I really doubt it is the hole size. If it was, the smaller hole would make more noise. 95% sure it is just the arrow finish. I asked the ? about which Carbon Tech mostly because I really think highly of their arrow quality, but the Cheetahs I have do make noise when drawn, compared to other arrows I have. JL, the older Beman Hunter arrows, as well as the AFC carbons (I have 4 of these) are absolutely silent when drawn with my biscuit, which is the large size. Had the Biscuit or drop aways been available in the '90s, I may never have stopped shooting them. I remember a few years ago I was shooting Carbon Express camo arrows, and they were pretty quiet when drawn throught the Biscuit. I went to the shop to get another dozen, and they had a new camo pattern that was incredibly loud on the draw. I ended up selling them.[&:]