When it comes to bowhunting whitetails, the broadhead gets most of the attention. But the connection between the broadhead and arrow shaft can be just as important. That is where Easton’s patented HIT, or Hidden Insert Technology, system comes into play.
Unlike conventional inserts that sit inside the front of an arrow shaft with a visible lip, the HIT system is installed completely inside the shaft. Easton originally developed the system to accommodate small-diameter hunting arrows, where traditional inserts were not practical. The result is a clean, streamlined connection between the arrow, insert and broadhead.

A More Precise Broadhead Connection
One of the biggest advantages for deer hunters is broadhead alignment. With the HIT system, the broadhead shank aligns directly against the inside wall of the arrow shaft. Easton says this provides automatic broadhead alignment, helping eliminate some of the fuss associated with getting a broadhead perfectly aligned with the shaft.
That matters because broadheads can magnify small tuning or alignment problems. A well-built arrow that leaves the bow consistently and carries a properly aligned broadhead can produce tighter groups and more predictable flight.
For a whitetail hunter, that translates into confidence when the moment arrives.
Built for Penetration
The HIT system also complements Easton’s small-diameter arrow designs. Smaller-diameter shafts have less surface area than conventional arrows, which can reduce friction as the arrow penetrates an animal. Easton specifically cites the combination of HIT and its Slim Technology as providing improvements in accuracy, durability and penetration.
That combination is particularly relevant to deer hunters. A whitetail arrow needs to maintain enough structural integrity to withstand the initial impact while continuing through tissue and, potentially, bone.
Easton incorporates the HIT system into arrows such as its Full Metal Jacket, where a small-diameter, thick-wall carbon core is combined with an aluminum jacket. Easton says the design provides penetration, durability and accuracy while also maintaining consistent spine and straightness.
More Options for Arrow Tuning
Another advantage is the ability to customize the front end of the arrow. HIT-compatible inserts are available in different materials and weights, allowing hunters to alter arrow weight and front-of-center balance to match their equipment and hunting objectives.
Easton currently offers 5mm HIT options, including aluminum and steel versions, as well as collars designed to increase point-end durability.
Increasing weight toward the front of the arrow can alter its flight characteristics and front-of-center balance. For hunters who prefer heavier hunting arrows, the HIT system provides another way to build an arrow around those preferences.

Small Component, Big Role
The HIT system is easy to overlook because it is hidden inside the shaft. But that is part of its appeal. The insert does its job without adding a large exposed component to the front of the arrow.
For the whitetail hunter, the benefits come down to three important characteristics: alignment, durability and penetration. When combined with a properly spined and tuned arrow, the HIT system provides a solid foundation for a dependable hunting setup.
And when a mature buck steps into range, that kind of consistency is exactly what a bowhunter wants.
Read More
- Top 9 Hunting Arrows for 2023
— See how small-diameter hunting arrows can improve speed, penetration, accuracy and resistance to wind drift. - Hunting Arrow Infatuation
— Daniel Schmidt looks at how modern hunting-arrow technology has evolved and what today’s shafts bring to the deer woods. - Downrange Kinetic Energy: Determining an Arrow’s Killing Power
— Learn how arrow weight, velocity and penetration work together when building an effective hunting setup. - Best Mechanical Broadheads for Deer Hunting
— Broadhead performance depends on more than blade design. Accuracy, tuning and the complete arrow setup all matter.

