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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: seany916 on January 18, 2009, 07:54:00 AM

Title: feather fletching size
Post by: seany916 on January 18, 2009, 07:54:00 AM
What size feathers would you recommend for a 40# longbow at 27.5-28"? Given that the arrows are spined correctly, would I really need 4" or 5" feathers for tips that are not broadheads?

I posted this on another forum and got great advice, but didn't get much feedback on fletching size.

I've used 4" parabolic feathers successfully on a few dozen arrows and had no problems with them (last batch 1916).

I switched to 3" parabolic feathers on my 1816 shafts and they flew fine.

I would think they'd fly fine, with the helical spinning them and all. I'm given to understand that they'll correct release issues faster (around 10-15 yards?) with larger fletching, but what kind of difference will this make at loner distances 50-90 yards?

How much of a difference will there be in drag and accuracy from a 4" vs. 3" fletching setup? I know many people prefer 5" as well. Never gone that route, but then my arrows aren't all that heavy and I don't generally shoot broadheads.

Advice? Suggestions?  Thank you.
Title: Re: feather fletching size
Post by: Orion on January 18, 2009, 10:30:00 AM
Olympic shooters shoot small fletch on light arrows.  Works fine with field/target points.  The smaller fletching is less susceptible to crosswind than is large fletch, particularly important on long range targets.  If three-inch fletch works for you, use it.