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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: Pine on June 23, 2016, 02:13:00 PM

Title: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on June 23, 2016, 02:13:00 PM
How many of you shoot and like four fletched arrows .
And what is the pros and cons of it .
Thanks for your input .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Jake Scott on June 23, 2016, 03:06:00 PM
I am a huge fan of four fletch.  For the longest time I shot 4 5" shields, but have recently switched to 4 4" shields.  I think the 4 inch offers the same stability without compromising performance at longer distances.  

The benefits as I see it are first and formost improved stability after the shot.  I have slow motion videos of arrows grossly over spined being straightened up within 5 yards by four big feathers.  On the flip side of the coin, you do lose speed as distance increases (think fluflu).  I also like the benefit of not needing a cock feather to index in the times that I need to get an arrow on the string in a hurry (mostly small game).

I like 90 degree orientation, as it simplifies things.  I haven't yet had any trouble with feather clearance on multiple different setups that couldn't be solved with a little quick nock tuning.

Many will argue that a well tuned setup doesn't need four feathers, and they would be correct.  I'm a fanatical arrow tuner and I still sleep better on the night before a hunt knowing that fourth feather helps.  

Just my two cents, hope it helped.

Jake
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Danny Rowan on June 23, 2016, 03:37:00 PM
I have shot 4 4" fletch for many years. Love em. To me my arrows seem much quieter in flight than with the 3 5.5" I used to shoot.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: D. Key on June 23, 2016, 03:51:00 PM
I love 4 x 4" Parabolics on 90 Degrees.  They stabilize quickly and have little (if any) noise.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: last arrow on June 23, 2016, 04:14:00 PM
I shoot 4x4 shields.  I fletch in the method recommended by Kelly many years ago so there no fletch in a position to contact the shelf.  It uses 2 cock feathers and 2 upper hen feathers when fletching with the 3 fletch setting. I am not sure it matters but have been doing it that way for a while and I like it.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: bucknut on June 23, 2016, 05:44:00 PM
I shoot both 3 and 4 and see no difference in performance between 5" 3 and 4" 4. I can usually get 2 4" chopped out of a full length feather so it works out better for me. You do get double the use before wearing out too.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Scott E on June 23, 2016, 10:41:00 PM
I shoot four four inch parabolics. The best part about four fletch is that you don't have to pay attention when nocking your arrow.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: azhunter on June 24, 2016, 12:50:00 AM
I shoot both 3x5" and 4x4". I don't see any cons to the 4 fletch. When fletching new arrows I am going all 4 fletch.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on June 24, 2016, 03:19:00 AM
Well I'm going to do it , I got a very good deal on some Trueflight shield cut feathers .
All my stock of feathers are parabolics so I would have no odd color to make a cock feather .
Think they will be just fine .
They are pink bared and I'm a big fan of pink feathers .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: FlintNSteel on June 24, 2016, 07:58:00 AM
I have shot 4 fletch a lot and love it.  I shoot 4" parabolic.  I haven't found a broadhead yet that doesn't easily stabilize with 4 fletch.  I find 4-4" to be equivalent to 3 - 5 1/2" in stability performance.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: JRY309 on June 24, 2016, 09:18:00 AM
I had shot 3 fletch for years but after shooting my buddies 4 fletch I was hooked.After that every arrow I made for my self was 4 fletch at 90.I like the way they look,fly.I feel the fly flatter with 4 fletch of a lower profile then 3-5" or 5.5" with a higher profile.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: slowbowjoe on June 24, 2016, 10:05:00 AM
Went with 4 fletch 90/90 a few times; they did seem to stabilize quickly,though I can't say flight was better overall. I prefer the simplicity of 3 fletch,they fly fine, and settle in my quiver better.
I do sometimes shoot 'em cock feather in, which  helps with feather contact on my set up at times.
If I try 4 fletch again (and I probably will somewhere down the road), I'd go with the 60/120 configuration as learned from Rod Kelly's tips. Take a look at it-gives the same lessening of feather contact with 4 fletch as you get with cock feather in 3 fletch.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Tradcat on June 24, 2016, 10:19:00 AM
Funny... I was planning on fletching some 4 x 4" tomorrow
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Captain*Kirk on June 24, 2016, 11:50:00 AM
Not to be the fly in the ointment, but...
*4 fletch DOES add a significant cost per dozen...
*4 fletch also adds a 25% increase in damage vulnerability, though I've shot 3 fletch with half a feather missing with no visible flight issues.
Just food for thought.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 12:58:00 PM
Had a guy on here what is now banned because of he is belligerent attitude ....accuse me of shooting parachutes because I use four fletch... yet he never killed a damn thing.

