Field Guide / Archery Gear & Setup
Feather Fletching
Also called: feathers, fletches
Natural feathers glued to the back of an arrow to steer it, lightweight and forgiving, and a favorite with traditional archers.
- Type
- Arrows & Parts
- Typical length
- About 4 to 5 inches for hunting
- Count
- Usually three fletches
- Weather
- Rain can flatten feathers
- Used for
- Deer & big game, Small game, Turkey, Target practice
What it is good for
- Traditional bows and arrows.
- A light, forgiving fletch that steers well.
- Hunters who like natural materials.
Where it falls short
- Lose their shape in rain and damp.
- More fragile than vanes.
- Can be harder to repair.
Tips
- Keep feathers dry, and carry spares for rain.
- Use a drop of fletching glue to repair a loose fletch.
Works well with
- Vane Fletching: tougher and waterproof.
- Wood Arrow: a traditional match.
Field notes
Fletching is set at a slight angle or curve so the arrow spins in flight. Feathers are lighter than vanes, which helps keep an arrow fast.
Related guides
Numbers here are typical, not guarantees. Have a pro shop set up and tune your bow or crossbow, follow the maker's manual, and never dry-fire a bow. Legal equipment, draw weights, crossbow seasons, and broadhead rules differ by state and area; our state resources directory links to each state's official regulations. Not sure what to buy? Try our bow and crossbow wizard.