Let’s Talk About Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts
The Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts are Gold Tip’s answer to the ever-increasing demands of outdoor archery, particularly for those shooting longer distances in variable wind conditions. Released in 2017, they were designed with a micro-diameter and Gold Tip’s Smart Carbon Technology. This combination aims to deliver superior wind resistance and straightness retention, crucial for consistent accuracy when conditions get tough.
For years, I struggled with arrow drift, especially during windy days at outdoor 3D archery courses. I needed an arrow that could cut through the wind without sacrificing durability or consistent flight. The Pierce Tour’s micro-diameter caught my eye, promising to solve this very problem.
The shafts arrived in a simple, no-frills package, typical of Gold Tip. My initial impression was that they felt incredibly light yet surprisingly stiff. The carbon weave looked clean and uniform, suggesting a high level of manufacturing quality.
Compared to my previous arrows, the Easton ACCs and Carbon Express Maxima Reds, the Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts were noticeably slimmer. While the ACCs were durable, they weren’t as wind-resistant, and the Maxima Reds, while accurate, lacked the straightness retention I desired long-term. I chose the Pierce Tour hoping for the best of both worlds – wind-cheating performance and lasting accuracy.
I was definitely excited! The potential to tighten my groupings at longer distances, even in challenging conditions, was something I was eager to explore.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts was at my local outdoor archery range. The range sits in a valley known for unpredictable crosswinds, which made it an ideal testing ground. I was shooting at targets ranging from 40 to 80 yards.
The wind was gusting, but I immediately noticed a difference. The Pierce Tours seemed to hold their line better than my previous arrows, resulting in tighter groupings, particularly at the 60 and 70-yard marks. I was impressed by their stability.
The arrows were easy to fletch with my standard AAE Max Stealth vanes, and the included nocks seated firmly. There were no issues with arrow flight or tuning right out of the gate, which was a pleasant surprise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts have proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put hundreds of shots through them in varying weather conditions, from hot and humid summer days to crisp autumn mornings. They have held up remarkably well.
I’ve noticed very little wear and tear. The carbon maintains its integrity, and the straightness is still within the specified tolerance. Even after the occasional accidental impact with a tree or target backstop, the shafts have shown no signs of cracking or splintering.
Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe them down with a damp cloth after each shooting session. I check the nocks and vanes periodically and replace them as needed. Compared to my experience with the Carbon Express Maxima Reds, which seemed more prone to vane damage, the Pierce Tours require less frequent maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts
Specifications
GPI: 9.8. This grains per inch (GPI) rating indicates the arrow’s weight, directly affecting its speed and trajectory. A moderate GPI like this offers a good balance between speed and kinetic energy.
Length: 32″. This is the maximum uncut length of the shaft. It provides ample room for most archers to cut them to their specific draw length.
Straightness Tolerance: +/- .1″. This is a critical specification, indicating how straight the arrow is along its length. A tight tolerance like this (.001″) ensures consistent arrow flight and accuracy.
Weight Tolerance: +/- .5 gr. This specifies how much the weight of individual shafts can vary within a dozen. A low weight tolerance ensures consistent arrow groupings, as each arrow will behave similarly in flight.
Outer Diameter: .245″. This micro-diameter design is a key feature. Smaller diameters reduce wind drag, leading to flatter trajectories and improved accuracy in windy conditions.
Inner Diameter: .166″. This smaller inner diameter impacts the selection of compatible components like inserts and nocks. Ensure that you purchase components specifically designed for this inner diameter.
Performance & Functionality
The Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts excel in their primary purpose: delivering consistent accuracy, particularly in challenging outdoor conditions. The micro-diameter and straightness tolerance contribute to exceptional flight stability and reduced wind drift. They perform admirably.
Their strength lies in their ability to maintain a consistent trajectory despite wind interference. The only area for improvement might be a slight increase in durability for hardcore hunting situations. Overall, they meet and exceed my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pierce Tour’s design is focused on performance rather than aesthetics. The shafts feel lightweight and comfortable to handle. The carbon weave provides a secure grip.
The slim diameter is a definite plus, but requires a bit more care when handling to prevent bending or damage. The minimal design makes them incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special knowledge or tools to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts are reasonably durable for target archery. They will hold up for multiple seasons if properly cared for.
They are simple to maintain. Regular cleaning and inspection are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts themselves don’t come with any specific accessories beyond the standard nocks. However, they are highly customizable.
They are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket inserts, points, and vanes. You can truly tailor the arrow to your specific bow and shooting style.
Pros and Cons of Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts
Pros
- Exceptional wind resistance due to the micro-diameter design, leading to tighter groupings in windy conditions.
- High straightness tolerance (+/- .001″) ensures consistent arrow flight and improved accuracy.
- Lightweight design contributes to faster arrow speeds and flatter trajectories.
- Good balance of speed and kinetic energy, making them suitable for both target archery and hunting (with appropriate point weight).
- Highly customizable with a wide range of aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- The Micro-diameter can be more susceptible to bending or damage from impacts compared to standard-diameter shafts.
- Price point is higher than some other carbon arrow options on the market.
Who Should Buy Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts?
The Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts are perfect for competitive 3D archers and serious target shooters who demand maximum accuracy, especially in outdoor environments with unpredictable winds. They are also a good choice for bowhunters who prioritize flat trajectories and wind resistance for longer shots.
Beginner archers or those who primarily shoot indoors might not fully appreciate the benefits of the Pierce Tour and could opt for a more forgiving and less expensive arrow. If you primarily hunt in dense, wooded areas where shot distances are short, the wind-cheating advantages may not be as significant.
A good arrow saw is a must-have accessory for cutting the shafts to your correct length. High-quality fletching glue is also essential for proper vane adhesion.
Conclusion on Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts
The Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts are a premium arrow option designed for archers who demand the highest level of performance in challenging conditions. The micro-diameter design and exceptional straightness tolerance deliver a noticeable improvement in accuracy, especially in windy environments.
The price is justified for those serious about competitive archery or bowhunting at longer distances. The consistent performance and durability make them a worthwhile investment.
I would definitely recommend the Gold Tip Pierce Tour Shafts to any archer looking to improve their accuracy and consistency in outdoor shooting. Give them a try, and experience the difference a high-quality arrow can make.