fletching

Fletching is the process of attaching feathers or synthetic vanes to the aft end of an arrow or bolt in order to stabilize its flight. The fletchings influence how the shaft behaves as it moves through the air, helping to keep the arrow on a straight course or to control its yaw and spin.

Fletching materials have evolved from natural feathers to modern synthetic vanes. Traditional fletching uses feathers from birds such as geese or turkeys, cut and shaped, then glued to the shaft. Contemporary arrows often use synthetic vanes made from polymers, which resist moisture, wear less quickly, and can be manufactured in precise shapes and sizes. Fletching can be straight or curved (helical) to impart spin, and it may be arranged as three vanes or feathers at roughly 120 degrees apart, or, less commonly, in two or four.

The arrangement and type of fletching affect performance. Straight fletching creates less drag and can improve initial stability on some setups, while helical or offset fletching increases spin and yaw stability, which can help arrows recover from disturbances but may add drag. The choice between feathers and vanes depends on factors such as weather, bow type, arrow speed, and shooter preference. Feather fletching is often more forgiving in wet conditions but requires more maintenance; vanes are durable and consistent in varied climates.

Historically, fletching dates to ancient archery across many cultures, where feathers were the dominant material. Today, fletching is used on target and hunting arrows, as well as on bolts for crossbows, with configurations tailored to the specific equipment and intended use. Maintenance includes inspecting for damage and re-fletching when necessary.