We talk about what shape, number and length of feathers make the least noise.

What about the qualities of the feathers themselves. Do you find some types to be quieter than others? If there a differences in sound how about performance?

Parabolic and banana cuts are the quietest. The smooth trailing edge is what does the trick.

Actually I meant feahers from different birds.

I would think owl feathers would be very quiet since they are the stealth raptors.
Not quite legal though....

I've only used goose feathers and turkey feathers.  Goose feathers are a bit lighter and don't take abuse as well.  On the other hand, they handle moisture/rain better.  Can't tell any difference in flight or noise.

I think goose feathers are quieter than turkey feathers. Just my .02

Are chicken feathers ever used?

Not saying they couldn't be, but I've found chicken feathers to have the durablity of wet paper. Well, maybe not that bad, but still pretty aweful...

I've tried a bunch of different feathers at this point.

Goose: doesn't hold up as well, extremely moisture resistant, noisier than turkey, easier to get in mass quantities from hunters

Duck: Have to go long and low (or 4 fletch), not very durable but great in the rain, the low fletch is pretty quiet.

Pheasant: Same as duck without the moisture benefits.  Looks dang cool

Crow: only done one arrow this way, kind of cool looking.  Lost the arrow so I can't tell you how it holds up.

Turkey: wild turkey feathers more resistant to moisture than commercial.

Anyone tried seagull?  I'm thinking of going to the beach and collect some to try.

QuoteOriginally posted by Dartwick:
Are chicken feathers ever used?

Extensively - on chickens.