The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve been guiding aspiring archers and seasoned veterans alike through the intricate world of arrows and shafts. When the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. arrived, I was eager to see if these intermediate-priced shafts could live up to the Easton name, known for its blend of quality and affordability. My own journey into archery began with a hand-me-down fiberglass bow and some questionable arrows, so I understand the importance of reliable equipment, especially when developing proper form.
I was looking for a shaft that offered a good balance between durability, accuracy, and price, something suitable for both target practice and the occasional 3D archery course. Unboxing the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz., I was immediately struck by their sleek, silver finish and the reassuring heft of the 7075-T9 alloy. The hard-anodized finish seemed like it would stand up well to the rigors of outdoor shooting.
I had been considering the Easton XX75 Gamegetter and the Beman ICS Hunter shafts as well. I chose the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. because they seemed to offer a slightly better straightness tolerance for the price and promised a hard-anodized finish for increased durability. My initial excitement was tempered by a professional’s cautious optimism; could these shafts really deliver consistent performance without breaking the bank?
Real-World Testing: Putting Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. was at my local outdoor archery range, a familiar haunt where I often work with students. The range offers a variety of targets at distances ranging from 20 to 70 yards, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of arrow performance. I tested the shafts with a 35-pound recurve bow, a common setup for intermediate archers, under moderately windy conditions.
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. performed admirably even with the wind. They flew relatively straight and grouped consistently at 30 yards after I had them professionally cut to my draw length and installed points. I had a minor hiccup when one of the Super Uni Bushings came loose after a few shots, but a dab of adhesive fixed that issue quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. have proven to be quite durable. The hard-anodized finish has held up surprisingly well, resisting scratches and dents from target impacts. I’ve also used them during a few rainy sessions; the finish seems to protect the aluminum from corrosion.
Maintenance has been minimal. After each session, I simply wipe them down with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper, less durable aluminum arrows, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. are a significant upgrade. They maintain their straightness and structural integrity far better, leading to more consistent and accurate shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz.
Specifications
Material: 7075-T9 Aerospace Alloy. This alloy is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making the shafts durable and resistant to bending.
Straightness Tolerance: +-.002″. This tight tolerance ensures consistent flight and accuracy, minimizing deviations due to shaft imperfections.
Finish: Hard-Anodized. This finish provides a protective layer that resists scratches, corrosion, and wear, extending the lifespan of the shafts.
Included Bushing: Super Uni Bushing or G Uni Bushing (sizes 1916 and smaller). These bushings ensure proper nock alignment and compatibility, contributing to stable arrow flight.
The 7075-T9 alloy is a crucial component. Its strength is important because it helps these shafts maintain their form, even after repeated impacts on hard targets. The straightness tolerance of +-.002″ means tighter groupings. This is because inconsistencies in shaft straightness can lead to erratic arrow flight, reducing accuracy. The hard-anodized finish is not just for aesthetics; it’s a functional element that significantly increases the shaft’s resistance to environmental factors and physical wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. deliver commendable performance for their price point. I found their accuracy to be consistent and reliable, especially at distances under 50 yards. They offer a good balance of speed and stability, making them suitable for a variety of archery styles.
One minor weakness is their susceptibility to wind drift, especially at longer distances. The included Super Uni Bushings are a nice touch, though I did find that they require occasional adjustment to maintain optimal nock alignment. Overall, these shafts meet and slightly exceed expectations for intermediate-level archery.
Design & Ergonomics
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. boast a simple yet effective design. The silver finish is sleek and professional-looking. The weight is well-balanced, providing a comfortable feel during the draw and release.
There is minimal learning curve, as these shafts are designed to be compatible with standard archery equipment. Their straightforward design makes them accessible to archers of all skill levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. are built to last. The hard-anodized finish and robust alloy construction ensure they can withstand repeated use without significant wear and tear. With proper care, these shafts should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection for damage. This ease of maintenance makes them an excellent choice for archers who prefer to spend more time shooting and less time tinkering.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. come with either Super Uni Bushings or G Uni Bushings, depending on the shaft size. These bushings are compatible with a wide range of nocks, offering ample customization options. Points and inserts are sold separately, allowing archers to choose the specific weights and styles that best suit their needs.
The shafts are also compatible with various fletching types, including feathers and vanes. This flexibility allows archers to fine-tune their arrows for optimal performance in different conditions and shooting styles.
Pros and Cons of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz.
Pros
- Excellent Value: Offers a great balance of quality and affordability for intermediate archers.
- Durable Construction: Made from 7075-T9 aerospace alloy with a hard-anodized finish for long-lasting performance.
- Consistent Accuracy: Tight straightness tolerance (+-.002″) ensures reliable arrow flight and tighter groupings.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple design and durable materials require minimal maintenance.
- Versatile Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of nocks, points, and fletching options.
Cons
- Wind Drift: More susceptible to wind drift at longer distances compared to heavier carbon arrows.
- Bushing Adjustment: Super Uni Bushings may require occasional adjustment for optimal nock alignment.
Who Should Buy Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz.?
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. are perfect for intermediate archers seeking a reliable and accurate shaft for target practice and recreational shooting. They are also a good choice for archery instructors looking for a durable and affordable option for their students. These shafts work well for archers who want to use traditional equipment.
Archers primarily focused on long-distance shooting in windy conditions or those seeking the absolute highest level of performance should consider carbon arrows instead. A must-have accessory for these shafts is a good set of points with appropriate weight to match bow poundage and desired arrow flight characteristics.
Conclusion on Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz.
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. are a solid choice for archers looking for a blend of quality, durability, and affordability. The price is definitely justified. They may not be the absolute top-of-the-line, but they offer excellent performance for the price.
I would definitely recommend these shafts to anyone looking to improve their accuracy and consistency without breaking the bank. Pick up a dozen Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1416 1 doz. today, and experience the difference a quality arrow can make!