5/16 vs. 9/32

[alexrom1207]

I have a 48 Biller and it's got (I believe a 5/16th shaft). I know it's a thicker shaft than the regular shafts I've seen at dive shops so I'm assuming 5/16ths. The problem is that it's got a bulky screw on rockpoint tip. Power isn't a problem for me but accuracy is, so I've decided to buy a new shaft. I usually shoot fish around the 10 pound range (about 4.5kg). But I also go for stripers which can give a good fight and weigh upwards of 50 pounds (about 23kg). What I want to know is whether a 9/32 shaft, which I would prefer because of the speed and penetration benefit, would bend or otherwise be ruined by a fight with a 50lb striper? I also may be adding a third band or going to bigger 5/8inch bands...but for now I use 9/16th bands. Will a 9/32 shaft flex too much under the added power? Do you think with a more streamlined shaft the added power will be unnecessary? Personal experience, as always, is welcome, but educated speculation is just fine too. Thanks ahead of time for the help.

[Marwan]

i think you can use up to 3x9/16 bands with a 9/32 shaft, no problemo, or alternatively use 2x5/8 bands with the same shaft..i think it will be better for you then the thicker spear..give it a try

[MahiMan]

I think he mentioned he wanted to lessen the diameter of the shaft not get a thicker one no? A 5/16 to 9/32 shouldn't be an issue and will probably travel quicker and shoot a bit more accurate. With a narrower shaft the added power may be unnecessary, ofcoarse you'll want to test that theory out . The Billers are nice guns and can accomidate a thinner shaft on their track from what Ive heard, so if you do go that route good luck!

... Oh and if your afraid a 50lb striper is guna mess you up just rig a break away tip on the shaft, but I don't think thats an issue unless there is structure.

[Bill McIntyre]

I've been using 9/32" shafts for years and have never bent one on our West Coast white sea bass and yellowtail. That is a 50 pounder in my avatar. I get good penetration too. I use three 9/16" bands on open track guns and three 5/8" bands on enclosed track guns.

[alexrom1207]

Thanks Bill. I know you use slip tips on sometimes (I see your pic and I've read threads of yours). Just curious if even without the slip tip you've had no problem with the thinner shaft?

[Bill McIntyre]

Originally Posted by alexrom1207

Thanks Bill. I know you use slip tips on sometimes (I see your pic and I've read threads of yours). Just curious if even without the slip tip you've had no problem with the thinner shaft?

I'm afraid I always use slip tips, so that may be partly responsible for never bending shafts.