feather fletching size

[seany916]

What size feathers would you recommend for a 40# longbow at 27.5-28"? Given that the arrows are spined correctly, would I really need 4" or 5" feathers for tips that are not broadheads?

I posted this on another forum and got great advice, but didn't get much feedback on fletching size.

I've used 4" parabolic feathers successfully on a few dozen arrows and had no problems with them (last batch 1916).

I switched to 3" parabolic feathers on my 1816 shafts and they flew fine.

I would think they'd fly fine, with the helical spinning them and all. I'm given to understand that they'll correct release issues faster (around 10-15 yards?) with larger fletching, but what kind of difference will this make at loner distances 50-90 yards?

How much of a difference will there be in drag and accuracy from a 4" vs. 3" fletching setup? I know many people prefer 5" as well. Never gone that route, but then my arrows aren't all that heavy and I don't generally shoot broadheads.

Advice? Suggestions?  Thank you.

[Orion]

Olympic shooters shoot small fletch on light arrows.  Works fine with field/target points.  The smaller fletching is less susceptible to crosswind than is large fletch, particularly important on long range targets.  If three-inch fletch works for you, use it.