about an hour.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aircraft-grade aluminum construction, the Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 is built to last. The tool shows no signs of wear after weeks of use.
Maintenance is simple: just clean out the wood shavings after each use. A light oiling of the guides will ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 does not come with any additional accessories beyond the included shaft guides. The tool does not require any customization options; its simplicity is part of its appeal.
Pros and Cons of Three Rivers Tru-Center V2
Pros
- Precise and Consistent Tapers: Ensures accurate arrow alignment for improved flight and accuracy.
- Durable Construction: Aircraft-grade aluminum build guarantees longevity.
- Versatile: Accommodates three common shaft sizes (5/16″, 11/32″, 23/64″).
- Easy to Use: Minimal setup and intuitive operation.
- Efficient: Streamlines the arrow-making process.
Cons
- File Not Included: Requires a separate file for tapering (not included with the tool).
- Can be Slightly Abrasive: Handle may be abrasive for longer sessions.
Who Should Buy Three Rivers Tru-Center V2?
The Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 is perfect for traditional archers who build their own arrows and prioritize precision and consistency. It’s ideal for serious hunters, target archers, and anyone who enjoys the craft of arrow-making.
Anyone who is not interested in making their own arrows should skip this product. It is only for the creation of arrows.
A quality file is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Three Rivers Tru-Center V2
The Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 is a well-designed and effective tool that delivers on its promise of creating precise and consistent tapers on wooden arrow shafts. Its durable construction, versatile shaft guides, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any traditional archer’s workshop. The price is justified by the improved accuracy and efficiency it brings to the arrow-making process.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Three Rivers Tru-Center V2 to anyone who is serious about building their own arrows. It’s a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in tighter groupings and more consistent arrow flight. Take your arrow-making to the next level with the Three Rivers Tru-Center V2!