I use four Fletch so that it clears my arrow of paradox faster because I shoot a lot of hogs at short distances in very thick cover and have shot more than one that have charged me .....

so I want my arrow as straight as possible .......it really doesn't matter if it's three or four as far as long distance that's a bunch of bullcrap hype .....when you make a shot and a hundred yards in the dark with four fletch it pretty much negates flthat comment or claim or whatever you wanna call it.

Nothing wrong with 3 fletch... either it's just what I prefer due to my hunting Style and terrain and the game that I'm shooting.

All this kind of stuff is a mind game if you want it to be that's all it is it just puts monsters in your head that don't need to be there
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 12:58:00 PM
Had a guy on here what is now banned because of he is belligerent attitude ....accuse me of shooting parachutes because I use four fletch... yet he never killed a damn thing.

I use four Fletch so that it clears my arrow of paradox faster because I shoot a lot of hogs at short distances in very thick cover and have shot more than one that have charged me .....

so I want my arrow as straight as possible .......it really doesn't matter if it's three or four as far as long distance that's a bunch of bullcrap hype .....when you make a shot and a hundred yards in the dark with four fletch it pretty much negates that comment or claim or whatever you wanna call it.

Nothing wrong with 3 fletch either..... it's just what I prefer due to my hunting Style and terrain and the game that I'm shooting.

All this kind of stuff is a mind game if you want it to be that's all it is it just puts monsters in your head that don't need to be there.......

Hold on for a picture to prove my point......
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 01:02:00 PM
Over 60 "Bloody Parachutes"

   (http://www.tradgang.com/upload/terry/ARROWRACK2016b.jpg)
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 01:06:00 PM
This was a shot I make at 12 midnight just as I rolled into camp and one guy I knew told me to show the 6 compounders shooting how to shoot.....

Jim Reynolds of Thunderstick archery got SIX bow orders off of that one shot....ask him...he'll tell ya.

Yeah...damded o'l 4 fletch...aint good for nothing down range.....BS!!!!!!!!


  (http://www.tradgang.com/upload/terry/100yardshotinthedark.jpg)
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Captain*Kirk on June 24, 2016, 01:12:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Terry Green:
.
I use four Fletch so that it clears my arrow of paradox faster because I shoot a lot of hogs at short distances in very thick cover and have shot more than one that have charged me .....
 
In that sort of scenario do you also shoot heavy/high FOC arrows as well?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 01:16:00 PM
Nope....175 grain heads mostly....

Either WWs at 125 with 42 grain adapter or 135 grain Zwickey 4 blades with 42 grain adapter.....or 125 grain Zwickey No Mercy 4 blades with 42 grain adapters.


FOC is More HYPE....the weight of the arrow and arrow flight is MUCH more important than the weight of your Bhead.  PERIOD...PROVEN....no matter what 'so called' claims you read...its all about overall arrow weight than just the head weight....and of course....arrow fight.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Dry Creek on June 24, 2016, 01:19:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Captain*Kirk:
Not to be the fly in the ointment, but...
*4 fletch DOES add a significant cost per dozen...
*4 fletch also adds a 25% increase in damage vulnerability, though I've shot 3 fletch with half a feather missing with no visible flight issues.
Just food for thought.
Going to have to disagree to an extent. I can get two 4" feathers out of a full length feather, and only one 5" feather out of the same full length feather.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 01:24:00 PM
COST????? COST?????....COST of a FEATHER??????

