A pilot study was performed with the intent of: (1) assessing the feasibility of a statistic proposed to more adequately describe fiber damage, and (2) to identify those problems which must be overcome in further work. The study was conducted on a relatively small quantity of each of four cottons, to provide experience in the processing of cottons which had been combed, cut, and then re-carded. Comparisons were made with normally carded yarns and combed, re-carded yarns. The properties of the resultant yarns were related to fiber data to give an indication of the utility of statistics which describe the length distribution. Combed fibers pack more densely, requiring that the batt draft and the total card draft be increased by about 12 and 38%, respectively. Combed fibers are of lower cohesion, requiring optimization of cardweb draft and sliver linear density, and reduction in delivery speed, as well as optimization of drawframe settings. Shorter fibers require an increase both in the linear density of the roving and in the twist inserted. A non-rigorous statistical analysis indicated that, of all the simple statistics provided by the Peyer Almeter instrument which may be considered to be indicative of fiber damage, mean length was best, even surpassing short fiber content. The Quality Factor was even better.