SnS, I generally try to cut shoots about 3/8" or slightly larger and reduce the diameter with a thumb plane to the right size. If you take a 3/8" open end wrench with you it makes a good size gauge for cutting shoots. My finished shoot arrows are generally 3/8" or slightly less at the point end and 5/16" on the nock end. My arrows are 30" long and will shoot from my 50# to 60# bows.