If I can't afford an extra feather on my arrow ....maybe I need to find another 'hobby'

I'd rather spend another dollar than loose an animal.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Captain*Kirk on June 24, 2016, 02:38:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Dry Creek:
 
Quote
Originally posted by Captain*Kirk:
Not to be the fly in the ointment, but...
*4 fletch DOES add a significant cost per dozen...
*4 fletch also adds a 25% increase in damage vulnerability, though I've shot 3 fletch with half a feather missing with no visible flight issues.
Just food for thought.
Going to have to disagree to an extent. I can get two 4" feathers out of a full length feather, and only one 5" feather out of the same full length feather. [/b]
Wasn't thinking in those terms...you are correct. I was thinking in terms of the arrow builder who buys pre-cut/pre-stained feathers by the dozen. It adds maybe 10 bucks to the price, no not a big deal to most. But still something to consider in the long run.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 03:23:00 PM
I'm not fan of any man.....

 I'm more concerned about what I do and where I do it and how  well it works than I do  what someone tells me I should do who has no experience on what I do yet they do it on another continent with other animals...... who also admits they don't shoot very well which to me is Paramount..... someone maybe needs to spend more time shooting than studying
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: LBR on June 24, 2016, 03:28:00 PM
Quote
I shoot both 3 and 4 and see no difference in performance between 5" 3 and 4" 4. I can usually get 2 4" chopped out of a full length feather so it works out better for me. You do get double the use before wearing out too.  
Same for me.  I usually shoot 3 x 5", but I plan to go to 4 x 4" because I chop my own and you can usually get two 4" fletches from a full length feather.  Used to get two 5" from most every one, but that was several years ago.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Jabar on June 24, 2016, 03:39:00 PM
I smell a RAT!!!!

And is the Doc REALLY a Doc or just pretending to be?????
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on June 24, 2016, 04:11:00 PM
Terry , I like the way you think .
I couldn't tell you any of the numbers for the FOC of my arrows , I don't care . If it works , I use it .
My whole reason for going to 4 fletch is because many years ago I shot a deer at about 8 feet and the arrow slid down the rib cage cutting 4 ribs before it turned into the front of the lungs .
I figured the arrow must have been in paradox and the head hit at an angle to the flight .
I'm hoping the 4 fletch will prevent that at close range .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: two4hooking on June 24, 2016, 04:44:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Terry Green:
FOC is More HYPE....the weight of the arrow and arrow flight is MUCH more important than the weight of your Bhead.  
Amen!

I use 3 x 5 1/2 inch feathers that are very high back parabolic.  Same theory as 4 x 4 and I started out using 4 x 4 also.  More feather for hunting is better!
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 24, 2016, 05:44:00 PM
I remember years ago trying to shoot a copperhead in the head at point-blank range and I missed three times I backed up and reloaded and my friend said what are you doing and I said I can't hit the snake in the head because of the Paradox the next shot drill the head and killed it dead center from about eight yards
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: creekwood on June 24, 2016, 05:50:00 PM
To add to what others have already said, I would like to mention that it is a little easier to follow the arrow in flight when using a four fletch.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Hackbow on June 24, 2016, 05:55:00 PM
I generally use 4 x 4" at 90* as well. Plenty of stability and zero thought when nocking an arrow.

Terry, I was looking at your 60 "Bloody Parachutes" picture and couldn't quite figure out what, if any, fletch color you preferred.  
 :bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: katman on June 24, 2016, 07:02:00 PM
4x4 at 90 here. Shield look cooler but parabolic quieter, if that matters.

Love to read the passion some have for traditional archery. Graps, good to hear you are willing to try something different, that's how we learn what works best for each individual.

