How to Use a Bitzenburger Fletching Jig | Gear Guide

Are you wondering how to set up a Bitzenburger fletching jig and start fletching your own arrows? The Bitzenburger is an outstanding piece of kit, but we understand that it may be confusing for first-time users. We’re happy to help. Follow this guide, and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions!

1. Secure the Jig to a Table (Optional)

While you don’t have to fasten the jig to a table or workbench, many users find it helps to keep the arrow stable while you work. You can attach the jig to a surface by drilling two holes in its base and bolting it in place. 

If you’re learning how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig for the first time, you may not want to attach it permanently just yet. Make sure you’re comfortable with the device before you add it to your setup.

2. Remove the Magnet Keeper

The Bitzenburger’s magnet is the most important and expensive component. When the jig isn’t being used, always keep the magnet covered by the included metal keeper or the jig’s clamp.

3. Install the Upgrade Kit (Optional)

Bitzenburger’s upgrade kit lets you fletch with more precision because the nock receiver actually goes inside the shaft of the arrow. This provides excellent stability, preventing the arrow from moving or slipping. The kit also lets you fletch fat or skinny arrows.

Here’s how to install the upgrade kit:

4. Learn to Adjust the Jig

Before we cover how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig, it’s important that you understand how to make adjustments and set the correct settings for your arrows. We recommend taking a few minutes to play around with the jig so you can see how the various components interact. Knowing how to set up a Bitzenburger fletching jig on your own lets you fine-tune your approach without consulting the instruction manual every time.

Loosen the #4 screws so that adjustment knobs #11 and #12 can move freely. Turning these adjustment knobs in opposite directions lets you fletch offset, or you can use straight clamps for straight fletching. As you learn how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig, you’ll find that this device can be adjusted for a variety of fletching configurations.

You can also choose a setting for your nock receiver by turning the nock receiver set screw #6 clockwise. Here are the setting options:

• 3 fletch: 120º
• 4 fletch: 90º 
• 4 fletch: 75ºx105

The set screw should be tightened until the top of it is flush with the frame of the jig. The other two screws should be backed off. If you don’t apply enough pressure, the roller bearings won’t drop into the index settings of the nock receiver. If the tension is correct, the #8 nock receiver should rotate smoothly and provide positive stops at each fletch location.

5. Place the Arrow Into the Jig

Now that you’re familiar with the jig’s settings, it’s time to learn how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig, starting with securing the arrow into it. 

Make sure your nock receiver is dry (you should never lubricate it). With the nock attached to your arrow shaft, place the shaft into the jig. Keep it centered, and make sure it’s completely seated all the way into the receiver with the nock’s flat side facing upward.

Next, put the clamp on the magnet while you push the clamp toward the jig’s rear so it makes contact with the frame. Turn adjustment knobs #11 and #12 until the clamp sits evenly on the arrow’s shaft. When the shaft is properly in place, tighten the #4 screws. 

6. Insert the Fletch

The next step in how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig is inserting the fletch. Using the scale on the clamp to locate the rear of the fletch, remove the clamp from the jig and squeeze it open so you can insert the fletch. Make sure there is 1/8" between the base of the clamp and the base of the fletch. 

Place the clamp onto the magnet to verify that it aligns with the clamped fletch. The fletch should fit smoothly throughout the entire length of the clamp. You may need to make slight adjustments.

7. Fletch the Arrow

Now that your arrow is secured properly in the jig, we can move to the actual fletching process. 

Before you continue learning how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig, make sure your fletching materials and the shafting are clean and have no oil or residue. In general, all components should be clean as you discover how to set up a Bitzenburger fletching jig.

Run a thin line of fletching glue along the full base of the fletch. Keeping the fletch away from the shaft, place the clamp on the magnet and push it toward the rear so it makes contact with the frame.

Gently, carefully, and slowly ease the entire clamp down from back to front until the shaft and fletch make contact. The arrow should be centered in the nock receiver’s “V” notch.

That’s basically how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig! Now, the magnet will keep the arrow secured in place while the glue dries. Check the drying time on the glue’s label, and wait that long. Once the glue has completely dried, squeeze the clamp open and cautiously remove it from the jig. 

Rotate nock receiver #8 counterclockwise to the next index setting. Repeat this rotation until the arrow is fletched. Now, finish the job by adding a spot of glue to the black and front of each fletch.

Watch Our Video to Learn More

Watch this hands-on demo of how to use a Bitzenburger fletching jig:

Shop High-Quality Archery Supplies at 60X

We hope this guide on how to set up a Bitzenburger fletching jig is helpful as you embark on your DIY fletching journey. We carry a wide range of archery supplies, including many Zenith archery products to use with your Bitzenburger fletching jig. Upgrade your setup so you can start fletching like a pro!

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