Arrow Inserts: Types, Materials & Install Guide

Arrow inserts are small threaded sleeves installed inside the point end of an arrow shaft. They anchor screw-in points and broadheads, add forward weight that shifts the balance toward the front of the shaft, and let you swap point styles without re-gluing the shaft.

Aluminum vs. Brass Arrow Inserts

Most archery inserts are made from aluminum or brass, and the difference matters for tuning.

• Aluminum inserts are lightweight and the natural pairing for carbon arrow shafts, which are already light. A standard aluminum insert weighs roughly 16 grains. They are easy to install but can wear faster under heavy repeated use.
• Brass inserts are considerably heavier — some options reach 100 grains — which improves front-of-center (FOC) balance and can enhance accuracy. They are more durable and are commonly paired with aluminum shafts.

Types of Arrow Inserts and Outserts

Standard (Lipped) Inserts

The most common type. A lip stops the insert flush at the shaft face once seated. Used across most carbon and aluminum shaft diameters.

HIT (Hidden Insert Technology)

HIT inserts seat entirely inside the shaft — hidden from view. Originally engineered for small-diameter shafts where a lipped insert would no longer be compatible, they require epoxy and a dedicated seating tool to position them at the correct depth before the adhesive cures.

Half-Out Inserts

A hybrid design, part internal and part external. Easton's 5mm Half-Out inserts are available in 25-grain aluminum or 75-grain steel, and extend roughly half an inch beyond the shaft to provide a flush fit with 5/16" points and broadheads.

Glue-In vs. Screw-In

Glue-in inserts for arrows are bonded with adhesive — epoxy for carbon shafts, hot melt for aluminum. Screw-in inserts thread directly into aluminum shafts with larger inner diameters and are easy to remove, though they can loosen over time.

How to Install Arrow Inserts

1. Square the cut end of the shaft so the insert seats at a true 90-degree angle.
2. Clean the shaft interior and the insert with acetone or denatured alcohol — no adhesive bonds well to oily surfaces.
3. Apply your chosen adhesive to the insert and press it into the shaft, rotating one full turn to distribute coverage evenly.
4. Use an insert-seating tool to push the insert flush with the shaft end.
5. Allow the adhesive to cure fully before threading on any point.

Getting your aluminum arrow inserts or brass inserts right is one step in a broader tuning process. Understanding how arrow spine relates to your draw weight ensures all your components work together for consistent flight.