Crossbows: Helical Fletching and Fixed-Blade Broadheads

One of the biggest issues that arises from shooting short 20-inch crossbow arrows is getting fixed-blade broadheads to consistently have the same point of impact as field points.

There are several factors that can contribute to this problem, but the most common culprit is that factory-fletched crossbow arrows have only a slight vane offset. Most of the time this slight offset fletching has difficulty controlling the arrow.

For years, crossbow shooters have been told they have to shoot arrows with three degrees or less of offset fletching so the vanes won't rub and rattle their way down the rail groove. That logic seems reasonable unless you've experimented with various arrow and fletching combinations.

After years of testing various arrow components, I'm convinced that helical fletching doesn't impede the arrow's trajectory down the rail, and it actually minimizes point of impact variations with fixed-blade broadheads.

This theory has been proven time and again. After experiencing point of impact variations from field points to fixed-blade broadheads during testing, I've re-fletched the arrow with a helical fletch and experienced perfect arrow flight.

If you are having trouble getting your fixed-blade broadheads to group with the same point of impact as your field points, try putting a helical fletch on your arrow. You'll immediately notice improved arrow flight - especially when you're shooting at greater down range distances.