Fletching Question

[Bevan R.]

I the Dec/Jan issue of PA was an article about making bamboo arrows. One of the pictures shows the base of the fletching being 'seared'. I read the article but there was no explanation on this.
What would be the advantage to doing this to the fletching?

[bowtarist]

 It looks like on page 24, pic @ bottom left, shows a guy possibly doing just that.  Searing the edges of a quill.  Maybe it makes them flat and smooth? Maybe they do that instead of sanding?  Thanks for bringing up the question.  dpgratz 

[bubby]

for whatever reason, do it outside 'cause ya know it'll stink , Bub

[Bevan R.]

One of the reasons I am asking. Is it worth the stink? 
I grind/sand using a belt sander, I am just wondering what the heat does.

[bowtarist]

I gave it a try tonight.  Got me a couple of blocks of wood, tried to heat up a freezin old school copper solderer w/ propane, ended up getting out the oxy-ace torch and you know what, it worked pretty dang good.  Really quick, just a light sanding needed on the edges, I used my fingers.  It was real slick and kinda gooey while "searing the quill".  If you already had the fire/grill going, wouldnt be a problen to heat up a cool little tool like in the photo or an old school soldering iron.  The smell didn't bother me, reminded me of sitting in the salon waiting on my mom back in the 70's.  Just a lot less boring. I'll try it again, sand or sear??? That is the question.

I got pics too, just no time.

 , dpgratz

[bubby]

i tell you what, searing it is probably better for your lungs that grinding, Bub