The nocking point

What is a nocking point?

In archery, the nocking point is the point on the string at which the arrow is nocked.

To ensure the arrow is always nocked in the same place, a nocking point is placed (mounted) on the arrowhead. This helps to keep the arrows well grouped when shooting. The location of the nocking point should be checked regularly. A shift in the nocking point can cause a number of errors.

material

A brass ring is typically used as a nocking point. This is clamped onto the center wrap at the correct location using nocking point pliers. This brass ring has both advantages and disadvantages. The biggest advantage is probably the time factor. The ring can be fixed onto the center wrap in a very short time. The disadvantages of a brass nocking point are weakening of the string (pinching) and energy loss when shooting. However, neither of these should be overestimated.

It can be dangerous if the nocking point is not installed properly. A loose nocking point is a projectile to be considered and can cause unsightly injuries.

However, nocking points can also be "wrapped." This poses no safety risk and also reduces energy loss during the shot. With wrapped nocking points, more energy is transferred to the arrow. This is obviously an advantage, especially at long distances.

The Beiter nocking point

Beiter recently developed its own nocking point, specifically for Beiter nocks. This nocking point prevents the arrow from nocking when the bow is drawn and is ideal for removing the nock from the string. The Beiter nocking point consists of two identical half-shells that are wrapped into the center coil.

Set nocking point

For an initial rough tuning, a checker is used to determine a straight line (a right angle) from the arrow rest to the string. The nocking point is then placed "high" here. The arrow is then placed below the nocking point when shooting. On average, the so-called nocking point elevation using this method will be about 12mm. With modern bows, it can be as low as 9mm (whether setting the nocking point traditionally or sportingly). The actual nocking point height should be determined by a raw shaft test .

The average "formula" for the nocking point elevation is:
1/2 thickness of the shaft + 1/2 nock thickness ( arrow nock ) + the tiller

How is a nocking point set?

With wound nocking points (also possible with paper), this question is irrelevant. In these cases, sinew thread is usually used and secured to the center winding. For brass nocking points (clamped), a so-called nocking point pliers is used. These can, of course, be purchased from a trusted retailer. Be careful during installation. As mentioned above, improper installation can be very dangerous.