Gold Tip Hunter XT
The most-shot hunt arrow in North America is not a mystery. Standard 6.5mm diameter takes any insert, GT Smart Carbon shaft is durable, price is low. It is not the tightest tolerance on the shelf and it never was.
What bowhunters actually say
Unsung heros of the archers. Remain a favorite dependable cost-affordable arrow.
Archery Talk XT Hunter reviews thread
Real specs
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| GPI by spine | 250: 10.6 / 300: 9.3 / 340: 8.9 / 400: 8.2 / 500: 7.3 |
| Spine options | 250, 300, 340, 400, 500 |
| Diameter | .246 inner (6.5mm class) |
| Straightness | +/- .003 |
| Weight tolerance | +/- 2 grains |
| Stock components | Nock and insert included, standard 6.5mm components |
| MSRP per dozen | USD 100 to 130 per dozen shafts |
Field performance
Most common build: Hunter XT 340 cut 28 in, 100 gr field point, finished 415 gr at 10 to 11 percent FOC for whitetail. Elk builds swap in a 50 gr brass insert + 125 gr broadhead and finish 465 to 480 gr.
Common complaints
Two live complaints on Archery Talk: (1) weight tolerance is +/- 2 grains, which is looser than Rampage or FMJ, so weigh a dozen and expect 6 to 8 gr spread; (2) factory Blazer vanes can strip if you use aggressive sanding prep instead of a red Scotch-Brite pad. A test dozen of Velocity XT spun with only 2 of 12 perfectly true.
Who should shoot it
The hunter who does not want to fuss and does not shoot past 45 yards. Best pure value in a standard-diameter shaft.