Is there any difference between shield cut and parabolic cut feathers? I'm going to fletch arrows to shoot out of my recurve bow.
Thanks
A search of this forum will be helpful with many topics on this. Both fly well once tuned, for me shield is a bit noisier in flight but looks better and longer shields produce more drag at longer distances.
Looks. That's about it. The shield seems to be more in vogue these days.
Difference, if any, would be minimal, but agree with katman that the shield looks better.
In my experience Shields are a little noisy and Parabolics are a lot quiet.
Shields can be noisy but my hearing is not that good anymore to tell. Once read were HH used para because he thought shield noisy. I use both.
Also some guys like to feel that tall shield cut at full draw against their face.
I have not had noise issues with shields, but like some of the guys, my hearing is not as good as it once was. I prefer shields based on looks, but have not noticed any performance differences in shield and parabolics.
In agreement with Jim.In my shooting,I have found the Shield cut to be a little more noisy.Other than that users choice.
Parabolics are quieter, but not a lot of diff. another theory is the parabolics release the pressure at the end of the fletch better. I don't shoot good enough or far enough to see much difference.
I prefer shield as I use the back edge as a second anchor/draw check and I "feel" it better.
The differences are miniscule with the exception of the shield cut providing a noticeably superior nose tip anchor.
The biggest difference is the looks . I prefer parabolic but there is more than one flavor of ice cream .
Thank you for the advice! It is greatly appreciated.
I don't believe there is much, if any difference. Because the shield cut is higher in the rear, I find them easier to see. That, and the way they look is why I like them.