The Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. Made a Bold First Impression
The Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. represent a strategic move by Easton to cater to archers using lower poundage bows, or those with shorter draw lengths, while still maintaining the performance and penetration expected from a micro-diameter arrow. For years, I’ve tinkered with arrow setups, struggling to find the perfect balance between speed, penetration, and affordability for my youth archery programs and smaller-framed students. The allure of a micro-diameter arrow, promising enhanced penetration and reduced wind drift, combined with Easton’s reputation for quality, piqued my interest immediately.
I was specifically seeking arrows that offered consistent performance with youth bows in the 30-40 lb range. The market is flooded with inexpensive, generic arrows that lack consistency and durability. Upon receiving the Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk., I was immediately struck by the sleekness of the 5mm diameter and the vibrant, yet functional, Bully vanes.
Compared to the standard aluminum arrows typically used in beginner programs, these carbon arrows felt significantly lighter and more robust. I also considered the Easton Genesis arrows, but ultimately chose the Axis Sport for its potential for higher performance and improved penetration. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to see if these arrows could live up to the hype and offer a tangible improvement for my archers.
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Real-World Testing: Putting **Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk.** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. was at our local outdoor archery range. I primarily tested them with a 35-pound recurve bow and a 40-pound compound bow, both commonly used in our youth program. The arrows flew noticeably faster than the heavier aluminum arrows we typically use, and the Bully vanes seemed to stabilize the arrow quickly, even in a slight crosswind.
In slightly damp conditions, the Bully vanes did a decent job of maintaining their shape and directing the arrow effectively. I did not notice any significant change in arrow flight compared to dry conditions. One minor initial issue was the nock fit on some of the smaller diameter bowstrings; some required slight adjustment to ensure proper release.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. have proven to be quite durable. I’ve shot them hundreds of times into both foam and bag targets, and the shafts have shown minimal signs of wear. The finish is holding up well, and the Bully vanes remain firmly attached, even after accidental impacts with target frames and the occasional pass-through.
Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and debris. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper carbon arrows, these Easton arrows have been significantly more reliable and consistent. Their performance has undeniably surpassed my initial expectations, especially considering their price point.
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Breaking Down the Features of **Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk.**
Specifications
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Arrow Diameter: The 5mm micro-diameter is a key feature, contributing to increased penetration and reduced wind drift. This smaller profile allows the arrow to slip through the air with less resistance, especially beneficial for shorter draw lengths and lower poundage bows where maximizing kinetic energy is critical.
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Spine: Offered in a 700 spine, these arrows are specifically designed for lower poundage bows and shorter draw lengths. The spine rating dictates the arrow’s stiffness, and a 700 spine is ideal for bows in the 30-45 pound range.
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Vanes: Equipped with 2-inch Bully vanes, these vanes provide excellent stabilization for accurate flight. The Bully vanes are made from a durable material that maintains its shape and resists tearing, even after repeated use.
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Components: Includes X nocks and HIT 8-32 inserts, providing a complete arrow setup ready for broadheads or field points. The HIT (Hidden Insert Technology) system creates a seamless transition between the arrow shaft and the insert, further enhancing penetration.
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Straightness: Boasts a straightness tolerance of .006″, ensuring consistent accuracy and reliable performance. Straightness is a critical factor in arrow accuracy; the tighter the tolerance, the more consistent the arrow flight.
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Weight: Weighing in at 6.1 grains per inch (GPI), these arrows strike a good balance between speed and kinetic energy. Lighter arrows generally fly faster, while heavier arrows retain more energy downrange.
Performance & Functionality
The Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. perform admirably, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable penetration. They are easy to tune to a variety of bows, making them a versatile option for archers of different skill levels. The arrows exhibit minimal wobble in flight and group tightly at distances up to 30 yards.
The primary strength is their consistent flight and decent penetration for lower poundage bows. However, the durability of the vanes could be improved; they are susceptible to damage if repeatedly shot into tightly packed targets. These arrows largely meet expectations, offering a solid performance upgrade over basic aluminum or entry-level carbon arrows.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>
The Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. are designed with both performance and ease of use in mind. The 5mm micro-diameter not only enhances penetration but also gives the arrows a sleek, modern look. The X nocks are comfortable and provide a secure connection to the bowstring.
The overall build quality is excellent, with attention to detail evident in the consistent fletching and clean finish. There’s virtually no learning curve; they perform reliably right out of the box.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>
These arrows are reasonably durable, with the carbon shafts proving resistant to bending or breaking under normal use. However, as mentioned before, the vanes are the most vulnerable component. Regular inspection of the vanes is recommended, and replacement may be necessary if they become damaged or torn.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply clean the shafts and inspect the components after each use. Proper care will ensure that these arrows last for multiple seasons of shooting.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>
The Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. are compatible with a wide range of accessories, including various broadheads, field points, and lighted nocks. The HIT insert system allows for easy installation of different point weights, enabling fine-tuning of the arrow’s front-of-center (FOC) balance. These arrows are compatible with most standard arrow rests and releases.
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Pros and Cons of **Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk.**
Pros
- Improved Penetration: The 5mm micro-diameter significantly enhances penetration, especially with lower poundage bows.
- Excellent Accuracy: The tight straightness tolerance and effective Bully vanes ensure consistent and accurate arrow flight.
- Durable Shafts: The carbon shafts are resistant to bending and breaking, providing long-lasting performance.
- Complete Package: Includes X nocks and HIT inserts, offering a ready-to-shoot arrow setup.
- Value for Money: Competitively priced, offering a good balance of performance and affordability.
Cons
- Vane Durability: The Bully vanes can be susceptible to damage if repeatedly shot into tightly packed targets.
- Nock Fit: May require slight adjustments on some smaller diameter bowstrings to ensure proper release.
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Who Should Buy **Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk.**?
Perfect for: youth archers, women archers, and anyone using lower poundage bows (30-45 lbs). These arrows are also well-suited for target practice, 3D archery, and small game hunting.
Who should skip this product? Archers using higher poundage bows (above 45 lbs) may find that the 700 spine is too flexible. Also, those seeking maximum durability might consider arrows with more robust vanes.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good arrow puller will make removing arrows from dense targets easier. Also, consider experimenting with different point weights to optimize the arrow’s FOC for maximum accuracy and penetration.
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Conclusion on **Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk.**
The Easton 5mm Axis Sport Arrows 700 2 in. Bully Vanes 6 pk. represent a well-designed and affordable option for archers using lower poundage bows. They offer a noticeable improvement in penetration and accuracy compared to traditional arrows, and their durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. The price is certainly justified for the quality and performance you receive.
I would definitely recommend these arrows to anyone looking for a reliable and effective arrow setup for youth archery programs, target practice, or small game hunting. Take aim and experience the difference!