Terry talks the talk and can certainly walk the walk and agree with his posts and reasons for using his chosen gear(100yds in the dark is one heck of a shot), however I think it could be misunderstood, probably just me reading more into it. I am sure he will jump in a correct me if he thinks I am wrong. I did this at 60yds a while back and the results would be greater at 100yds. Shot nearly identicle arrows only differ by fletch from same bow with a sight pin at 60 yds. One 4x4 low profile banana other 4x4 5 1/2 shields. Actually shot several configurations to learn but these were at opposite ends of the spectrum. The lower profile fletched shaft hit significantly higher than the high back shields. So at 100yds the difference is there at these extremes. At hunting ranges we typically shoot it don't matter if its 3x5 or 4x4. If you shoot the same fletch all the time you learn your trajectory so find what works well and stick with it.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on June 24, 2016, 09:51:00 PM
So I get my fletching jig out , clean the aluminum shafts with acitone , set up the jig for four fletch , get six feathers in the clamps , grab the fletching glue that I haven't used in over a year and $#@%&$ ,,, the glue is solid as a rock .    :banghead:  
OK , I have a bottle of Gateway fletching glue .
Used that .
Never set up .
I do not recommend any Gateway product .
That's all I have to say about that .Have some of the good stuff on order .
Guess I didn't need to fletch up these arrows today .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Bowhunter4life on June 24, 2016, 10:51:00 PM
I use both 4-fletch 4" shields and 3-fletch 5" shields...  If I'm shooting a 2 or 4 blade I'll have 4-fletch, and the head will be vertical.  Then it doesn't matter which way I nock the arrow...  When shots come fast and furious with dangerous critters it can make the difference between a good hit and a marginal hit...
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Captain*Kirk on June 24, 2016, 11:16:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Graps:
So I get my fletching jig out , clean the aluminum shafts with acitone , set up the jig for four fletch , get six feathers in the clamps , grab the fletching glue that I haven't used in over a year and $#@%&$ ,,, the glue is solid as a rock .     :banghead:  
OK , I have a bottle of Gateway fletching glue .
Used that .
Never set up .
I do not recommend any Gateway product .
That's all I have to say about that .Have some of the good stuff on order .
Guess I didn't need to fletch up these arrows today .
Dale, do let me know how they turn out...good or bad. I might just try a few myself.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: tim roberts on June 25, 2016, 07:23:00 PM
Some I recently made up...

  (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r76/Timroberts_bucket/image_zpsqaukwogz.jpeg) (http://s141.photobucket.com/user/Timroberts_bucket/media/image_zpsqaukwogz.jpeg.html)

Four, 4" feathers at 90 degrees.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Captain*Kirk on June 25, 2016, 10:41:00 PM
Sure look nice!
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: sagebrush on June 26, 2016, 01:55:00 AM
I always use four fletch. I like the fast recovery out of the bow. I also like not having to worry about a cock feather when watching an animal.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: drewsbow on June 26, 2016, 09:32:00 AM
I use what works for me and that is 4x4" @90
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: mangonboat on June 26, 2016, 09:50:00 AM
My father was a machinist and made a 4 fletch @ 60/120 index for his fletching jig. If you set your nock height correctly , they seem to clear the sight window on older bows better than @90 and straighten out just as quickly. Obviously you have to glue your nock on your arrow properly.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Scott Barr on June 26, 2016, 09:42:00 PM
I pretty much echo the points already made.  I have been using 4 x 4" set up for quiet a while. Fletching that hits the shelf lasts twice as long, and with a little rotation of the nock, lasts four times as long. Much easier in low light or quick shots to get to string and shoot.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Bvas on June 26, 2016, 10:23:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by mangonboat:
My father was a machinist and made a 4 fletch @ 60/120 index for his fletching jig.  
If your not a machinist, 60/120 can also be achieved by using your 3 fletch adapter. Simply fletch two feathers, then take arrow off jig, rotate 180 degrees, place back on jig, and fletch the other two feathers.
Or you can put three on, flip arrow, and do three more. And have 6@60 degrees.    :eek:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: JR Belk on June 27, 2016, 01:37:00 PM
I love four fletched arrows. I fletch most of my woods 4/4. Some arrows will get a standard 3 fletch if they're small diameter. I've never noticed any real negative effect on distance shots either.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: stagetek on June 27, 2016, 04:25:00 PM
I may have fletched a few up many years ago. I can't remember. Now I will have to fletch a couple, just to see for myself.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: J-dog on June 28, 2016, 11:13:00 AM
Never used 4 fletch, just three, gonna use 4 this year? No reason - just gotta try something different.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: flyguysc on June 28, 2016, 09:27:00 PM
 (http://i.imgur.com/flriqyt.jpg) (http:// [url=http://imgur.com/flriqyt) ]web page[/URL] I just think they are cool
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: flyguysc on June 28, 2016, 09:29:00 PM
 (http://i.imgur.com/flriqyt.jpg) (http:// [url=http://imgur.com/flriqyt) ]web page[/URL] I just think they"re cool looking.   :archer2:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on June 28, 2016, 10:39:00 PM
Ooooo , thems perdy .   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: CDR on June 29, 2016, 09:43:00 PM
Thems some lookers for sure!! I love the 4 fletch!
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Fritz on June 30, 2016, 09:47:00 AM
4 4" feathers, 90x90. Enough said for me.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Frenchymanny on June 30, 2016, 10:38:00 AM
I recently switched to 4 feathers. The arrow stabilizes quickly, and I don't have to care how I put the arrow on the string.

