Last Updated On: April 18, 2023

We may earn revenue from the products available on this site and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more

How do you Determine kinetic energy of an arrow?

You'll need 2 metrics to calculate kinetic energy:

1. Velocity or arrow speed (fps):

Use a chronograph or our arrow speed calculator to find yours.

chronograph

2. Mass arrow weight in grain:

Use a kitchen scale to determine it. Note that the arrow weight INCLUDES shaft, nock, fleching, insert and point.

The Kenetic Energy Fomula:

KE = (m*v2)/450,800
  • KE: Kenetic Energy (ft. lbs.)
  • m: mass arrow weight (grains)
  • v: velocity or arrow speed (fps)

Example:

If you're shooting arrow at 280 fps and your mass arrow weight is 400 grains, then the KE = 400*280*280 /450800 = 69.65 (ft. lbs).

What is good kinetic energy for an arrow?

Check out kinetic energy recommendation for hunting game:

Kinetic Energy

Recommendation

15-25 ft-lbs

Small Game (rabbbit, groundhog, etc.)

25-41 ft-lbs

Medium Game (deer, antelope, etc.)

42-65 ft-lbs

Large Game (elk, black bear, wild boar, etc.)

65-80 ft-lbs

Toughest Game (cape buffalo, grizzly, moose, etc.)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}

About the Author

Hi, I'm Robert Gate, a hunter from Texas and Founder of ArcheryTopic.

I first learned archery from my dad when I was 12 years old. He gave me a Mathew bow as a gift and instantly fell in love with the pursuit.

>