The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. Made a Bold First Impression
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. promised an intermediate solution for archers seeking a balance between affordability and performance. I had been consistently frustrated with inconsistent arrow flight using cheaper, less precise shafts, so the Easton reputation for quality drew me in. I needed arrows that could hold their own at both the target range and during practice for 3D archery competitions.
The shafts arrived well-packaged, each individually sleeved within the box. My initial reaction upon handling the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. was surprise at their lightness and the smooth, hard anodized finish. The silver color gives them a professional look.
Compared to the budget carbon arrows I had been using, these felt significantly more rigid. I also considered the Easton XX75 Gamegetter shafts, but opted for the Platinum Plus due to the tighter straightness tolerance. The deciding factor was the promise of increased accuracy at a reasonable price point. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping these shafts would deliver the consistent performance I desperately needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. was at my local outdoor archery range. The weather was mild and sunny, perfect for testing. I immediately noticed a tighter grouping compared to my previous arrows.
The arrows seemed to fly straighter and penetrate the target with more consistency. There was no noticeable wobble during flight, which was a welcome change. I did have to make some minor sight adjustments to compensate for the slightly different weight and spine of the new shafts.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. have proven to be quite durable. I’ve put hundreds of arrows downrange, and only one has suffered any significant damage – a slight bend after an errant shot that hit a tree. The anodized finish is holding up well, showing minimal scratches or wear.
Maintenance is simple; I just wipe them down with a cloth after each session to remove any dirt or residue. Compared to my previous, less expensive arrows, the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. have significantly improved my accuracy and consistency. They haven’t disappointed.
Breaking Down the Features of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz.
Specifications
- Material: 7075-T9 aerospace alloy. This alloy is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making the shafts durable and lightweight.
- Finish: Hard-anodized silver. The hard anodized finish provides excellent protection against corrosion and wear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Straightness Tolerance: +-.002″. This tight tolerance indicates high precision and contributes to consistent arrow flight.
- Bushings: Super Uni Bushing or G Uni Bushing (sizes 1916 and smaller) installed. These bushings provide a secure and consistent fit for nocks, enhancing accuracy.
- Pack Size: 1 Dozen (12 shafts). One dozen is the standard quantity for arrow shafts, allowing for replacements and consistent setup.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the arrow’s flight characteristics, durability, and overall accuracy. The high-quality materials and precise manufacturing ensure a reliable and consistent shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. perform admirably in their intended role as intermediate-priced target archery shafts. Their accuracy is noticeably improved compared to less expensive options, and their consistency makes tuning and sighting-in much easier. The main strength is their combination of good quality and relatively low price.
However, they might not be ideal for archers seeking the absolute highest level of performance, as top-tier carbon shafts may offer even greater speed and flatter trajectories. The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. meet and slightly exceed my expectations, offering a noticeable upgrade in performance without breaking the bank.
Design & Ergonomics
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. feature a simple, functional design with a sleek silver finish. The shafts are lightweight and comfortable to handle, contributing to a smooth draw and release. There is no learning curve involved; they are easy to set up and shoot.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7075-T9 alloy and hard-anodized finish ensure that the Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. are built to last. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. come with Super Uni Bushings or G Uni Bushings installed. Nocks and points are sold separately, allowing archers to customize their arrows to their specific needs and preferences. The shafts are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket nocks, points, and fletchings.
Pros and Cons of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz.
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: Tighter straightness tolerance (+-.002″) leads to more consistent arrow flight and better groupings.
- Enhanced Durability: 7075-T9 aerospace alloy construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Price: Provides excellent value for the money, offering a significant performance upgrade over budget options without breaking the bank.
- Smooth Finish: Hard-anodized finish protects against corrosion and wear, maintaining a sleek appearance.
- Easy to Customize: Compatible with a wide range of aftermarket nocks, points, and fletchings.
Cons
- Not Top-Tier Performance: May not offer the same level of speed and trajectory as high-end carbon shafts.
- Points and Nocks Sold Separately: Adds to the overall cost, as these essential components must be purchased separately.
Who Should Buy Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz.?
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. are perfect for intermediate archers looking to improve their accuracy and consistency without spending a fortune. They are well-suited for target archery, 3D archery practice, and recreational shooting. This is a great option for those who are stepping up from entry-level arrows and want a noticeable performance boost.
Archers who should skip this product are those who demand the absolute highest level of performance and are willing to invest in top-tier carbon shafts. These shafts might also be overkill for casual archers who only shoot occasionally and are not concerned with achieving maximum accuracy. Must-have accessories include high-quality nocks and points, as well as a fletching jig for customizing the arrows.
Conclusion on Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz.
The Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. are a solid choice for archers seeking a balance between performance, durability, and affordability. The price is definitely justified by the noticeable improvement in accuracy and consistency they provide. I would personally recommend them to any intermediate archer looking to upgrade their arrow setup.
These shafts offer a significant step up from entry-level options, making them a worthwhile investment for serious target archers. Take your archery to the next level and pick up a set of Easton Platinum Plus Shafts 2013 1 doz. today!