I don't think that the horseshoe has any more contact with the arrow shaft than prongs do. Although I haven't measured it, it looks like the horseshoe has more real estate between the arms than there is between prongs. This means better clearance for the cock vane. (When used on a standard rest.) Where the horseshoe really shines though is when it's used on a dropaway. Because it is so thin, it lays down flat on the bow shelf and provides TOTAL clearance.