So here is the deal. I have a dozen axis shafts that I have been trying to fletch. I am currently using a straight fletch clamp on the bitz with a left offset (left wing 5" feathers).

Problem is, I am having trouble getting much offset before the edges of the feathers begin to distance themselves from the small diameter shaft.

What is enough offset? I am getting maybe a 1/32" with good feather base/shaft contact.

Am I being too picky? Hope this makes sense.

Any and all input appreciated!

Thats just the way it is with a small diameter shaft,it's tough to get much offset.I fletch my Axis/MFX with a LW and RW helical clamps with no problem.With a straight clamp works better on a larger diameter shaft if you like more offset.

I see that 3Rivers offers mfx arrows fletched with helical. Is this the way to go then?

Should I consider 4" feathers with this setup?

I shoot the skinny Bemans and also have had Axis in the past. I like a helical and four four inch feathers. Works very well for me and my wife. But, to answer your question, the helical will more or less "wrap" around the shaft giving you better contact with the quill and the shaft and should result in a better job.

I shoot the Axis, with 4x4 with a slight offset, that works out great!

I use a Bitzenberger with a left helical clamp on Axis and Beman MFX shafting. If you place a shaft in the jig and "eyeball" an empty helical clamp on the shaft you will find it does not mate well to the shaft, touching at one or two points with noticeable gap along the rest of the surface. Next, carefully with a file (I use a 10" half round bastard)file the clamp down, checking progress as you go untill the clamp evenly along it's length contacts the shaft. You will find that you have plenty of offset and fletching taped or glued evenly along their length.

I do not use them myself but have fletched a few foe some folks (no more then 2 doz)

When I first did them I did a bit of "touch-up" sanding on the base of the feather to get them to "wrap" better.  Used both glue and fletch tape.  Seemed to work ok.

nschlag:  Where are you in Southern Illinois?