Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Arrows => Topic started by: upstatenybowyer on July 06, 2017, 09:02:05 pm

Title: Aluminum for points?
Post by: upstatenybowyer on July 06, 2017, 09:02:05 pm

One other thing... I know steel is the preferred metal for homemade broadhead points, but could I use aluminum? I have a long bar of it that's thick enough not to bend or anything, but do points need to be a certain weight? I figured that might make aluminum a poor choice.

Thanks again!

Title: Re: Aluminum for points?
Post by: DC on July 06, 2017, 09:10:15 pm

I wouldn't use it for day to day arrows. I'm using mild steel and they round over pretty quick. I'm gradually changing to carbon steel. Oh, wait, you said broadhead. I'd still say no.

Title: Re: Aluminum for points?
Post by: Pat B on July 06, 2017, 09:53:38 pm

Aluminum is too soft for a broadhead. Might work for target but not for hunting. 

Title: Re: Aluminum for points?
Post by: Peacebow_Coos on July 06, 2017, 10:26:01 pm

Only if you don't miss  :o

Title: Re: Aluminum for points?
Post by: loon on July 07, 2017, 12:36:27 am

Maybe for blunts. Well, copper, bone and wood have been used for broadheads, so... but is it really worth the effort over steel? seems like hardness is similar to copper but it's way lighter (~2.7 g/cm^3 vs ~9 g/cm^3) - still depends on the alloy and stuff

Title: Re: Aluminum for points?
Post by: sleek on July 07, 2017, 01:22:11 am

There are ways to harden aluminum. We do it all the time in aviation. Most common js a method called flap peening. It just beats the metal until its hard.  Apparantly aluminum likes it. Its just a method of work hardening.  Also look into aging process for al hardening.

Title: Re: Aluminum for points?
Post by: loon on July 07, 2017, 01:25:51 am

The density of aluminum seems very close to that of glass and stone.