Archery · Archery Arrows · Archery Arrows 101 · arrow shaft ·Oct 29, 2025

Easton 5.0 vs Axis 5mm: Why I Switched and What You Should Know

by Zakk Plocica

Why Testing Your Arrows Matters

Before we dive into the Easton 5.0 vs Axis 5mm break down, the crew here at Extreme Outfitters believe the best arrow setup is the one that works for you. Every archer shoots differently, and real results come from hands-on testing.

That’s why we sell all of our arrows individually — so you can test before you commit. Not sure if you should switch from the Axis 5mm to the Easton 5.0? Buy one of each, shoot them side-by-side, and see which performs best for you.

We also include free cut and glue service with every arrow order. Just note your preferred length and if you'd like your inserts glued, and our team will build them for you — at no extra cost.

The Easton Axis 5mm — A Proven Classic

The Easton Axis 5mm has long been a fan favorite for its reliability, durability, and flight consistency. Its standard-diameter carbon shaft offers the perfect balance between strength and performance.

Why Archers Love the Axis 5mm

Rock-solid durability for both hunting and target shooting
Proven pass-through performance on big game
Slightly heavier GPI for better momentum and penetration
Excellent consistency for high-poundage setups

For years, I’ve run a simple Axis 5mm build — stock 16-grain insert, 100-grain broadhead, and AAE hybrid vanes. That setup delivered flawless performance on game and targets alike, but I noticed a limitation during Total Archery Challenge (TAC) and long-range 3D shoots: distance.

With a heavier total arrow weight (around 440–450 grains), my sight tape maxed out sooner than I liked — that’s what led me to try the new Easton 5.0.

Introducing the Easton 5.0 — Designed for Versatility

The Easton 5.0 is Easton’s latest evolution in 5mm carbon shaft design. A lower 5mm GPI option from Easton, built to bridge the gap between micro and standard diameter arrows. It offers an optimal blend of speed, accuracy, and adaptability based on your needs.

My Setup and Build Process

I built my Easton 5.0 shafts very similarly to my Axis 5mm:

300 spine
50-grain brass insert (Aftermarket Upgrade)
100-grain broadhead
AAE Max Stealth vanes (3-fletch, right helical)

This build gave me an overall arrow weight of 418–420 grains — about 25 grains lighter than my 5mm setup. The lighter weight increased my effective range and gave me flatter trajectories during TAC and 3D shooting and this being a lower overall GPI increased my FOC (Front Of Center) dramatically.

Performance and Accuracy

The Easton 5.0 flies extremely well. It’s accurate, forgiving, and consistent — everything you want in a do-it-all arrow. It’s ideal for archers who split their time between target shooting and bowhunting and want a shaft that handles both efficiently.

Durability and Real-World Testing

Let’s talk durability — one of the most common questions we get about the Easton 5.0.

The Axis 5mm is undeniably tougher. It features a thicker wall construction and heavier GPI, making it better suited for extreme impact situations. The 5.0, by comparison, is slightly thinner and lighter — but still impressively strong.

Real Shooting Feedback

After shooting Total Archery Challenge events and 3D tournaments, I’ve had no major durability issues with the Easton 5.0.

Zero breaks from standard impacts
One splintered shaft from a hard target hit (which likely would’ve been prevented by a collar)
Excellent recovery even after target misses

For bowhunting, I’ll likely add collars for added strength. Still, even without them, the Easton 5.0 has held up extremely well.

Easton Axis 5mm Match Grade Arrows Fletched AAE Hybrid 26

USD 19.99

Feature	Easton Axis 5mm	Easton 5.0
Durability	★★★★★	★★★★☆
Speed / Trajectory	★★★★☆	★★★★★
GPI (Weight)	Heavier	Lighter
Best For	Heavy setups, elk/moose hunts	Versatile hunters, 3D shooters
Component System	16-grain aluminum insert	Optional brass inserts (50gr)
Total Arrow Weight (example)	~440–450 grains	~418–420 grains

Why Testing Your Arrows Matters

The Easton Axis 5mm — A Proven Classic

Why Archers Love the Axis 5mm

Introducing the Easton 5.0 — Designed for Versatility

My Setup and Build Process

Performance and Accuracy

Durability and Real-World Testing

Real Shooting Feedback

Comparing the Easton 5.0 vs Axis 5mm

Ideal Use Cases

Choose the Axis 5mm If You:

Choose the Easton 5.0 If You:

Final Thoughts