For all of you who fletch your arrows, any recommendations on a feather chopper?  I am wanting a low profile banana shape and could really use some advice on what is good and what to stay away from.  Many thanks!

Bill-

Might have a look at Herb's Archery in Nova Scotia - he has what was known before as the Vario chopper, and highly regarded. Looks a lot more versatile than the others I've seen.

I too would recommend Herbs , chops a very even cut ..
And is a very solid built unit .

I have one of those, in 4" low profile banana cut.  Pretty slick...

ChuckC

I have a Vario chopper with the 5" "Sting" profile blade. Unfortunately, even if I adjust the quill guide to cut 4.25" - 4.5" feathers, I usually only get 1 really good fletch from a full length feather, so there is a LOT of waste. If you go with a 3" Blade and fletch 4-fletch, I think your money will go a LOT further since you're more likely to get 2 good fletches per full length feather. Problem is, I don't think there's a 3" banana option for the Vario chopper.

A burner might be a better way to go in the long run, but you'll probably have to burn your feathers outside.

Stump

Thanks for the advice all...seems like Herb's is the way to go.

Stumpbuster...thought of the burner, but a chopper was less expensive. Although, in the long run may be the best option.  Any other downfalls to a burner other than the stench?

Bill-

The only real pain in the burner is getting it set up initially.
Once you get the wire bent  and adjusted to the shaft it is quick.

QuoteOriginally posted by Mud_Slide_Slim:
Thanks for the advice all...seems like Herb's is the way to go.

Stumpbuster...thought of the burner, but a chopper was less expensive. Although, in the long run may be the best option.  Any other downfalls to a burner other than the stench?

Bill-

If you use "wraps" under your fletching, you have to be careful with the wire placement or the wraps can start to melt and wrinkle.


Have fun with whichever route you go.

Thanks for the replies all....sounds like Herb is the guy to contact.  One more question...how long do these blades last?  I know it would depend on usage, but I would probably only cut 200-300 feathers a year.

Bill-

Just a guess but I have probably cut 400 and Herb's is still cutting great.

The Raptor Chopper from Raptor Archery.

Anyone tried the Bearpaw model that Kustom King carries? It looks pretty slick, just a bit pricey. I already have a couple of the "little choppers" and have wondered if it was worth the investment to change. I probably don't chop more than 200-300 feathers a year max...  http://www.kustomkingarchery.com/Bearpaw-Feather-Cutter/productinfo/4825/

Got a buddy with a BearPaw chopper from what I see of it it cuts a nice feather and is very well built.

Just saw,your question on longevity.
I have chopped about a thousand 3 inch kids feathers.
The chopper still works great. The only thing worn out is part of the "guid" where the quill fits.

O the guide for the quill is one thing that sets Herbs apart from the cheap ones.