When it comes to bowhunting or archery in general, choosing the right arrow can mean the difference between success and frustration. Enter the Easton 5.0, a lighter and highly refined version of the Easton Axis 5mm, designed to deliver speed, accuracy, and superior durability. If you’re searching for the best hunting arrows, you’ll want to stick around for this in-depth Easton 5.0 review to see how it stacks up in real-world scenarios.
What Is the Easton 5.0?
The Easton 5.0 is a new addition to Easton’s legendary arrow lineup, offering bowhunters a lighter weight GPI option 5mm and highly efficient micro-diameter option. It builds on the Axis platform, shedding nearly 2 grains per inch (GPI) compared to the Axis 5mm, which means increased arrow speed and better long-range performance.
Key Features:
- Available in six spine options: 200, 250, 300, 340, 400, and 500.
- Available in both bare shafts and pre-fletched options
- Grains per inch: Ranges from 10.6 GPI (200 spine) to 6.2 GPI (500 spine).
- Micro-diameter shaft (5mm) for increased penetration and wind resistance.
- Built with Acucarb Carbon Process for a seamless and consistent spine.
- 5mm Microlite Nock and HIT (Hidden Insert Technology) system.
- Available in Match Grade (.001 straightness tolerance) and Standard (.003 straightness tolerance) options.
- Optional NEW match grade 55 – 75-grain half-out system for increased front-of-center (FOC) weight.
- Proudly Made in the USA.
Key Takeaway
The Easton 5.0 is a top-tier hunting arrow that delivers speed, accuracy, and deep penetration, making it a strong contender for bowhunters looking to optimize their performance. With its lightweight design, seamless spine consistency, and micro-diameter shaft, it provides excellent flight stability and kinetic energy on impact. If you’re searching for the best hunting arrows, the Easton 5.0 is a solid investment for both seasoned hunters and competitive archers.
Performance Breakdown
1. Accuracy & Consistency
The Easton 5.0 is built for shooters who demand precision. With its seamless Acucarb Carbon Process, this arrow has virtually no spine variation when tested, leading to incredibly tight groupings. Whether you’re a target archer or a bowhunter, expect consistent shot placement at various distances.
2. Speed & Kinetic Energy
By reducing the grains per inch compared to the Axis 5mm, the Easton 5.0 delivers increased arrow velocity. Higher speed means a flatter trajectory, reducing the margin for error on long-range shots. However, even with the weight reduction, the micro-diameter shaft ensures deep penetration and excellent kinetic energy transfer, making it a lethal choice for big-game hunting especially when adding the new match grade components.
3. Durability & Structural Integrity
One of the standout features of the Easton 5.0 is its exceptional durability. Thanks to Easton’s ballistic collar reinforcement on Match Grade arrows, the front end of the shaft is well-protected against hard impacts, reducing the chances of splitting or cracking upon impact. This durability ensures the arrow holds up through multiple hunting seasons.
Hunting Effectiveness
Penetration Power
For hunters, penetration is key, and the Easton 5.0 does not disappoint. The micro-diameter shaft minimizes wind drift, allowing it to hit with greater force and less energy loss. When paired with a high-quality broadhead, this arrow can punch through thick hide and bone, ensuring quick, ethical kills.
Broadhead Compatibility
The Easton 5.0 is designed to work with both fixed and mechanical broadheads. Thanks to its strong structural integrity and optional match grade half-out inserts, bowhunters can fine-tune their front-of-center (FOC) weight to optimize broadhead performance.
Pros and Cons of the Easton 5.0
Pros:
✅ Lightweight and fast, leading to flatter shooting trajectories. ✅ Excellent accuracy thanks to seamless spine consistency. ✅ Micro-diameter design reduces wind drift and improves penetration. ✅ Durable construction with ballistic collar reinforcement (Match Grade). ✅ Versatile broadhead compatibility. ✅ Proudly made in the USA.
Cons:
❌ Slightly more expensive than some competitor arrows. ❌ May require tuning when switching from heavier arrows. ❌ Match Grade vs. Standard options can make choosing the right version confusing for beginners.
Comparison to Similar Arrows
When comparing the Easton 5.0 to other arrows in the same category, it stands out in key areas:
| Arrow Model | Diameter | Weight Per Inch (GPI) | Spine Options | Straightness Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easton 5.0 | 5mm | 6.2 – 10.6 GPI | 200-500 | .001 / .003 |
| Easton Axis 5mm | 5mm | 7.2 – 12 GPI | 200-600 | .001 / .003 |
| Victory RIP TKO | 5mm | 8.7 – 10.6 GPI | 250-400 | .001 / .003 / .006 |
| Gold Tip Airstrike | 5mm | 7.2 – 9.6 GPI | 250-400 | .001 |
Compared to the Axis 5mm, the Easton 5.0 is about 2 GPI lighter, offering a speed advantage. Against the Victory RIP TKO, it holds its own in terms of straightness consistency while maintaining Easton’s trusted quality.
Who Should Use the Easton 5.0?
This arrow is best suited for:
- Serious bowhunters who want a balance of speed, penetration, and accuracy.
- Target shooters looking for a lightweight, consistent arrow for competition or practice.
- Hunters in windy conditions, where micro-diameter arrows help reduce drift.
- Those looking to upgrade from heavier arrows like the Axis 5mm but still want micro-diameter performance.
Final Verdict: Is the Easton 5.0 Worth It?
The Easton 5.0 is a top-tier hunting arrow that delivers where it matters most: accuracy, speed, and penetration. It takes the best features of the Axis 5mm, trims the weight, and adds Easton’s premium construction for a versatile, high-performance arrow. While the price is slightly higher than some alternatives, the performance justifies the investment—especially for bowhunters looking to gain every possible advantage in the field.
Let’s Hear from You!
Have you shot the Easton 5.0 yet? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let us know how it performed for you in the field!
I’m still using the 6.5mm after returning to archery after a 20yr hiatus. I was fortunately to bag a PB 9 point last Sept. I am switching to the 5mm after reading this.