Archery Nocks: How Do They Work?

The nock is a small but vital component of archery equipment. It is a narrow notch at the end of an arrow that connects the arrow to the bowstring and transfers energy from the bow to the arrow. Nocking an arrow refers to the process of placing an arrow across the middle of the bow with the bowstring in the arrow's nock.

Nocks come in a variety of styles, including press-fit nocks, pin nocks, overnocks, conventional nocks, and more. The choice of nock depends on the arrow shaft being used and the archer's specific needs. For example, pin nocks are popular among competition archers as they protect expensive arrow shafts from damage caused by other arrows.

It is important to frequently check nocks for cracks or wear and replace them as needed. A proper fit between the nock and the bowstring is also crucial for accuracy and safety. The ideal fit produces an audible click when the nock is seated on the bowstring, and the arrow can be easily released with a light tap.

The history of archery nocks

As archery evolved, the nock, a critical component of both the bow and arrow, also underwent changes. The nock refers to the notch or groove in the ends of a bow where the bowstring is attached. In the case of an arrow, the nock is the notched end that engages with the bowstring.

Over millennia, archery spread across the globe, playing a significant role in hunting and warfare. In the classical period, archers were a common feature of military forces, fighting on foot, in chariots, or mounted on horses. The Middle Bronze Age saw the prominence of chariot-borne archers, while the development of massed infantry tactics and the use of chariots for shock tactics gradually reduced the reliance on archery in European warfare.

The advent of firearms in the Late Middle Ages and early modern period rendered archery obsolete in Europe. However, archery continued to evolve in other parts of the world, such as the Indian subcontinent, where mounted archery and the use of composite bows became integral to military strategies.

The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed a revival of archery as a recreational and upper-class pursuit in Britain, with the establishment of archery societies and the standardisation of rules, giving rise to the modern sport of archery.

How to nock an arrow

Nocking an arrow is the process of loading the arrow onto the bowstring. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to nock an arrow:

Step 1: Prepare your stance and equipment

Ensure your bow is pointing towards the ground, with the limbs in a vertical position. This is to prevent accidentally launching the arrow into the air or interfering with other archers. Set your arrow on the arrow rest. If using a recurve bow, the index feather (or vane) should point away from the bow. If using a compound bow, the index vane may point up, depending on the arrow rest.

Step 2: Retrieve the arrow

Reach into your quiver and grab an arrow just in front of the fletching (the feather or plastic vanes at the back of the arrow). Traditional arrows have three feathers or vanes, with one of a unique colour, called the index feather or vane.

Step 3: Position the arrow

Hold the bow high up and place the arrow on the grip. With the bow pointed towards the sky, put the arrow on the right-hand side of the grip, resting on the base of the thumb (for a thumb draw) or on the left-hand side of the grip (for a Mediterranean draw). This high port position is recommended for traditional or barebow shooters as it stabilises the bow and keeps it level.

Step 4: Slide and pinch the nock

Slide your draw hand down the arrow shaft to the nock and pinch it using a pinch grip (between the thumb and index finger). If using a traditional arrow, position the arrow so that one feather is at a 90-degree angle to the bow grip.

Step 5: Snap the nock onto the string

Push the arrow forward, keeping it in lateral contact with the string, until the arrow nock touches the string. Snap the nock onto the string below the nocking point and slide it up into the correct position. You should feel the nock click securely into place.

Safety Tips:

• Always check that the nock is securely attached to the string before shooting.
• If you drop an arrow while nocking, leave it and do not try to pick it up. Ask a staff member to retrieve it for you.
• Regularly inspect your nocks for any damage or wear and replace them if necessary.

Different types of nocks

Nocks are small but vital components of an arrow. They are available in a variety of styles, each with its own unique benefits and uses. Here are some of the most popular types:

Press-Fit Nocks

Press-fit nocks are the most common type of arrow nocks. They can be used with almost all arrow shaft materials, sizes, and diameters except for the thinnest carbon shafts. To install a press-fit nock, you simply slide the nock post inside the arrow shaft and press down until the shaft end touches the nock. No glue is required, and they can be easily removed and replaced. Press-fit nocks are indexable, meaning they can be turned to any position to align with your fletchings. However, it's important to get the correct size of press-fit nocks as arrow diameters vary.