I like it!

F-Manny
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Steve Jr on June 30, 2016, 11:04:00 AM
I have been shooting 4/5" shields for quite a few years, but I have recently started getting and shooting 4/4" low profile banana feathers from Josh (feathers by the dozen) and they shoot great. By far my favorite feathers!!!    :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Tajue17 on June 30, 2016, 11:05:00 AM
I may try 4-fletch but I have two questions that might of already been mentioned. I'm on my phone at work so not enough time to read everything in this thread so apologize if this is redundant..

1. do any of you notice when fletching with 4-fletch if the arrows shoot better after the fletching breaks in,, shooting cock feather in I've noticed the arrows just shoot nicer or get smoother once the fletching ends soften.

2nd.  I know a few said theres no difference in trajectory, but with 4 fletch do you keep the same size fletching or drop to a lower size if your arrows are already tuned for 3 fletch.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Orion on June 30, 2016, 11:28:00 AM
I've shot 3-fletch for about 60 years.  For those who fear mixing up and placing the cock feather in during times of high tension, let me tell you, it doesn't matter.  In fact, a lot of folks shoot cock feather in for better arrow clearance.

The only thing I have against 4-fletch is is purely cosmetic.  Most who shoot four fletch shoot 4-inch feathers.  To me, they just look too short on the arrow.  That probably comes from looking at 5-inch feathers for the past 60 years.

Imagine my reaction when I see 3-inch or shorter feathers on arrows.  This old school, old fella can hardly take it.

Yeah, I know I could shoot 5-inch four fletch, but that's just more than I need.  Going to give 4-inch 4-fletch a try and see if I can get my mind around them.    :bigsmyl:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: BWD on June 30, 2016, 12:26:00 PM
4x4" stabilizes more like 3x5 1/2" than 3x5", to me.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on June 30, 2016, 01:08:00 PM
Orion...I shoot 5 inch four fletch(as in the photo)...I want paradox reduced right this damn minute for the scenarios I use hunting hogs at times.....the other times when its not needed, like 60 yard shots at gofers.....I don't care...cause I'm covered either way.

    :campfire:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on June 30, 2016, 04:15:00 PM
Terry , my eyes play tricks on me . When I just read your post I saw golfers .    :scared:  
But I think that would be OK too .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: HALFCAWKT on June 30, 2016, 06:16:00 PM
I switched to 4"x4 fletch a few months ago and tend to echo all the things that have been said already.  I started with5.5"x3, than went to 4"x3 shields because of Wyoming cross winds and getting two from a FL feather.

Ran out of feathers one day and had to go to local shop to buy a dozen.  All he had were paras, so got them because need arrows asap. My only complaint with para is everyone uses it.  So I grabbed my strait clamp and cut the last roughly half inch off the quill.  Now my arrows are very easily distinguished from others with the modified para 4"x4 fletch configuration.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Squirrel Hunter on July 01, 2016, 12:35:00 PM
Some years ago I did some fairly extensive computer modeling and some controlled experiments on fletching effects. I found that the arrow stabilizing effect depends only on total feather area and degree of helical or offset -- feather shape and three or four fletch make no difference. Arrow drag also depends only on area and degree of helical -- there's no way to get one without the other.

