The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist for over a decade, I’ve seen archery evolve from a traditional hunting method to a complex competitive sport. Choosing the right arrow shaft is critical, impacting everything from accuracy to penetration and overall consistency. That’s why I was particularly interested in testing the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz.
I’ve been working with a local youth archery program, and the need for reliable, mid-priced shafts became apparent. Many of the kids were using hand-me-down arrows or inconsistent discount options, hindering their progress. The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts promised a balance of quality and affordability, appealing to archers of all skill levels.
The package arrived well-protected, each shaft appearing pristine and uniform. Their silver finish gives them a sleek, professional look. Immediately, I noticed the smooth, hard-anodized finish, a testament to Easton’s commitment to durability.
Compared to some of the cheaper aluminum shafts I’ve used in the past, the Platinum Plus felt significantly sturdier. Alternatives in this price range often compromise on straightness tolerances, leading to inconsistent flight. I chose these over the slightly cheaper, generic options because of Easton’s reputation for quality control and the advertised straightness tolerance of +-.002”.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. These aren’t the top-of-the-line tournament arrows, but they appear to be a significant step up from entry-level options. I was excited to get them on the range and see how they performed in the hands of both experienced and novice archers.
Real-World Testing: Putting Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz. to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts primarily at our local outdoor archery range, a mix of target distances ranging from 20 to 70 yards. We had a group of archers of varying skill levels, from beginners to seasoned competitors. The weather conditions were fairly typical for our area: a slight crosswind and relatively dry conditions.
Right away, the consistent flight of the arrows was noticeable. Beginners found it easier to group their shots, and even the more experienced archers commented on the improved accuracy compared to their practice arrows. The shafts seemed to cut through the wind with minimal drift, adding to the overall stability.
No real surprises presented themselves during the initial use. The shafts performed as expected, demonstrating consistent flight and proving easy to tune for different bow setups.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use – approximately three times a week for about two hours each session – the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts continue to hold up remarkably well. Even after numerous impacts with the target and the occasional accidental hit against a wooden support, the shafts have shown minimal signs of wear. The hard-anodized finish has proven its worth.
There are very minor scratches and dents, but nothing that affects the arrow’s performance or structural integrity. Cleaning them is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris.
Compared to my previous experience with cheaper aluminum shafts, the Easton Platinum Plus arrows are far more durable and reliable. They maintain their straightness and flight characteristics even after repeated use and accidental impacts, making them a worthwhile investment for both recreational and competitive archers.
Breaking Down the Features of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz.
Specifications
- The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz. are crafted from 7075-T9 aerospace alloy, ensuring a high strength-to-weight ratio and exceptional durability. This alloy is known for its resistance to bending and deformation, making it ideal for archery shafts.
- The shafts feature a hard-anodized finish, which provides a protective layer against scratches, corrosion, and general wear and tear. This finish not only enhances the arrow’s lifespan but also gives it a sleek, professional appearance.
- A straightness tolerance of +-.002” is a key specification, ensuring consistent arrow flight and improved accuracy. This tight tolerance minimizes variations between shafts, leading to tighter groupings on the target.
- Each shaft includes a Super Uni Bushing or G Uni Bushing (depending on size) installed, offering a secure and precise fit for nocks. This bushing system enhances the arrow’s overall performance and allows for easy nock replacement.
Performance & Functionality
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz. perform their job admirably. They provide consistent arrow flight, excellent durability, and are relatively easy to tune for different bow setups. Their accuracy is definitely a strong point.
The shafts are strong and resistant to bending, which is critical for maintaining accuracy over time. One area that could be improved is offering more variety in spine sizes to cater to a wider range of draw weights. Overall, these shafts definitely meet expectations for a mid-priced option.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts is excellent. The 7075-T9 alloy feels substantial without being overly heavy, providing a good balance of strength and maneuverability. The hard-anodized finish is smooth and aesthetically pleasing.
There’s virtually no learning curve associated with using these shafts. They are designed to be compatible with standard archery equipment and require minimal adjustments to achieve optimal performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts is a standout feature. The high-quality alloy and hard-anodized finish provide exceptional resistance to wear and tear, ensuring a long lifespan even with frequent use. With proper care and maintenance, these shafts should last for several seasons of shooting.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The hard-anodized finish resists dirt and grime, making upkeep quick and easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts are designed to be used with standard archery accessories. They are compatible with a wide range of nocks and points, allowing archers to customize their arrows to suit their specific needs and preferences. Nocks and points are sold separately, providing flexibility in choosing the best components for your setup.
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts are highly compatible with popular accessories from other brands. This versatility makes them a convenient and cost-effective choice for archers who want to experiment with different arrow configurations.
Pros and Cons of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz.
Pros
- Consistently Accurate Flight: Easton’s strict straightness tolerances translate to tight groupings on the target, giving archers a noticeable edge.
- Exceptional Durability: The 7075-T9 alloy and hard-anodized finish provide outstanding resistance to bending, scratching, and corrosion, ensuring a long lifespan.
- Great Value for Money: The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts strike an excellent balance between quality and affordability, making them a smart choice for archers on a budget.
- Easy to Tune: These shafts are relatively easy to tune for different bow setups, making them accessible to archers of all skill levels.
- Compatible with Standard Accessories: Designed to work with a wide range of nocks and points, offering customization options.
Cons
- Nocks and Points Sold Separately: This adds to the overall cost.
- Limited Spine Options: May not cater to every draw weight.
Who Should Buy Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz.?
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz. are perfect for recreational archers looking for reliable and accurate arrows without breaking the bank. They’re also a great option for intermediate competitive archers who want to step up their game. Youth archery programs also benefit immensely from this product.
These shafts may not be the best choice for high-level competitive archers who require the absolute highest precision and are willing to pay a premium. Those with very specific draw weights may need to explore other spine size options.
Must-have accessories include high-quality nocks and points that match the arrow’s intended use. A good arrow squaring tool can also improve accuracy.
Conclusion on Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz.
In summary, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1916 1 doz. offer a compelling combination of performance, durability, and affordability. They provide consistent arrow flight, excellent durability, and are relatively easy to tune, making them a worthwhile investment for a wide range of archers. The price is certainly justified by the quality and performance you receive.
I would absolutely recommend these shafts to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate arrow at a reasonable price. The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts represent a significant step up in quality compared to entry-level options and offer a noticeable improvement in performance. Invest in your archery game today – you won’t regret it!