Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. Review

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression

The world of archery is a game of precision, consistency, and unwavering accuracy. For years, I’ve chased that perfect shot, and the arrows I choose are paramount to achieving that goal. When I first laid eyes on the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz., I knew I was looking at a product designed for archers serious about improving their game.

As an experienced archer and gear specialist, I’ve seen countless shafts come and go. I needed something reliable, durable, and capable of consistent performance for both target practice and the occasional recreational 3D archery course. The Easton Platinum Plus promised just that – a balance of quality and affordability.

Unboxing the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. was a reassuring experience. The shafts were neatly packed, and the hard-anodized finish gleamed, suggesting a level of quality I’ve come to expect from Easton. The included Super Uni Bushings already installed were a welcome time-saver. My initial impression was one of quiet confidence; these seemed ready to perform.

I considered other options like the Gold Tip Hunter XT shafts and the Carbon Express Maxima Red, both popular choices in the archery community. Ultimately, the Easton Platinum Plus won me over with its reputation for consistent spine and durability, coupled with its more approachable price point. I was excited to see if they lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. was at my local outdoor archery range. The weather was cooperative: a sunny day with a slight breeze – perfect conditions for testing arrow flight. I shot at distances ranging from 20 to 50 yards, focusing on group consistency and arrow penetration into the target.

The initial results were impressive. The Easton Platinum Plus shafts flew true and consistently, grouping tightly at all distances. I noticed a distinct improvement in my accuracy compared to my older, less consistent arrows. The 7075-T9 alloy seemed to cut through the air efficiently, even in the mild breeze.

There were no immediate issues. The shafts felt well-balanced, and the Super Uni Bushings held the nocks securely. I did, however, notice the need to carefully select the correct point weight to achieve optimal arrow flight with my bow setup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. have proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put hundreds of arrows downrange, and they continue to maintain their straightness and structural integrity. A few errant shots into the dirt have resulted in minor scratches, but nothing that compromises their performance.

The hard-anodized finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and dings from regular use and storage. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. They outperform the cheaper aluminum shafts I’ve used in the past, providing a much more consistent and durable shooting experience.

Compared to my experience with carbon arrows, the aluminum shafts require more frequent checks for straightness, but the Easton Platinum Plus seem more resistant to damage from impacts with hard objects. I can confidently say they are a worthwhile investment for archers seeking reliability and consistency.

Breaking Down the Features of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz.

Specifications

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. boast impressive specifications designed to enhance performance and durability.

• Alloy: Constructed from 7075-T9 aerospace alloy. This provides an excellent strength-to-weight ratio and ensures the shaft can withstand repeated impacts.
• Straightness Tolerance: Feature a straightness tolerance of +-.002”. This tight tolerance guarantees consistent arrow flight and tighter groupings.
• Finish: A hard-anodized finish is applied. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and protects the shaft from wear and tear.
• Bushings: Come with Super Uni Bushings or G Uni Bushings (sizes 1916 and smaller). These bushings ensure a secure and consistent fit for nocks, which is crucial for accuracy.
• Size: The 1716 designation refers to the shaft’s outside diameter and wall thickness. This size is suitable for a wide range of draw weights and archery styles.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the shaft’s ability to deliver consistent and accurate performance. The tight straightness tolerance, combined with the durable alloy and protective finish, ensures that each arrow flies predictably and withstands the rigors of regular use.

Performance & Functionality

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. perform exceptionally well in their intended role as target archery shafts. Accuracy is a standout feature. The consistent spine and straightness of the shafts translate to tighter groupings at various distances.

The shafts are also reliable. They maintain their flight characteristics over extended use, and the bushings hold the nocks securely in place. The Easton Platinum Plus shafts meet and even exceed expectations for an intermediate-priced target arrow.

However, they aren’t ideal for hunting due to their lighter weight and focus on target accuracy rather than penetration power.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. is impressive. The 7075-T9 alloy feels solid and durable in hand. The hard-anodized finish adds a touch of elegance and provides excellent protection against wear.

The shafts are lightweight, which contributes to their speed and flat trajectory. There is no significant learning curve; they are easy to set up and shoot, even for novice archers.

Durability & Maintenance

These shafts are built to last. The 7075-T9 alloy and hard-anodized finish provide excellent resistance to bending, breaking, and corrosion. Maintaining the Easton Platinum Plus is simple.

Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional inspection for straightness are all that’s required. They are also relatively easy to repair. Bent shafts can sometimes be straightened using an arrow straightener, although severely damaged shafts should be replaced.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz. come with pre-installed Super Uni Bushings, but nocks and points are sold separately. This allows archers to customize their arrows to their specific preferences and shooting style.

The shafts are compatible with a wide range of nocks and points from Easton and other brands. Common customization options include different nock colors and styles, as well as various point weights to fine-tune arrow flight. They can also be fletched with different vane types and sizes to optimize stability and accuracy.

Pros and Cons of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1716 1 doz.