Stickbow Target Archery Forums

For those of you who build your own arrows, are there any tricks to stripping feathers from carbon arrows? I ask because of all the warnings about any damage to the integrity of the carbon fibers. I wondered if there are any tricks to scraping off feathers so the carbon shaft isn't damaged.

Thanks in advance
Dave

I've taken vanes off my carbon redlines with a dull knife, like a butter knife. Just go slowly and take care.

Ditto on the dull knife!!!! You don't want to cut into the fibers if all possible.

Here are a couple of tricks/techniques to solve that problem.

First, you can always apply a "cap" with those vinyl cresting wraps. Then apply the feathers to the wrap. You can cut away the feather and the wrap will come away before you damage the carbon fibers.

Second, you can use fletching tape. Not only will it reduce your fletching time but you can take the feathers off and the tape comes with them. If some of the tape stays you can peel it off with your fingernail. This will work if you do it on the bare carbon shaft or if you use the cresting wraps or normal paint to put a crown on the arrow.

Hope this helps.