Arrow Spine Weight Chart
Combined spine and weight reference. Finished arrow weight for every spine class at 29 inch build length, plus GPP check matrix across draw weights.
📊 Spine vs Finished Weight (29 in build, 100 gr point, 25 gr insert, 30 gr rear)
| Spine | Common GPI | Shaft Weight (29 in) | Total Weight | Class | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 | 11–13 | 319–377 gr | 474–532 gr | Ultra Heavy | Dangerous game / warbow |
| 250 | 10–12 | 290–348 gr | 445–503 gr | Heavy | Large game / high-FOC hunting |
| 300 | 9–11 | 261–319 gr | 416–474 gr | Heavy | Elk / bear / heavy hunting |
| 340 | 8.5–10 | 247–290 gr | 402–445 gr | Mid-Heavy | All-around hunting |
| 400 | 7.5–9 | 218–261 gr | 373–416 gr | Mid | Deer / mid-weight hunting |
| 500 | 6.5–8 | 189–232 gr | 344–387 gr | Light | Target / light hunting / recurve |
| 600 | 5.5–7 | 160–203 gr | 315–358 gr | Light | Youth / target / 3D |
⚖️ GPP Check Matrix
Grains per pound (GPP) = finished arrow weight ÷ draw weight. Values shown for common draw weight ranges.
| Total Arrow Weight | 40 lb bow | 50 lb bow | 60 lb bow | 70 lb bow | 80 lb bow |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 315 gr | 7.9 | 6.3 | 5.3 | 4.5 | 3.9 |
| 350 gr | 8.8 | 7.0 | 5.8 | 5.0 | 4.4 |
| 400 gr | 10.0 | 8.0 | 6.7 | 5.7 | 5.0 |
| 425 gr | 10.6 | 8.5 | 7.1 | 6.1 | 5.3 |
| 450 gr | 11.3 | 9.0 | 7.5 | 6.4 | 5.6 |
| 500 gr | 12.5 | 10.0 | 8.3 | 7.1 | 6.3 |
| 550 gr | 13.8 | 11.0 | 9.2 | 7.9 | 6.9 |
| 600 gr | 15.0 | 12.0 | 10.0 | 8.6 | 7.5 |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does spine affect arrow weight?
Yes, indirectly. Stiffer spine shafts use thicker walls, which means higher GPI and heavier finished arrows. This is why 200 spine arrows typically weigh 475–530 gr while 600 spine arrows weigh 315–360 gr.
What spine and weight for deer hunting?
Most deer hunters use 340 or 400 spine at 425–475 gr finished weight. This produces 6–8 GPP on a 55–65 lb bow, comfortably meeting the 40 ft-lb KE minimum.
Can I use a heavier point to increase arrow weight?
Yes, but it shifts effective spine weaker. Adding 25 gr of point weight makes the shaft act about half a class weaker. Check spine after any point weight change.
What is the ideal GPP for hunting?
6–8 GPP is the standard hunting range. 8–10 GPP is used for heavy penetration or large game. Below 6 GPP is best reserved for target work. Above 10 GPP is specialty.
How do I calculate GPP for my build?
Divide your finished arrow weight in grains by your bow's draw weight in pounds. Use our arrow weight calculator to compute both.
Should I pick spine or weight first?
Spine first. Your bow's draw weight and draw length determine spine requirements. Once spine is matched, you optimize weight by choosing shaft GPI and components.