Arrows: Kinetic Energy vs. Momentum

Blayne Kesse, Cummings, Kansas: "I shoot a Hoyt MT Sport bow set at 70 lbs. and 28 inches. I'm currently shooting Easton Carbon Epic arrows weighing 8.17 GPI with a 100 grain tip. I previously shot Carbon Express Terminator arrows weighing 10.7 GPI, however, after shooting through a chronograph I noticed that the heavy arrows were lobbing along at only 250 feet per second (fps), and the lighter ones are up around 270-275 fps. Should I shoot a heavier arrow that flies slower but carries more kinetic energy or shoot a lighter arrow that flies much faster but carries less kinetic energy? Which aspect of arrow flight is more important? Or, should I try the best of both worlds and shoot a 8-9 GPI arrow? Thanks for the help."

This is always a debate among archers. In part it depends on what you're hunting and I'm assuming it's probably whitetailed deer. In that case either arrow will give you good results and the faster set-up might help with the problem of string jumping provided you can shoot it accurately. If you were going after elk where two-hole penetration is paramount, I'd suggest the heavier arrow. That's because kinetic energy it not the only indicator. That formula is only a reference. Momentum it probably a larger factor. A light arrow will slow down, or lose its initial energy quicker than a heavier arrow. That's why bowhunters who pursue dangerous game such as large bears and cape buffalo, go with very heavy arrows. However they don't have to deal with the problem of string jumping. If you're hunting antelope or nervous whitetails a little extra speed doesn't hurt as long as you don't go too light.

In the overall scheme of things the 20 to 25 fps you gain with the lighter arrow is probably not enough to make a difference. A bow shooting a heavier arrow will be quieter also. Like most things, either extreme is not the way to go. A compromise would certainly work but I wouldn't go buy new arrows as you'll be fine with the setup you have.

Shooting A Caliper Release With A String Loop

Casey Thompson, Potsdam, New York: "I just got a new bow and started shooting a string loop. I like the loop but my caliper release tears it up too much. I've had the bow for just a few days and I'm already putting on a new loop. I've seen releases just for loops and was wondering if you knew of any good ones? Do they actually work better than the caliper? Thanks."

You don't say what kind of release you're using but I suspect there is a sharp edge or a burr in the jaws. I have been shooting a caliper release (a Tru-Fire Hurricane Buckle) for years and have never had to change a string loop because of wear, or even noticed any wear on my loop. Any quality caliper release should work fine but the ones designed for string loops are great also. Other good releases are made by Cobra, Scott and Tru-Ball.

It could also be a problem with your string loop material. If it is designed to be used for a string loop then the release is the problem. If you're using some sort of string that isn't tough enough, it just might be wearing out.

I went to a string loop quite a few years back and wouldn't change a thing. Good luck and take care.

How Can I Become A Professional Hunter?

P.K., Goshen, Ohio: "I've always enjoyed hunting and consider myself a very good shot. What steps would I have to take to become a professional hunter?"

What is a "professional bowhunter?" Here we will define that term as "making a living in the hunting industry." People arrive at this goal in different ways. Chuck Adams, for example, developed his career primarily as a writer, and he has built on that foundation. Myles Keller gained a reputation as a whitetail hunter first, and from that beginning he gained endorsement, speaking, and writing opportunities.

Every year, successful hunters bombard archery companies with proposals. Some companies may provide equipment to such hunters; a few offer pro-staff positions to exceptional individuals. But hunters on company payrolls just to hunt are as rare as turkey teeth.

You can start by sending success stories and field photos of yourself and game animals to archery magazines and manufacturers. That might help you attract some attention. Giving seminars at local and regional outdoor events also gets your name out there. But, again, remember -- there is no free lunch. You have to pay your dues over a period of years. That's how most so-called "pro hunters" got started.