Energy eigenvalues and energy shifts are calculated for triangular and arrowhead-shapedGaAs/Ga0.6Al0.4Asquantum wires taking into account the finite value of the barrier potential. Calculations were made by using the eigenfunctions of an infinite-barrier right-angled isosceles triangular wire. Calculated values are compared with available experimental results. An equivalence relation is also examined for the estimation of eigenvalues of triangular and arrowhead-shaped quantum wires by knowing the values for rectangular wires. ©1997 American Institute of Physics.