Of course, there are other reasons to use or reject four fletch, like cost, ease of fletching, nocking, visibility, etc, but not stabilization.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Orion on July 01, 2016, 12:42:00 PM
Squirrel hunter. Wouldn't four 4-inch fletch have as much or more surface area than three 5-inch fletch?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Squirrel Hunter on July 01, 2016, 02:35:00 PM
Orion,

Yes, unless you use some really odd shape. About 7% more for a standard shield shape, for example.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 01, 2016, 04:12:00 PM
The glue I ordered has been delayed .
I was hoping to get a half dozen fletched up with 4 fletch this weekend .
   :(    :dunno:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on July 01, 2016, 04:20:00 PM
"I found that the arrow stabilizing effect depends only on total feather area"

YES....One more feather is 25% more surface !!!

Going from 3 to four with the same size adds just that.

That is EXACTLY why I use 5 inch 4 fletch instead of 4 inch 4 fletch.....stabilization!!!!  

Thank you!!!
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Bvas on July 01, 2016, 04:40:00 PM
Alright. I haven't done 4 fletch in 20+ years. But I think I'm gonna have to do up some 4x4" and give this a try.
But before I do...........Has anyone tried 6 feathers?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 01, 2016, 04:49:00 PM
I used to do 6 fletch uncut 4" long for flu flus many years ago .
Talk about parachutes .I think 6 is overkill .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Bvas on July 01, 2016, 05:00:00 PM
I'm sure 6x4" would be a little drastic, But what if you did 6x3"?

4x4=16
4x5=20
6x3=18

Maybe I'm over thinking things(more than likely). But I would think 6-3" would steer/stabilize better, but be less effected by crosswinds.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Shadowhnter on July 01, 2016, 05:19:00 PM
Whats the best or most common nock timing according to the 4 fletch... with one fletching pointed straight at the strike plate at 3 o'clock, or two fletching off at angles to the strike plate at roughly 1 and 5 o'clock?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: bunyan on July 01, 2016, 05:22:00 PM
Flu flus aren't only stable, but loud. So higher feathers nigh stabilize, but be loud and spook game. I shoot 5 inch 4 fletched arrows all the time. I also shoot 3 5 inch fletching all the time. I guess I just don't sweat it (which is the exception for me!).
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: LBR on July 01, 2016, 06:12:00 PM
Quote
I found that the arrow stabilizing effect depends only on total feather area and degree of helical or offset -- feather shape and three or four fletch make no difference. Arrow drag also depends only on area and degree of helical -- there's no way to get one without the other.
:thumbsup:  

3 x 5" = 15" of feather
4 x 4" = 16" of feather

Pretty much the same surface area when it's all said and done.  I like the look of 3 better, but I can shoot either one just fine.  With the price of feathers and the ability to get two cuts with 4" a lot more often than with 5", I'm leaning harder towards 4".

My flu-flu's are 6-fletch, because I don't like them to travel so far.  4 fletch won't stop my wood arrows fast enough.  Too heavy I reckon.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Squirrel Hunter on July 01, 2016, 10:11:00 PM
Likewise -- I use six fletch flu flus; 4 doesn't wor for my heavy woods. I use high back 5.25" 3 fletch for hunting, but there's a lot to be said for slightly shorter 4 fletch. I have proven to myself that 3 2" feathers will stabilize a broadhead, but I want it straightened out quickly for very close shots. I also want enough fletch to work if it gets a little wet.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: snag on July 01, 2016, 10:17:00 PM
I haven't read every post yet. But has anyone mentioned the grain orientation on the 4 fletch? I know some say the like the 4 fletch because while hunting they don't have to worry how they nock it. But if there riffs in the shaft and you put the nock on so that they point away from you and then you nock it 180 deg so they point at you...haven't you just made this arrow dangerous if it breaks while releasing?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: sagebrush on July 01, 2016, 10:33:00 PM
My four fletch are also 5 inch. I don't even own any three fletch. Yes I have tried them.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 02, 2016, 03:16:00 PM
Got my NVP Arrow Mate Cement .    :jumper:  
Hopefully I can get a half dozen fletched up today and still have enough light to flight test'em .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 02, 2016, 08:18:00 PM
 (http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae302/bruinbow/IMG_20160702_1956002710101_zpsm6n8crn5.jpg) (http://s982.photobucket.com/user/bruinbow/media/IMG_20160702_1956002710101_zpsm6n8crn5.jpg.html)
Well I got 'em done .
I don't usually use shield cut , I like parabolic better but I got 100 of these 5" for $40.00 . Just couldn't pass them up .
They didn't have any other 5" shield so that's why I figured going 4 fletch .
I think I like them .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Captain*Kirk on July 03, 2016, 12:29:00 AM
Nice, Graps! What sorta shafts we got there?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 03, 2016, 12:47:00 AM
Those are Easton Legacy's .
I have no woods for my K-Mag but I got a super going out of business sale on these .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Benoli on July 04, 2016, 07:31:00 PM
I started using 4 fletch as recommended by Kelly's arrows for my boy scouts. They never had to worry about which way the arrow is knocked. When taking 15 to 20 boys shooting with a good number of newbies,it's less trouble. I've since made the switch for all or my arrows.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 04, 2016, 08:25:00 PM
 (http://i982.photobucket.com/albums/ae302/bruinbow/IMG_20160704_20041227001_zpsscqb6uod.jpg) (http://s982.photobucket.com/user/bruinbow/media/IMG_20160704_20041227001_zpsscqb6uod.jpg.html)
Finally got a chance to shoot these 4 fletch .
I really like 'em .
As you can see , they group nice .
I shot the one high and left so I could lean my bow on it .    :rolleyes:  
Yeah , I ment to do that .    :laughing:  
And Terry those parashoots hit in the same spot at 20 yards for me .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: TRAP on July 04, 2016, 08:40:00 PM
 (http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa277/DUCK_TRAP/D0B39F5A-E494-4BBD-828E-DF5F2B46801E.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/DUCK_TRAP/media/D0B39F5A-E494-4BBD-828E-DF5F2B46801E.jpg.html)

