RE: Feathers vs. Vanes
You just about have to hog tie me to the rack and stick red hot irons to my flesh to get me to use vanes any more. Last time I willingly stuck vanes on an arrow was to test some of those new Bohning Blazers for the pro shop I shoot for.
I haven't looked at the links to the topics Washington Hunter posted, but I'm sure you'll find my opinions in at least a few of 'em.