If I may jump into this conversation.

I have always been under the impression that drop away rests are more forgiving because they drop out of the way and there is less time for the shooter to impart any torque on the arrow. This meaning the rest contacts the arrow for say...the first 10 inches or so, then drops out of the way and allows the arrow to flex as it wishes. The 10" comment is just for example, I have no idea how long a typical rest contacts the arrow until falling out of the way.

With a traditional, prong style rest, the arrow is in contact the entire time. Any torque imparted by the shooter will show up. Yes, the prong tension is there to flex as the arrow flexes across it.

TFOX, so what you're saying is that drop aways really are to no advantage besides fletching clearance? I believe you can obtain fletching clearence with almost any prong style rest. I agree though, that you can use more radical helicals, and larger fletching with a drop away that you most likely won't get away with with a fixed rest.

I think for hunting purposes, where form is not perfect, drop aways are a very good solution. Especially with some of the full containment options out there.

TFOX, I know you're a Whammy advocate. I've been looking for a new rest for hunting. My only worry with that rest is containment. How do the prongs do as far as containment?