The Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk. Made a Bold First Impression
Target archery, whether for honing hunting skills or enjoying 3D courses, demands precision and equipment that can withstand repeated use. Enter the Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk., a seemingly simple component with the potential to significantly impact your shooting experience. I was looking for field points that minimized target wear and offered superior flight characteristics for practice, and these caught my eye.
The Saunders brand is a respected name in archery, promising quality, so I ordered a pack online. Out of the box, I immediately noticed the sleek, elongated design and the black zinc finish. These appeared to be a step up from my standard, run-of-the-mill field points.
I’ve used standard field points and even some bullet-shaped target points in the past. I chose the Saunders Combo Points over others because of the claims of reduced target damage and improved stability, hoping to preserve my 3D targets and tighten my groupings at longer distances. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; they looked well-made and ready to perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk.** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my backyard archery range, set up with both block targets and several 3D animal targets. The weather was dry with a slight crosswind, typical conditions for my area. I wanted to see how the Saunders Combo Points performed in a familiar setting.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly the arrows penetrated the target. Unlike my old points, which often ripped at the foam, these seemed to slip in with minimal damage. It was noticeably easier to pull the arrows out, a welcome change.
There were no immediate issues; the points screwed in securely and consistently, and initial groups at 20 yards were promising. The arrows seemed to fly a bit truer, resisting the wind better than my standard field points.
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>Over the past several months, I’ve used the Saunders Combo Points extensively, both in my backyard and at local 3D archery courses. They have held up incredibly well. The black zinc finish is surprisingly durable, showing minimal wear even after repeated use.
Durability has been excellent; I haven’t had a single point bend or break, even after a few accidental impacts with tree branches. Cleaning is simple; I usually just wipe them down with a cloth after each shooting session. My previous field points required frequent sharpening or replacement.
Compared to my previous experiences, the Saunders Combo Points have significantly outperformed my expectations. The reduced target damage alone makes them worthwhile, but the improved flight stability and durability are added bonuses.
Breaking Down the Features of **Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk.**
Specifications
Weight: 85 grains. This is a common weight for target and field points, providing a good balance between speed and penetration.
Diameter: 5/16 inch. This is a standard size, compatible with a wide range of arrow shafts commonly used for target archery and hunting.
Material: Rust-resistant steel with a black zinc finish. The steel provides durability and penetration, while the black zinc finish offers corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
Design: Aerodynamic, elongated profile. The longer profile is designed to reduce drag and increase stability in flight, leading to improved accuracy.
Quantity: 12 points per pack. This is a standard quantity, offering a good supply for practice and replacement. The Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk. pack provides plenty of points to start with.
Performance & Functionality
The Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk. excel at their primary job: providing accurate and consistent arrow flight while minimizing target damage. My groups have tightened noticeably, especially at longer distances (40+ yards). These points consistently delivered better results than my previous field points.
A major strength is the reduced tear-out on 3D targets, preserving their lifespan. A minor weakness is that the black finish can scratch if you frequently shoot into hard targets. The overall performance exceeds expectations, providing a tangible improvement in accuracy and target longevity.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The build quality is excellent; the points are precisely machined and feel solid and well-balanced. The weight distribution feels good on the front of the arrow.
They are incredibly easy to use. Simply screw them onto compatible arrow shafts.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>The rust-resistant steel construction ensures longevity, even with frequent use in varying weather conditions. They will likely outlast cheaper alternatives.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down after use is usually sufficient. Keeping them clean and dry prevents rust.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk. are designed to be compatible with standard arrow shafts and broadhead wrenches. There are no specific accessories needed.
These points are compatible with most standard arrow inserts. I did not find a need for any aftermarket modifications.
Pros and Cons of **Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk.**
Pros
- Improved arrow flight stability and accuracy.
- Significantly reduces target damage, extending target life.
- Durable rust-resistant steel construction.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- The black zinc finish can scratch with use.
- The elongated design may not be ideal for all arrow rests.
Who Should Buy **Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk.**?
The Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk. are perfect for target archers, 3D archery enthusiasts, and hunters who want to practice with field points that mimic the flight characteristics of their broadheads. These points are also great for anyone who wants to prolong the life of their targets.
Beginners might not immediately appreciate the subtle improvements in accuracy, and those shooting exclusively at paper targets may not see the benefit of reduced target damage. A must-have addition would be a quality arrow puller for removing arrows from dense targets.
Conclusion on **Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk.**
The Saunders Combo Points 5/16 85 gr. 12 pk. are a fantastic addition to any archer’s toolkit, offering a noticeable improvement in arrow flight and target preservation. At a price of $6.99, they represent excellent value for the performance and durability they provide.
I would absolutely recommend them. If you’re looking for a simple upgrade that can enhance your shooting experience and save you money on target replacement, the Saunders Combo Points are a clear winner. Upgrade your archery game today and see the difference for yourself!
