Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. Review

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression

For years, I’ve helped archers of all skill levels find the right gear, and I’ve seen countless arrows come and go. The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. promised a blend of performance and affordability, a sweet spot that’s often hard to hit. They are from the Easton brand and the intermediate-priced shaft should be perfect for recreational target archery.

I was searching for a reliable shaft for intermediate archers at our local club. Many are transitioning from beginner equipment and seeking better consistency without breaking the bank. I’d heard good things about the Easton Platinum Plus line, particularly its reputation for durability and reasonable straightness.

The shafts arrived neatly packaged. My initial impression was positive, noting the clean, hard-anodized silver finish. They felt solid and well-constructed. I had been considering the Easton XX75 Gamegetter and the Beman ICS Bowhunter shafts, but the Platinum Plus seemed to offer a better balance of price and claimed precision for target archery.

My excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism, as claims of high performance at a mid-range price always warrant closer scrutiny. However, the overall look and feel of the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. definitely piqued my interest and encouraged further investigation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. to the Test

First Use Experience

I took these shafts to our local outdoor archery range, a mix of open fields and wooded areas, to simulate various shooting conditions. I tested them with both recurve and compound bows, focusing on target distances from 20 to 50 yards. The weather was typical for late spring – a bit breezy, with occasional light rain.

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. performed admirably in the varied conditions. The hard anodized finish seemed to shrug off light rain, and the arrows flew relatively straight despite the crosswinds. I did not have any issues.

These shafts were easy to work with. Even novice archers found them manageable to handle and shoot. The pre-installed Super Uni Bushings made nock installation straightforward.

After the initial shooting session, I was pleasantly surprised by the consistent flight and impact points. No immediate issues arose, reinforcing my initial impression of solid construction and decent performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. have proven to be remarkably durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. Even after numerous impacts with the target, the shafts have maintained their straightness and structural integrity.

Maintaining these shafts is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use keeps them clean and free from dirt and debris. I have not observed any corrosion or degradation of the anodized finish.

Compared to cheaper aluminum shafts I’ve used in the past, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. offer a noticeable improvement in consistency and longevity. They outperform those budget options significantly, and justify the moderate price increase.

Breaking Down the Features of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz.

Specifications

• Material: 7075-T9 Aerospace Alloy – This alloy is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making these shafts durable yet relatively light. This allows for good arrow speed and penetration.
• Straightness Tolerance: +-.002″ – This is a crucial specification. It indicates the maximum deviation from perfect straightness, impacting accuracy and consistency; tighter tolerance means more accurate shots.
• Finish: Hard-Anodized Silver – The hard anodized finish provides a protective layer, enhancing resistance to wear, corrosion, and scratches. It also contributes to the shaft’s sleek appearance.
• Bushing: Super Uni Bushing or G Uni Bushing (sizes 1916 and smaller) installed – Bushings are critical for nock retention and alignment. This ensures proper arrow flight and reduces the risk of nock damage upon impact.
• Size: 1816 – This measurement represents the spine and diameter of the shaft, appropriate for certain draw weights and arrow rests.

Performance & Functionality

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. perform their job remarkably well for target archery. They offer a consistent flight path and acceptable accuracy at various distances. However, they may not be the ideal choice for high-level competitive archery where ultra-tight groupings are essential.

Their strengths lie in their durability and consistency, while their main weakness is their straightness tolerance, which isn’t as tight as more expensive options. However, considering the price, these shafts significantly exceed expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of these shafts is excellent. The 7075-T9 alloy and hard-anodized finish provide a sense of robustness and durability. They feel comfortable to handle and work with.

These shafts are designed with ease of use in mind. The pre-installed bushings and standard sizing simplify arrow assembly. There is no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

These shafts are built to last. The hard-anodized finish and strong alloy make them highly resistant to bending, breaking, and corrosion. Minimal maintenance is required to keep them in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz. come with Super Uni Bushings or G Uni Bushings (depending on the size). Nocks and points are sold separately, allowing archers to choose components that match their specific needs and preferences. This makes customizing the arrow to the archer very customizable.

These shafts are compatible with a wide range of standard nocks, points, and fletchings. The industry wide sizing also ensures easy customization.

Pros and Cons of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 1816 1 doz.