STL All Sports

The best length of arrow for the average man is 28 inches. This, of course, varies with the physical make-up of the individual, the length of arms, and the width of shoulders. For some, a 27-inch or even 26-inch arrow may be preferable. The best length for the average woman is 25 to 26 inches. The length for boys and girls should be adjusted according to the size and physical make-up or body proportions.

The two main styles of points are the "parallel" and the "bullet" forms. A "conical" point is sometimes used on inexpensive English-made arrows. The parallel point is employed more throughout the east and middle-west, while the bullet point is more popular on the western coast. Generally speaking the parallel point is the better of the two, because it rarely comes off. Another advantage is that this method does not reduce the diameter of the shaft at the pile, and thereby weaken the arrow at this point.

The simplest form of nock is the "self" nock, which is sawed into the shaft at the proper depth. This proves fairly satisfactory for arrows made from hard wood, but for arrows made from soft wood other types of nocks are necessary.

The "fiber-sheet" nock is made by sawing a slot in the end of the shaft, inserting and gluing the fiber in place, and then nocking the arrow at right angles to the fiber.

The "tubular" nocks are made of either metal or fiber. Metal nocks, usually aluminum, are not particularly good, because they have a tendency to wear the bow string rapidly.

The "wedge" nock is considered the best type to employ in arrow making. It is usually made of horn or bone. This has been used for many generations and has proved the most substantial and practical nock, withstanding rough treatment and dampness without coming off. The process of gluing feathers on the shaft is called fletching. The best and easiest way to do this is to use a small hand fletching machine which spaces feathers equally and holds them in place until they are glued. It is better to use the balloon type of feathers than the diagonally cut ones, owing to the greater serviceability of the former.