Finding Your Recurve Bow's Nocking Point

Finding the nocking point on a recurve bow is an important step in setting up your bow. The nocking point is an attachment on the string that marks where you clip your arrow to the bowstring, ensuring it is propelled from a consistent position and with consistent force. This is essential for accuracy and consistency in archery.

There are different ways to find the correct nocking point, depending on your equipment and personal preference. One common method involves using a bare shaft (an unfletched arrow) to find the most precise location. This is because a bare shaft will not stabilise the arrow, so you can see how the arrow would fly without stabilisation.

Another method involves starting with the nocking point too high, and then gradually lowering it until the arrow hits the target straight. This process involves shooting at a bag target, which is recommended to prevent the arrows from being damaged.

Finding the correct nocking point placement

The nocking point is an attachment on the string that tells you where to put the arrow. Without a proper nocking point, it would be difficult to shoot the arrow straight every time, especially during quick nocking.

There are two types of nocking points: brass nocking points and tied nocking points. Brass nocking points are easy to fit and rarely come loose, but they are quite heavy, which can slow down the flight of the arrow. Tied nocking points are lighter and more secure, but harder to set up.

To find the correct nocking point placement, you will need to prepare the following:

• One or two unfletched arrows (also known as bare shafts)
• A bag target to catch the arrows and prevent them from being damaged
• A safe area to shoot

• Determine whether your nocking point will be above or below the arrow. This depends on your drawing style. Thumb drawers generally place their nocking point above the arrow, while finger drawers place it below.
• Find your starting point. If your bow has a shelf, that is your starting point. If you are using a traditional bow without an arrow shelf, you will need to estimate the location on the string where the shaft lies horizontally between the string and your bow hand.
• Start with the nocking point too high. Place your nocking point 1.5 inches above your starting point. This is to avoid any perceptual errors that may make you think the nocking point is too high when it is actually too low.
• Shoot the bare shaft. Take one of the unfletched arrows and shoot it at the bag target from a distance of 7-10m. The shaft length should be your draw length plus 1.5 inches. Maintain a vertical position as much as possible when shooting.
• Lower the nocking point position gradually. Lower the nocking point by 1/8 inches at a time and repeat the shooting exercise until the arrow hits the target straight. Once the arrow hits straight, you have found the correct nocking point placement.

It is important to note that the correct nocking point placement may vary depending on the type of bow and your individual shooting form. Experiment with different nock locations and use a method called bare shaft tuning to fine-tune your nocking points.

How to attach a nocking point

To attach a nocking point to a recurve bow, you'll need to use a tool called a bow square, also known as a T-square. This is a metal measuring device with a long horizontal arm and a shorter vertical arm with a pair of clips at the top and bottom. The longer arm rests on the bow rest on the handle of your bow, while the clips attach the device to your bowstring.

To attach a nocking point:

• Cut 2 feet of serving material (string) and clip the bow square onto the bowstring.
• Slide the bow square until it touches the arrow rest.
• Tie a single overhand knot to mark your starting location.
• For barebow archers, start your nocking point a half-inch high, unless you're using a drop-away rest, in which case you should start a 1/8 inch high.
• Olympic recurve and traditional archers should start the nocking point 3/8 inches high.
• Tie a double overhand knot on the opposite side of the serving from your single overhand knot.
• Tie another double overhand knot, alternating back and forth, until you've tied six double overhand knots on each side of the bowstring.
• Tie a single overhand knot and another on top of it to secure your serving material.
• Cut the excess string.
• Repeat the process for the bottom nocking point, leaving a small gap of about 1/16 inch to prevent nock pinch.

You can use serving string or, if you prefer, you can use brass nocking points, which are clamped or crimped onto the string.

Fine-tuning the nocking point

The nocking point is essential for consistency in archery. It marks where you clip your arrow to the bowstring, ensuring it is propelled from a consistent position and with consistent force. Fine-tuning the nocking point will help improve the accuracy of your shots.

To fine-tune your nocking point, you can use a method called bare shaft tuning. This involves shooting four arrows: three with vanes and one without (a bare shaft). By analysing how the arrows land on the target, you can determine if any adjustments need to be made to your nocking point. If the bare shaft lands inside the group with the three fletched arrows, no adjustments are necessary.

If the bare shaft lands above or below the group, you will need to adjust your nocking point accordingly. If it lands above the group, move your nocking point up; if it lands below the group, move it down. This process may require some trial and error to find the optimal position.

Another factor to consider when fine-tuning your nocking point is the type of arrow you are using. Different arrows will have different stiffness and weight, which can impact the flight of the arrow. If your arrows are wagging up and down during flight, you may need to adjust your nocking point higher or lower until the flight is straight. If the arrows are wagging side-to-side (fishtailing), you may need to adjust the spine (stiffness) of your arrows or try using points of different weights.

Additionally, the drawing style you use will influence the location of your nocking point. Thumb drawers, who slide their arrows upwards, should place the nocking point above the arrow to prevent it from sliding up the bowstring. Finger nock drawers, who slide their arrows downwards, should place the nocking point below the arrow to keep it stationary.

