First Thoughts on the Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz.
The Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. promises an arrow built for speed and accuracy, a combination every serious archer craves. Victory Archery designed these shafts with a smaller diameter for a flatter trajectory and coated them with their ICE finish for easy target removal. At a price point of $118.49, they sit squarely in the mid-range of arrow shafts, suggesting a blend of performance and affordability.
As someone who’s spent years fine-tuning my archery setup, I was drawn to these shafts by the promise of improved long-range performance. My current arrows were causing significant drop-off beyond 50 yards, and I needed something that would maintain a flatter flight path. Unboxing the Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz., I was immediately impressed by the sleek, minimalist design. The shafts felt incredibly light yet surprisingly sturdy.
Compared to my older, thicker carbon arrows, these felt noticeably more streamlined. I considered the Easton Axis arrows and the Black Eagle Carnivore shafts, but the Victory arrows’ ICE coating and smaller diameter seemed like the best solution for my specific needs. My initial excitement was high; the potential for a faster, flatter-shooting arrow was palpable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. was at my local outdoor archery range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing decent conditions for testing. I started at 20 yards to get a feel for the new arrows, and immediately noticed a difference in speed.
The arrows seemed to fly with less effort and hit the target with a satisfying thud. Moving back to 40 and then 60 yards, the flatter trajectory was evident; I had to adjust my aiming point significantly less than with my previous arrows. However, I did encounter a minor issue: the included A nocks felt a little loose on my string.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. have proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve shot them hundreds of times, and they’ve held up well against various targets, including 3D animal targets and standard foam blocks. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the shafts themselves; the ICE coating seems to be doing its job in preventing excessive friction and damage upon target impact.
Maintaining them is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any residue from the targets. Compared to my previous arrows, the Victory shafts consistently deliver tighter groupings at longer ranges, exceeding my initial expectations. They’ve instilled a newfound confidence in my long-distance shots, proving their worth time and time again.
Breaking Down the Features of Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz.
Specifications
Shaft Size: 400 – This indicates the spine of the arrow, with 400 being suitable for bows with a draw weight in a specific range (typically 55-65 lbs). Choosing the correct spine is critical for accurate arrow flight.
Straightness Tolerance: +-.003″ – This is a measure of how straight the arrow shaft is; a lower number indicates a straighter, more consistent arrow. The tighter the tolerance, the more accurate the arrow should be.
GPI (Grains Per Inch): 5.9 GPI – This indicates the weight of the arrow shaft per inch of length; a lower GPI results in a lighter, faster arrow. Lighter arrows generally have a flatter trajectory.
Includes: A nocks and SHOK inserts – These are essential components for arrow assembly and impact resistance. The included nocks and inserts save time and money compared to purchasing them separately.
Victory ICE Coating: This coating is designed to reduce friction and allow for easier arrow removal from targets. Easier arrow removal reduces wear and tear on both the arrows and the target.
Performance & Functionality
The Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. excels in delivering a flatter trajectory and increased arrow speed. This translates to improved accuracy at longer distances and reduced wind drift. The consistency of the shafts, thanks to their tight straightness tolerance, is remarkable.
However, the included A nocks could be a tighter fit, which might require archers to use aftermarket nocks for optimal performance. Despite this minor issue, the shafts meet and even exceed expectations in terms of speed, accuracy, and overall flight performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The sleek, small-diameter design of the Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. is visually appealing and functional. The shafts are incredibly light, which contributes to their impressive speed. Their weight, combined with the spine, make these arrows a comfortable match for archers seeking flat trajectories.
The ICE coating is a practical addition that simplifies target removal, minimizing potential damage to the arrow. However, those with larger fingers may find the small diameter more challenging to handle, especially when fletching or making adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
The carbon construction of the Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. provides excellent durability. Even after repeated use, the shafts show minimal signs of wear. The ICE coating also contributes to their longevity by reducing friction and preventing deep penetration into targets.
Maintaining these arrows is straightforward. A simple wipe down after each use is usually sufficient to remove any target residue. Regularly inspecting the nocks and inserts is crucial to ensure they remain securely attached.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. comes with A nocks and SHOK inserts. These shafts are compatible with standard-sized vanes and feathers for fletching. Many archers, myself included, choose to experiment with different vane configurations to fine-tune their arrow flight.
While the included SHOK inserts provide adequate protection, some may opt for heavier inserts to increase FOC (Front of Center) for enhanced stability and penetration. The shafts are also compatible with a variety of arrow wraps, allowing for personalized customization and improved visibility.
Pros and Cons of Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz.
Pros
- Flatter trajectory for improved long-range accuracy.
- ICE coating for easier arrow removal and reduced wear.
- Lightweight design for increased arrow speed.
- Tight straightness tolerance (+-.003″) for consistent performance.
- Durable carbon construction for long-lasting use.
Cons
- Included A nocks may be a loose fit for some strings.
- Smaller diameter might be difficult to handle for those with larger fingers.
Who Should Buy Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz.?
The Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. are perfect for experienced archers and hunters seeking to improve their long-range accuracy and arrow speed. They are particularly well-suited for those who prioritize a flatter trajectory and easier target removal. Competitive target archers could benefit from these shafts due to their consistent performance and durability.
These shafts may not be ideal for beginners, who might find the smaller diameter more challenging to work with. Those with bows outside the recommended draw weight range for a 400 spine should choose a different arrow size. Must-have accessories include high-quality aftermarket nocks for a secure string fit and arrow wraps for personalized customization and enhanced visibility.
Conclusion on Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz.
The Victory RIP XV Gamer Shafts 400 1 doz. delivers on its promise of speed and accuracy. The flatter trajectory and ICE coating are noticeable improvements over standard carbon arrows. While the included nocks might require replacement, the overall performance and durability of these shafts are impressive.
At $118.49 per dozen, the price is justified for archers who demand high-performance arrows. I would definitely recommend these shafts to anyone looking to enhance their long-range shooting capabilities. Upgrade your quiver and experience the difference a quality arrow can make!