Arrows designed for target archery using recurve bows possess specific characteristics that differentiate them from other types. These projectiles typically feature a lightweight yet durable shaft made of materials like aluminum, carbon fiber, or a composite blend. Components like the point (tip), fletching (stabilizing feathers or vanes), and nock (fitted to the bowstring) are carefully selected and assembled for consistent flight and accuracy. A common example would be a carbon fiber shaft arrow with plastic vanes and a target point.
Precision and consistency are paramount in target archery, making the quality and design of these projectiles crucial. Their construction contributes significantly to a stable trajectory and tight groupings on the target, vital for achieving high scores. The evolution of these projectiles mirrors the advancements in archery technology, moving from simple wooden shafts to the highly engineered composite materials used today. This progression has enhanced accuracy and extended the effective range of recurve bows in target competitions.