What are your opinions on how far the paper should be in front of the bow for paper tuning. Also, generally, what does a left, right, up or down tear mean? Basically, how do I paper tune and what do the tears mean. Thanks
A tear shows you where each end of the arrow went through the paper.
To move the nock down would move the fletching end of the arrow down etc.
If one has the correct arrows, for the most part one can tune the bow by setting the nocking point and or arrow rest to adjust how the arrow flies (tears the paper).
Before paper tuning, you have bought arrows to fit the arrow manufacture’s chart showing things as weight, draw length, hard cams, finger shooters & etc..
You will make sure you have no fletching contact with the arrow rest or sight window. The distance you will be from the paper to start is 1-2 yds, but you will back up, as tear improves. The most erratic arrow movement will be between 6-10 yds.
You would want the initial set-up; tiller, rest & nocking point set to what the manual, pro shop, or bow company suggest.
Tune the nocking point first (the vertical aspect of the tear) then the arrow rest. If one would need to move these points far from the suggested, there may be other problems. These problems & response you will find in many posts & publications.