How to Re-Fletch Arrows Properly: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Archers

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Maintaining your arrows is an essential part of consistent, accurate shooting. Over time, fletchings tear, peel, or get damaged from repeated use—especially for bowhunters and target shooters who shoot year-round. The good news is that re-fletching arrows is a simple process that can save you a significant amount of money. Instead of buying brand-new arrows, you can restore your current shafts with a few basic tools and high-quality fletchings from Pine Ridge Archery.

Below is a breakdown of the steps demonstrated in the latest how-to video on removing old vanes, wraps, and glue before installing new fletchings.

Step 1: Remove the Nock

Before you begin scraping, remove the nock (0:12). This prevents accidental damage while using your knife. It also allows you to rotate the shaft freely without worrying about hitting the nock during the cleaning process.

For replacement nocks, wraps, and arrow-building tools, check out the selection at Pine Ridge Archery.

Step 2: Use an Easy Crest Knife

The video recommends using an Easy Crest knife, which features a cut-out blade designed specifically for scraping (0:25–0:31). This style of blade makes it easier to remove wraps and vanes without digging too deeply into the carbon.

Light pressure is key—you want to scrape, not carve. Think of it like whittling (0:31–0:49).

Step 3: Remove Arrow Wraps

If your arrows have wraps, start by scraping them off gently. Wraps are actually easier to remove than vanes that are glued directly to the shaft (0:53–1:01). Peel or scrape until the wrap material is gone, being careful not to damage the carbon underneath.

Using bright, durable NITRO wraps from Pine Ridge Archery also makes future re-fletching faster.

Step 4: Remove Fletchings and Glue

Next, use the same scraping technique to remove old vanes and adhesive (1:08–1:24). Don’t rush—slow, controlled strokes help avoid gouging or scratching the shaft.

After scraping, feel the shaft with your fingers to check for leftover glue (1:37–1:43). If you feel any bumps, scrape again until smooth.

Step 5: Clean the Shaft Thoroughly

Once the surface feels clean, wipe the shaft down with rubbing alcohol (1:48–1:52). This removes carbon dust and any remaining oils, creating the ideal surface for new glue and vanes.

At this stage, you’re ready to install new fletchings, such as NITRO Vanes or the fletching glue available from Pine Ridge Archery.