What’s the difference between helical and straight fletching?

April 6th, 2010 / Posted by David
What’s the difference between helical and straight fletching?

Question:
My dad uses straight fletching on his hunting arrows and seems to do just fine, but everything I’ve read seems to be saying you have to use helical fletching. Is there really a difference? What is best?

Answer:
There really is a difference. Since a broadhead acts like a wing and can steer the arrow off line, it is important to use helical fletching with about 3 to 4 degrees of helical to get the arrow spinning. This will increase stability and reduce the tendency for planing. Even bowhunters who shoot mechanical broadheads should avoid straight fletching since even the small exposed wings on these heads can cause planing. Fletching length is less critical. But with that said, if you shoot a Whisker Biscuit, it is best to shoot with straight fletching for thebest performance.

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