Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Arrows => Topic started by: Pinewood Archer on July 19, 2018, 03:07:10 pm
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Is there any advantage/disadvantage to feather size,shape,length,number or stiffness?
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Yes. Feathers act as rudders on the rear of an arrow by causing drag. The more surface area the more drag. Ideally you want only enough fletching to quickly straighten out the arrow's flight after it leaves the bow. For target arrows you can usually get away with relatively smaller feathers but with a hunting arrow with a broadhead you will probably need more fletching to get the arrow flight straightened out quickly.
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Am I correct in assuming the stiffer the feather the better it works?
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Stiffer feathers are more durable and more effective.
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My buddy made me a dozen with 5.5" high backs, he sold me on them. They are a bit slower and bit noisier, but the flight is amazing. You can get herky and jerky, short draw and still get good arrows off the bow.
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With hunting arrow, I will cut them an inch tall, shoot them, then cut them down 1/16"-1/8" (which is easy if you are using a burner) at a time until they are quiet. That way I get the max amount of stability with no noise.
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pointed rear end causes more noise for me. Cut that point off and it quiets them down.