  (http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa277/DUCK_TRAP/8C99B46A-743B-44AA-BE4B-2F465FF19682.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/DUCK_TRAP/media/8C99B46A-743B-44AA-BE4B-2F465FF19682.jpg.html)

I'm a big fan of 4 fletch
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Longtoke on July 04, 2016, 09:17:00 PM
My wife made a big mistake leaving me In the car while she is shopping at Tj max ( I swear that store is trying to ruin my life) I have been looking at tradgang on my phone for the past two hours and I am now certain that I need some four fletch. Maybe even a whole dozen
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 05, 2016, 01:40:00 AM
Longtoke , I'm going to fletch up the other 6 . I really like the 4 fletch .    :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Stixbowdrew on July 05, 2016, 07:40:00 AM
I recently switched to micro carbons with high FOC, and under some advisement from an experienced arrow tinker, I decided to try 4-2.5" feathers, and all I can say is wow! I took a 3" parabolic and cut the back .5" off... Silent as can be, no issues with contact, and broadheads flew just like field tips. I believe, after trying this, that if your arrows are tuned you don't really need that much fletching.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pete McMiller on July 05, 2016, 08:29:00 AM
I agree Stixbowdrew.  High FOC with tuned shafts and there is little need for much fletching.  I shoot 3x3" modified parabolics on an arrow with 31.4% FOC.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: KentuckyTJ on July 05, 2016, 09:20:00 AM
I have done it for years simply as it makes no difference how you snap your arrow on the string as others have said.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: charles m on July 05, 2016, 12:03:00 PM
foc is not relevant, and regardless, it still will make a difference.  If feather size didn't have an effect of some sort we would all be shooting the same exact fletch.

It will still straighten out quicker and visibility in flight will be better.

What one person needs mat not very what someone else needs or doesn't need.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Captain*Kirk on July 05, 2016, 11:31:00 PM
So, I take it you're sold, Dale?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 06, 2016, 03:00:00 AM
Well Kirk , I'm liking these but not sure I will change the arrows for my other bows though .
They are not broke , so I'm not going to fix them .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on July 06, 2016, 12:29:00 PM
Yeah no need to tear up in those arrows  as previously made there is a use for those....also they're not broke lime you stated.

