The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. represent a sweet spot in the archery world: performance and affordability. Easton is a name synonymous with quality arrow shafts, and the Platinum Plus line aims to deliver accuracy and consistency for archers who are serious about their target shooting without breaking the bank.
My journey to these shafts started with a quest for enhanced accuracy in my recreational target archery. I’d been using entry-level aluminum arrows and found my groupings were inconsistent beyond 30 yards. I was looking for a shaft with tighter tolerances and greater durability than my previous set.
Unboxing the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz., the first thing I noticed was the sleek silver finish thanks to its hard-anodized coating. They felt noticeably sturdier than the budget arrows I was used to, promising better consistency. The included Super Uni Bushings (or G Uni Bushings in the smaller sizes) were a welcome bonus.
Compared to the Easton XX75 Gamegetter, a classic hunting arrow, the Platinum Plus seemed geared more towards target precision rather than pure penetration. I also considered the Carbon Express Maxima Red, but ultimately chose the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. for their reputation of consistency and value. My initial excitement was definitely justified!
Real-World Testing: Putting Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. was at my local outdoor archery range. The day was sunny with a slight crosswind, a perfect challenge for these new arrows. I was shooting at a standard 80cm target face at distances from 20 to 50 yards.
The shafts performed admirably in the variable conditions. The crosswind barely affected the trajectory. The arrow flight was visibly straighter and more consistent than with my older arrows, noticeably improving my groupings.
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. were easy to use right out of the box. Once I fletched them and installed my preferred points and nocks (sold separately), they were ready to go. No surprises or issues popped up during that initial session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. have proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve put hundreds of arrows downrange, and they continue to group tightly. There are only minor cosmetic scratches from impacts, but no significant wear or bending.
Maintenance is a breeze. I simply wipe them down with a damp cloth after each shooting session to remove any dirt or residue. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper arrows that bent easily, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. have exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz.
Specifications
7075-T9 Aerospace Alloy: This alloy provides a good balance between strength and weight, ensuring the shafts can withstand repeated use without bending or breaking. The alloy is a key factor in the shaft’s overall resilience and ability to maintain its straightness over time.
Hard-Anodized Finish: The hard-anodized finish protects the shafts from corrosion and scratches. This finish not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also extends the lifespan of the arrows.
Straightness Tolerance of +-.002″: This tight straightness tolerance ensures consistent arrow flight and improved accuracy. This is critical for achieving tight groupings and hitting your target with precision.
Super Uni Bushing or G Uni Bushing (sizes 1916 and smaller): These bushings provide a secure and consistent fit for nocks, further enhancing accuracy. A secure nock fit prevents nock pinch and ensures clean releases.
Performance & Functionality
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. perform exceptionally well for recreational and competitive target archery. They consistently deliver accurate and reliable arrow flight. The improved straightness tolerance over cheaper shafts translates directly to tighter groupings, making them a valuable upgrade for any archer seeking better precision.
The shafts are generally accurate and extremely easy to customize with field points and fletchings. The only area for potential improvement might be the finish, a slightly tougher coating could further enhance their resistance to scratches. Overall, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. meet and often exceed expectations for this price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The silver finish is aesthetically pleasing. The shafts have a good weight and feel, contributing to a comfortable shooting experience. The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. do not require any special knowledge to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. are built to last with proper care. Occasional wiping with a damp cloth should be sufficient to keep them in top condition. The arrow shafts can last for years, depending on how often they are used and how well they are maintained.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. come with Super Uni Bushings or G Uni Bushings. This allows archers to easily install their preferred nocks. Nocks and points are sold separately, allowing for full customization to suit individual preferences and archery disciplines. These shafts are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket nocks, points, and fletchings, making them highly versatile.
Pros and Cons of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz.
Pros
- Extremely Accurate: Tight straightness tolerance for consistent arrow flight.
- Durable Construction: The 7075-T9 alloy and hard-anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Great Value: Excellent performance for the price.
- Easy to Customize: Compatible with a wide range of nocks, points, and fletchings.
- Consistent Weight: Each shaft is closely matched in weight, promoting consistent groupings.
Cons
- Nocks and Points Sold Separately: Adds to the overall cost.
- Finish can Scratch: While durable, the hard-anodized finish is still susceptible to cosmetic scratches.
Who Should Buy Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz.?
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. are perfect for recreational target archers and competitive shooters looking for improved accuracy and durability without a premium price tag. The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. are also suitable for intermediate archers stepping up from basic arrows.
Beginners who are serious about improving their accuracy should consider these shafts. Anyone wanting to save money by buying lower quality shafts should skip this product. A good arrow rest, a quality bow sight, and a reliable arrow puller are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz.
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1616 1 doz. are a fantastic choice for archers seeking a balance of performance, durability, and affordability. The price is definitely justified by the improved accuracy and longevity compared to cheaper alternatives.
I would definitely recommend these shafts to anyone looking to step up their target archery game. Upgrade your shooting today and experience the difference a quality arrow shaft can make!