Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk. Review

The Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk. Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless arrow components come and go. But the Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk. from Victory Archery immediately piqued my interest with their promise of extreme FOC (Front of Center) and enhanced impact resilience. I was looking for a way to improve the penetration of my arrows, especially when hunting larger game with heavier bone structures.

The need arose from a recent elk hunt where my arrow, despite a well-placed shot, didn’t achieve the desired pass-through. This resulted in a longer tracking job than I would have liked. Upon receiving the Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts, I was immediately impressed by the robust feel and solid construction.

These inserts are a two-piece design combining 7075 aluminum alloy with stainless steel, promising strength and concentricity, and are designed to accept standard 5/16″ broadheads. I was choosing between these, the Ethics Archery Outserts, and the Iron Will Impact Collars. I chose the Victory Shok TL inserts because I liked the two-piece design that seemed to offer both impact protection and increased FOC without sacrificing arrow flight.

My first impression was one of excitement; the promise of improved arrow performance was tangible, and the build quality suggested a durable and reliable product. The brown finish also seemed like a good match for the aesthetics of my current arrow setup. I couldn’t wait to put them to the test in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk. to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts was at my local archery range, specifically focusing on target penetration and flight stability. The first thing I noticed was the change in the arrow’s front-of-center balance. The added weight, a full 75 grains, significantly shifted the balance forward as intended.

I tested the inserts with a variety of broadheads, including both fixed-blade and mechanical models, to assess their compatibility. Performance was tested in typical range conditions. They were dry and mild, around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. I did not experience any immediate issues.

I did not need significant time to get used to the different arrow flight. The arrow felt stable and planted as intended, requiring minimal sight adjustment to compensate for the new FOC. I noticed increased penetration into the 3D target compared to the standard inserts I was previously using, but more testing was needed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including practice sessions and a whitetail deer hunt, the Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts have proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve taken countless shots into various targets, including some accidental impacts with harder materials, and the inserts show minimal signs of wear and tear. The aluminum/stainless steel construction has held up well.

One notable observation is the lack of bending or deformation in the impact protection sleeve, even after direct hits on bone during the hunt. Maintaining the inserts has been straightforward; I simply check the broadhead tightness before each session and clean any dirt or debris as needed. Compared to my previous experience with standard aluminum inserts, the Victory Shok TL inserts have shown a significant improvement in durability and impact resistance.

The improved FOC has also resulted in tighter groupings at longer distances, giving me more confidence in my shot placement. This has led to cleaner, more ethical kills. The durability has been a plus as well, giving me increased confidence in my arrow build for the longer term.

Breaking Down the Features of Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk.

Specifications

The Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts are specifically designed for VAP, TKO, and VAP-SS arrows with a .166 inner diameter. The two-piece construction combines a 7075 aluminum alloy adapter with a stainless steel impact protection sleeve. These inserts weigh 75 grains, contributing to a higher FOC.

The adapters accept a standard 5/16″ broadhead with an 8-32 thread, making them compatible with a wide range of broadheads. The taper locking machining is critical for improved strength and concentricity, ensuring the broadhead aligns perfectly with the arrow shaft. This concentricity helps promote better arrow flight and accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts excel in their primary function: enhancing arrow penetration and impact resistance. The increased FOC improves arrow stability in flight, leading to more consistent groupings and reduced wind drift. The impact protection sleeve effectively strengthens the arrow tip, preventing fracturing upon impact with hard targets or bone.

While the added weight does slightly reduce arrow speed, the trade-off in penetration and stability is well worth it, especially for hunters targeting larger game. The increased weight up front can also make arrow tuning more sensitive; therefore, broadhead tuning is a must.

Design & Ergonomics

The Victory Shok TL inserts are well-designed, with a focus on both functionality and durability. The 7075 aluminum alloy provides a lightweight yet strong base, while the stainless steel sleeve adds essential protection to the arrow tip. The brown finish gives the inserts a sleek, professional look.

Installing the inserts is relatively straightforward, although it requires careful attention to ensure proper alignment and adhesion. There is a slight learning curve to ensure proper adhesion, but the final results are worth the effort.

Durability & Maintenance

The combination of aluminum alloy and stainless steel ensures that the Victory Shok TL inserts are built to last. They can withstand repeated impacts without significant damage, making them a reliable choice for serious archers and hunters. Maintaining the inserts is simple; regular cleaning and inspection for any signs of wear are all that’s required.

The robust construction of these inserts should extend the life of your arrows. Proper maintenance will keep them performing optimally.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts are designed to work seamlessly with standard 5/16″ broadheads, offering a wide range of customization options. You can pair these inserts with various broadhead types, including fixed-blade, mechanical, and hybrid models, depending on your hunting preferences.

While no additional accessories are included with the Victory Shok TL inserts, they are compatible with arrow wraps and other aesthetic modifications. They work well with all broadhead brands that use the standard threading, providing flexibility in your arrow setup.

Pros and Cons of Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk.

Who Should Buy Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk.?

The Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts are perfect for hunters targeting larger game, such as elk, deer, and bear, where maximum penetration is essential. Competitive shooters who prioritize accuracy and stability at longer distances will also benefit from the increased FOC. They are also perfect for any shooter looking for added durability and confidence in their arrow builds.

Those who are primarily focused on achieving maximum arrow speed and are hunting smaller game may find the added weight unnecessary. Someone who is new to archery and arrow building may prefer to start with simpler, one-piece inserts before tackling a two-piece design.

A good quality arrow saw for trimming arrows and an accurate scale for weighing components are must-have accessories for installing and tuning these inserts. A broadhead alignment tool can also be helpful to ensure perfect alignment.

Conclusion on Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk.

Overall, the Victory Shok TL 2-Piece Inserts VAP/TKO/VAP-SS .166 Brown 75 gr. 12 pk. are an excellent upgrade for archers and hunters looking to improve arrow performance. The value proposition is justified by the increased durability, enhanced FOC, and improved accuracy they provide. For $41.49, you are receiving a great value.

I would personally recommend these inserts to anyone serious about achieving maximum penetration and stability with their arrows. They have significantly improved my confidence in the field, and I believe they can do the same for you. Give them a try and experience the difference for yourself!