I use a different feather setup when I go to Texas shooting from tree stands and out west where it's wide open....

so I have a couple of dozen specialty set up arrows that I seldom use and my Mainstay are the four fletch 5 inch as most of the time I'm hunting hogs and deer or Hogs deer and Bear or just Hawgs.....

so I don't need a lot of confusion.... my East Coast setup and my out west setup which is rarely used.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: charles m on July 10, 2016, 11:41:00 AM
4

I like the extra visibility also, and if they get wet I have more still.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: trad_bowhunter1965 on July 10, 2016, 12:20:00 PM
Wow I am in the process of switching from 3X5 to 4x4 on my arrow this post has a lot of pro's and con's to think about thank you all.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Bvas on July 10, 2016, 07:00:00 PM
Built a few 4x4s and gave it a try. I didn't notice much, if any, difference in arrow flight.
But I think I will be switching to four fletch. I like not having to worry what way the arrow is put on the string. And I also find it easier to touch my nose to the fletching without getting in the string path.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: slowbowjoe on July 11, 2016, 02:27:00 AM
Just a note about being able to nock either way with 4 fletch - you can do the same perfectly well with three fletch, and may find cleaner arrow flight that way.
As has been pointed out regarding 4 fletch, anytime you nock cock feather in, be aware that unless you figure it in when you're gluing the nock and fletching... you may be shooting with the rift of the shaft upside down.
Some believe it doesn't matter, some (very very few, but some-have had a broken shaft go thru their hand).

Not arguing the 3 or 4 question on these points, just say'n.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on July 11, 2016, 10:30:00 AM
3 or 4 makes no difference in shafts breakage and going through hand....just sayin
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Roger Norris on July 11, 2016, 07:33:00 PM
I like 4 fletch. I go back and forth between 4 fletch and BIG 5.5 inch shield or parabolic. My reasoning is that I am often hunting when it is damp or snowing. Even just the dew from walking into my swamp can soak everything. 4 fletch stabilize when wet, easily.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Todd Brickel on July 14, 2016, 12:05:00 AM
Does anyone fetch at the 75 x 105 angle or is everyone running 90 degrees?. I made a dozen woods years ago using 75x105th and really liked them.  This thread got me thinking of them again and was curious as to today's preference?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Todd Brickel on July 14, 2016, 12:06:00 AM
I hate auto spell correct!
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on July 14, 2016, 12:19:00 AM
My jig won't do 90° , so mine are 75°x105° .
They shoot great .
I have the nock orientation so the feathers clear the side plate the same as 3 fletch cock feather out .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: JR Belk on July 14, 2016, 10:03:00 AM
I do 90 degree the most, but I want to try some 120X60. I usually set up guys requesting 4 fletch for the first time with 75X105 because of it's popularity.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: last arrow on July 14, 2016, 10:44:00 AM
I use 120x60 to give the best shelf clearance.  However, with skinny shafts the 75x105, rotating the knock for best clearance may work well to spread out the quills on the shaft.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: tracker12 on August 08, 2016, 07:01:00 AM
Fletched up a 4 fletch with 3" shield cuts and tested them with every BH I owned.  All flew great to include some old snuffers.  Plus I like the way they look.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Skates on August 08, 2016, 01:52:00 PM
Four Stabilizes More.  Who ever said they were parachutes never killed anything but maybe with his truck.  That guy is a joke.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Pine on August 08, 2016, 02:04:00 PM
I'm still liking the 4 fletch that I did .
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Longtoke on August 08, 2016, 05:11:00 PM
Have you noticed four beat up fletchings making more noise than 3 beat up fletchings?
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Roger Norris on August 08, 2016, 06:21:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Longtoke:
Have you noticed four beat up fletchings making more noise than 3 beat up fletchings?
Well....No. But logic tells me if your feathers are beat up to the point of making noise, certainly having an extra feather will give you at least an extra feathers worth of noise. But I don't hunt with beat up arrows.
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Chromebuck on August 08, 2016, 06:57:00 PM
Okay I'll play!

These are 4X4 parabolic in natural goose.  I find that it's nice to   not  have to look to nock an arrow, but living in Alaska the goose feathers have a natural waterproofing that water just beads off.  These are cheap but deadly arrows that I have grown to have great confidence in.

     (http://i632.photobucket.com/albums/uu47/chromebuck/DSC00764.jpg)

~CB
Title: Re: Four Fletch
Post by: Terry Green on August 09, 2016, 08:52:00 AM
What Roger said.