Feathers are added basically to correct any mistakes we make. If my release is good (not often) my arrows will fly straight for at least 20-25 yds with no feathers at all (with field points). With broadheads, it's a different story--they can act like feathers on the front end and steer the arrow if you don't have anything on the back end to control it.

High profile feathers are noisier, and will slow your arrow down quicker. Usually, if you have your bow tuned and your arrows match the bow properly, you won't need a big feather to keep your arrow flying straight. I know guys that shoot 4" feathers with broadheads, and do great. I shoot 5" regular profile, and have no problems with broadheads.

I don't think the larger feathers will be much if any hinderance at the ranges most folks limit themselves to for hunting.

Chad