The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. immediately sparked my interest. As an archery enthusiast with over a decade of experience, I’m always searching for shafts that offer a balance between performance and affordability. I was looking for a reliable arrow shaft for recreational target practice that could withstand frequent use without breaking the bank.
Opening the package, the shafts had a sleek silver finish. They felt sturdy and well-made. Compared to cheaper aluminum shafts I’ve used in the past, the Easton Platinum Plus shafts instantly felt like a step up in quality. The hard anodized finish and the pre-installed bushings suggested a focus on both durability and user convenience.
I chose the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. over some carbon fiber options in a similar price range. My reasoning was based on aluminum’s reputation for maintaining straightness and its forgiving nature. Carbon fiber, while lighter, can be more prone to splintering upon impact with hard surfaces. My initial impression was positive; these shafts seemed like a solid choice for consistent target shooting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. was at my local archery range. The weather was ideal, with a slight breeze and clear skies. I was shooting at targets ranging from 20 to 50 yards. Setting up was easy; the pre-installed bushings made nock installation a breeze.
The shafts performed admirably, grouping consistently at various distances. The .002″ straightness tolerance contributed to tight groupings. There were no immediate signs of bending or warping after repeated impacts with the target, even when I had a few accidental misses that resulted in hitting the target frame. This initial performance was promising, exceeding my expectations for an intermediate-priced shaft.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. have proven their reliability. I’ve put hundreds of arrows downrange. They are still holding up remarkably well. A few shafts have minor dents and scratches from glancing blows with other arrows, but nothing that affects their flight.
Maintenance is simple; I occasionally wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The anodized finish has held up against scratching. These shafts are proving to be a durable and low-maintenance option. In comparison to the cheaper, unbranded aluminum shafts I used previously, the Easton Platinum Plus shafts demonstrate superior resilience and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz.
Specifications
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. boast several notable specifications. These include:
- 7075-T9 Aerospace Alloy: This alloy offers a good strength-to-weight ratio. It contributes to the shaft’s overall durability.
- Hard-Anodized Finish: The anodized finish provides a protective layer. This helps to resist corrosion and wear.
- Straightness Tolerance of +-.002″: This tight tolerance ensures consistent arrow flight. It promotes greater accuracy.
- Super Uni Bushing or G Uni Bushing (sizes 1916 and smaller): These pre-installed bushings simplify setup. They allow for easy nock installation.
These specifications are significant because they directly impact the arrow’s flight characteristics and longevity. The alloy’s strength ensures the shaft can withstand repeated impacts. The straightness tolerance ensures consistent flight. The finish protects against environmental factors. The bushings simplify assembly.
Performance & Functionality
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. perform their job exceptionally well. The shafts deliver consistent and accurate shots. Their durability ensures they can withstand extended use.
These shafts are a notable upgrade compared to lower-priced alternatives. There is room for improvement with factory-fletched options. However, the bare shaft offers significant customization options. They meet and exceed expectations for a recreational target archery shaft.
Design & Ergonomics
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. feature a classic, straightforward design. The smooth silver finish is aesthetically pleasing. The shafts have a balanced weight distribution. They feel comfortable to handle.
The pre-installed bushings make setup easy. There is no learning curve to using these shafts. The design is both functional and user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. are built to last. The 7075-T9 alloy and hard-anodized finish contribute to their durability. With proper care, these shafts should provide years of reliable use.
Maintenance is straightforward. Wiping them down with a cloth after each use is sufficient. The anodized finish protects against corrosion. These shafts are designed for long-term use with minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. come with Super Uni Bushings or G Uni Bushings pre-installed (depending on size). This allows for easy nock installation.
These shafts are compatible with a wide range of points, nocks, and fletchings. This allows for significant customization. Archery shops typically stock a variety of compatible components from Easton and other brands. Archers can tailor the arrow’s flight characteristics to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz.
Pros
- Exceptional Value: These shafts provide a great balance between performance and price.
- Consistent Accuracy: The tight straightness tolerance results in consistent groupings.
- Good Durability: The 7075-T9 alloy and hard-anodized finish provide long-lasting performance.
- Easy Customization: Compatibility with various components allows archers to tailor the arrows to their needs.
- Pre-Installed Bushings: Simplifies the fletching process.
Cons
- Nocks and Points Sold Separately: Adds to the overall cost.
- Limited Color Options: Only available in silver.
Who Should Buy Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz.?
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. are perfect for recreational target archers and competitive target archers looking for a reliable and affordable arrow. They are also suitable for beginning archers who want a step up from basic aluminum arrows. These shafts are a solid choice for archers who value accuracy, durability, and customization.
Those seeking ultra-lightweight arrows or arrows specifically designed for bowhunting might want to consider other options. Those who want arrows ready to shoot straight out of the box, without having to install nocks or points should also consider other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications include high-quality points and nocks to complement the shafts’ performance. Adding custom fletchings can also enhance accuracy and stability.
Conclusion on Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz.
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. offer an excellent value proposition. The shafts deliver consistent accuracy and durability. The price is justified by their performance and longevity.
I would highly recommend these shafts to any archer seeking a reliable and affordable option for target practice. If you’re looking to upgrade your arrows without breaking the bank, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1516 1 doz. are a fantastic choice. Grab a dozen today and experience the difference!