Finally, the type of bow you are using will also impact the placement of your nocking point. Traditional bows, such as longbows and recurves, often have the nocking point placed approximately 1/2 inch above the arrow shelf. For a recurve bow, the upper nocking point should be between 0.2 inches (5 mm) and 0.6 inches (15 mm) up from the arrow rest, with a recommended distance of 0.4 inches (10 mm).

Remember that fine-tuning your nocking point is a precise process, and it may take some time and experimentation to find the optimal position for your arrows.

The importance of setting up nocking points

Setting up the nocking point on a recurve bow is crucial for achieving consistent and accurate shots. Here's why this setup is important:

Consistency and Accuracy

The nocking point ensures that your arrow is consistently propelled from the same position with uniform force. This consistency is key in archery, as it helps you shoot with greater accuracy. By marking where you clip your arrow to the bowstring, the nocking point keeps the arrow securely in place as you draw and release. This setup results in a more stable flight path for your arrows, improving your overall accuracy.

Customization

Setting up your nocking points allows you to customize your bow to your preferences and shooting style. You can experiment with different nocking point heights and fine-tune their positions to suit your individual needs. This customization ensures that your arrows fly straight and true, enhancing your shooting experience.

Convenience and Efficiency

Properly setting up your nocking points saves you time and effort in the long run. By establishing the correct nocking point, you won't have to worry about constantly adjusting your arrows or dealing with inconsistent shots. This setup streamlines your shooting process, making it more efficient and enjoyable.

Safety

A well-set nocking point also contributes to safety. When your arrows are securely attached to the bowstring, you reduce the risk of accidental releases or erratic arrow behaviour. This setup helps prevent injuries and ensures a safer shooting environment for both you and those around you.

Confidence and Skill Development

Taking the time to set up your nocking points correctly boosts your confidence in your equipment and your skills. Knowing that your arrows will fly as intended allows you to focus on refining your technique and becoming a better archer. This setup encourages you to explore the limits of your equipment and your abilities in a controlled and predictable manner.

The difference between brass and tied nocking points

The nocking point on a recurve bow is essential for consistency in archery. It marks where you clip your arrow to the bowstring, ensuring it stays in place as you draw and shoot. While every bowstring needs at least one nocking point, most archers prefer to have two—one above and one below the arrow nock—to ensure the arrow remains stable throughout the shot.

There are two main types of nocking points: brass nocking points, which are clamped onto the string, and tied nocking points, which are secured using serving string or wire. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference, but here is a detailed breakdown of the differences between the two.

Brass Nocking Points

Brass nocking points are traditional and have been used for years, especially by traditional archers. They offer several advantages, including:

• Ease of Installation: Brass nocks are much easier to install. All you need to do is place the brass around the string and squeeze it shut with specialised nock pliers.
• Durability: Brass nocks are more durable and can withstand more abuse without breaking. Tied nocking points, on the other hand, can fray and come loose over time.
• Ease of Adjustment: Brass nocks are easier to adjust. If you need to change your nocking point, you can simply bend the brass back with needle-nose pliers or a screwdriver and reuse it. With tied nocks, you must cut the knot and start over.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to brass nocking points. They include:

• Cost: Brass nocking points are more expensive, and you also need to purchase a special set of crimping pliers, adding to the overall cost.
• Wear and Tear: Brass nocks can be hard on strings, tabs, and gloves, causing faster wear and tear on these items.
• Safety: Some archers have reported incidents of the brass nick coming loose and causing injuries, such as tearing gloves or cutting lips.

Tied Nocking Points

Tied nocking points are the more modern option and are preferred by most archers today. Here are some of the reasons why:

• No Proprietary Tools Required: Tied nocks do not require any specialised tools, unlike brass nocks, which need crimping pliers. This makes tied nocks a more accessible and affordable option.
• Cost-Effective: Tied nocking points are cheaper, especially if you already have a spool of serving wire, as you only need about 10 inches (25 cm) of wire for one nocking point.
• Comfort: Tied nocks have softer, less sharp edges compared to brass, making them more comfortable on the fingers. Brass nocks, on the other hand, can cut into finger protection, requiring more frequent replacement.
• Security: Tied nocks are more secure and less likely to come loose. Brass nocks can become loose due to string stretch or vibration, requiring readjustment.

However, tied nocking points also have a few potential disadvantages:

• Installation and Adjustment: Some archers find tying nocking points more cumbersome and time-consuming, especially when maintaining multiple bows. Additionally, adjusting tied nocks requires cutting the knot and retying, whereas brass nocks can be easily bent back and reused.
• Maintenance: Tied nocking points may require more maintenance, especially if using adjustable nocks that can "walk" up and down the string.

Both brass and tied nocking points have their pros and cons. Brass nocks are ideal if you frequently move your nock locator or maintain multiple bows, as they are easier to install and adjust. On the other hand, tied nocks are more secure, comfortable, and cost-effective, making them a popular choice among modern archers. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and your specific needs as an archer.

Frequently asked questions