OK, I'm new to trad.  I'm looking at ordering my first arrows, 1916's for a 40# Pearson recurve.

Two Questions.

Fletching: I was going to go with parabolic but I really like the look of shield.  Any reason to go one way or the other, or strictly personal preference at the entry skill level?

And Nocks:  Traditional Index, Snap Action, or Classic Index?  I'm planning on using a 14-strand endless loop from 3Rivers.

Thanks for the info.  I've been lurking and reading as much as possible, but eventually I gotta ask some newbie questions!

I've heard people say that parabolic is quieter than shield.  I personally cant tell a difference. I think its more a personal prefference.  I'm with you, I like the looks of the shield.  Good luck to you.

Mike

If you like shield, then get shield. There is no reason not to but your own. Each will work well and yah, they do look "Trad". I will probably switch to them as that's whats available right now, but I prefer para's. My favorite nock for Trad bow is the Mercury Nock which is a slip fit index nock. You can find them at The Nocking Point. I do also like the old Bjorn snap fit nocks. They always worked well for me in "the old days" lol. Any way, keep your nocks and feathers bright colored so you can watch them as they fly. I like all the same color for a good visual effect.

Either parabolic or shield will work fine. I personally prefer shield cut.
As far as the nock I like the snap fit nocks but use what you like.

do you have the ability to fletch them yourself?  If I had to choose between the two, I would pick the shield too.

I'm not ready to fletch myself, by any means.   Kustom King has some nice Easton 1916's that are available para or shield, and with three nock choices.

My choice for feathers is also shield cut because I like the shape. As for nocks I use Mercury for my woods and use the Classic by Bohning for aluminum. It really is what works best for you and what you like.

I liked the looks of the shield feathers but they were making my arrows kick off the shelf too much feather contact, so I switched to parabolic. they fly true now

I use parabolic,by choice, and Bohning Classic nocks.