Pin Nocks

Pin nocks are small nocks that fit onto an aluminium pin inserted into the end of the arrow shaft. They are designed to protect arrow shafts from damage caused by other arrows upon impact. Any pin nock will fit any pin insert as the pins are standardised. Pin nocks are popular among competition and target archers as they tend to shoot expensive shafts and want to avoid damage. The smaller size of pin nocks is also believed to improve accuracy and minimise deflections, which is advantageous in competitions.

Overnocks

Overnocks are attached by sliding the arrow inside the nock. They are commonly used with wooden arrows and large-diameter carbon arrows, and they usually require gluing. Overnocks are typically found on beginner equipment rather than professional setups.

Conventional Nocks

Conventional nocks are mainly used with aluminium arrows featuring a cone-shaped back end, known as the swage. They are similar to overnocks but do not completely cover the arrow shaft. Conventional nocks come in various sizes correlating to different arrow shaft diameters. They are typically pressed and tightened by hand or glued in place.

Crossbow Nocks

Crossbow nocks are specifically designed for use with crossbows. There are several types of crossbow nocks, including flat nocks, half-moon nocks, Omni-Nocks (with six micro-grooves forming three bowstring channels), and Capture nocks, which resemble traditional arrow nocks. Different crossbow manufacturers may recommend specific nock types for their bows.

Lighted Nocks

Lighted nocks are not a distinct type but rather an additional feature found in some nocks, typically press-fit or over-nocks. They contain a small LED light that illuminates during use, allowing archers to better see the trajectory of their arrows. Bowhunters benefit from this feature as it helps them observe the impact of their arrows on their targets.

Nock maintenance

Firstly, always check the nock at the end of your arrow before shooting. Nocks are designed to take tremendous force, but they are not indestructible. Over time, nocks can get beat up, especially if you are reusing your arrows frequently. A quick inspection before nocking the arrow can help ensure that the nock is in good shape and reduce the risk of a dry fire or a wayward arrow.

After each shooting session, carefully inspect your nocks for any damage or wear. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as cleaning solvents, petrol, or DEET-type insect repellents, can cause problems for polycarbonate nocks. If you notice any scoring, denting, or other damage to the nock, it is best to discard and replace it.

When installing or adjusting nocks, avoid using tools like pliers or even your teeth. Instead, use an Easton nock wrench to avoid damaging the nock. Additionally, never try to modify the nock by bending the nock ears to improve the fit. Instead, properly serve the string to achieve the desired fit.

If you are using polycarbonate-based nocks, avoid using solvent-based adhesives to bond them into the shaft. In rare cases where bonding is required, use alternatives such as Teflon pipe tape or thin polythene bag material to achieve a snug fit.

Finally, be mindful of the type of nock and its compatibility with your bow and arrows. Press-fit nocks, pin nocks, overnocks, conventional nocks, and crossbow nocks are all designed for specific types of arrows and bows. Using the correct nock for your equipment ensures optimal performance and safety.

Nock safety

Attaching the Nock

When nocking the arrow, ensure it is securely attached to the bowstring. An improperly connected arrow can lead to a dry fire or a wayward arrow, which can be dangerous. Always check that the nock has securely latched onto the string; you should feel a satisfying catch or click.

Dropped Arrows

If you drop an arrow while nocking, do not pick it up, especially if you are at the shooting line. Most archery ranges have strict rules regarding this for safety reasons. Leave the arrow as it is and notify a staff member to retrieve it for you.

Arrow Inspection

Before nocking, always inspect the nock at the end of your arrow. Check for any signs of damage, such as dents or scoring. A damaged nock may result in a dry fire, which is hazardous. Additionally, check the fletching, shaft, and tip to ensure they are all in good condition.

Nock Maintenance

Nocks are designed to withstand tremendous forces, but they are not indestructible. Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial. After each shooting session or if the nock sustains an impact, carefully examine the nock for any damage. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as cleaning solvents, petrol, or insect repellents containing DEET, can also cause issues with polycarbonate nocks.

Nock Fit

Ensuring a proper nock fit is vital. The arrow should be able to hang vertically from the string without falling off due to its weight but should easily detach with a light tap within 5-6 cm of the nock. Additionally, maintain clearance between the nock and any bottom nocking point to prevent pressure on the nock at full draw, which could cause it to detach prematurely.

Nock Modification

Never attempt to modify the nock by bending the nock ears or using tools like pliers to install or adjust it. This can compromise the integrity of the nock and lead to unsafe conditions. Instead, properly serve the string to achieve the desired fit.

By following these nock safety guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable archery experience for yourself and those around you.

Frequently asked questions