Air rest won't EVER work as wanted.You need guidance for the arrow as far as you can get it,like was just stated,the arrow is still nocked to the string so you need guidance untill the last possible moment.The air rest will lose any hold on the arrow as soon as it is released because the rest only holds on to the metal insert at the end.So basically the rest will never have much,if any forgiveness.
Hows that for arguing.[8D]
I would like to play with one to see just how much forgiveness is lost but at that price,I won't be purchasing anytime soon.Now if they want to send me one to check out for them,I will gladly do it.
Now the reason for a dropaway.Look at the diameter of the newer arrows on the market(SMALL),now fletch them with 4" helical feathers,you will quickly see that the dropaway will eliminate some fletching contact issues.
Just need to make sure they do not drop away too soon for the ultimate in shot frogiveness FOR A HUNTING BOW.
Target is a different animal with different setups.